Chapter 168

Anastasia was about to decline when Elisabeth chimed in, "Ana, go take care of your business. I'm just gonna be lying here anyway. If I need anything, I'll call the nurses."

Anastasia knew her grandmother was looking out for her – she didn't want Anastasia causing problems with the Rhodes family so soon after getting married.

Anastasia hummed in agreement and hung up.

"Grandma, let me get a caregiver over here for you."

Cassian had already arranged for professional care, but Elisabeth had refused, insisting she could take care of herself. Really, she just hated the idea of them spending money on her. That's just how older folks were – Anastasia was used to it by now.

But this time, Elisabeth didn't object to the suggestion because she didn't want to make things difficult for Anastasia.

As Anastasia was getting ready to leave, Cassian called. "Wait for me at the hospital. I'm coming to pick you up."

Anastasia agreed and headed downstairs to wait by the hospital entrance.

A familiar Porsche pulled up in front of her. Even before the window rolled down, Anastasia knew exactly who it was. She turned her face away with a cold expression.

The driver’s window came down, revealing Jasper as expected.

"Anastasia, where are you headed? I'll give you a ride."

Anastasia thought Jasper was seriously messed up – never appreciated what he had when he had it, but couldn't let go once it was gone. She couldn't be bothered to acknowledge him, not even with a glance.

Jasper’s brow furrowed with obvious irritation.

"Anastasia, get in the car!"

His voice carried impatience now – less like an invitation and more like a command.

So she doesn't want the courtesy I'm offering her?

Just then, a car horn sounded behind him. Anastasia saw Cassian's car and couldn't help but smile.

She walked toward Cassian, who smiled back when he saw her approaching. He got out of the car and personally took her hand, leading her to the passenger side. He opened the door, placed his hand protectively over the door frame so she wouldn't hit her head, and once she was seated, he even buckled her seatbelt for her.

Only after taking care of everything did Cassian return to the driver's seat.

Watching Cassian's careful attention from a distance, Jasper felt a mix of emotions churning inside him.

Chapter 163

So Anastasia was worth being treated like that. Had he ever done the same for her? Even when he was pursuing her, he’d never been that thoughtful.

As Cassian's car drove away, Jasper said mockingly, "It's just the novelty wearing off! A guy like Cassian – what kind of woman hasn't he had? He's just curious about Anastasia's type since he's never been with someone like her. Once he gets bored, she'll be tossed aside without a second thought."

Jasper didn't even realize that as he said this, his face was twisted with jealousy.

Anastasia felt warm inside from Cassian’s attentiveness. She looked at him as he drove – his sharp jawline and focused profile were absolutely mesmerizing.

Sensing her gaze, Cassian turned to find Anastasia staring at him with fluttering lashes that looked like butterflies about to take flight. If he wasn't driving, he would have kissed her right then.

Anastasia suddenly snapped back to reality, finding Cassian's deep eyes fixed on her like whirlpools threatening to pull her in.

She nervously swallowed and said, "You should focus on driving."

"Mm."

Cassian looked back at the road.

Anastasia felt like all the blood in her body was rushing to her face – she was practically burning up. This was probably the first time she’d ever stared at a guy like such a lovesick fool for so long!

It was Cassian's fault for being so devastatingly handsome that she couldn't help but keep looking.

Anastasia rolled down the window for some air. The cool breeze on her face finally made her feel better.

"Um… why is Mom calling us back to the estate? Did something happen?" Anastasia asked nervously.

Cassian slowed the car and reached over to squeeze her hand gently. "Whatever happens, I'll be right there with you."

Anastasia looked at him with exasperation. "You saying that just makes me more nervous."

Cassian chuckled. "Guess I'm not very good at comforting people."

Anastasia winked at him. "You're doing fine."

"Hm?" Cassian looked at her – was she complimenting him or teasing him?

"Eyes on the road," Anastasia said with a small cough.

Cassian had no choice but to focus on driving.

Soon they arrived at the Rhodes estate.