Chapter 51

Nathan brought the meds back and asked me softly, “Have you eaten breakfast yet?”

I froze, silent. He went on, “The doctor says eat something before pills.”

“I haven’t,” I whispered.

“What do you feel like eating? I’ll get it,” Nathan asked, his voice low.

“Just gruel. I need something light,” I said.

“Okay! Wait for me.” Nathan put down the medicine and left.

I watched him – tall, lean, in a black shirt that looked awesome. Plus, he wore a mask outside, giving off a cool, mysterious vibe that made him even more charming.

I just stared for a second, and then my head cleared. I realized the first step to success was to stop being such a fangirl. I had to see people for who they were, not as idols.

I thought both men and women could fake being loving and gentle. So, no one got much real love to give. Since we were not love gurus, there was no need to make romance sound so big.

While I was spacing out, Nathan came back. “Eat while it’s hot. I got you some snacks too.” He sat by me and laid everything out.

My right hand had an IV, so I had to use my left. It was awkward. On the first bite, I almost spilled it on my chin. I felt so silly and mumbled, “My hand is a bit shaky.”

Nathan got it right away. As I reached for the second bite, he took my spoon and fed me himself.

I froze.

“Stop acting tough. Open your mouth.” Nathan was so thoughtful. This was the first time a guy took care of me so gently. In my previous life, when I had cancer and was in the hospital, my husband and daughter never fed me; the nurses did everything.

Now, just with a cold, Nathan was taking care of me. The comparison was stark. I felt terrible. “Thanks!” I blushed and gulped down several big sips.

Nathan saw I was just swallowing, not tasting. He added a little something to each spoonful of gruel. I relaxed; it tasted way better.

After half a bowl, I stopped eating, mostly because Nathan’s feeding me felt too close.

“Won’t you eat more?” Nathan frowned. I felt he was really looking out for me, no other motives.

I was being dramatic. “No, I’ll take my pills.” I grabbed water and swallowed them, feeling sick. On the last one, I choked, and the bitterness made me gag.

“Have some candy,” he said, handing me a piece as I sipped water. “When I had to take medicine as a kid, my mom always gave me candy.”

I froze and stared up at him, shocked. “Nathan, I’m not a kid; I can handle this little discomfort.”

Nathan looked at me hard, and then tried to take the candy back.

“But who says adults have to suffer?” I cut in, “I think in life, we should find ways to enjoy some sweetness.”

Nathan was confused by my words, and then he chuckled softly, “You’re pretty funny.”

I got him to laugh; chewing my candy, I felt happier. Just then, my phone rang. Seeing it was Jared, I answered right away.

Jared asked over the phone, “When are you coming? Yvonne is doing okay. I need to head to work soon.”

“I’m sick with a high fever and getting a shot. Take care of our daughter,” I said honestly. Surprisingly, I felt relieved.

It reminded me of before – all those times I took care of our sick daughter while feeling ill myself. When Jared asked, I’d just say everything was fine to keep him from worrying.

But now I was sick, plain and simple. I also felt body aches and tiredness. Since Jared hadn’t caught it and he is strong, he should look after our daughter.

“Where are you? Are you okay?” To my surprise, Jared sounded worried.

I looked at Nathan who was close to me. I’ve got help here already. So my annoying husband should stay away. “I’m fine. I got my shot. But I need to rest. I’ll be there tonight,” I said and then hung up.

Nathan finally relaxed his tense face. It seemed he’d sensed something off in my talk with Jared. He’d checked before and knew Jared and I weren’t getting along. This talk just made him more sure of it.

“Your daughter is sick, too? Is it bad?” Nathan asked, worried. He didn’t know I had a troubled kid and thought all moms freaked out when their kid was sick, so he checked on me.

“She’ll be okay. Her dad is with her,” I said calmly.

“Hmm, get some rest. The doctor said you need shots tomorrow,” Nathan said, his voice low and caring.

“I will. Health is key. I’ll take care,” I said, smiling. “Thanks for today. You can go if you want. I’m good now and feel much better.”

“I’m not in a rush. I’ll stick around,” Nathan said. No matter how much I tried to get rid of him, he stayed. Then his phone rang. He got up, took it, and walked away to answer.

When he came back, he sat down calmly. I quickly asked, “Work call? You can go if you’re busy.”

“Work can wait. You’re more important,” Nathan said lazily. His words were like a direct confession. I blushed and glared at him.

Nathan stayed calm, not even blinking. “Sorry, I’m always blunt. Hope it’s okay.”

“It’s not,” I cut in. “Mr. Hallman, I know you’re thankful, but I’m taken. Saying stuff like that tempts me.”

Nathan got flustered, his ears red. “Sorry, I won’t say it again.”

I said coolly, “I don’t want apologies. Show me with actions.”

Nathan froze, and then stood up. “I’ll… see you tomorrow.” He turned and stared at me for a second before leaving.

After he left, I felt relaxed. A nurse came over, grinning, and said, “Your husband is handsome!”

I thought there was no point in explaining.