Chapter 20

Grace kept the ice pack on her face for half an hour, and then she heard Elan say, “It’s getting late.” The implication was clear—she could leave now.

She didn’t move, still sitting on the rosh. Her heart was racing a little. At least here, she felt safe. Though she was stand-offish, it was better than going back to face the unknown dangers waiting for her. Alice had easily manipulated Sloan, so whatever dirty trick he had planned next would be even worse.

Tiace placed the ice pack on the coffee table and asked, “Can I stay here tonight? Dean’s sleeping on the couch in the living room. I won’t disturb you, Mr. Henderson.” Ethan had already turned toward the master bedroom. Grace understood the unspoken hint and immediately stood up to push his wheelchair. Even though she knew he didn’t need help, she had to take a humble approach, given that she was asking for a favor.

When they reached the master bedroom, she spoke again. “I don’t snore. I’ll manage for one night on the couch.”

“Do whatever you want.”

Upon hearing his agreement, Grace’s face immediately lit up with a smile. “Thank you again, Mr. Henderson.”

Ethan didn’t look at her. He leaned against the side of the bed, slowly moving his legs. Grace suddenly remembered something Tim had told her—he was doing rehab. Did she just disturb his rehabilitation session tonight? She hurried over and supported his hand.

Ethan had a faint, clean scent to him—something like the crisp scent of pine trees on a winter day. He sat on the bed and slowly moved his legs up. The way he performed these movements was graceful and effortless. There was no sign of struggle or discomfort, making it oddly pleasant to watch.

Grace stood by the bed, thinking about what Joanne had said. Even if his legs were really damaged, there would still be plenty of women secretly in love with him. But had the accident really happened because of her? She didn’t dare ask, fearing it would trigger a sensitive subject.

When she reached the door, she politely asked, “Mr. Henderson, will you need the lights turned off soon?” She slowly closed the door behind her.

She was truly exhausted. The effects of the drug had worn her out, and the hour she spent in the cold water didn’t help. Fatigue hit her, and she collapsed into bed, immediately falling into a deep sleep.

The next morning she didn’t wake up right away. She felt like her entire body was on fire. Someone was speaking nearby, and then she felt her mouth being pried open and something forced into it. She frowned at the bitter taste, wanting to spit it out, but the hand was firm, lifting her chin, and she had no choice but to swallow.

Ethan placed the bowl down and glanced at the IV bag beside her. “Mr. Henderson, her fever is almost at 10 degrees; she won’t wake up for a while.” The private doctor had been called over in the middle of the night, starting his work at three in the morning when Grace had begun running a fever. She had just gotten out of the hospital and hadn’t been eating well, so her body was already in a weak state. After a cold bath, it was no surprise she collapsed.

It wasn’t until 7:00 pm the next day that Grace finally stirred. Her throat felt dry, and she hurriedly tried to sit up but almost fainted. Grace drank the glass of water Ethan handed her. She glanced at the clock on the wall and quickly tried to get out of bed. “Sorry, I have to go. Yancey is going to the Lambert residence tonight to annul the engagement.” If she weren’t premature, with Yancey’s narcissistic mind, he’d probably come up with all kinds of scenarios in his head.

Ethan watched her stumble toward the door and sneered, putting the cup down. She was still vaguely intending to open the bedroom door, but her vision blackened momentarily. Reluctantly, she had to return to the bed. Having had a fever all day, she was completely drained. Before she could say another word, sleep took over, and she was out again. Ethan remained sitting by her side, his expression growing colder. After a long pause, he turned the wheelchair and left the room.

Meanwhile, Yancey did indeed arrive at the Lambert residence. The Lamberts were pleased that Grace had taken the initiative to annul her engagement with Yancey. Liam congratulated Alor. “Alor, congratulations! You and Yarry’s annulment—will you two get married right away?” Alice was filled with bitter resentment inside. She was sure Grace wouldn’t show up tonight. After all, Sloan had already made his move. In a few hours, those embarrassing photos of Grace would probably be everywhere. By then, everyone would turn their backs on her, and even that guy would surely stop holding onto any fantasies about her. Alice’s lips curled into a satisfied grin, her eyes gleaming with a sense of twisted triumph. Sitting nearby, Yaurry rolled his eyes. He didn’t believe it for a second.