Chapter 36

In Harrowfell Hospital's VIP ward, Dominick sat beside the pale Mrs. Prescott, her hand clasped in his. "Dom, I'm sorry," she whispered, her voice frail, "I didn't mean to worry you."

Marissa, her face etched with concern, chimed in, "Mom, you scared us. I called Dom because you were critical and wanted to see him." She placed a glass of water on the table. "I hope I didn't disrupt anything."

Dominick squeezed Mrs. Prescott's hand. "It's fine, Mrs. Prescott. As long as you're alright."

Tears welled in Linda's eyes. "I feel terrible putting you through this. I'm afraid...afraid I won't see you again."

"Please, Mrs. Prescott," Dominick said gently. "When Mr. Prescott entrusted you and Marissa to our family, you became family to me. Taking care of you is only right."

Linda, their family’s longtime maid, and her late husband, Dominick’s father’s chauffeur, had been with the Vanderbilts since his birth. Marissa, bright and charming, had grown up alongside Dominick, practically a sister. After her father died in an accident while driving Dominick home, he’d promised to care for her and her mother.

Linda nodded, deeply touched. "I've been so lucky. If I were to die today, I'd have no regrets…"

"Mom," Marissa said, dabbing her eyes. "Please."

Linda's voice trembled with emotion. "My only worry is Marissa. I want to see her married, with children… but…"

"You will," Dominick reassured her, trying for a lighter tone. "The doctor said you're improving. Everything will be alright."

Linda shook her head. "Dom, don't comfort me. I know my body." She gripped his hand tighter, her eyes pleading. "Dom, you grew up with Marissa. I can only rest easy knowing she's in your care. Then I can go see her father without worry."

Marissa’s face flushed. "Mom, what are you saying?" Her voice trembled. She glanced at Dominick, a flicker of something more than friendship in her eyes.

Linda held Dominick's gaze.

Dominick nodded firmly. "Mrs. Prescott, don't worry. I'll take care of Marissa. I promise."

Relief flooded Linda's face, but it froze as Dominick added, "To me, Marissa is like Kayla…"

Linda's smile vanished. A long moment passed before she could speak.

"Mrs. Prescott, are you alright?" Dominick asked.

She forced a smile. "Fine…" She looked at Marissa, whose face mirrored her own stiffness.

Marissa hesitated. "Mom meant…"

Dominick turned to Marissa, his eyes clear and questioning. "Hmm?"