Forty Seven
Zeke’s POV
I watched as Tyris giggled and babbled excitedly about her toys, I couldn’t help but smile. Her joy was infectious, filling the room with warmth and laughter.
Zane and Fletcher were easy going with Kamille and her friends. The atmosphere was relaxed and welcoming. Moments like these make me realize how far I’ve come.
Growing up as an only child, I often felt isolated and lonely. My parents’ strict upbringing left little room for friendships, and I struggled to connect with others.
But now, surrounded by their happy laughter and chatter, I feel a sense of belonging that I have always longed for my entire life.
For the first time, I felt like I’ve found my place in this world, like I’m part of something greater than myself. At that moment, surrounded by so much love, I felt complete.
I turned just in time to notice Zane’s lingering gaze on Belle. She was engaged to be married. Whatever Zane’s plans were, he would have to suspend it or kill it.
She was off-limits, and I wouldn’t encourage any interference.
I had done thorough background checks on Amanda and Belle. I knew Belle came from a family of doctors, a fact that only added to her appeal. But her engagement was non-negotiable, and I wouldn’t let anyone disrupt her happiness. Not even my friend.
Taking up from where I left off, Zane and Fletcher kept the kids company. Amanda had excused herself since she had a meeting to attend to.
I hope Father had called his friends to keep their mouths shut. I was disturbed by Kamille’s question, but hopefully my answer should have sufficed.
I owned the hospital, so naturally patients I brought in personally were bound to receive preferential treatments.
After Kamille thanked everyone for coming, she took me apart. “Uhm, Zeke. Thank you for all you have done so far, I really appreciate it. I will go see the doctor now, so I know when we can be discharged.” She said not meeting my gaze.
I interrupted gently, “Let me go talk to the doctor instead. I’ll find out how Royer is doing and keep you updated.”
Her green eyes twitched a bit, but she agreed. “Okay, thank you.” She replied, wearing a polite smile.
“I’ll have security arrive to escort the kids to school.” I added as she turned to face the playing children.
“Thank you Zeke.” She smiled again.Please check at N/ôvel(D)rama.Org.
It was time for Zane, Fletcher and I to leave, and I needed to ensure they didn’t overstay their welcome. “Hey, guys.” I called out, catching their attention. “We have to head out.”
Fletcher’s brow furrowed in confusion. “Can’t we just stay with the kids for a little while longer?” He asked, wearing a pitiful face and his voice tinged with disappointment.
I shot him a warning glare, my expression firm. “No.” I replied firmly, cutting off any further protests. I couldn’t afford to let my friends get too comfortable with my kids at the moment. It would only raise suspicions with Kamille, and I couldn’t risk that.
He knows how to father one if he so desires them.
As we stepped out of the private ward, I pulled Zane and Fletcher aside for a brief moment. “Hey, just a reminder.” I began, my tone serious. “Kamille doesn’t know that I know I’m the kids’ father. So, be careful what you say and do around them.”
Zane and Fletcher exchanged knowing glances, understanding the gravity of the situation. “Got it.” They replied in unison, their voices low.
I turned towards Zane. “I noticed your wandering eyes earlier.” I began, my tone firm. “But let me make one thing clear, Belle is already engaged. You shouldn’t even think about pursuing any interests you may have in her.”
Zane’s response was casual, almost dismissive. “Engaged, but not yet married.” He remarked with a smirk.
“If you want her, go get her bro.” Fletcher teased.
I resisted the urge to engage them further. Instead, I chose to ignore them and walked off towards the doctor’s office.
As I arrived at the doctor’s office, I wasted no time in getting to the heart of the matter. “How is he doing?” I inquired, my voice laced with concern.
The doctor met my gaze with a reassuring smile. “He’s stable now.” He replied, his tone calm yet authoritative. “He just needs plenty of rest and should avoid any rigorous physical activities for the time being.”
Relief washed over me at the news of Royer’s stability. “Can he be discharged then?” I asked.
The doctor nodded, reaching for the discharge paperwork. “Yes, I was just about to sign for his discharge…” He began, but I cut him off before he could finish.
“Don’t,” I interjected firmly, my tone leaving no room for argument. The doctor looked at me, surprised by my sudden change in demeanor.
The doctor’s confusion was evident as he furrowed his brow. “Excuse me?” He asked, his tone tinged with curiosity.
I took a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. “I want to ensure Royer’s full recovery.” I explained, my voice steady despite the uncertainty swirling within me. “I won’t be able to do that if we leave the hospital too soon. It’s important to observe his progress closely.”
The doctor nodded slowly, understanding dawning in his eyes. “I see, Mr. Reid.” He replied, his voice filled with understanding.
“So we’ll keep him here for now.” I continued, my mind racing with thoughts of Royer’s safety and well-being. “It’s better to err on the side of caution.”
The doctor nodded in understanding, though I could sense his hesitation. “I’ll make a note on his file then.”
With a sense of relief, I thanked the doctor for his understanding.
Protecting Kamille and the kids was my top priority, and I knew that keeping them in the hospital was the best way to ensure their safety.
Kamille may not understand my reasoning, but with the Manor’s on the loose and Chris moving about like a loose fox, I couldn’t risk her leaving the hospital and putting herself in harm’s way.
Keeping her here would also keep her closer to me.