A surprise visit

Chapter 13

Cole

At last, I am free from Kenzie. I shared everything with Annette, expressing my love for her. Even though she may not feel the same way, I am willing to wait until she does.

However, I refuse to remain idle; I will do everything in my power to win her heart. I have been patient for far too long.

The anticipation of holding her close, kissing her, and telling her how much she means to me is overwhelming. The teenage love I once felt has only intensified; it’s as if she has cast a spell on me, and I have no complaints. My love for her is profound; she is my reason for living, alongside Collins.

Initially, when Kenzie became pregnant and I was compelled to marry her, I feared I would resent the child. To my surprise, it was love at first sight when I met my son.

He approached me while I was working on some paperwork, flashing a smile that seemed to warm the chilly atmosphere.

“Dad, I want chocolate,” he said. “Well, you know you’ve had enough for today. Your nanny says sweets aren’t good for you,” I replied, noticing his frown. He resembles me so closely that it made me chuckle. “But I want just one, please! I promise I won’t ask for more.” I sighed and relented. “Alright,” I said, reaching into the drawer for a box of chocolates and handing it to him.

His face lit up with joy; he truly loves food. “Thank you, Daddy!” he exclaimed, hugging me before dashing to the nearest couch to enjoy his treat.

I reached for my phone, staring at it, contemplating what to say when I called her. This situation always seems to arise; I’m usually articulate, but with Annette, it feels different.

I lose my composure around her. Taking a deep breath, I dialed her number. She answered, but there was an unusual tone in her voice. "Hey, are you at home?" I asked, instantly regretting my choice of words, knowing she was at work. She confirmed she was busy and promised to call back later.

"Okay, please do," I replied, but then her mother’s voice interrupted, "She's lying; she's at the clinic." My heart sank, and I stood up abruptly. "What?" I exclaimed, panic rising within me. Collins glanced at me, concern etched on his face. "Yeah, she fainted. You really need to talk to your friend, Cole," she added. I took a deep breath. "I'll be there," I assured her. "Okay," she said before I ended the call and immediately contacting Miss Silvia. "I need to go somewhere. Please take care of Collins and give him whatever he needs."

I grabbed my coat and car keys. "Daddy, is something wrong?" Collins asked, his expression worried. "No, sweetheart, but I need to see my friend Anne." To my surprise, he smiled. "The pretty lady?" His comment caught me off guard, and I felt a blush creep onto my cheeks. "Yes, the pretty lady," I replied, ruffling his hair as I glanced at Silvia. "I’ll be off now."

I hurried to the car, my driver trailing behind me. I handed him the keys. "Where to, sir?" he inquired. "To the clinic," I answered.

Fifteen minutes later, I arrived and dashed out of the car toward the front desk. As I approached, I noticed the stares from those around me; it was a familiar thing by now "Are you here to see someone?" the nurse asked, tucking her hair behind her ear. "Yes, I was informed that Annette is here. Which ward is she in?" She looked at me in surprise before finally responding, "Ward five."

Upon arrival, Annette's mother and sister excused themselves, and Annette turned to me with a smile. "I don't recall you being a nurse. Are you working here now?" I inquired, to which she shook her head. "Sorry, I lied," she admitted, her complexion appearing quite pale. I regretted not noticing her condition sooner.

She seemed overwhelmed, and I could tell she was exhausted. "When was the last time you took a break?" I asked. "I can't remember," she replied, causing me to wince. I was unsure when my hand had moved to her forehead—was I checking her temperature or simply wanting to touch her? I couldn't tell.

I withdrew my hand. "I'm fine now; the doctor said I just need to rest. I apologize for my mom," she said, speaking as if we were unfamiliar. "Your mom didn't bother me, but you do," I responded.

She opened her mouth as if to speak but then quickly closed it again, a gesture that I found intriguing. Am I really that strange? I diverted my gaze from her lips, attempting to regain my composure. She must have thought I was ignoring her, as she quickly added, "Well, I'm sorry for that."

I met her gaze again, consciously avoiding her lips. "No need to apologize. When will you be discharged?" I asked. "Maybe today; the doctor said I just need to take my medications," she replied. I nodded, adding, "And rest," which made her giggle as she echoed, "And rest."

After her discharge, I offered them a ride home. Once we arrived, Annette hopped out of the car, assisted by her younger sister, who I noticed had been glancing at me for some time.

It would not be unexpected for her to recognize me, considering my position and the fact that she is more exposed. "Thank you, Cole," Annette said. "If you wish to express your gratitude, take some time to rest and then come visit my son." I interjected, "He also refers to you as the pretty lady; we wouldn’t want you to appear like a vampire when you meet him." This made her laugh heartily, and I appreciate this side of her even more, especially knowing I can bring her joy.

Her mother expressed her gratitude as well, and they all headed inside. The drive back was swift.

Throughout the journey, my mind was occupied with thoughts of how I could assist her. I understand Annette well; if I were to offer her money, she would likely refuse it, as she hasn’t earned it.

I am uncertain about how to support her. Would she be upset if I arranged a less demanding job for her? She might respond that she never asked for assistance. I find myself at a loss.

I realize I need to win her affection quickly and propose marriage so that I can provide her with the life she desires without it appearing as though I am imposing my wealth upon her.

Witnessing her in this state is heartbreaking; it is far from the future I imagined for us. She is still so young and deserves to prioritize her well-being. It truly hurts to feel helpless when she needs support, and I wish she would allow me to assist her. However, I understand her well enough to know that seeking my help would likely be her last resort.