BURNING HOT

EXITING the car, Ila leaned on her cane and turned to Dean, saying, "Thanks Dean, see you in the morning." He gave a short nod. Despite the sweat trickling down her face and neck, she maintained her composure, letting out a subdued groan of pain as she ascended the few steps to her landing. With a swift entry of the code, she stepped inside. The pain had surfaced earlier that day after a phone call from her mom. Yet to acknowledge the fact that her leg was starting to trouble her again, she had experienced a persistent ache since her recovery from the last operation. This time, however, the pain was more intense. It struck her as ironic that she was often surrounded by people, yet at this very moment, she found herself alone—a rarity since her move to California three years ago. She had purposefully sent everyone on errands, not wanting anyone to witness her in this vulnerable state. Her son was also absent, hanging out with his friend until late. This left her without assistance. Dropping her bag by her side, she leaned heavily on her cane and maneuvered out of the break room, passing through the visitors' living room. The challenge intensified as she took two steps up the stairs, causing her to involuntarily groan and utter a curse. The pain had become constant, and it was evident to her that she wouldn't be able to make it up the stairs—she felt utterly pathetic. "Sky, come out here, man. I think something's wrong with your mom," Matt's voice called out urgently as he approached her. Leaning on the railing, Ila struggled to conceal the pain etched across her face. She watched as Sky, her towering son, swiftly reached their side. "Mom," Matt stepped back to give Sky space. He observed as Sky immediately scooped her up and began ascending the stairs. Matt felt compelled to follow, offering his help if needed. He heard Sky whisper with concern, "How did it come to this?" Sky's voice held a tinge of worry as he continued to climb the stairs two steps at a time. "It's not as bad as it seems," Ila whispered, her attempt to minimize the situation evident. She added, "Just help me into the shower while you set up the equipment." Her body shivered, and Sky could discern the struggle she was enduring. He recognized her determination not to burden him with worry, yet he was all too familiar with the excruciating pain she was grappling with. Upon reaching her room, Sky swiftly carried her across to the bathroom. He lowered her gently beside the large tub and turned on the taps. Glancing toward the door, he saw Matt standing there, his expression a mix of concern and helplessness. "Matt, help her out of her clothes. Leave her in her undergarments," Sky's directive brought Matt out of his indecision. He looked at Ila, who would have managed a wry smile if not for the pain. "It's alright. I'm hardly concerned about such things," she reassured him with a hint of a smile, her eyes reflecting the battle she was waging. They worked together, helping Ila out of her clothes and guiding her into the partially filled tub. As she exhaled, she bit her lip, the water's temperature far warmer, almost hot, but exactly what she needed. Another wave of pain radiated to her spine, making it impossible for her to sit up any longer. She was slipping further into the tub when firm hands held her upright. Gazing into Matt's eyes, she whispered her gratitude and clung to him. Although she would have preferred to spare him witnessing this, her pain-induced haze left her little capacity for rational thought. She was aware that her son trusted the young man, and that was enough. As the pain doubled, she folded over in agony, marveling at how pain could escalate even beyond her already excruciating sensations. A silent scream escaped her lips as her nails dug into Matt's hand. "Get her over here," Sky's voice called out urgently. Matt's actions were automatic, as he struggled to fully grasp the situation unfolding before him. Carrying her out of the tub in his arms, he held her carefully, his perception of her defying fragility. He had witnessed her effortlessly subdue men twice her size during their training sessions in the ring. Sky opened what appeared to be an oversized incubator in the next room. "Lay her down," Sky directed, watching as Matt gently placed his mother on the surface and stepped aside. Sky connected a few devices to her right leg and set up an IV. Ila remained motionless, unaffected by the various sensations coursing through her. "You'll be alright, Mom," Sky's voice was gentle as he brushed a strand of hair away from her face. "I know, my love. You're here," Ila's eyes closed slowly, her body gradually finding a semblance of peace. As her eyelids slid shut, Sky pressed a kiss to her closed lids. With the blue ultraviolet light activated, he stepped back, sealing the enclosure. He noticed his friend, still in his damp clothes, looking lost. "Come on, big guy. She'll be much better when she wakes up in the morning," Sky guided Matt, leading him out of the room. The door to her room remained ajar as they exited. "Let me grab us something from the kitchen," Sky suggested, walking to the kitchen and returning with a pack of beers from the fridge. He opened two cans and handed one to Matt. "Will you fill me in on what's happening? That side room in her suite is incredibly well-equipped," Matt's gaze was steady as he locked eyes with his friend. Their friendship was relatively recent, having developed over the past few months despite attending the same school. Their class schedules and differences had kept them apart until the incident that had brought them together. They both carried secrets that they hadn't yet shared. "I'm sorry, man. I'm sure she didn't want you or anyone to see her like that. But I'm grateful we were at my place. Otherwise, I can't imagine how she would have managed alone," Matt's voice carried a sense of gratitude. This raised the question of where her bodyguard was. Sam rarely left her side, and he wouldn't have if he knew the state she was in. "I can't give you all the details right now, but it's related to an accident we were both involved in. The accident left her right leg permanently affected up to her knee. She'll probably be furious that you saw her in that state. She's been soaking up all the attention you've been giving her during our morning workouts since you joined us," Sky's explanation was candid. "And that's not even the worst part. She's definitely going to punch me for stripping her clothes off," Matt mumbled, his discomfort evident. Sky chuckled in response. "My mom doesn't concern herself with notions of decency. You know, the only reason we don't hang out at my place isn't just because of the security clearance. Now that you've seen her in what she probably considers one of her lowest moments, there's no reason for you not to visit again." He laughed, lightening the mood. "I don't understand," Matt admitted. "You'll get it eventually and get used to it." Sky's expression turned serious. "You can't share what happened tonight with anyone. The moment the media catches wind of it, those paparazzi will create chaos and give Sam an excuse to rough them up, if not worse." Sky himself would like to deal with a few of them. "Trust me, man. I'll always have your back," he affirmed, reflecting the truth of their bond. Despite coming from wealthy families, they had both faced challenging childhoods. Their connection had solidified quickly. "Thanks, bro. I really appreciate it." "You call me 'brother' and you're thanking me?" Sky chuckled, patting Matt's shoulder. The evening had turned dark, and as he checked the time, he realized it was nearly 8 PM. Matt would be leaving soon, allowing him to return to check on his mother. ~•~•~°~•~•~ "Mom, I really don't think you should head to work today. Take a day off," Sky protested, though he was well aware it wouldn't deter her in the slightest. "Come on, baby, I'm perfectly fine after spending the whole night in there. I have an important meeting this morning, and Sam is blowing up my phone with calls and texts," she reassured him, patting his shoulder before stepping into the shower. She pulled the towel from her body and allowed the warm water to cascade over her. "I'm amazed how you manage to get that man to listen to you. No one else feels comfortable around him," Sky commented. Aside from their close-knit circle and Sam's security team, who were loyal to her, no one else seemed at ease with them. Her son knew the entire team would readily take a bullet or face danger to protect her. Sam was no ordinary bodyguard, and his team was equally exceptional. Comprising ex-military special forces who had formerly worked on top-secret government missions, they had withdrawn from their covert work to join Sam in safeguarding her. Her influence went far; she hadn't even needed to pay them. Sam had convinced her that their collaboration was beneficial for his security company, a notion she had accepted. "Don't speak of Sam like that, Sky. He struggles with conversation when a bullet would suffice," she chuckled, lathering herself with soap. "Well, he's not the only one," Sky remarked, drawing parallels between himself and Sam. Rumors circulated that Sam might even be his father, a notion that he found quite amusing. "Why wasn't he with you last night anyway?" "I had already dispatched him on a task across the state when the pain intensified. The assignment required most of his team to be on standby," she explained, quickly rinsing off and casting a glance at her son by the bathroom door. "Your grandmother needed his assistance with a matter involving a friend." "Is everything alright?" His concern was evident. "Nothing Sam can't handle. He'll brief me when he arrives at the office after his flight. Aren't you going to school?" She raised an eyebrow at him. "I'll get ready," he responded, about to turn away when his mother spoke again. "About Matt…" she trailed off, unsure of what exactly to say. "What about Matt?" The curiosity was palpable. "I've sorted it out. You'll probably be seeing more of him, as long as he doesn't think we're too peculiar." "Oh, I wasn't concerned about myself. I just didn't want to jeopardize the rapport you guys seem to be building." "You don't need to worry about that; we're on good terms. Do you want me to give you a ride to work?" He watched her emerge from the shower, towel wrapped around herself. "Dean should be downstairs any moment now. You can join us. We'll drop you off at school." "Nah, I need my car. Matt and I have plans after school." "Alright then. I'll let you know if I require your assistance with anything," she called out to Sky, who was already on his way out of her bedroom suite. Time was running short, and she needed to speed up. She imagined that Sam and Sky would likely share a laugh over that concept. With a smile, she headed to the door leading to her walk-in closet. With efficiency, she completed her skincare routine and moved to her collection of undergarments. She selected a white thong; her love for exquisite lingerie topped her shopping list. Her family's generations of hard work had resulted in accumulated wealth, and she had sustained that legacy. Taking over the family business at the age of 23, she presided over numerous establishments, stocks, and properties. Walking through rows of assorted clothing meticulously arranged on racks, she admired her designer suits, dresses of varying styles, jeans, skirts, blouses, hats, and face caps—among other items she couldn't account for. Her extensive collection of bags and shoes was enviable; she had a penchant for high-quality bags and shoes, the latter being her childhood preference—sneakers, boots, and timberlands. Turning her attention to her suits, she found rows of jumpsuits, two-piece, and three-piece suits in different materials and hues. Each piece was custom-made, and her designer consistently impressed her with unique concepts. Recently delivered to her were three new suits; perhaps she should try one today. After scanning through them, she settled on a black three-piece suit. The silky black material had a hint of red thread woven through it, giving it a subtle shimmer. She effortlessly slid on the pants, relishing the sensation of the fabric against her skin. The pants fit her waist snugly, and the hidden zipper was seamless. As they clung to her behind, the material glided down her legs. Accompanying the pants was a red corset, a piece that often eliminated the need for a bra in her suits. Her medium-sized bust was well-suited for her designs, and her designer enjoyed showcasing it. The red corset hugged her body, ending a few inches below her breasts, exposing her tanned stomach. She had a flat stomach and a distinctly feminine build. She completed the ensemble with a black jacket sporting a single button in the center, securing the pieces together. A pair of red shoes with low heels and a matching bag completed the outfit. Her makeup routine was minimal, usually limited to lipstick and occasionally eyeliner. Today she applied both, pulling her hair into a low ponytail. She wore diamond earrings and a matching chain, along with a diamond wristwatch that shared wrist space with a cherished charm bracelet. She never removed the bracelet, a gift from Sky three years ago when they moved to San Francisco. After a final glance to ensure everything was in order and the essentials were stashed in her bag, she exited the closet and then the room, closing the door behind her. Descending the stairs carefully—she disliked using her cane at home—she left it near the main door, where it had a designated spot. "Now that look is a solid 10 out of 10," Sky complimented, extending his hand to help her down the last few steps. "Thank you, baby. You're not looking too shabby yourself," she quipped. "Now you're just being mischievous," Sky retorted as they made their way downstairs. Her son had a distaste for his school uniform, rarely wearing it, which often resulted in minor rule infractions. On days like today, it seemed he couldn't escape it. She had insisted he attend the private school, though he deemed it a gathering of wealthy brats, which wasn't entirely unfounded. "You're in your final year. Less than a month, and you'll be finished with high school. Stop complaining; at least you've made wonderful friends and then there's Matt," she pointed out. The truth was, she wasn't entirely sure about their relationship. They seemed to be growing exceptionally close beyond mere friendship. Sky couldn't argue with that. "Come on, Dean has been waiting for you for over twenty minutes now," he assisted her with her cane. The cane had been custom-made to fit her height and was exquisitely designed. Observing her graceful exit from the house, most people debated whether the cane was purely for fashion, as she hardly seemed to rely on it. While she didn't need it on a regular basis, situations like yesterday's made it wise to have the cane handy. Sky accompanied her to the car door and opened it. As she slid in, he gave her a kiss. "Don't overexert your leg, okay?" he cautioned. "Understood, sir. Now, get moving. You're already late. I assume you won't be taking your power bike since you're in uniform," she smiled. "No way in hell," he chuckled, giving her nose a playful peck before closing the door. "Good morning, Dean," she greeted as he backed the car out of the driveway. "Good morning, ma'am. Did you rest well?" Dean's voice was polite, his attention on the road. "I certainly did," she replied, settling back into her seat. As they exited the gate, Sky's car moved past them, eventually overtaking them as they reached the open road.