In your Arms Again

A New Friend

Ella was amazed by the elegant decoration on the large room where the event was held. The royalty people who wore their shiny golden rings and necklaces. It’s her first time to attend an luxurious event like that. Her mind was wondering when a phone call startled her.

She opened her bag and saw her cousin Grace’s name on the screen, she answered immediately.

“Cousin! Come quickly to Saint Luke’s Hospital. I brought Auntie here earlier—thank God we arrived on time! The doctor said if we had been any later, she might not have made it,” Grace said in a rush.

Tears welled up in Ella’s eyes. “What? Okay, cousin, I’ll come right away. Thank you for taking care of my mother,” she said, her voice trembling.

Without seeking permission from her boss, she dashed out of the building. Her heart was filled with worry, making her rush carelessly. In her haste, she collided with a broad-shouldered man in the hallway.

“I’m sorry, sir. I’m in a hurry,” she said quickly, trying to move past him toward the elevator.

Before she could leave, the man grabbed her elbow gently, stopping her.

“Miss, what’s wrong? Can I help you?” he asked in a calm voice.

Ella turned to face him, tears still glistening in her eyes. “Sir, my mother is in the hospital. I need to go now, so please let go of my hand,” she pleaded.

“Which hospital? I’ll take you there,” he offered.

“No, sir, I’ll just take a taxi,” she insisted.

“I’m Marcus’ cousin, Felix. It’s my job to assist employees with their concerns,” he said firmly. “Let’s go. I’ll drive you there.”

Seeing his determination, Ella hesitated for a moment before nodding. Together, they hurried to the basement parking lot, where he led her to his car.

The moment they arrived at Saint Luke’s Hospital, Ella rushed out of the car. “Where’s my mother?” she asked urgently.

“She’s in the ICU, but the doctor said she’s stable now,” Grace reassured her.

Ella sighed in relief. Just as she was about to enter, she turned back to Felix.

“Sir, I’m deeply grateful for your kindness. I promise to repay you,” she said with a sad smile.

“It’s alright. Go see your mother. I’ll wait here,” he replied.

“No, sir, you should return to the party. I can manage,” she said.

Felix simply nodded, but instead of leaving, he stayed and waited for her.

Inside the ICU, Ella’s heart ached at the sight of her mother, frail and asleep. She moved closer, gently holding her mother’s hand.

“Mom, I’m so sorry for not being with you all the time. I have to work to pay for your medicines,” she whispered, tears falling. “I love you so much. I don’t know what I’d do if something bad happened to you.”

Her mother stirred, slowly opening her eyes. “Ella, my daughter,” she murmured weakly. “Why are you here? You should be at your boss’s event.”

“Mom, please don’t talk too much. Just rest and promise me you’ll get better,” Ella said gently, holding her mother’s hand. She kissed her forehead and stayed by her side until she drifted back to sleep.

Stepping outside, Ella found Grace waiting.

“Ella, we have another problem,” Grace said hesitantly. “They need an advance payment before moving Auntie to the ward tomorrow.”

Ella’s shoulders sagged. “I don’t have enough money yet. I’ve only been working for three days… where will I get that much?” she murmured, her voice cracking.

Before Grace could respond, a familiar voice interrupted.

“I’ve already taken care of the payment,” Felix said as he walked toward them.

Ella’s eyes widened. “Sir? You… you paid for it?”

“Yes. It’s my responsibility to help our employees,” he replied simply.

Tears brimmed in her eyes. “You’re an angel sent by God. I promise I’ll repay you once I get my salary.”

Felix smiled. “If everything is settled, shall we go back to the event?”

Ella nodded. “Yes, sir. Just let me say goodbye to my mother first.”

Felix nodded and returned to his car while Ella went back to the ICU.

She leaned down, kissing her mother’s forehead. “Mom, I have to leave, but I’ll visit again as soon as you’re home, okay? Please get well soon.”

Her mother gave a weak smile. “Don’t worry about me. Just go.”

With a heavy heart, Ella hugged her mother one last time before leaving.

As soon as she got into the car, Felix glanced at her. “Is everything okay now?”

Ella nodded. “Yes, sir. And thank you again.”

Felix smiled. “Call me Felix. I’d like us to be friends, if that’s okay with you.”

Ella returned his smile. “I’d like that.”

They spent the ride exchanging stories, growing comfortable with each other. However, Felix soon noticed that Ella’s makeup was ruined from crying. Without hesitation, he called his beautician friend.

“Meet us outside the hotel,” he instructed.

When they arrived, his friend was already waiting. “Come with me, darling. I’ll make you look flawless again,” the beautician said, leading Ella to the restroom for a quick touch-up.

After a few minutes, Ella emerged looking refreshed. She smiled when she saw Felix waiting.

Felix’s eyes swept over her, admiring how stunning she looked in her sky-blue dress. “You look beautiful,” he said, clearly impressed.

“Thank you,” she replied shyly.

“Can you be my date tonight?” he asked with a playful smile.

Ella hesitated before nodding.

Felix grinned, offering his arm, which she took.

As they stepped into the grand ballroom, the atmosphere was dazzling. The guests were dressed in elegant gowns and suits, their laughter and chatter blending with the soft music playing in the background. Crystal chandeliers sparkled above, casting a golden glow over the room. Expensive wine flowed freely as the guests celebrated the transition of power within the company.

Ella took a deep breath, feeling slightly overwhelmed. But with Felix beside her, she felt a little more at ease.

What she didn’t know was that someone in the crowd was watching her closely—eyes filled with jealousy and something else.