Page 30 of Blazing Joysticks

Suzette touched her husband’s arm, her voice trembling slightly. “How badly is she hurt?”

“The doctors say she has a broken rib and a sprained ankle,” Keir explained gently. “Given the force of the attack, it could have been much worse. But I promise you, she’s receiving the best care possible.”

As they continued to discuss Cat’s condition and the ongoing investigation, Keir made sure to keep his voice low and his body angled so he could always see into Cat’s room. He wouldn’t leave her unguarded for a moment, not even to speak with her parents.

Jonathan Reeves leaned forward. “And what of her attacker? Do you have any leads?”

Keir met his gaze steadily. “We’re pursuing every avenue. I’ve got my best people on it, and we’re working closely with local law enforcement. I promise you, we will find whoever did this.”

“But why Cat?” Suzette interjected, her voice cracking slightly. “She’s never hurt anyone in her life.”

Keir’s heart clenched at the pain in her voice. He reached out, gently clasping Suzette’s hand. “I don’t know yet,” he admitted. “But I swear to you both, I will do everything to keep Cat safe.”

The admission hung in the air for a moment, heavy with implication. Jonathan and Suzette exchanged a look, something unspoken passing between them.

“Mr. Sharpe,” Jonathan began, his tone measured, “I appreciate your candor. But I have to ask - is our daughter in danger because of her association with you or your company?”

Keir didn’t flinch from the question. “It’s possible,” he acknowledged. “My company deals with cutting-edge technology, and there are always those who would seek to steal or sabotage our work. But I want you to know that Cat’s safety is my absolute highest priority. I will protect her with everything I have.”

Suzette’s eyes softened slightly. “You care for her, don’t you? More than just as her employer.”

Keir nodded, allowing a hint of vulnerability to show. “I do. More than I thought possible. And I promise you both, I will take good care of her. No harm will come to her again, not while I draw breath.”

The intensity of his words seemed to reassure them, and Keir felt some of the tension in the air dissipate. They spent the next hour discussing Cat’s care and recovery plan, Keir answering their questions with patience and honesty.

As visiting hours drew to a close, Keir walked Cat’s parents to their car. “I’ll keep you updated on her condition,” he promised. “And please, don’t hesitate to call me if you have any concerns or questions.”

Jonathan clasped his hand firmly. “Thank you, Mr. Sharpe. We’re trusting you with our daughter. Don’t let us down.”

“I won’t,” Keir vowed, the weight of the promise settling on his shoulders like a mantle.

The next few days passed in a whirlwind of medical consultations, security briefings, and quiet moments by Cat’s bedside. Keir divided his time between the office and the clinic, determined not to let either his company or Cat’s care suffer.

Finally, the day arrived for Cat’s discharge. Keir arrived early, a bouquet of her favorite flowers in hand.

“Ready to go home?” he asked softly, drinking in the sight of her. Despite the lingering bruises and the careful way she held herself, her eyes sparkled with life.

“More than ready,” Cat affirmed, attempting to swing her legs off the bed and wincing at the movement.

“Easy,” Keir cautioned, moving to her side. “Let me help you.”

With infinite care, he helped Cat into a wheelchair, his touch gentle but sure. As they made their way through the clinic corridors, Keir couldn’t help but notice the curious glances from staff and patients alike.

But Keir couldn’t bring himself to care about appearances or gossip. His entire focus was on Cat, ensuring her comfort and safety.

The ride home was quiet, Cat dozing lightly in the passenger seat. Keir found himself glancing at her frequently, marveling at how quickly and completely she had become the center of his world.

At his penthouse, Keir insisted on carrying her inside despite her protests. “You heard the doctor,” he reminded her. “No unnecessary strain on that ankle.”

Once inside, he settled her on the couch, arranging pillows to support her injured rib. “Comfortable?” he asked, hovering nearby.

Cat nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. “You’re quite the nurse, Mr. Sharpe.”

Keir chuckled, some of the tension easing from his shoulders. “I contain multitudes,” he quipped. “Now, how about some dinner and a movie? Doctor’s orders - rest and relaxation.”

As they settled in for a quiet evening, Keir found himself more content than he could remember being in centuries. The simple act of sharing a meal, laughing over a lighthearted comedy - it filled a void he hadn’t even realized existed.

Later, as Cat dozed against his shoulder, Keir allowed his thoughts to wander. The attack had shaken him more than he cared to admit. The idea of losing Cat, of failing to protect her, sent a chill through his very soul.

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