As she hung up the phone, Olivia’s mind buzzed with a mix of emotions. She felt a surge of hope, knowing that her mother had a chance at a new lease on life. Yet, at the same time, a wave of anxiety washed over her, thinking of the anonymous helper.

She took a deep breath and dialed Avery’s number. Her friend’s voice on the other end of the line was a soothing balm to her weary soul.

They discussed the news, and Olivia couldn’t help but feel a glimmer of strength return to her. “Thank you for being here for me, Avery,” she said.

“Of course, Liv,” Avery replied softly. “You don’t have to face this alone. We’ll get through it together. Please get some sleep.”

Olivia sighed; her phone’s light glowed softly back at her. It was 2:34 am already.

Her phone buzzed. It was a text. She sat up immediately.

I’m outside your door.

It was from Roman.

What was he doing here? At this time.

She looked through the peephole and, catching a glimpse of his familiar silhouette ; she opened the door.

His expression was harsh. He took one look at her reddened eyes and tear-stained cheeks, and Roman’s heart clenched with concern and anger.

“Your sister, Sylvia, reached out to me. Do you know how panicked I was?”

He was more panicked than he wanted to admit. He’d left his home straightaway, phoning all the doctors he knew while racing all the way from across town to her house. Did she not think he was reliable?

He ran his fingers through his hair, frustrated, before he softly swore under his breath. Without a word, he closed the door behind him and swiftly crossed the distance to Olivia, pulling her into a tight, comforting hug.

Olivia melted into his embrace, her body trembling with exhaustion and emotional turmoil. Her sobs escaped in uncontrollable waves as Roman held her close.

After what felt like an eternity, her tears began to subside, and Roman gently pulled away.

“Olivia, why didn’t you think you could rely on me?”

Sniffling, Olivia met his gaze, her voice shaky with vulnerability. “I... I didn’t want to burden you or take advantage of your kindness,” she admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

Roman’s brows furrowed. “Olivia, if our situations were reversed, if you were in my shoes, would you hesitate to help me?” he asked, his voice firm. She felt like she was back in preschool, being scolded by her teacher.

Olivia shook her head, fresh tears welling up in her eyes. “No, I wouldn’t,” she replied.

“Exactly,” Roman said. “We’re in this together, Olivia. You don’t have to face it alone.”

With gentle strength, Roman lifted Olivia into his arms and carried Olivia to her bedroom. He carefully laid her down on the bed, tucking her in. Sitting beside her, he gently stroked her hair, his touch soothing and comforting.

“You’re safe with me, Olivia,” he murmured. “I’ll be here with you through the night. Rest now and know that I won’t leave your side.”

Olivia’s exhaustion overcame her, and as Roman continued to stroke her hair, she gradually drifted into a peaceful sleep.

Chapter 21

RomanwatchedOliviasleepfor a moment, his gaze lingering on her peaceful expression. Her hair spilled over her pillows, and the shoots of light highlighted her hair to a golden brown.

He couldn’t help but appreciate her beauty, even in the early morning light. With a soft sigh, she turned, facing him.

Slightly parted lips, pert nose, and rosebud cheeks. He could watch her forever, but he had work to do.

He gently shook her awake.

“Olivia, wake up. I have an urgent meeting to attend. I’m sorry, but I can’t accompany you to the hospital today,” Roman explained.