Page 89 of Dr. Damaged Protector

“You havebeen?” I asked. “So, this has been going on for how long?”

“Almost six months now,” she replied. “I didn't want to worry you.”

“Oh well, mission accomplished. Now you have me extra worried,” I replied sarcastically, “Why didn't you say anything? I could have helped.”

“I thought I could handle it on my own, and I managed to do so all this while,” she replied. “But I've reached my limit and can't handle it anymore.”

“Why?”

“I've used up most of my funds having to close down the business or two. I'm almost out. I just have what can sustain me for another month,” she explained. “I'm sorry I'm dumping all of this on you.”

This was a lot to take in and not what I expected to hear on my return.

“You look so angry right now. I hope you are not angry with me?” she asked, placing a hand on my cheek.

I didn't know when the tears started to flow but before I knew it, I found myself sobbing hard.

“Hey, don't cry,” she said as she struggled to her feet and hugged me. “At least you're here with me.”

“You should have told me…” I repeated.

If I had known something like this was going on, I wouldn't have quit.

“How much do you need for the full treatment?” I asked.

“Around forty to fifty grand,” she answered. “I was planning to sell…”

“Don't even think about it,” I warned. “I'll get you the things you need. I will get you the money.”

“But what are you doing here in the first place?” she asked.

“I just wanted to see how you were doing,” I lied, “and thank goodness I did. You kept telling me you were fine over the phone.”

“I'm sorry.”

“Don't apologize, we're going to fix this,” I replied.

Of course, I had no idea how to fix this, but I had an idea how to raise the money.

Looks like I have to return to Richmond.Thank God Stella gave me a leave of absence instead.

Chapter twenty-five

She's Back

Lucas

Two days later….

Two days passed without her, and my hospital started feeling the effect. It started with the children's ward.

“Where is Aunt Olivia?” the children asked.

“She went away for a while should be back soon,” would be the replies the nurses give.

She had handled most of my managerial tasks, but when I had to handle them on my own, I forgot how stressful they were. It didn't end there: the manor was empty in my eyes.

Sebastian kept me informed of Mother's movements, but I couldn't care less. Father carried on like nothing had happened, still talking to people about his wedding, and making me wonder if he had a proper plan for Kate.

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