The Jilted Heiress' Return to the High Life - Chapter 126

Chapter 126:

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The rain seemed to materialize from Nate’s silent wish, gradually intensifying with each passing moment. Thunderclouds gathered, promising a storm.

Nate raced through the heavy downpour, his clothes quickly becoming saturated. By the time he reached his car, water cascaded down his skin, each droplet a testament to nature’s sudden fury. Instructing the driver to activate the air conditioning, Nate settled into the vehicle, surrounded by cool air. As midnight approached, an unsettling sensation crept through his body. He retrieved a thermometer, its digital display revealing an alarming temperature of 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rising from his bed, Nate gathered the carefully prepared fever and cold medications. With deliberate movements, he tossed them into the toilet, watching them swirl away before flushing. A satisfied smile played across his lips.

The next morning dawned pale and subdued. The previous night’s deluge had transformed the landscape, leaving behind the earthy fragrance of wet grass and freshly dampened soil.

Corrine dressed carefully, preparing to start her day. As she opened her bedroom door, she encountered Tanya in the hallway.

“Good morning, Miss Holland,” Tanya greeted, her smile warm yet tinged with underlying concern. Her hands cradled a steaming tray of soup, drawing Corrine’s immediate attention. Noticing her gaze, Tanya explained, her voice revealing a hint of worry.

“Mr. Hopkins was perfectly fine yesterday, but who would have imagined he’d develop a fever overnight? I suspect the rain might be responsible. Since I couldn’t locate the fever medicine at home, I prepared this soup to help strengthen him.”

A flicker of unintended anxiety crossed Corrine’s eyes.

“Have you called a doctor?”

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“The doctor has already visited,” Tanya sighed.

“But Mr. Hopkins has never been fond of taking medicine. I was left with little choice.”

“Let me handle this,” Corrine offered, tucking a stray lock of hair behind her ear—a subtle gesture masking her momentary awkwardness.

Tanya paused, her knowing glance speaking volumes. A brief, understanding smile danced in her eyes.

“Thank you, Miss Holland.”

Corrine accepted the tray, her fingers wrapped carefully around its edges.

She watched Tanya retreat down the hallway before turning toward Nate’s room. She knocked gently. A low, hoarse voice responded, “Come in.”

Pushing the door open, Corrine found Nate not resting as she had expected, but engrossed in a document. Gone was his typical black shirt, replaced by a deep blue pajama set that outlined his physique with tantalizing subtlety. The neckline hinted at the elegant lines of his collarbone, while rolled-up sleeves revealed the muscular strength of his forearms.

“Just leave it there and go.” Nate’s initial words carried an indifferent coldness, designed to maintain distance.

When no movement followed, he lifted his gaze. His dark eyes—intense and piercing—seemed to cut directly through Corrine, momentarily stealing her breath. The tray trembled slightly in her grasp, her feet feeling unsteady.

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