Filed to story: Sweetheart Do You Still Love Me
Nonetheless, the nanny could do nothing but lower her voice and secretly tell Yelena the truth.
“Actually… Mr. Damazio is critically ill now and receiving treatment at the hospital, so he’s not at home. I can’t help you even if you come to me.”
Yelena’s eyes widened in disbelief as she processed the information. “What? Is his condition truly that serious?”
“Miss Sullivan, I genuinely don’t have any further information to provide, no matter how much you inquire. That’s all I can share.” After saying this, the nanny’s heart sank as she realized she had broken her promise to Simone and Hank by revealing the situation to Yelena.
“Can you tell me which hospital he’s in?”
“I can’t disclose that.”
Yelena’s mind raced as she recalled why she had left the Damazio Residence. However, in light of this newfound information, her first instinct was to reach out to Elspeth. Accordingly, she briefly explained her current predicament to Elspeth, hoping that her friend would lend a hand in locating the hospital where Hank was receiving treatment. Within moments, Elspeth found the hospital and promptly shared its location with Yelena.
As Yelena arrived at the hospital, she discovered that Hank had been informed about her knowledge of his address. Consequently, he had instructed the people at the entrance not to allow her inside his room. Desperate, she pleaded fervently at the door. “Please, let me in. I want to see Hank. I need to know his condition. Why is he critically ill?”
Meanwhile, Simone stood at the door, her appearance marked by exhaustion and noticeable weight loss due to the recent upheavals she had endured. Then, she uttered, “Yellie, it’s not that I refuse to let you in. It’s Hank who doesn’t want you to come inside.”
Despite the discouraging situation, Yelena refused to give up. Her determination shone through as she pleaded, “Please, just let me in to see him. Perhaps with Elspeth’s assistance, I can help with his condition.”
If it were in the past, Simone might have entertained some expectations, but she had come to realize that her son’s illness was not as straightforward as Yelena believed. Hence, she explained, “Yellie, let me be honest. Hank’s condition isn’t simply a result of an epidemic as he hasn’t been infected. It’s an inherited disease within our family, passed down every third generation. Unfortunately, it’s his turn this time.”
Nonetheless, Yelena found herself utterly taken aback by the revelation, leaving her rooted to the spot, frozen in disbelief. “What? An inherited disease?”
“The Damazio Family carries a hidden hereditary disease that surfaces once every three generations. Those afflicted with the disease do not live past the age of 25. Their bodies begin to deteriorate at 24, experiencing gradual aging and eventual organ failure. When I gave birth to Hank, I underwent thorough examinations, and there was no indication of any issue. I cannot fathom why it has suddenly appeared now. Regrettably, there is no known treatment for this disease. So, Yellie, it was for your well- being, regardless of the reasons that Hank broke up with you. I hope you will understand and refrain from coming to see him any further, allowing him to find peace of mind in his difficult circumstances.”
Suddenly, Yelena’s emotions overwhelmed her, and she couldn’t hold back the tears that welled up inside. “Mrs. Damazio, if things are as you’ve described, I cannot bring myself to break up with him.”
On the other hand, Simone understood that Yelena would inevitably come to learn about the situation, and with a heavy heart, she reluctantly decided to let Yelena inside.
Afterward, Yelena changed into sterile clothing before cautiously opening the door and entering the room. When she laid her eyes upon the sight of the frail and weak Hank lying in the hospital bed, tears welled up in her eyes. “Hank, I’ve come to see you.”
However, the moment he saw her, a sudden spike in his heart rate caused the monitor next to him to register rapid fluctuations.
She noticed this phenomenon and interpreted it as a clear indication that he did not wish to see her, so she lowered her head. “I’m sorry. I understand you may not want to see me right now, but I still need to be here to see you and try to understand your condition.”
Meanwhile, Hank had not yet reached the stage where he required an oxygen tank, but his voice remained weak and strained. “What are you doing here? Didn’t I make it clear that we’ve already broken up? Please, don’t come to see me anymore.”
Even though Yelena understood that his condition was taking a toll on him, his words stirred a sense of grievance within her. “I understand what you said, but I still want to ensure you’re okay.”
“Yelena, I’m warning you. We’ve broken up.”
“Of course, I’m well aware that we’ve broken up. Can’t we at least remain friends after breaking up?” Yelena retorted stubbornly, her determination unwavering. “Mrs. Damazio is also a good friend of mine. Can’t you interpret my presence here as a visit to see her?”
“Then, go and see my mom instead. Why did you come in here?”
Yelena huffed in response, her tone defiant. “She and I have become like sworn sisters. I came in to see how my godson is doing.”
After hearing this, Hank’s breath caught in his throat, almost causing him to choke. Godson? She dares to say that! “No matter what your intentions were for coming in, I want to clarify that I do not want to see you here. Your presence will only affect my mood negatively. Please leave immediately.”
Nevertheless, as Yelena looked at the man’s cold and distant expression, a sense of nervousness washed over her, intensifying in response to his harsh words. “I already know the truth. You intentionally ended our relationship because of your condition, right?”
Hank’s sneering conveyed a cold and dismissive tone. “What do you mean by intentionally breaking up with you because of my condition? I broke up with you because I no longer have feelings for you. Do you understand?”
“Hank, do you realize how hurtful your words are? Do you understand that I genuinely care and worry about you?”
“I don’t need you to worry about me.” Hank, intimately familiar with Yelena’s sensitive and compassionate nature, deliberately chose to use harsh words to hurt her.
However, she also knew he deeply understood her character and emotions. Now, she couldn’t help but feel a sobering sadness settle within her. Deep down, she understood that he intentionally uttered those hurtful words to drive her away. She recognized his desire for her to let go of any lingering feelings and to find happiness even after his inevitable passing. Despite the pain and sorrow, she saw through the layers of his actions and words, understanding the complexities behind his choices. This newfound understanding brought a mix of emotions, from heartache to admiration, as she grappled with the depth of their connection and the sacrifices he was making for her well-being.
Hence, Yelena sat beside the hospital bed and said, “Well… I’m sorry, but I won’t leave today since you’re lying in bed and can’t do anything to me.”
“You!” Hank’s anger intensified, causing him to become so enraged that he had trouble catching his breath. Given his already compromised health, the increased agitation exacerbated his breathing problems.
She could not help but be concerned about her actions on his fragile health. Then, she cast a worried glance at his complexion and noted that he had not yet reached a critical stage, which provided her with a sliver of solace.
“What? You said such hurtful things to provoke me. Can’t I defy your wishes a little bit?” Does he think I am someone who can be easily bullied? At this, a sense of equilibrium gradually settled into Yelena’s heart. While observing Hank’s inability to respond to her words or actions, she couldn’t help but feel a peculiar sense of calm and serenity. At this instant, an inexplicable satisfaction enveloped her when she witnessed his frustration in being unable to challenge or counter her. After that, she hummed a tune as she picked up an orange from a nearby table, peeled it, and savored its flavor.
“Do you think you own this place?”
After hearing those words, a gentle smile graced Yelena’s lips, and she responded, “Yes. I shall not only embrace this place as my own, but I shall also extend my utmost care to you, my critically ill husband.” With a tender gesture, she lifted a segmented piece of orange, bringing it closer to his lips. “Here. Would you like a bite?”
As Hank’s rage mounted, a searing intensity welled inside him, pulsing through his veins and making his headache with a nearly intolerable weight. He struggled to raise his hand and gently massaged his temples, seeking a brief respite from the raging emotions. With his voice laced with icy coldness, he warned her, “I understand your intent, but please refrain from playing with me now. If you have nothing important to do, I advise you to leave as soon as possible. Otherwise, you won’t receive a pleasant response from me.”
“Oh. I won’t leave. Why don’t you call the police?” After saying that, she rose to her feet and continued, “I’m feeling a bit hungry. I’m going to get some food. I haven’t eaten much, as my worries have consumed my appetite.” She muttered to herself, then turned her head and asked, “Could you help me think of something to eat?”
“This is none of my business.”
Despite the sadness that washed over her upon hearing Hank’s dismissive attitude, Yelena maintained a nonchalant expression. “Fine. I noticed a Mexican restaurant in the vicinity while looking around.” She spoke deliberately to test his reaction.
As she observed him lying on the bed, she noticed his eyelids fluttering open ever so slightly. Though his voice was faint, she strained to catch his words.
“Aren’t you unable to eat spicy food?”
A small thrill coursed through her heart as Yelena absorbed Hank’s consideration and the warmth underlying his words. “Don’t you dislike me? Why should you care what I eat? We have nothing to do with each other anymore.” She deliberately irritated him, and as she watched his face become slightly displeased, she felt satisfied. Despite her attempt at testing the waters might not have been the most subtle or clever, she could not help but detect a flicker of lingering emotions within him.
“Of course, it has nothing to do with me. However, someone’s face breaks out in acne after eating spicy food. If you don’t mind, you can go ahead and eat.” Despite his calm voice, the words flowing from his lips were enough to infuriate anyone.
On the other hand, Yelena knew the consequences of spicy food on her skin. Each time she consumed chili or fiery ingredients, her face would break out in pimples, a frustrating occurrence that took time to resolve. Given the nature of her work and the importance of maintaining her appearance, her manager had taken steps to ensure that she refrained from consuming spicy food.
With a hint of grumpiness, she acknowledged the restriction placed upon her. “Got it. No spicy food, but I can’t ignore my hunger. I’m famished.” With those words hanging in the air, she shifted her gaze toward Hank, lying on the bed. His closed eyes, evading any acknowledgment of her presence, led her to purse her lips in disappointment. Then, she chose not to disturb him, so she turned on her heels and silently walked out.
Unbeknownst to Yelena, as she stepped out of the room, the man lying on the bed couldn’t help but let a subtle, fleeting smile curl at the corners of his lips.
…
Coincidentally, those men didn’t show up to cause trouble at the Azure Corporation’s doorstep after Slevin’s threat. Nevertheless, Elspeth’s thoughts were far removed from those men, for her singular focus rested on the precious life growing within her womb. Her unwavering determination compelled her to take every precaution necessary to ensure the baby’s safe arrival.
However, the path ahead unfolded with unexpected complexities, defying the simplicity she had yearned for.
Early in the morning, while Elspeth was having breakfast, she suddenly felt a sharp pain in her lower abdomen.
Margot’s heart skipped a beat as her eyes locked onto her pale countenance. “What’s wrong, Elsie? Why is your stomach hurting suddenly?”
Meanwhile, Elspeth’s face contorted in agony as she struggled to find words amidst the searing pain coursing through her abdomen. The intensity of the sensation rendered her speechless as if a sharp blade mercilessly slashed at her lower abdomen.
“I’ll rush her to the hospital. Otherwise, both she and the baby might be in danger.” After saying this, Callum swiftly moved to lift his wife into his arms.
As he mentioned the unborn child, Margot’s eyes widened in fear as a wave of realization swept her. “Will something happen to the baby?”
At this moment, he temporarily set aside his concerns about the unborn child. Then, his attention was drawn to his bewildered mother as he spoke urgently but calmly, “I’ll take her to the hospital now. Please tidy up the remnants of her breakfast and wait for my return. Once I come back, I will investigate this matter further.” Instinctively, he couldn’t shake off the feeling that there might be a connection between the incident and the food his wife had consumed that morning.
With a solemn nod, Margot watched her son swiftly depart, cradling his wife in his arms.
Meanwhile, Callum admitted Elspeth to the hospital, and the doctor promptly conducted a thorough examination.
As the doctor reviewed the examination report, a deep frown creased his brow as he questioned, “What were you thinking? Allowing a pregnant woman to consume so many cold-natured foods. Even if you don’t prioritize the unborn child’s well-being, it’s crucial to consider the expectant mother’s health. Considering her pre-existing health issues, such dietary choices can only exacerbate her condition. Fortunately, you brought her to the hospital early. If the timing had been any later, it might have had dire consequences for the baby’s survival.”
The weight of the doctor’s words settled heavily upon Callum’s shoulders, causing him to feel a deep sense of guilt. Then, nodding with genuine regret, he expressed, “I’m truly sorry. We will definitely be more cautious and mindful next time.”
After seeing his positive attitude of admitting his mistake, the doctor decided not to make things difficult for him and handed him a prescription and instructions for payment.
After the doctor left, Callum looked at the frail figure of Elspeth on the bed, and a trace of heartache crossed his eyes. “I’m sorry. It’s my fault for not paying closer attention and allowing you to consume those foods.”
On the other hand, her concern for the well-being of her unborn child had been unwavering, and she had diligently kept a watchful eye for any signs of potential issues throughout her pregnancy. However, she had never anticipated that the problem would arise from the very food she had consumed.
As the weight of the situation settled upon her, Elspeth gently shook her head. Though weakened, her voice carried the quiet strength of self-accountability. “It’s not your fault. I should have been more attentive. I’ve been preoccupied lately, and I didn’t notice that there might have been something wrong with the foods I consumed.”
“It’s okay. I’ve told Mom to keep an eye out. I’ll investigate when I go back. You rest here and take care of your body.”
As Callum prepared to leave, her hand instinctively grabbed his. “I feel like I shouldn’t be here. I should go back home.”