Chapter 18: Unexpected Connections

"Everyone should be here within an hour."" My Dad told me.

Having spent most of the day at the hospital with me, my Dad's determination was unwavering. He purposefully intended to stay by my side and support me. He never left. Witnessing this side of him was surprising, considering his usual energetic and testosterone-driven nature. Yet, he embraced the role of a caregiver wholeheartedly.

He was loving and caring and gentle with me. He didn't seem to mind at all. When the first dose of pain medication wore off, the nurse administered more to alleviate some of the discomfort. Although the intensity had lessened, I still relied on my Dad's assistance, which I deeply appreciated. This time it was to help me take a shower.

"Never thought I'd see this day."

He smiled as he dried my body with the towel. "What's that, son?"

"The day my Daddy became soft as a teddy bear." I smiled at him with gratitude in my eyes. "Thank you."

He smiled back and reached for my clothes. "Here, lift up." I raised my legs. "Well when I'm old and shitting all over myself you can repay me."

I laughed. " Yeah that will be the highlight of my day."

He handed me my shirt. I slid it on and then brushed my teeth and put on the rest of my toiletries.

After dressing and attending to my toiletries, I slowly made my way back to the bed. I groaned when my Dad carefully sat me on the edge and he inquired, "Still hurts?" I nodded, and he empathetically replied, "I can only imagine, son. As a man with the same appendage, I can't even begin to comprehend." He then helped me settle back into the bed, ensuring my comfort.

"Dad if I ask you a question will you tell me the truth?" I asked him.

He looked bewildered. "Jasper Peter, when have you ever known me to lie to you?"

I tapped my chin with my finger and pretended to think. "Well… I can think of a few times." I told him smiling.

" Name one time. Just one time."

"Well let's see. Santa, The Easter Bunny, The Tooth Fairy, Cupid, Leprechauns…"

"That was yo' mama's doing!" He challenged. "That was all her!"

"Mighty funny you went along with her!"

"I was forced." He laughed.

"Seemed to be enjoying those lies to me!" I smiled. "Down to the snow in the living room and the missing cookies!"

He laughed. "I was forced." He repeated.

"Mmmm. Hmmm." I gave him the side eye. "So what you're saying is Mama got you on lock."

"She has the goodies." He winked.

I shook my head and laughed. "OMG. Gross."

"And I'll have you know that leprechauns are real! I beat the shit out of one last night!"

I hollered. We both laughed together. "Oh man. My side…" I leaned, laughing, but was feeling that side pain. "Oh God…" I laughed. "My junk…oh God …that shit hurts." We laughed some more. Finally we caught our breaths.

He chuckled. "What's your question son?"

I collected myself and became serious. "Have I disappointed you?"

"I'm confused." He said.

"I mean do you think I'm disgusting because of my lifestyle and what I do with men?" I asked bashfully. "Like I'm less than a real man?"

He looked as if I'd slapped him. "I'm still confused."

"I-I mean, you guys are so masculine and tough. You're manly and not scared and all… of stuff. I mean I can't even fight. Or use a gun. I just want to know how you feel about your son…not being like the Brenn boys or Uncle Reggie's boys."

Now he was looking like I had peed on him. I lower my eyes because his gaze was black. He crossed his arms and rubbed his forehead. He sighed.

"Dad?"

"Jazz, do you want to be reunited with that piece of shit over there in ICU?" He asked. Now he knew he didn't mean that!

I smiled.

"You're lucky I feel like entertaining this foolishness."

"Sorry."

He rolled his eyes and pointed at me. "You on that bullshit, Jazz."

I bit back a smile.

He chuckled and shook his head. "You're a handful, Jazz. But you're my son, and I love you just the way you are. Your lifestyle doesn't change how I feel about you. You're still my blood, my flesh and bone. And being a real man has nothing to do with fighting or using a gun….which by the way you gone learn to do….It's about being true to yourself, treating others with respect, and standing up for what you believe in. So, no, you're not disgusting or less than a real man. You're my son, and I'm proud of you."

I smiled, feeling a wave of relief wash over me. "Thanks, Dad. I needed to hear that."

He winked at me. "Anytime, son. Now, the gang should be here shortly."

We shared a laugh, grateful for the understanding and love between us.

My hospital room phone rang. The caller ID indicated it was from the green tower, where James was staying. My dad picked it up and handed it to me.

"Hello," I answered.

"Hi, is this Jasper Hale?"

"Yes, it is." My dad asked me with a gesture if I wanted him to leave. I shook my head, indicating that it was okay for him to stay.

"Jasper, hi, this is Dr. Dara Minnici from the green tower. I'm calling in reference to your husband James Hale, who is a patient here."

My dad was now sitting on the couch, scrolling through his phone, but I was sure he could hear our conversation.

"Okay," I replied.

"Well, it looks like he has given us full consent to speak with you regarding his medical care."

"Yes, he told me," I responded, still surprised that he had made that decision. He probably felt that his information was that important and damn it, he was going to make sure I knew it.

"Well, Jasper, we are taking him down for emergency surgery. He's currently sedated. We found some internal bleeding near his head and a possible embolism in his left lung. He also has a broken vertebrae and a few ribs. Despite that, he's stabilized. We decided sedation was the best option to keep him still, as he was awake and talking for most of the day."

"Yes, I know. I saw him earlier," I confirmed.

"There's a possibility that he may require additional surgeries. He took quite a severe beating."

I sneaked a glance at my dad, who was swaying side to side on the couch with his face propped in his hand, covering his mouth. Somewhere inside, I knew he was deriving some satisfaction from this news. He had beaten James badly.

Clearing her throat, she continued, "He didn't sign a DNR, so we will proceed with necessary life saving measures if needed."

"Well, great," I muttered sarcastically to myself. The doctor didn't hear me, but my dad did and chuckled.

"Also, he requested earlier that when he is able to be moved to a regular room, he wants to share a room with you."

My dad instantly became angry, but before he could object, I spoke up firmly, "I don't think so. I'm good. I don't want to be in a room with him."

"Okay we will let him know later. He's a very sick man. But we are taking care of him

"Hmmm." Was all I said.

"Jasper, we have domestic violence counselors here if you need support."

"I have one. Thank you."

"James also asked about your care. Do we have permission to let him know how you're doing?" She asked.

"No." Was all I said. "He put me in here just like he promised. That's all he needs to know."

"Very well. He was asking earlier."

"Well he saw me. He knows how I'm doing."

"Okay, Jasper. Do you have any questions for me in regard to your husband?"

"How long will he need to stay in ICU?"

"He'll be here for a while. Like I said he sustained some pretty bad injuries."

"Okay." Most spouses would have been deeply alarmed and would want to stay with their significant other. I couldn't care less about being with mine.

I said goodbye to her and hung up.

"Ugh! Whatever."

My Dad walked over to me. He reached out to gently hold my trembling hand. "You okay, son?"

I shook my head. "Honestly Dad I'm just s

overwhelmed. When I left Forks I never imagined any of this. James has been receiving texts from work all day. I'm sure when he doesn't show up Monday they will become concerned. He's very protective of his status at work and is usually very punctual. He can't stand being late. That's going to be interesting."

My Dad nodded.

"What about you Dad? How is this going to affect your work? And Uncle Mike?"

He sighed and rubbed his face. "Actually I've already talked to my practice associates. I have been advised to take a paid sabbatical until the situation is resolved. As far as Mickey goes, he owns his company. I'm not sure what he will do. It's possible due to his high value clientele, his Board will recommend he do the same."

I look at him sadly with a regretful heart. He smiled. "Don't you worry, prince. I told you. We are going to be just fine."

I shook my head. "I hope so."

"Trust me. You just focus on getting stronger." He said.

The sterile hospital room felt suffocating as I sat on the edge of the bed, my father by my side.

James cell phone received a text message.

My Dad reached for it on the table beside my bed and tried to hand it to me. I had been letting the battery charge on it all day.

"I'm not allowed to look at his phone. He never locks it because he knows I won't look at it."

My Dad stared at me in disbelief. I finally took it from him and held it face down in my hands.

"I know what you're thinking, Dad, but in spite of my feelings towards James I feel guilty for looking at his phone."

The phone pinged several more times.

"Do you still love him son?" He asked.

I looked at him with sad eyes and dropped my head. I remained silent. He brushed my hair back.

"Talk to me, Jazz. It's okay if you do. No judgment here."

Tears fell from my eyes as James' phone continued to chime.

My father's eyes softened, his voice filled with a mix of compassion and sadness. "Jasper, it's natural to feel love for someone who was a significant part of your life. But love should never blind us to the truth, and it should never come at the expense of our own well-being. You deserve a love that is genuine, kind, and faithful. And you will find it, my son."

"I don't know what I feel Dad. All I know is that my life is so jacked up."

The phone dinged again. My Dad sighed. "Okay Jazz that phone is annoying. At least turn it off if you're not going to answer it."

I turned it face up so that I could silence it. I accidentally opened the phone. That's when I saw all the messages from someone named Kent. I was blown away by what I saw. My jaw dropped as I read the message. My Dad stared intently at my reaction.

"Jasper?" He asked.

I read the text out loud.

"Hey babe,

Looks like our little secret is safe for now. I'm sure you have kept your "son" as clueless as ever. Seriously, Jay. When are you going to close the daycare and stop playing house with the baby? You have the whole package right here. And judging from the way you were moaning the other morning, you know how deep my package can go. Licking those lips, I see. Well don't worry we'll be together soon. I can't wait for our upcoming 'business trip' to Aspen next weekend. You know how much I love our little getaways.

Make sure you cover your tracks, babe. We don't want little Jasper being in the way. And by the way. When are you going to make good on your promise to let me take him against his will. He looks quite delicious and I am anxious to live up to every one of your fantasies with me and him. I'm sure you will enjoy watching me. You do get off on domination.

So Aspen in a week? The usual mix of luxury, adventure, and, of course, our own private time. Can't wait to see you, my handsome accomplice.

Remember, discretion is key. We're masters of this game.

-Kent"

I put the phone in my Dad's hand and he sat it back on the table. I was speechless as I stared blankly at him. The weight of this revelation hung heavy in the air, suffocating me. It appeared to be no air in the room. My heart was shattered, my soul bruised, and I was desperately trying to make sense of it all.

I struggled to steady my breathing, my emotions threatening to overwhelm me. "Dad..." I choked out, tears streaming down my face. "Why?" I asked innocently. "Why? Why-yyyy, Dad? Why-yyy?"

For the umpteenth time today, he held me with the love of a father as the malicious words on the screen cut through me like a knife, reopening the wounds that were still raw and bleeding. I felt my chest tighten, my breathing erratic as a wave of panic washed over me. My father's grip tightened, offering me a lifeline. I wailed and screamed against his tight chest. I clutched him and held onto to him with everything I had, which was absolutely nothing.

"He hurt me Dad. He hurt me."

Dad held my me tightly and held back his own tears. He was didn't say a word probably mostly from fear he would go find James and finish him.

I was hyperventilating, struggling to find my voice amidst the overwhelming emotions. "Dad, it hurts so much. What did I do? Why Dad? How could he? Why? All I ever did was love him?"

"I know it does, son. I know!" Tears continued to flow freely down my face as I clung to my father. " I'm so sorry he broke your heart like this. I'm so sorry."

At that moment, the rest of my family stepped into the hospital room, their presence only intensifying the whirlwind of emotions consuming me. I was absolutely exhausted and devastated , my body convulsing with uncontrollable sobs, my tears staining my Dad's shirt. I felt utterly betrayed and broken, my heart shattered into a million pieces. Out of all the abuse, this hurt worse than anything he'd ever done to me.

My mother rushed to my side, her own tears mingling with mine. Seeing her cry, witnessing her pain, only amplified my despair. "Oh,baby."

Rosie who had always fiercely protected me burned with anger and concern as she took in the devastation on my face. I could sense her seething with rage towards James, my first and only love turned betrayer. Her protective instincts ignited, ready to take down anyone who dared to hurt her beloved brother.

Uncle Michael was here now too, the epitome of masculinity, standing tall with folded arms. He no doubt was reliving what he had seen on Ms. Amy's ring camera, and now hearing me cry out for a love that was no more. There was zero judgment from him just a heart to love me and see this end. It was a testament to the depth of his love and his struggle to process this cruel betrayal. His presence alone provided a sense of strength, even in the midst of my shattered world.

But it was Kevin, my best and only true friend, who reached me in an instant. His eyes well up with tears, mirroring my pain. He rushed to my side, gently asking permission from my father to let him take me. My Dad, drying his eyes, relinquished me to Kevin who engulfed me in brotherly love and his touch gentle yet firm as he steadied me. In that moment, his unwavering support spoke volumes. I could feel his empathy, his silent promise to stand by me, no matter how dark the storm.

Through my tears, I choked out broken words to Kevin, my voice trembling with anguish. "Kevin, it hurts... my heart... everything hurts. Ja-James…he..he…" I choked and stuttered.

He moved closer, bridging the distance between us, his eyes filled with empathy. "I'm here for you, Jazz," he whispered, his voice filled with tenderness.

His words pierced through my mental darkness, offering a glimmer of hope. I cried even harder, feeling myself crumbling under the weight of it all. Kevin continued to speak, his voice a soothing balm to my wounded soul. He reassured me that I would be okay, that his brotherly love would always be there for me. I was secured in his strong arms. I needed to be right where I was at this time. I didn't realize how much I needed my friend.

As I began to calm down, my body relaxing slightly, a blaring alarm shattered the stillness of the room. My blood pressure had spiked, a physical manifestation of the turmoil raging within me. The throbbing in my head returned, intensifying the pain I had been trying to suppress.

With a shaky but steady voice, Kevin broke the silence, his concern evident. "What happened, Jazz?" he asked, his eyes searching mine for answers.

Unable to speak, I choked on my tears once again, the weight of the betrayal suffocating me. I hung my head in defeat, feeling utterly broken. With a trembling hand, I pointed towards James' phone, silently urging Kevin to uncover the painful truth.

As Kevin read the text message aloud, a mix of shock, anger, and sorrow washed over my family. Rosie's face contorted with rage, her fists clenched tightly. My mom's eyes filled with fresh tears, mirroring the pain etched across her son's face. Uncle Michael, who had moved closer, enveloped me in a comforting hug, a silent gesture of his unwavering support.

In that moment, the truth became undeniable, and my family's collective anguish mingled with my own. The weight of the betrayal had shattered our sense of stability, leaving us grappling with the depth of the pain inflicted by James' infidelity.

As Kevin read the text message revealing James' betrayal, his voice trembled with a mix of anger and concern. "This sorry ass-" he exclaimed, his words laced with disbelief. "I'm so sorry this happened, Jazzy."

Uncle Michael's voice, deep and resonant, cut through the heavy air of the room. His words held a sense of unwavering strength and resilience. Like my father, he was a lot calmer than he was yesterday, but still very angry.

"Jasper, listen to me," he said firmly, his eyes locked with mine. "You are stronger than you know. This may feel like it's the end of the world right now, but trust me, it's not. We will stand by you, and fight for you. Believe this…that little pink fuck gone rot in prison or a hole, either way he gone get the fuck outta here. You ain't by yo damn self, Jazz. We gone get through this together."

He immediately teared up and his lips begin to quiver. He reined it in very quickly, but he was not able to keep some tears from escaping from his eyes.

"Jazz, I saw the video from Amy's backyard and I want you to know…" He paused to get himself straight and to keep from crying. "…I want you to know that until the day I take my last breath, I will not give up until that bitch gets his. One way or the other… that mother fucker gone get his."

"Baby," Aunt Felicia came over to stand beside him in front of me and reached for his arm. "Bae I know you're upset but-"

He shook free from her and kept going. "Even if it means sacrificing my own life or whatever it takes, he's getting everything… and I do mean every damn thing coming to him. Disgusting bastard. That bitch is sick and fucked up."

My Uncle was truly hurt. How could he not be. I was sure that anyone watching that video would be devastated.

"Mikey, breathe baby." Aunt Felicia knew he was riled. She wrapped her arms around his waist. "Please try to stay calm."

"I'm good Bae."

"Ok but you need to stay calm," she coaxed.

"I'm good." He repeated. His lips quivered again but this time those tears fell harder. He fiercely and swiftly wiped them away with the back of hid hand. He replaced them with anger. "I swear before all of y'all in this room, that bastard gone get fucked in the head for what he did to this kid."

I was trembling and crying myself remembering what James had done to me.

"Mickey where's the video?" Dad asked.

He looked at my Dad. "I have it, but I'll show it to you later and only you. No one else in this room needs to see that."

Their eyes connected. "Yes it's that bad." Uncle Michael told him.

My Dad turned five shades. He stood clenching his fist but Mom, like Aunt Felicia, quickly stepped to him and started calming him down.

Uncle Michael's gaze hardened, his voice filled with anger. "Jasper, listen to me carefully," he said, his tone unwavering. "You may feel like you have nothing right now, but that's not true. You have a family who loves you unconditionally, who will fight for you. We 'stickin' and stayin' with you. You might be a grown ass man, but you are ours…our kid! The waste of life picked the wrong family to fuck with! You gone be alright, Jazz."

"He was going to let someone else hurt me." I said low enough that only a few could hear. Saye and Levi had left momentarily to go outside to the waiting area per instructions from their mother. She'd decided this was going to be too much for their tender ears.

My family looked at me solemnly. I shed more tears. "And I wouldn't have been able to defend myself. I'm embarrassed cause I don't know how to fight or protect myself. I'm still scared of him. Of what he might do. Uncle Mike I just need to feel safe again. I just wanted a sign that my life will be normal again."

"Jazz, we'll help you get there, son." My Dad stroke my face. "You're safe with us."

"Trust me Jazz. James ain't stupid. If he comes anywhere on the street he's a dead man." Uncle Michael stroked my other cheek much like he and Dad had done last night.

"I told him that too," Dad said.

"Let him come on. The only regret I have is not putting him down. I fucked that one up."

"Me too," Dad agreed. These two men were serious warriors. I was once again amazed how quickly they could transition.

"He hates you guys." I said. "He thinks me and Kevin want to be together...like that."

In unison all I heard was, "I don't give a fuck" and a string of obscenities from them.

"Now we know why Jasper is about to have a stroke!"

As the room spilled over with tension, the door swung open. We all turned to look as Beth, my evening nurse, stepped forward, breaking the heaviness. They'd heard the last part of our conversation as they knocked briefly and walked in. She was accompanied by a young UW medical student intern. I immediately recognized that familiar face, one that had illicitly painted my dreams over the last week or so. I swear at that moment, time seemed to stop.

"Jasper, this is Edward Cullen," she introduced, motioning towards him. I was still sitting on the bed, and as my family stepped to the side, my oversaturated eyes locked with Edward's as his slender yet tight muscular frame slid from heaven into my room. I noticed a sense of calm and compassion emanating from him. "He will be assisting with your care tonight."

Edward nodded politely, his emerald green eyes filled with genuine concern as he assessed the room and the situation. Yet they sent me an unspoken message. I instantly stilled myself as he drew closer. He smelled like peace and hope. I held my breath for a minute to keep from fainting. His 6'2 frame seemed to glide towards me. The Edward Cullen, radiant and good-looking as he was the first day I saw him was in my hospital room. What were the freaking odds? He recognized me too as his eyes lightened up with a hint of familiarity. He was excited to see me.

My family froze and took him in well. And don't think they didn't see that excited look he gave me.

Edward, with his strong and athletic build, exuded a natural charm and charisma that made my blood rise even more. His demeanor carried a sense of confidence, yet his gentle and caring heart shone through. His smile, warm and genuine, illuminated the room, while his eyes held depth and understanding.

I could see the confusion in his eyes as he attempted to understand the heightened emotions swirling around us. It made me wonder if he had read my chart, if he knew about James' abusive behavior towards me. Despite my suspicions, I hoped that Edward's presence would bring the compassion and understanding I desperately needed in this vulnerable moment.

Everyone in my family respectfully stepped aside, creating a more space for Edward to approach my bedside, a sense of anticipation filled the room. They were all interested and intrigued. In that moment, Edward seemed to exude an inexplicable appeal, like a savior emerging from the depths of darkness. Metaphorically, he was a sparkling light that illuminated the room, his essence brilliant and captivating. Time continued to pause as his eyes stayed locked with mine, and his smile radiated warmth, bringing a flicker of hope into the midst of my turmoil.

"Jasper, it's great to see you again," Edward said, his voice filled with genuine warmth and familiarity. The puzzled expressions on everyone's faces were evident as they tried to understand how we knew each other. Rosie and my mom had prior knowledge, as I had confided in them about recognizing Edward from the yearbook. My mom no doubt remembered me pointing him out during our previous conversation on yesterday.

Beth's voice broke through my thoughts, addressing the concern over my elevated blood pressure. "Jasper, your blood pressure is very high," she remarked, her tone filled with both caution and reassurance. "I know you have a lot going on sweetheart but you need to stay calm. Edward is going to listen to your heart and lungs and take your vitals." I nodded as my family looked on.

The nurse turned to Edward, her expression earnest. "Edward, he's been through a lot of intense pain today and we need to monitor his pain levels and ensure his comfort," she instructed, emphasizing the importance of a calm environment for my well-being.

"Of course."

In the middle of the worst heartbreak I had ever experienced in my life, Edward appeared. His voice sent a sense of refreshing peace that resonated in my heart. I sniffled and tried to wipe my face when he moved closer to stand next to my bed.

As he began assessing my pain, he struck up a conversation with me, his voice so deep, yet amazingly gentle and comforting. "Jasper, how are you feeling right now? On a scale of one to ten, can you describe your pain?" He asked, his genuine concern evident.

I looked at my Dad briefly for encouragement and he understood. He gave me a quick thumbs up of approval. My voice was still shaky after the total let down I was still feeling.

"Five." I whispered. I was hoping he wouldn't have to examine me everywhere. That would be so devastatingly embarrassing.

I wiped away the tears streaming down my face, while sensing his natural, innocent desire to comfort me. Despite his professionalism, he strived to maintain that role to the best of his ability. I could tell he had a very caring heart much like his father; and even for him, a complete stranger, this was an emotional time.

He nodded and patted his own heart. "What about the pain here?"

I almost lost it again. I had to hold myself back. I couldn't let him see how much another guy had messed me up so badly.

I laid back on the bed and rested my head on the pillow, closed my eyes, and tried to calm down. I willed myself to breathe. I stayed quiet, scared that even one word would make me fall apart and cling to him out of desperation.

I opened my eyes and saw absolutely no judgement in his. Edward's gaze was steady and intense as he gaged my reaction. He reached for the folder the nurse handed him.

"I understand." Was all he said. I could hear muffled sniffles from my family.

In a crowded room filled with the echoes of shattered emotions, here sat a man whose presence emanated nothing but warmth and compassion. Part of me wanted to just tell him every single detail. His eyes, gentle and understanding, reflected the burden of the pain that had enveloped the heartbroken soul before him. With each word he spoke, his voice carried an unwavering empathy, as if he had experienced the depths of heartbreak himself.

I finally spoke up. "I don't have a heart anymore." Was all I said. I could still hear my family hurting for me around the room. They truly felt my pain.

If he could have hugged me I truly believe he would have. He nodded and paused for a moment to register the implications of what I had just said. He was wise beyond his years. I could instantly tell he spends a great deal of time with his father, Dr. Cullen.

"Understood." He said again.

"Jasper," His voice was like soothing honey. He confidently crossed his strong, muscular arms. "Experiencing physical pain can serve as a valuable warning sign to protect ourselves from harm and take appropriate actions. Similarly, metaphorical pain, such as emotional heartbreak, can also have certain benefits. It can lead to personal growth and introspection, fostering resilience and empathy."

I listened intently, giving undivided attention to every sigh, every humble word, and every ounce of tenderness and strength he was giving at the moment. I was entranced and instantly drawn to him. His gestures spoke volumes, as he enveloped my broken spirit and spoke to the shattered remnants of Jasper…the discarded forgotten man inside of me.

"Through pain, we often gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and others, allowing us to appreciate joy, love, and happiness on a profound level. Pain can be a catalyst for change, motivating us to make positive adjustments in our lives and relationships."

I watched him intently and felt something settle over me. Was that peace…something I had not felt in a long time?

"Ultimately, it is through overcoming pain that we can find strength, wisdom, and a greater appreciation for life's blessings that appear right before us."

I was absolutely certain that the innuendo did not go unnoticed by the majority of adults in the room, and I can personally caught it!

"Indeed, it is in these moments of hardship and pain that we unearth the depths of our inner strength and resilience. These experiences not only shape us, but also introduce us to new encounters with people who enrich our lives in profound ways."

His gaze bore into me, unwavering and intense.

Nestling deeper into my blanket, a mix of vulnerability and comfort washed over me in his presence. Perhaps I entertained the thought, even fleetingly, that he held the power to rescue me. Or was nothing more than his genuine kindness shining through?

Meanwhile, my father, who had been observing the interaction silently, seemed to intercept the chemistry between Edward and me. His intuitive instincts kicked in, and his expression tightened, a silent signal that he was aware of the unspoken connection.

Being a lawyer, he had a keen sense of observation and an ability to read between the lines. His training and experience had taught him to recognize subtle cues and interpersonal dynamics. It's interesting how quickly he seemed to pick up 🔝 me and Edward without any verbal communication.

I remained silent as Edward reviewed my chart and orders. He was gorgeous and extremely intelligent. He began talking with the nurse for a moment which gave me an opportunity to gain control.

Finally Rosie greeted him and it couldn't have been more timely. Her initiation of a different conversation provided a welcome distraction from the tension in the air. Sometimes, a lighthearted conversation was all that is needed to help diffuse a charged atmosphere and bring a sense of relief. It's was good to have Rosie who shifted the focus and create a more comfortable environment for everyone involved.

"Hey, Edward! Don't be acting like you don't see all of this beauty over here and like you don't know me."

"Hey, Rosie! Now don't you start! I would could never! Sometimes there are diamonds that need attention!"

I nearly buried myself under my covers. The looks on everyone's faces revealed that they caught that he was talking about me! My Dad smiled subtly at me as I peered at him from the covers. He chuckled and winked at me.

He laughed at her. Everyone was grateful for the emotional respite. They looked around to watch this interaction. "I saw you. And I did wave when I came in. I was going to speak again."

"Mmmm, hmmmm." She rolled her eyes. "Don't be getting brand new. And when you forget your lunch money again, you will starve."

He laughed.

"A man forgets his money one time and is forever indebted to the princess!"

"That's right! Forever!" She joked.

"Don't be like that. Its's good to see you Rosie. I was looking forward to your party. I got your message earlier about rescheduling it. I think I understand now."

I blushed.

"Later." She promised. "By the way your patient is my brother."

"I gathered that." He smiled at me. I blushed again.

Our unspoken attraction seemed to crackle in the air between us. As was the case with my father, it didn't go unnoticed by my astute uncle either, who silently observed the connection forming between Edward and me. They looked at each other and communicated only with their eyes.

Edward's laughter filled the room, momentarily easing the heaviness that hung in the air.