Chapter 25: The lady name Ivy
Ivy's life had taken a drastic turn when her mother fell ill. Overnight, she found herself bearing the weight of supporting not just herself but also her ailing mother and younger sister. Ivy, much like Ethan, possessed a strong and independent character, refusing to accept help from anyone. She juggled between two part-time jobs and her studies, managing her responsibilities with an unyielding resolve.
Her days began before sunrise and ended well past midnight. She worked tirelessly at a local café in the mornings and tutored students in the evenings. Between jobs, she squeezed in her coursework, determined to keep her grades up. Despite the exhausting routine, Ivy never complained, pushing through the fatigue with a silent determination that had become her trademark.
Meanwhile, Ethan couldn't help but notice Ivy's absence. The regular visits and comforting presence he had grown accustomed to were now rare. He found himself worrying about her more each day, a gnawing concern that Ivy was pulling away because of his condition. Though he didn't want to admit it, the thought hurt him deeply.
Unable to shake his unease, Ethan called in Jason, Caldwell and Caldwell's private investigator, asking him to discreetly follow Ivy and see if there was another reason for her absence. He feared the worst—that she might have found someone else or simply couldn't handle the strain of his illness.
It didn't take long for Jason to gain information. Jason watched as Ivy moved from job to job, barely taking a moment to rest. She worked harder than anyone he'd ever seen, her days a relentless cycle of labor and study. There was no boyfriend, no escape—just an overwhelming load of responsibilities.
When Jason reported back, Ethan's heart ached for Ivy. The knowledge of her struggles melted the last remnants of his doubts and fears. He realized how wrong he had been to suspect her of anything other than the purest intentions. His respect and admiration for her grew tenfold.
Ethan decided it was time to reach out. He texted Ivy, inviting her to the penthouse one evening. "Ivy, do you have time for dinner tonight?"
Ivy's reply was swift and affirmative. "Seven at your place," and Ethan set his plan in motion. He asked Rob to order a nice meal and prepared a special dinner, hoping to give Ivy a brief respite from her demanding life.
When Ivy arrived, she was pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful setup. The dining table was elegantly set, and the aroma of a delicious meal filled the air. "Ethan, this is wonderful," she said, her eyes lighting up.
"I thought you could use a break," Ethan replied with a small smile. "You've been working too hard."
As they sat down to eat, Ivy asked, "How's the chemo going?"
Ethan evaded the question, not wanting to focus on his struggles tonight. "It's manageable. But I want to hear about you. How are you?"
Ivy hesitated for a moment before opening up about her mother's illness and the burden of her responsibilities. She spoke without bitterness, her tone matter of fact, displaying the same strength and resilience that Ethan admired so much.
Ethan listened intently, his admiration for her growing with each word. He marveled at how a young woman like Ivy could face such hardships without a single complaint, in stark contrast to his own life, where he had everything, he needed but still felt overwhelmed by his condition.
As the evening drew to a close, Ethan knew he wanted to help Ivy but understood that she would never accept charity. He decided to take a different approach. "Ivy, I've been thinking. You're incredibly talented and hardworking. How would you feel about working at Caldwell and Caldwell?"
Ivy looked at him, surprised and touched by the offer. "Ethan, that's... I don't know what to say."
"Just think about it," Ethan said gently. "You'll be working with a bunch of stuck up lawyers that you can learn a thing or two from, going closer to your dream to become a lawyer yourself." "Thank you, Ethan. I think I'd like that."
"Come to the office and meet Cheryl tomorrow. She'll help you get set up," Ethan gave her a quick instruction.
They parted that night with a deeper understanding and appreciation for each other. As Ivy prepared to leave, Ethan gave her a big hug and kissed her forehead. "Take care, Ivy."
Ivy left the penthouse with a warm feeling in her heart, grateful for the unexpected kindness that had come her way.
Chapter 27: Enduring the Storm
Ethan sat in the cold, clinical room, the soft hum of machines filling the silence. Today was another chemotherapy session, and despite the routine, the anxiety never lessened. He glanced around, his eyes resting on Mark and Jack, who had insisted on accompanying him.
Mark, his older brother, was a pillar of strength and composure. He had taken time off from his own busy schedule to be there, a silent testament to his unwavering support. Jack, ever the dedicated physiotherapist, stood by with a quiet, reassuring presence.
Dr. Lewis entered the room, greeting them with a nod. "Ethan, how are you feeling today?"
Ethan forced a smile. "As ready as I'll ever be, Dr. Lewis."
Dr. Lewis went through the usual pre-treatment checklist, explaining the process to Mark and Jack. "We'll be administering a different combination of drugs today to see how your body responds. Jack, I'll give you some additional instructions for home care after the session."
As the nurse prepared the IV line, Ethan felt the familiar knot of dread tighten in his stomach. The cold sensation of the drugs entering his system was always unsettling. He clenched his jaw, determined to stay composed.
Mark pulled a chair closer, sitting beside Ethan. "We'll get through this, Ethan."
Jack stood on the other side, his hand on Ethan's shoulder. "If you need anything, just let me know."
The first few minutes passed in tense silence. Ethan focused on his breathing, trying to steady himself. But as the drugs took effect, the nausea hit harder than usual. He felt a wave of dizziness and reached for the basin Jack had ready.
Ethan vomited, the violent retching leaving him weak and trembling. Jack was quick to hold him steady, his grip firm yet gentle. Mark handed him a damp cloth, his expression a mix of concern and helplessness.
"Easy, Ethan. Breathe through it," Jack coached, his voice calm and steady.
Ethan leaned back, closing his eyes and taking shallow breaths. The room seemed to spin, and the discomfort was overwhelming. He felt the sting of tears and fought to keep them at bay.
"I hate this," Ethan muttered, his voice raw with frustration. "I hate feeling this weak."
"I know Ethan, I know," Mark responded, speechless.
The session dragged on, each minute feeling like an eternity. He snapped at the nurse when the IV needed adjusting, his patience worn thin by the pain and nausea.
"I'm sorry," Ethan said quietly after the outburst, his eyes filled with regret.
The nurse smiled kindly. "It's okay, Mr. Caldwell. We understand."
As the session finally came to an end, Ethan felt utterly drained. Mark and Jack helped him to his feet, guiding him to a wheelchair. Dr. Lewis handed Jack a detailed set of instructions for aftercare.
"Ethan, rest as much as you can," Dr. Lewis advised. "Your body needs time to recover from the treatment."
Back at the penthouse, Jack and Mark helped Ethan settle into his bed. The exhaustion was overwhelming, but the presence of his brother and friend provided a small comfort.
"You did great today," Mark said, sitting beside the bed. "We'll get through this, one step at a time."
Jack nodded in agreement. "Let's get you comfortable, Mr. Caldwell."
Ethan drifted into a restless sleep.
Chapter 29: Ivy's First Day at Caldwell and Caldwell
Ivy arrived at Caldwell and Caldwell early in the morning, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling within her. The impressive building stood tall, its glass facade reflecting the early rays of the sun. She took a deep breath, adjusted her bag on her shoulder, and walked inside.
Cheryl greeted her with a warm smile as she entered the reception area. "Good morning, Ivy. Ready for your first day?"
"Good morning, Cheryl. Yes, I'm ready," Ivy replied, trying to keep her nerves at bay.
"Come with me. Let's get you set up," Cheryl said, leading Ivy through the bustling corridors of the office.
They walked past rows of cubicles, offices with glass walls, and busy conference rooms. Cheryl explained various procedures and introduced Ivy to some of the staff along the way. Eventually, they arrived at Ivy's desk, a small but well-organized space in a quiet corner of the office.
"You'll be working as an assistant paralegal, assigned to Henry. He's one of the junior lawyers here and handles some of the Ethan's cases," Cheryl explained as she helped Ivy get settled.
Ivy nodded, absorbing the information. "Thank you, Cheryl. I appreciate your help."
"Don't worry. The first day can be overwhelming, but you'll get the hang of it. If you have any questions, feel free to ask," Cheryl reassured her.
The morning flew by in a whirlwind of paperwork, introductions, and instructions from Henry. Ivy found herself inundated with legal jargon, case files, and procedural details. Despite the overwhelming nature of the work, she remained determined to prove herself.
Just after lunch, Ivy was sorting through a stack of documents when she glanced up and saw a familiar face entering the office. It was Ethan, being wheeled in by Jack. She was surprised; he was supposed to be recovering at home.
Ethan's presence commanded attention. As soon as he entered, he dismissed Jack, not wanting to appear vulnerable in his professional domain. "Jack, you can leave. I've got it from here."
Jack nodded and left reluctantly, knowing better than to argue.
Ethan immediately immersed himself in work, his focus sharp as he began barking orders. "Cheryl, reschedule my missed meetings. I need updates on all active cases, especially Carlos's."
Cheryl nodded and swiftly set to work, her efficiency a testament to her experience. Ivy watched from a distance, unsure if she was allowed to approach Ethan. Everyone else seemed to keep their distance unless directly addressed by him.
The afternoon passed quickly as Ivy juggled her tasks, occasionally glancing at Ethan, who was deeply engrossed in his work. It was almost 5 p.m. when Jack returned, the wheelchair in tow, ready to take Ethan home.
Seeing an opportunity, Ivy gathered her courage and approached Ethan. "Hi, Mr. Caldwell. Thank you for the opportunity," she said, offering a nervous smile.
Ethan looked up, his stern expression softening slightly. "Hi, Ivy. Great to see you here. I hope you're adjusting well."
"Yes, I am. Thank you," Ivy replied, her nerves easing a bit.
Ethan nodded. "Good. Keep up the good work."
With that, Ethan rolled out of his office, Jack following closely behind. Ivy watched as they left, feeling her infatuation for Ethan growing even deeper.
Chapter 30: Unspoken Emotions
Ethan's feelings for Ivy grew stronger with each passing day. Seeing her at the office, dedicated and hardworking, only deepened his admiration for her. He made sure to keep his feelings hidden from everyone, especially Ivy. Despite his best efforts, Ivy sensed that Ethan's care for her was different from the way he treated others.
Ivy often found herself conflicted, wondering if Ethan harbored feelings for her. His gestures were subtle yet significant—she noticed that her mother's hospital bills were mysteriously paid, and her sister's school trip fees were covered without explanation. Deep down, she knew who was behind these acts of kindness, but she couldn't bring herself to confront him about it.
One evening, Ivy had to stay late at the office to complete a task that Henry had assigned her. The building was quiet, the usual hustle and bustle reduced to a few lingering employees. She was deeply engrossed in her work when a young intern brought her a bowl of chicken soup and a salad placed on her desk, ordered by someone he doesn't know from the office.
Ethan had been struggling with pain all day, the toll of chemotherapy evident in his pallor and the way he moved. Despite his condition, he continued to work tirelessly, his determination unwavering. Ivy's heart ached every time she saw him wince or struggle, but she felt helpless. She wanted to comfort him, to be there for him, but she knew Ethan's pride and independence would never allow it.
As she sat alone in the dimly lit office, sipping the warm soup, Ivy's thoughts drifted to Ethan. His actions spoke volumes, even if his words did not. She appreciated his kindness and support, but it left her feeling conflicted and uncertain about the boundaries of their relationship.
The next morning, Ivy decided to express her gratitude in a way that wouldn't embarrass Ethan or make him uncomfortable. She wrote a simple note and left it on his desk.
Thank you for always looking out for me. Your kindness means more than you know. – Ivy
Ethan found the note later that day, and for a moment, his usually stern expression softened. He carefully tucked the note into his drawer, a small smile playing on his lips.
The days continued in a similar rhythm. Ethan and Ivy exchanged subtle glances and unspoken words, each navigating their complex emotions while maintaining their professional roles. Ivy continued to work hard, balancing her responsibilities at the office and at home, all the while feeling a deepening connection to Ethan.
Their bond grew in the silent moments, in the unacknowledged gestures of care and support.
Chapter 31: Unseen Struggles
Ivy woke up feeling dreadful. Her body ached, her head throbbed, and a relentless fever sapped her energy. Despite her condition, she refused to miss a day at the office. With her mother and sister depending on her, Ivy couldn't afford to fall behind. She pushed herself out of bed, got dressed, and made her way to Caldwell and Caldwell, determined to power through the day.
When she arrived, her pale face and heavy eyes did not go unnoticed. Ethan, immersed in his work, glanced up and immediately saw the signs of illness. His concern for her, already heightened by his growing feelings, surged through him. He watched as she moved slowly, clearly struggling to keep up with her tasks.
Ethan's worry gnawed at him. He wanted nothing more than to take her home, ensure she was comfortable, and care for her until she recovered. But his own pain and physical limitations frustrated him. He knew he couldn't do it alone, and the thought of not being able to help Ivy in her time of need was infuriating.
At lunchtime, Ethan saw Ivy retreat to the break room, her shoulders slumped in exhaustion. Unable to sit still any longer, he called Jack to come to his office.
"Jack, I need to talk to you," Ethan said, his voice taut with anger.
Jack immediately sensed Ethan's distress. "What's going on, Ethan?"
"It's Ivy. She's sick, but she's here, working herself to the bone. I can't stand seeing her like this, and I can't do a damn thing about it," Ethan snapped, his voice breaking slightly.
As they spoke, Ivy passed by the open door and saw Ethan's agitated state. She paused, concerned for him mingling with her own discomfort. She knew how much he was struggling, and the last thing she wanted was to add to his burden. Quickly, she turned away, deciding it was best to leave before her flu could potentially harm Ethan, whose immune system was already compromised due to chemotherapy.
Ethan noticed that she avoided him intentionally and felt a pang of guilt. He wheeled himself back to his office, watching Ivy from a distance. The frustration of being unable to help her, compounded by his own physical pain, left him feeling more helpless than ever.
Unable to bear the thought of Ivy being ill and alone in her dorm, Ethan made a decision. He called Jack back into his office. "Jack, I need you to do something for me."
"What is it, Ethan?" Jack asked, though he had a sense of what was coming.
"I need you to take Ivy to my penthouse and make sure she stays in the guest bedroom. She needs to rest somewhere comfortable and get Rosa to prepare the room," Ethan said firmly.
Jack frowned, concerned. "Ethan, you know you shouldn't be exposed to the flu. Your immune system is too weak right now."
"I don't care," Ethan replied, his tone leaving no room for argument. "I can't let her suffer alone in her dorm. At least this way, I can make sure she's comfortable and looked after."
Seeing the determination in Ethan's eyes, Jack reluctantly agreed. "Alright, Ethan. I'll make sure she gets there safely."
"Rob, please take Mr. Caldwell home and come back to the office to get me please," Jack called the driver immediately making the arrangements.
That evening, Jack gently persuaded Ivy to leave the office, explaining that Ethan wanted her to rest at his penthouse. Though initially resistant, Ivy eventually agreed, too exhausted to argue.
When they arrived at the penthouse, Ethan was waiting in the living room, still fully dressed in his office attire, his concern evident. "Ivy, please. Just stay here and rest. The guest bedroom is ready for you."
Ivy, touched by his kindness and too weak to protest further, nodded. "Thank you, Ethan. I'll rest."
As she settled into the guest bedroom, Ethan's frustration eased slightly, knowing she was safe and comfortable. Yet, a part of him remained tense, the weight of his own limitations pressing heavily on his mind. The night was long, filled with the silent acknowledgment of struggles shared and unspoken words.
Chapter 32: An Unyielding Spirit
Morning light filtered through the curtains of Ethan's penthouse, casting a soft glow over the guest bedroom door. Ethan, defying Jack's advice to keep his distance due to his low immune system, hobbled on his crutches towards Ivy's room. He knocked gently before entering, carrying a tray with a glass of water and her medication.
Ivy stirred, blinking awake as Ethan approached. She looked up at him, her eyes heavy with fever but filled with gratitude. "Ethan, you shouldn't be here. You need to avoid germs," she said weakly.
Ethan shook his head, his expression resolute. "You need this more than I need to avoid germs. Just take the medicine, Ivy. Rest and get better."
Ivy's eyes softened, and though she didn't speak, her look conveyed her heartfelt thanks. She took the medication, and Ethan watched her settle back into bed before leaving the room quietly.
Back in the office, Ethan buried himself in work. Despite his illness, he remained Caldwell and Caldwell's biggest rainmaker. The Carlos case demanded his attention, as did the new corporate client he had successfully secured last week. His dedication was unyielding, driven by a fierce determination to uphold his responsibilities.
Around midday, Ethan was deep in a strategy meeting when his father, Richard Caldwell, stormed into the office unannounced. His face was a mask of anger, and his presence immediately drew the attention of everyone around.
"Ethan, we need to talk," Richard said, his voice barely restrained.
Ethan looked up from his desk, his frustration barely hidden. "Dad, I'm in the middle of something important. Can this wait?"
"No, it can't," Richard snapped. "I've heard you're taking on more cases instead of focusing on your health. This isn't acceptable."
Ethan's temper flared. "I'm handling it, Dad. The firm needs me. I can't just sit back and do nothing."
"The firm needs you alive and healthy, not pushing yourself to the brink!" Richard retorted, his voice rising.
Ethan's frustration boiled over. "I know my limits, Dad! I'm doing what needs to be done. You have no idea how hard this is for me."
"You're risking your life, Ethan!" Richard shouted. "Do you think we want to watch you kill yourself because you can't step back and let others handle things?"
Ethan stood up, leaning heavily on his crutches but facing his father with defiance. "I'm not just going to sit around and wait to die, Dad! I need to feel useful. I need to keep working."
"You're being selfish!" Richard bellowed, his face red with anger. "Think about the people who care about you. Think about your family. You're not invincible, Ethan!"
"I don't need this lecture from you, Dad!" Ethan snapped back. "I'm fighting for my life in the only way I know how. I won't be coddled and treated like a dying man."
The room was silent, the tension palpable. The argument had drawn the concerned eyes of the staff, everyone too afraid to intervene.
Just as Ethan was about to continue, Mark entered the room, sensing the escalating situation.
"Hey, hey, what's going on here?" Mark said, stepping between them. "Let's all calm down."
Richard took a deep breath, trying to regain his composure. "Your brother needs to focus on his health, Mark. He's pushing himself too hard."
Mark placed a calming hand on Ethan's shoulder. "Dad, we all know Ethan is doing his best. But let's not turn this into a shouting match. We need to support each other."
Ethan's anger flared at Mark as well. "I don't need you playing peacemaker, Mark. I'm handling things just fine. You both need to back off and let me do my job."
Mark's expression turned serious. "Ethan, you're not invincible. You need to take care of yourself, and that means using your wheelchair, not crutches. It's safer and less stressful on your body."
Ethan clenched his jaw. "I don't need your advice, Mark. I know what I'm doing."
Mark sighed, frustration evident in his eyes. "We're just trying to help, Ethan. You're pushing yourself too hard."
Ethan's voice softened slightly, but the defiance remained. "I appreciate your concern, but I have to do this my way."
Richard nodded, the worry still evident in his eyes. "Just promise me you'll be careful, Ethan. We can't afford to lose you."
"I promise," Ethan said, though the weight of that promise pressed heavily on him.
As Richard and Mark left the office, Ethan returned to his work, the weight of his responsibilities feeling heavier than ever. Yet, he remained determined to push through, driven by an unyielding spirit and a sense of duty to those he cared about.
The tension from the confrontation with his father and brother lingered in the office, but Ethan buried himself back into his work, determined not to let it slow him down. The Carlos case needed his full attention, and he couldn't afford any distractions.
Ethan spent the next few hours engrossed in documents, making calls, and strategizing for the upcoming trial. Despite the constant ache in his body, he pushed through, fueled by sheer willpower.
Later in the afternoon, Cheryl walked into his office with a stack of files. "Ethan, here are the documents for the new corporate client. They're expecting a meeting tomorrow."
Ethan nodded, taking the files from her. "Thanks, Cheryl. Make sure everything is ready for the presentation."
As Cheryl left, Ethan glanced at the clock. It was already past lunch, and he hadn't eaten anything. His stomach churned, a reminder of the nausea from the chemotherapy, but he ignored it, focusing instead on the work in front of him.
By the time the day began to wind down, Ethan's energy was waning. He leaned back in his chair, rubbing his temples in an attempt to ward off the headache that had been building all day. Just as he was about to call it a night, Jack entered the office, wheeling a chair behind him.
"Ethan, it's time to go home," Jack said firmly.
Ethan glanced up, irritation flickering in his eyes. "I still have work to do, Jack."
"Not tonight," Jack insisted. "You need to rest."
Ethan's frustration boiled over. "I don't need a babysitter, Jack. I can handle myself."
Jack remained calm, his voice steady. "I know you can, but you won't. Let's get you home."
Reluctantly, Ethan allowed Jack to help him into the wheelchair. As they made their way to the elevator, Ethan's thoughts drifted back to Ivy. He wondered how she was doing, if she was feeling any better. The worry gnawed at him, adding to the heavy burden on his shoulders.
Once back at the penthouse, Ethan checked on Ivy. She was still resting, her breathing steady but her face pale. He sighed, the weight of his responsibilities pressing down on him even more.
"Ethan," Jack said quietly, "you can't keep doing this. You need to take care of yourself. The firm is perfectly running without you."
Ethan looked at Jack, his expression a mix of defiance and exhaustion. "That hurts, Jack."
Jack shook his head, understanding but concerned. "That's not what I meant. I am saying that you're not invincible. You need to find a balance."
Ethan didn't respond, instead retreating to his study to review the documents for the next day's meeting. The hours ticked by, and despite the fatigue pulling at him, he pushed on, driven by relentless determination.
The next morning, Ethan awoke feeling even more drained. His body ached, and his head throbbed, but he forced himself to get ready for the day. He checked on Ivy again before leaving, finding her still resting.
At the office, Ethan dove straight into preparations for the meeting with the new corporate client. Cheryl brought him coffee and a light breakfast, which he barely touched. His focus was razor-sharp, despite the toll it was taking on his body.
As the meeting began, Ethan put on his best professional demeanor, masking the pain and fatigue. The clients were impressed with his presentation, and by the end of the meeting, it was clear that Caldwell and Caldwell had secured another significant win.
However, the victory felt hollow. Ethan's mind kept drifting back to Ivy and his own precarious health. As the clients left, he leaned heavily on his desk, trying to steady himself.
Mark entered his office shortly after, concern etched on his face. "Ethan, you need to rest. This can't go on."
Ethan looked up, his eyes hard. "Not now, Mark. Not now."
Mark sighed, frustration evident. "You're going to burn yourself out. We can't afford to lose you, Ethan."
Mark shook his head, knowing it was futile to argue further. "Just be careful, okay?"
Ethan nodded, though he knew it was a promise he might not be able to keep. As the day continued, he felt the strain more acutely, but he pushed through, driven by an unyielding spirit and a sense of duty to those he cared about.
As evening fell, Ethan finally allowed himself a moment of respite. He returned to the penthouse, checking on Ivy once more. She was awake, looking a bit better, but still weak.
"Ivy, how are you feeling?" he asked, his voice softer than usual.
"Better, thanks to you," she replied, offering a small smile. "You should rest too, Ethan. You look exhausted."
Ethan sighed, the worry and fatigue evident in his eyes. "I'll be fine, Ivy. Just focus on getting better. Have you eaten anything yet?"
Ivy quickly responded, "I did. Rosa spoiled me, Ethan, thanks to you. You need to eat too, please. And please don't get too close to me. By the way, I'm going back to the office and dorm tomorrow, Ethan. I am better now."
"Have a good night then, Ivy," Ethan said, retreating to his office, not wanting to show his disappointment.
As he settled into his chair, the exhaustion and frustration weighed heavily on him. The relentless cycle continued, and Ethan knew he had to find a way to balance his responsibilities and his health, for the sake of those who depended on him and for himself.