It had been weeks since they returned from Hawaii, and their relationship had become public knowledge at the office. Ivy noticed that she was not only getting accustomed to the dynamic of working at Caldwell and Caldwell while dating the big boss, but also that her peers were starting to relax around her and accept the new situation. Despite this, she couldn't help but notice that Henry had assigned her a smaller workload compared to her peers, and it didn't sit well with her. She wanted to prove herself and ensure that her relationship with Ethan was not influencing how she was treated at work.
One morning, as she settled at her desk, Ivy made a decision. She took a deep breath and marched towards Henry's office. Knocking lightly on the door, she waited for his permission to enter.
"Come in," Henry's voice called from inside.
Ivy stepped in, closing the door behind her. "Henry, do you have a moment?"
Henry looked up from his desk, a slight frown on his face. "Make it quick, Ivy. What's on your mind?"
Ivy took a seat, gathering her thoughts. "I couldn't help but notice that I've been given a lighter workload compared to my peers. I wanted to ask if you doubt my skills or if it's because of my relationship with Ethan."
Henry leaned back in his chair, his expression serious. "Ivy, to be frank with you, I don't know you. You were recruited and assigned to me. This is a fast-paced environment, and I don't tolerate mistakes."
Ivy nodded, understanding his concern but still feeling the need to prove herself. "I may not be a graduate from the big schools like most of you guys here, but I am a college graduate. I studied international relations with a pre-law route. I want you to know that I'm fully capable of handling cases, and I'm a fast learner. Please don't see me as Ethan's girlfriend. See me as you see the others. I want to be treated equally and fairly."
Henry studied her for a moment, then nodded curtly. "Alright, let's test your abilities. I'll give you more tasks, and we'll see how you handle them. But know this, again, I don't tolerate mistakes. We work fast and efficiently here."
A smile spread across Ivy's face. "Thank you, Henry. I won't let you down."
Henry handed her a stack of additional files. "These are for you. They're challenging, but I have confidence that you can manage them. Prove me right."
Ivy accepted the files eagerly. "I'll get started right away."
Back at her desk, Ivy felt a surge of excitement and determination. She opened the first file and saw the complexity of the task before her. It was a detailed research assignment related to the merger case. She needed to gather information on past merger precedents, analyze the financial and legal implications, and compile a comprehensive report that could be presented to the clients.
The second file contained a request for an in-depth analysis of regulatory compliance in relation to the merger. This required Ivy to comb through various legal statutes and regulations to ensure that the merger would meet all necessary legal requirements.
The third file involved due diligence. Ivy was tasked with reviewing and verifying all the documents and information provided by the companies involved in the merger. This included financial statements, legal contracts, and any potential liabilities that could affect the merger's success.
Throughout the week, Ivy worked diligently on her tasks. She spent hours combing through legal databases, compiling data, and cross-referencing information. She consulted with Jane and Mike frequently, sharing insights and seeking their input.
"Hey, Ivy," Mike said one afternoon, stopping by her desk. "Need a hand with anything? These mergers can be pretty complex."
"Actually, yes," Ivy replied, grateful for his offer. "I'm struggling a bit with the regulatory compliance part. Do you have time to help me through it?"
Mike nodded, pulling up a chair. "Yeah, let's go through it together."
As they worked side by side, Ivy felt a sense of camaraderie. Mike's guidance was invaluable, and his patient explanations helped her navigate the complexities of the task.
"Ivy, lunch today?" Ethan texted her one afternoon while she was working with Mike.
"I can't, Ethan. I have this report I wanted to finish for Henry by the end of the week."
"Ok." Ethan responded curtly.
Ivy was in deep conversation with Mike when she saw Ethan walk by the office library where they both worked on their case. Ethan continued walking without saying hi, even though he saw her.
That night, Ivy got home late and found Ethan still in his office clothes, sitting on the sofa staring out the window.
"Ethan, I'm sorry I'm late. Why haven't you changed? Are you in pain? Let me help you get changed." She felt guilty and began fussing over him.
"I don't need a babysitter," Ethan responded shortly.
Ivy was puzzled by Ethan's sudden change in demeanor. Determined to respect his need for space, she retreated to the bedroom, her mind racing with concern. She sat there awhile gathering her thoughts. But she quickly made her way to Ethan's room, preparing his medication and the necessary items for his nightly routine.
As she entered, she found Ethan sitting on the edge of the bed, his back to her. She approached quietly, setting down his medication on the bedside table. "Ethan, I have your medicine ready. Let me help you with your leg," she offered gently.
Ethan sighed, still not meeting her gaze. "I am really tired today, Ivy. Let's skip the exercise tonight. Jack will be here tomorrow anyway," he said, his voice carrying a note of exhaustion and frustration.
Ivy's heart ached for him, but she remained calm. "Okay then, but let me help you with your clothes," she suggested, hoping to provide some comfort.
Ethan's shoulders tensed, and he finally turned to face her, his expression weary. "I am fine, Ivy. Just give me some space," he replied, his tone edged with a hint of impatience.
Understanding his need for solitude, Ivy nodded, trying to hide the hurt she felt. "Alright, Ethan. I'll be in the next room if you need anything," she said softly before leaving his room, closing the door behind her.
Feeling super confused and concerned, Ivy retreated to her bedroom. She changed into her pajamas and slipped into bed, but sleep eluded her. She lay there, staring at the ceiling, replaying the events of the evening in her mind. She couldn't shake the worry that something was deeply troubling Ethan, something he wasn't sharing with her. The more she thought about it, the more helpless she felt. She turned over, hugging her pillow tightly, her thoughts racing with possible reasons for Ethan's behavior.
In his own room, Ethan lay awake, staring out the window at the city lights. His leg throbbed with a dull, persistent pain, but it was the turmoil in his mind that kept him from finding rest. He was frustrated with his own condition, feeling like a burden, and the sight of Ivy working closely with Mike had stirred a jealousy he hated to admit. He trusted Ivy, but the fear of being seen as weak gnawed at him. He knew he had pushed her away, but he couldn't help it; he didn't want her to see him struggling.
As the hours ticked by, both Ivy and Ethan found themselves lost in their thoughts. Ivy, lying in the dark, felt a mix of sadness and determination. She wanted to be there for Ethan, to support him through his pain and struggles, but she also understood that he needed to come to terms with his feelings on his own. She resolved to give him the space he needed, hoping that he would eventually open up to her.
Ethan, on the other hand, grappled with his pride and vulnerability. He knew he needed Ivy, more than he cared to admit, but the fear of being a burden made him push her away. As he lay there, staring at the ceiling, he realized that he needed to find a way to balance his need for independence with accepting her help.
The night was restless for both of them, filled with moments of tossing and turning, each wrapped up in their own thoughts and worries. Neither could fully understand what was going on in the other's mind, but deep down, they both knew they had to find a way to communicate and support each other through their challenges.
The week passed very slowly for both of them. Ivy went to the office determined to prove herself by doing the tasks that Henry gave her to the best of her abilities, taking as much help as she could from Mike. Meanwhile, Ethan kept himself busy, taking on more cases, bringing work home, and putting in an 80-hour week.
By the end of the third week, Ivy had made significant progress on her new tasks. She compiled her findings into a comprehensive report and went to Henry's office to hand it in.
"Henry," Ivy began as she entered, "here's the report."
Henry looked through the report, his expression thoughtful. After a few moments, he looked up at Ivy, a small smile forming on his lips. "Thanks, Ivy. This is great work."
Ivy felt a wave of relief and pride. "Thank you, Henry. Please let me know if any revisions are needed."
Henry nodded. "Will do. So, please continue with Mr. Smith's wrongful termination case then. Get the files from Mike."
Ivy quickly nodded. She was excited about her new challenges at the office and promised herself that she would use the opportunity to prove herself by delivering quality work.
Throughout the following weeks, Ivy's peers began to see her not just as Ethan's girlfriend but as a competent and dedicated professional in her own right. During lunch, Ivy joined Jane and Mike in the break room. They noticed the new files she had brought with her and exchanged curious glances.
"Wow, Ivy," Jane said, raising an eyebrow. "Looks like you're on a roll. You got your hands full."
Mike added, "Let me know if you need anything."
"Thanks, Mike," Ivy replied. "I appreciate it."
Ethan, observing from a distance, couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy seeing Ivy and Mike work closely together. The sight of another man being so attentive to her was unsettling. However, he knew better than to let his emotions interfere with Ivy's professional growth.
Ivy saw Ethan walked by their lunchroom. Something felt off about their relationship, an unease that gnawed at her amidst the excitement of her recent advancements at the office. Despite her professional successes, she felt a growing distance between her and Ethan. Determined to address it, she decided that tonight would be the night they talked about it.
She left the office exactly at 5 p.m., stopping by the market to pick up dinner and fresh fruits. She planned to prepare a comforting meal and top it off with frozen yogurt and fruit for dessert, hoping to create a relaxing atmosphere for their conversation. When she arrived at the penthouse, she didn't find Ethan in the living room as she usually did.
"Ethan, I'm home," she called out, her voice echoing slightly in the quiet space. When she didn't hear a response, she assumed he might have taken a nap and decided not to disturb him. She began preparing dinner, setting the table with care, hoping the meal would help ease them into the conversation.
After finishing the preparations, she went to Ethan's bedroom and knocked gently on the door. When there was no answer, she slowly opened it, her heart skipping a beat as she stepped inside. She found Ethan sprawled out on the floor, unconscious, his right leg lying crookedly and uncomfortably.
"Ethan, Ethan… Ethan!" Ivy screamed, rushing to his side. Panic surged through her as she shook him, trying to wake him up. She quickly grabbed her phone and dialed 911, her hands trembling.
"911, what's your emergency?"
"It's my boyfriend, Ethan. He's unconscious on the floor. He has bone cancer. Please, hurry!" she cried, giving them the address.
After ending the call, she dialed Jack, her voice shaky and incoherent. "Jack, Ethan passed out on the floor. He… he... I don't know what happened to him. I'm sorry, Jack…" Ivy sobbed.
"He is there… please help. He has bone cancer, yes, right leg. Yes, correct, that hospital. Dr. Lewis. Thank you." Ivy instructing the EMTs as they arrived. Ivy rode with Ethan in the ambulance, holding his hand tightly, her heart racing with fear and worry.
"Mark, it's Ethan. Meet me at the hospital?" Jack called Mark quickly, his voice tense with urgency.
Ivy was frantic outside the ER when Jack and Mark arrived. She paced back and forth, tears streaming down her face, her mind a whirlwind of fear and confusion. When Jack and Mark reached her, they took her hands, speaking in soothing tones to calm her down.
"We're here, Ivy. Ethan's strong, and he'll get through this. Let's just focus on being here for him," Mark comforting Ivy.
A Fractured Reality
Ivy sat in the hospital waiting room, her hands trembling as she clutched a cup of water that Jack had given her. The sterile smell of antiseptic and the constant hum of hospital machinery filled the air, making every second stretch into an eternity. Mark paced back and forth, his expression a mix of worry and determination.
Finally, Dr. Lewis emerged from the ER, his face serious but calm. "Mark, " he called out.
Ivy, Mark, and Jack all stood up simultaneously, their eyes fixed on Dr. Lewis.
"How is he?" Ivy asked, her voice breaking with anxiety.
Dr. Lewis nodded, motioning for them to sit down. "Ethan is stable now. He passed out due to a combination of factors, primarily severe pain and extreme fatigue. His right leg showed signs of a minor fracture that went unnoticed, likely exacerbated by his recent activities and lack of rest. Additionally, his blood pressure dropped significantly, likely due to the intense pain and stress."
Ivy felt a wave of relief mixed with lingering fear. "A fracture? How did that happen?"
Dr. Lewis sighed. "It's not uncommon for patients with bone cancer to have weakened bones. Even a small amount of pressure or an awkward movement can cause fractures. The good news is that it's a minor fracture, and we've already started treatment to stabilize his condition. He'll need to stay here for a few days for observation and pain management."
Mark stepped forward. "Dr. Lewis, when is his next round of chemo?"
Dr. Lewis looked at Mark, then at Ivy. "For now, he needs rest, both physical and emotional. Knowing Ethan, I am pretty sure that he probably push himself too hard. I'll continue the pain management and Jack, continue with his physical therapy, gentle exercises." "Is he in any kind of stress lately? It can significantly impact his healing process," Dr. Lewis continued.
"I… I am not sure, Dr. Lewis, he was different these past weeks or so," Ivy responded. Mark added, "Yeah he has a few cases he might have gotten himself too involved, " his eyes wandered to both Jack and Ivy.
"Ok then, "Dr. Lewis responded shortly.
Ivy nodded, tears welling up in her eyes. "Thank you, doctor. Can I see him?"
Dr. Lewis hesitated, then spoke gently. "Ethan has requested not to see you right now. He's feeling very vulnerable and wants some time alone."
Ivy felt a pang of hurt and confusion but nodded in understanding. "I see. Please let him know that I'm here for him when he's ready."
Mark and Jack exchanged concerned looks but respected Ethan's wishes. "We'll talk to him, Ivy," Mark said, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "But for now, can you give him the space he needs."
The following days were challenging for Ivy. She stayed at the hospital, waiting for any news or sign that Ethan wanted to see her. She coordinated with the medical staff, ensuring Ethan was comfortable and receiving the best care possible.
One afternoon, as Ivy sat in the hospital cafeteria, Jack joined her with two cups of coffee. "How are you holding up?" he asked, his tone gentle.
Ivy sighed, wrapping her hands around the warm cup. "I don't understand, Jack. He made a promise in Hawaii, that he'd let me in. He wouldn't push me away."
Jack nodded, understanding her pain. "Ethan's going through a lot right now. He feels weak and vulnerable, and he's not used to sharing his vulnerable moments with someone. Give him some time. He'll come around."
Meanwhile, Ethan lay in his hospital bed, his thoughts a tumultuous mix of pain, frustration, and guilt. He hated feeling weak, and he hated even more that Ivy had to see him like this, again. He knew he was pushing her away, but he couldn't help it. He needed to come to terms with his own vulnerabilities before he could face her. However, a deeper fear gnawed at him: perhaps Ivy would be better off with someone like Mike—someone strong and healthy, who could take care of her without the constant burden of illness.
On the third day, Mark visited Ethan, determined to talk some sense into his brother. "Ethan, what are you doing? Ivy's been here every day, worrying herself sick over you. You need to let her in."
Ethan looked away; his jaw clenched. "I can't, Mark. I am a f-ing burden for her."
Mark sighed, sitting down next to Ethan's bed. "You're not doing anyone any favors by shutting her out. She loves you, Ethan. She wants to be here for you, just like you've been there for her. Don't push her away because of your pride."
Ethan closed his eyes, the weight of Mark's words sinking in. He knew his brother was right, but it was hard to let go of his need to protect Ivy from his own struggles. "I just… I think maybe she'd be better off with someone like that Mike guy from the office. Someone who isn't sick all the time."
Mark shook his head, frustrated. "That's not your decision to make. Ivy chose you. She loves you for who you are, not for your health. She told me that you made a promised to her in when you guys were in Hawaii? To let her in, to be honest with her. You need to honor that."
Ethan's resolve wavered as he remembered the promises they made to each other in Hawaii. "I just don't want to be a burden."
"Let her decide if you are a burden to her or not. What I can see now is you're her partner. You both support each other. That's how relationships work," Mark insisted.
Later that evening, Ethan sent a simple text to Ivy: "Want to come up?"
When Ivy received the message, a mixture of relief and anxiety washed over her. She hurried to Ethan's room, her heart pounding. As she entered, she saw Ethan lying on the hospital bed, looking tired but more composed.
"Ethan," she whispered, approaching his bedside, her voice soft with concern and love.
Ethan looked up, his eyes meeting hers. "Ivy, can you reposition my leg?" he asked, his voice strained but gentle.
Ivy's eyes filled with tears, both startled and touched by Ethan's request. It was a small thing, but it signaled so much. "Of course," she replied, moving to the side of the bed and carefully repositioning his leg the way she knew brought him the most relief. "Is this okay?" she asked, her fingers gently adjusting the blanket.
Ethan winced as she moved his leg but then nodded. "Better. Thanks, Ivy," he said, closing his eyes but holding onto her hand tightly. His grip was firm yet tender, a silent acknowledgment of her presence and support.
In that moment, Ivy understood that Ethan didn't want to talk about why he had pushed her away. His request and his need for her touch were his way of letting her in, showing her that he needed her despite his fears and doubts. For Ivy, that was enough for now. She caressed his hand, her touch gentle and reassuring.
As she sat beside him, her presence seemed to calm Ethan. His breathing slowed, and the tension in his body gradually eased. They didn't need words to communicate; their silence was filled with understanding and unspoken promises.
The soft glow of the hospital room's nightlight cast a warm hue over them, creating a cocoon of intimacy and peace amidst the clinical surroundings. Ivy watched over Ethan as he drifted into a more restful sleep, her heart swelling with love and determination. She knew the road ahead would be challenging, but in that quiet, shared moment, she felt a renewed sense of hope and strength.
For the first time in days, both of them found a measure of comfort and solace, simply being together. It was a small step, but it was a step forward, and that was all they needed to keep going.