Chapter 8: Chapter 8

Laurel’s POV

I opened my eyes as I slowly gained consciousness. I could hear Rhett’s voice not too far from me, speaking to the doctor.

“Please send it to her properly and make sure she gets better soon,” he said, his tone stern and authoritative.

“Yes sir,” the doctor responded, and I could sense the respect in his voice.

Rhett turned to look at me and saw that I was now awake. I could see the look of concern written all over his face.

“Laurel! Are you okay?” He asked, rushing to my side. “You suddenly fainted on our way here.”

“Yes I’m fine,” I replied, managing a small smile.

“Luckily, the injuries aren’t too severe. It’s only on your neck where the man tried to strangle you. My Doctor here will take care of you.” Rhett said, his gaze never leaving mine.

“I’m glad,” I said, nodding in appreciation. “And thank you too.”

“It’s okay,” he said as he stood up, ready to leave. “Rest up, I’ll go get you a few things you’ll need for your stay here.”

As he turned to leave, I felt a deep sense of fear. For some reason I didn’t want him to go, I wanted him to be there by my side at that moment. I couldn’t even trust the doctor right now. He was the only person I could bet a little bit of my trust on.

Without thinking, I grabbed his hand, holding him back from leaving. “Please don’t leave, Rhett. I’m scared,” I pleaded, staring at him with pity written all over my eyes.

“It’s okay, I’m here.” He turned, sitting back down at my side and not leaving my hands. “Just until the Doctor leaves.”

“Thank you,” I said back softly, smiling a little.

I turned my gaze towards the ceiling, deep in thought with my hand still locked with Rhett’s. I couldn’t help but think; Who was this masked man? Why was he after my life? Was it of his own intentions? Or was he sent by someone? I thought back to the incident a few days ago. I was almost kidnapped by some men, but thankfully, Rhett had come to my rescue. Now, I was almost strangled to death by a masked man in my rented apartment, and here he was again, protecting me from harm. The thoughts sent shivers down my spine. I turned to look at Rhett, realizing that he was the one person I could rely on, despite our given past and how I disliked him.

His gaze met mine, and at that moment, I saw him in a different light. He was my savior, my protector. And despite the history between us, I felt a strange sense of warmth towards him, something that might be more than just gratitude.

With the deep thoughts racing through my mind, I could feel my eyes close slowly, sending me into deep slumber.

***

My eyes shut wide open and I realized it was now late into the night. The anxiety of the day had faded with just a sleep. I was feeling much better now. I looked beside me and realized that Rhett and the doctor had left and I was all alone.

I stood from the bed, and curious about where I’d be staying for the meantime, I decided to take a look round the vast mansion. Every turn revealed a new wonder that left me speechless. The kitchen was a chef’s dream, the bedrooms were like that of royalty, and the gym was a temple to fitness. And then there was the indoor pool and library, each turn more impressive than the last.

“Isn’t this too much for one person? He sure has a lot of money,” I scoffed, shaking my head in disbelief.

I clicked my tongue in amazement as I entered the living room, still overwhelmed by the fanciness of the mansion.

Well, it wasn’t a surprise that Rhett lived a life of luxury, given the way Anita lived lavishly when we were still very close best of friends. She was a city’s big girl, and she lived in luxury, far removed from what I had ever experienced and it was obvious Rhett did too.

I was about to take my seat when I heard the front door creak open. It was Rhett, he had returned.

I quickly straightened up, and his eyes lit up when he saw me.

“Laurel.” He said softly, his voice filled with concern. “Are you feeling better now?” He asked as he rushed to me, dropping the items he carried onto the floor.

“Yeah, I’m fine, thank you.” I gave him a little smile. “You sure bought a lot of things,” I said, looking at the items on the floor.

“Oh, there’s more outside though.” He muttered, scratching his head as he looked at me with a smile.

“What?” I giggled in surprise. “Let’s go, I’ll give you a hand.” I offered to help, moving past him and walking towards the door.

“Aren’t you coming?” I asked when I realized he was still standing there and staring at a blank space as if he had seen something amusing.

He turned to face me, with a broader smile. “That’s the first time you’ve laughed like that around me, Laurel,” he teased.

I felt my cheeks flush, caught off guard by his remark.

“Don’t worry about it, it’s just a few things left. Have a seat and relax.” He said to me with a chuckle as he headed towards the door, leaving me dumbfounded.

I watched Rhett as he carried the remaining items into the house, and I quickly rushed to assist him. I picked up the items he had dropped and followed behind him. Together, we placed the items on the table. I stood beside him, waiting expectantly for the next move.

“Laurel, please sit down. I got this.” He insisted, a small smile appearing on his lips.

“Okay, okay, if you insist,” I said, rolling my eyes playfully and taking my seat in the kitchen.

Rhett began to dig through the bags, pulling out various items. “I’ll make you some dinner,” he said, his voice filled with determination.

“You’re going to cook?” I exclaimed unknowingly, my eyebrows shooting up in disbelief.

I quickly realized my mistake. “Oh, I’m sorry. I just thought you had staff who did the cooking for you.” I said, trying to brush off the awkwardness.

“Oh.” He laughed, shaking his head. “I do have staff, but they live in the quarters on the property, and they have their own schedules.” He said with a smile.

“Besides,” he added, “I don’t let anyone cook my food. Cooking is my way of destressing, and I don’t trust anyone else to do it.”

I watched as Rhett spoke, as he began to gather the ingredients he needed for the meal. He moved around the kitchen, his movements efficient and purposeful.

There was something so captivating about watching him cook. It was as if he was in his element, completely at ease with the chaos of the kitchen.