Before losing consciousness, I’d told myself repeatedly that if people died at the site, their blood would be on my hands. I feel guilty.
“Have you…” I trail off, pursing my lips as the worry turns into anger. “Did you find out who did it?”
He hums in response.
As expected, a seasoned businessman like him would have the problem settled as soon as possible. Derik is ruthless and unforgiving. If he has to cripple or seize command of another company, he will do it, especially if it’s for the benefit of so many other people.
“So, how did he do it?”
“You seem like you already know who’s behind it.”
“Mason?”
When he nods, I can’t help but scoff at myself. How could I not have seen it?
“He switched the materials to substandard ones. It was my mistake for underestimating his means. Don’t blame yourself. The man is a demon. The lesson for you here is to always be on guard. Your safety should be your top priority at all times.”
He pauses and stares at me intently with gritted teeth.
“God, I would never forgive myself if something happened to you!”
Looking into his eyes, I feel his grip tightening around my hand. My heart swells with warmth. It’s the first time he’s ever spoken with such emotion that his voice cracked. I curl my mouth and reach out to touch his handsome face.
“Why? Did you realize how empty you’d be if I died?”
“Nonsense. Not going to happen.”
I grin as I feel him tense up under my touch. A glint of wariness and fear crosses his eyes.
“Hmmm. How unromantic,” I complain, pouting.
He sighs.
Then, he rises from his seat and lowers his head, planting a gentle kiss on my forehead. His kiss is so tender it feels like a brush of warm summer breeze touching my face. I blink frantically as I feel my cheeks burning. Before I can react, I feel his lips landing on the tip of my nose, my eyes, and my cheeks.
“Your question is invalid. You’re never allowed to leave me in the first place.”
Flustered, I feel my tongue stuck in my throat, my heart racing so hard and loud that I worry he might be able to hear it.
I bite my bottom lip.
What does he mean by not allowed? It’s not like death would seek his permission.
“And if such a thing ever happens, you won’t be alone. I’ll be with you,” he adds, as if reading my thoughts.
I shiver.
You won’t be alone. I’ll be with you.
Those words may not sound sweet and cheery, but they’re more than enough
to unburden all the insecurity that’s been weighing on my heart. He may not utter customary lines about love and yearning, but his declaration of not letting death part us is stronger than any poetic confession.
I smile.
Derik is a man of his word. If he says it, he means it.
“I’d pounce on you here and now if I weren’t broken,” I tease.
For a moment, he fails to conceal the surprise on his face, then quickly composes himself, but I can see his chest rising and falling rapidly.
I click my tongue.
“Too bad.”
“Stop. Your priority is to get better. Understand?”
Derik shoots me a warning look.
I roll my eyes and then pucker my lips.
“Kiss me,” I order.
“I don’t put moves on cripples.”
“Killjoy!”
He smiles and shakes his head, then pecks my mouth before settling back in his seat. Our playful banter continues until the doctor comes in for rounds. Derik attentively listens to his instructions, and I’m relieved to hear that I’ll be able to go home in a week if everything goes well.
