Chapter 24
Veronica’s POV
I arrived at the hospital and immediately spotted him being transferred to a new ward. Relief washed over me when I saw he was alive. My instinct was to leave before anyone saw me, but the urge to see him one last time overtook me. After making sure no one noticed, I slipped inside.
My breath hitched as my eyes connected with his pale form on the bed. Guilt hit me so hard that my eyes watered.
“Grandpa.” I whispered, approaching his bedside. I gently took his hand, which felt frail in mine. His eyes remained closed, and my stomach twisted as I watched him.
If I hadn’t pulled that stunt, he wouldn’t be here. This was my fault. Het has always been nothing but kind to me. He didn’t deserve this.
“Grandpa, I’m so sorry.” I choked out, tears spilling down my cheeks. “I didn’t think it would take such a toll on you. I didn’t mean for this to happen. Please forgive me, I am so sorry…”
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I clung tightly to his hand, unaware that he stirred until his fingers moved. in my hands. His eyes fluttered open, and his gaze met mine. I swallowed thickly, unsure of how to react.
“Veronica… is that really you?” he murmured, his voice weak but warm. I felt like bursting into tears. He had always been a healthy man. There was rarely ever news of him falling sick and now this?
“Yes, Grandpa, it’s me.” Tears welled up in my eyes as I nodded, overwhelmed with relief that he was well enough to open his eyes at least. He lifted his other hand slightly, but I quickly stopped him.
“Don’t move, Grandpa,” I said softly. “You just woke up, you need to rest. I’m right here with you, okay? I’m not going anywhere.”
A faint smile tugged at his lips. “It really is you. Only you could be so kind and thoughtful.”
His words brought a small, bittersweet smile to my face. Even now, he cared more about me than himself.
“Grandpa.” I said, my voice trembling, “I’m so sorry I lied. I didn’t know it would affect you like this, but… but they were after my life. I had to do it, or I would’ve been in danger. I just wanted to lie low until I figured things. out. And now, because of me…”
I couldn’t even bear to complete the words because I broke down, my sobs shaking through my body as my grip on his hand tightened. If I hadn’t lied, he wouldn’t be here like this.
The weight of the whole situation pressed on my chest like a suffocating
pillow
“It’s not your fault,” he said, his voice steady despite his condition. “You. did what you had to do. Besides, I was already unwell before this so don’t blame yourself, my dear child.”
His forgiveness only made my heart ache more. This man was my everything, and I couldn’t bear the thought of losing him. He was like the father I never had and the one member of the Grayson family who would choose me over his family.
“I’m just glad you’re okay now,” I said through my tears. “If you hadn’t been, I’d never forgive myself.”
He smiled, his expression growing tender. “Go now, before anyone sees you. I don’t want you to really end up in danger. The mere fact that you are alive is enough for me. I was wondering how I could cope with that
air–headed husband of yours.”
He chuckled softly, and despite myself, I laughed too. Until I realized that he referred to Carter as my husband. He didn’t know about our divorce yet. My chest tightened. There was no way I could tell him when he was in this condition. It might even further complicate his health issues.
I couldn’t help but wonder if he knew about Meghan’s pregnancy. I assumed no because that would have been enough for him to piece everything together. I let out a sigh and he placed his other hand on mine.
“Stop worrying. I already told you that I will be fine. I just need you to stay safe okay? Go!” He instructed.
I pulled on my coat and adjusted my mask.
“I’ll leave now.” I said, glancing back at him one last time. I kissed hist forehead gently.
He nodded with a bright smile and I headed for the door, but before I could leave, it swung open.
Standing there was Carter.
Fuck!
“Veronica!” he exclaimed, pulling me into a hug before I could react. I struggled against him, trying to break free, but his grip was firm. “You’re alive!”
“Let me go!” I snapped, finally pushing him away.
He looked at me, his face lit with relief and something that seemed very much like hurt. But I didn’t dare trust it. He must really think I am a fool!
“I thought I’d never see you again. I’m so glad you’re okay,” he said, his voice trembling with emotion as he reached to hug me again. I cast him a
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look of disdain that immediately made him freeze.
“Spare me the act.” I said coldly, crossing my arms. “Don’t pretend you care. In fact. I’m sure you were thrilled when you heard about my death.”
His expression shifted to shock. It was so genuine that I almost fell for it.
Almost.
“What are you talking about? I’ve always cared about you! Why would I ever want you to die?” he asked.
I really didn’t want his grandfather to hear this conversation but since he was going to play this pretend game, fine!
“Why?” I scoffed. “Because you sent them! You sent those men to kill me. How dare you stand here and act innocent?”
“I didn’t!” he protested, stepping closer. I moved back with every step he took. “Veronica, I swear I don’t know what the fuck you’re talking about.”
“Liar.” I spat. “Don’t think I’d accuse you without proof. You sent me a text to meet you in that abandoned building! I blame myself for being so stupid to actually go without finding it suspicious.”
“It is suspicious because why the hell would I take you to an abandoned building when there are so many fancy restaurants and hotels?” He huffed. For a second, I considered his words but then I wasn’t stupid.
“Well, if you must know, the messy bastards you hired slipped up your name way too many times! They probably did think I would survive that fire.”
Carter’s face was drained of every possible colour.
“I don’t know what’s happening, but I swear to you, it wasn’t me.” His voice was composed as he continued to deny it.
Chapter 24
It didn’t even matter. I wasn’t falling for his lies anymore.
“You know what?” I said sharply. “I don’t have time for this. I need to leave before anyone else sees me.”
I turned to go. but he grabbed my arm.
“No! You can’t leave,” he pleaded. “If you go now, I’ll never see you again. Please, don’t…”
“Let me go!” I yelled, trying to pull away.
But he wouldn’t budge. I struggled to break free but his grip only tightened. As if to add to my panic, the door swung over.
My heart sank.
Oh God!
My secret was about to be discovered by more people. Orthon will be so mad!