Chapter 24 Assistance

After ending the call, Sabrina felt completely drained of energy. Only the heavens knew the overwhelming panic she felt upon receiving Barry's call about Grandpa's situation. The mere thought of something happening to him sent shivers down her spine. Her hand, damp and cold from the shock, served as a tangible reminder of the emotional turmoil she had just endured. Curtis sat silently beside Sabrina the whole time, patiently waiting for her emotions to stabilize. "I have some connections that can help us get your Grandpa checked immediately," he softly offered, seeing Sabrina gradually regaining her composure. As she heard his voice, Sabrina realized she had somehow moved from the window to the couch, a journey she didn't consciously recall making. She bit her lip, hesitant to involve Curtis in her family matters. Despite their marriage, they both understood that their relationship was more akin to roommates and was temporary. Therefore, Sabrina didn't want to impose on him unnecessarily. She mustered a forced smile and said, "I appreciate the offer, but..." However, Curtis interjected with a pragmatic perspective, "Before you decline, consider how we'll explain our sudden marriage to your brother and Grandpa." His point was clear: their abrupt union would undoubtedly raise questions, especially if Curtis appeared disinterested in Grandpa's condition. The true purpose of their hasty marriage might then be called into question. Sabrina hesitated, finding truth in Curtis' words. She realized that she needed to come up with a convincing explanation for their sudden marriage before her family arrived. She could already envision the shock and anger that might arise upon learning of her secret wedding. Allowing Curtis to help could potentially present him in a better light to her family. However, Sabrina couldn't help but ponder, 'Do I really want them to have a favorable impression of him? Wouldn't a negative image make our eventual separation easier?' Such concerns were concerns for the future — a year from now to be exact. Setting them aside for the moment, Sabrina focused on the present. She sighed deeply and said, "Even before Grandpa arrives, I want to express my gratitude. I'm indebted to you for the funds for Grandpa's medical treatment, and I'll make sure I repay it." "I know. You don't need to keep repeating it," Curtis responded. "Get some rest. It's late. Just inform me when your Grandpa is coming, and I'll make the necessary arrangements." He nodded gently, signaling for Sabrina to retire for the night. Given the emotional roller coaster, he would probably volunteer to sleep on the couch tonight. As Sabrina attempted to stand, a sudden rush of dizziness nearly caused her to collapse. Thankfully, Curtis's quick reflexes saved her from falling. Regaining her composure, she became acutely aware of their proximity, with just a slight tilt of her head and a gentle lift of her feet potentially closing the gap between their lips. The two of them froze, their eyes locked onto each other's, the silence between them stretching out. Locked in this intense moment, they were taken aback by a knock at the door and Daniel's voice. "Have you both turned in for the night? If you're still up, can one of you come out and change a lightbulb for me? The darn thing went out when I was in the restroom!" The intimate moment was shattered by the interruption. Sabrina quickly distanced herself from Curtis, subtly fixing her hair to conceal her flustered state. She could feel her heart racing, its rhythm outside her control. Looking slightly uneasy himself, Curtis urged Sabrina to rest before exiting the room. As she heard the door close behind him, she took a deep, steadying breath. How would she face Curtis tomorrow? Such unexpected closeness had left her feeling strangely affected. Lying in bed, she clutched her blanket. She reflected on what had just happened, and an unusual warmth filled her heart. But then, the nature of her arrangement with Curtis came to the forefront of her mind. It was a mere transaction, a business deal where emotions were not included in the agreement. Sabrina sighed, turning over in bed, and eventually drifted off to sleep. So, she also didn't know when Curtis had returned. When she woke up the next morning, the couch looked just the same as it did yesterday. Greeting the morning with a touch of disappointment, Sabrina reminded herself not to dwell on it. While Curtis had agreed to help, he would need to find a reputable hospital and doctor to ensure Grandpa received the best care. Upon entering the living room, she was surprised to find Curtis lounging on the couch, engrossed in reading a newspaper, dressed in his casual home attire. "Shouldn't you be at work by now?" she inquired. Curtis glanced up and gestured toward the kitchen. "Have breakfast first. Later, I need your assistance in persuading Grandpa to accompany me for a medical check-up. The doctor recommended monthly visits, given his deteriorating health." It took Curtis' reminder for Sabrina to recall Daniel's health issues. Without delay, she proceeded to the kitchen to fetch breakfast. Today's meal tasted different, not quite like Daniel's usual cooking. Had Curtis prepared it? Glancing at Curtis who was still absorbed in his newspaper, she found it hard to imagine. His very presence seemed to exude an aura of authority that made others naturally defer to him. Such a person in the kitchen seemed... improbable. Shrugging off the thought, she attributed the taste to perhaps Daniel being in a bad mood. While eating, Sabrina proposed, "Should I accompany you today? Maybe if I'm present, Daniel will be more cooperative." Curtis looked at her thoughtfully, his prolonged silence creating a sense of unease within Sabrina. She couldn't help but wonder what was going through his mind as he maintained his unwavering gaze on her.