#Chapter 14: An Alternative Solution

Ollie’s POV When I blink my eyes open again, I’m staring up at the drop ceiling of the school doctor’s office. The bed I’m in is uncomfortable but familiar, and there’s a scratchy blanket draped over me, pulled up to my chin. “Ollie, you’re awake,” Ella says with clear relief. She gets up from a nearby chair and comes straight to my bedside. When she’s closer, I can see the worry lines etched in her face. I glance away from her then, searching the rest of the room, but there’s no sign of the quadruplets. Had I imagined them helping me? Was it merely a fantasy, being in Conrad’s arms? I’m afraid to ask, but Ella notices my distraction. “They aren’t here,” she says. “Well, not anymore.” “But they were here?” I ask. Ella stares at me for a long moment, a flat, disapproving look, as if she’s disappointed that I even care. Honestly, I’m also disappointed with myself, but this fated mate bond… it makes me long for things that I shouldn’t. Especially right now, I feel too tired