The hospital corridors were buzzing with life as always, but today, something unusual caught everyone's attention. The moment Hunter and Angel stepped out of her office together, whispers began spreading like wildfire. Hunter held Angel's hand tightly, as if afraid she'd disappear again if he let go. His touch was gentle but firm, protective but yearning.
The staff’s eyes widened with curiosity and awe. Dr. Angel Foster, the ever-dedicated, seemingly untouchable doctor who had never introduced a man since her arrival in Greenbay, was now walking beside someone—not just any man—but a man with presence, power, and a name that echoed across business circles: Hunter Mondiego.
The nurses at the station leaned into each other, whispering in hushed tones.
“Is that the Hunter Mondiego?”
“She never mentioned a boyfriend before.”
“They look... perfect together.”
Even patients craned their necks from wheelchairs or stretchers, curious eyes following the pair. It was rare to see a moment so human, so intimate, unfold within the walls of their sterile routines. There was something magnetic about the way he held her, like the world could fall apart around them and he’d still choose to shield her.
Administrator Valeria stepped out of her office, her brows furrowing in surprise. She hadn’t expected this. Hunter met her eyes and, without hesitation, approached.
“Administrator Valeria,” he said, his voice calm but firm, “I apologize for not mentioning my connection with Dr. Foster. But just as this hospital needs her to function, I need her in my life. And I have every intention of bringing her home.”
Valeria blinked in surprise, caught between professional obligation and the sincerity in his voice. Around them, the murmurs continued, but none dared interrupt.
Angel’s expression tightened. Her hand was still in his, but her stance changed slightly. “Hunter,” she spoke softly, but clearly, “I can’t leave this hospital. They need me here.”
Hunter turned to Valeria again. “Administrator Valeria, I hope you understand the depth of my request. I promise you this—if Dr. Foster agrees to return with me, I will ensure that this hospital is never understaffed again. I’ll send more doctors, fund further expansions, and make sure the Mondiego Empire backs this hospital fully, profitable or not.”
Valeria’s lips parted, a breath of surprise leaving her as she processed his words. The promise was monumental. In Greenbay, resources were limited, and they struggled with rotating staff shortages. A commitment like this from the Mondiego family wasn’t just generous—it was transformative.
After a moment of silence, she nodded slowly. “Thank you for your generous consideration in our hospital, Mr. Mondiego. We would appreciate any support. But ultimately, the decision lies with Dr. Foster.”
Hunter smiled gently. “Don’t worry, I’ll make sure she does.”
Everyone around them watched like they were witnessing a romantic drama unfold in real life. Some of the staff even smiled, quietly rooting for them.
Angel looked at the man holding her hand. Her heart was a mess, torn between responsibility and longing. But for now, she let him lead her outside the hospital. Her steps were slow, hesitant, but she didn’t pull away.
The afternoon sun spilled golden light across the pavement as they reached his car. Hunter opened the door for her without a word, and she slipped inside. He rounded to the driver’s side and settled behind the wheel.
The drive was quiet, yet comfortable. There was a soft hum of the engine, the occasional rustle of wind, but no words. They didn’t need any. Angel rested her hand on her lap, glancing sideways at him now and then. Hunter didn’t say anything, but he never once let his focus stray from the road—except for a brief moment when he caught her gaze and smiled.
As they arrived at the rented home, Hunter parked and stepped out quickly to assist Angel. His hands gently supported her as they walked to the door, his touch attentive and respectful. Once inside, he set her bag down and looked at her gently.
"Go on, freshen up. I prepared everything you need."
Angel gave a small nod and entered the bathroom. As the door closed behind her, Hunter moved quickly. He headed to the guest bathroom and took a brief shower, then slipped into a clean shirt and joggers. While the water from the other room splashed softly, he laid out the clothes he picked for her: an oversized cotton shirt and a pair of loose, soft pants that looked as comfortable as they felt.
In the kitchen, he began preparing food. Simple but nutritious—chicken broth with ginger, sautéed vegetables with just a hint of sesame, and steamed rice. Something light on the stomach but warm enough to bring comfort.
Angel emerged from the bathroom minutes later, wearing the clothes he left. They hung off her slender frame but wrapped her like a warm hug. Her hair was damp, tied loosely, and her skin looked a little less pale. She followed the aroma leading to the kitchen.
There he was. Hunter stood in front of the stove, focused and calm. The sizzle of onions and garlic filled the space, and her stomach growled without mercy. She hadn’t eaten properly in days. Everything either made her nauseous or simply didn’t appeal.
Hunter turned around and smiled. “Sit at the table. Food’s almost ready.”
She did as told, settling into a chair and resting her hands on the table’s edge. For a moment, she just watched him—how effortlessly he moved, how natural he looked in the space.
Soon, he placed a steaming bowl of broth in front of her, followed by a plate of rice and a small dish of colorful fruit slices. It wasn’t extravagant, but the smell alone was divine.
She dug in hungrily, surprising even herself. Bite after bite, warmth seeped into her chest. It tasted like care. Like someone had thought of her for once.
Hunter sat across from her, chin resting on one hand as he watched her eat. A soft chuckle escaped him. “I think I need to prepare more food from now on. Looks like I have two mouths to feed now.”
Angel paused mid-bite, a tiny gasp caught in her throat. Her eyes darted to his. He said it so casually, but there was meaning there—hope, even.
She swallowed and gave him a soft smile, placing a hand over her belly for a second before returning to her food.
For the first time in weeks, things felt... light. They weren’t perfect, but in that moment, they were real.
And that was enough.