Chapter 188

Alexander was recovering well, his condition stable now.

The nurse exited, and moments later, Dominic's urgent voice carried through the door. "Mr. Falcon, that hand injury requires immediate attention. Permanent damage could occur without proper treatment."

Harrison glanced up. Nathaniel's imposing figure stood framed in the doorway, having remained there silently all this time.

Dominic shot Harrison a pleading look. "Mrs. Falcon, Mr. Falcon's hand won't stop bleeding. Please, just say something."

Harrison's gaze dropped to the crimson droplets staining the floor. That wound would require extensive stitching.

She rose and moved toward the entrance.

Nathaniel's eyes sparked with hope as she approached. His broad shoulders tensed slightly, expression flickering with cautious optimism.

Dominic exhaled in relief. "See? Mrs. Falcon still cares. Mr. Falcon, you really should—"

His words cut off abruptly as Harrison firmly slammed the door shut.

The heavy door nearly collided with both men's faces, a chilling gust slipping through the narrow gap.

Dominic stood frozen, momentarily speechless.

The light in Nathaniel's eyes died instantly. Through the door's small window, he watched Harrison return to Alexander's bedside, taking his hand before resting her head against the mattress to sleep.

A bitter, self-deprecating smile twisted Nathaniel's lips.

Seven days passed. Alexander's recovery progressed remarkably. Nathaniel knew full consciousness had returned by now.

In his Falcon Enterprises office, Nathaniel reviewed documents when his phone vibrated. Eleanor was calling.

Since their last outing for milkshakes and foot massages, Eleanor had grounded Harrison, forbidding outings.

"Grandmother," Nathaniel answered.

"Where have you and Harrison been? Why haven't I seen you? Dinner tonight—I miss you both." Eleanor's affectionate tone filled the line.

The bandage around Nathaniel's left hand remained—twenty-three stitches holding the wound together. He gripped the phone with his right hand, silent.

He knew Harrison hadn't left Alexander's hospital bedside all week.

"Did you hear me? Bring Harrison home tonight," Eleanor insisted.

Nathaniel's expression remained unreadable. "Understood."

That evening, Nathaniel returned alone to the Falcon estate.

Eleanor's welcoming smile faltered. "Where's Harrison?"

He'd driven himself home.

Noticing her disappointment, Nathaniel replied, "University obligations. Call her if you wish her presence."

Without hesitation, Eleanor reached for the landline. "I'll do just that."

Nathaniel sank into an armchair, picking up a financial newspaper with feigned indifference.

The call connected instantly. Harrison's melodic voice carried through. "Grandmother?"

Eleanor beamed. "You've neglected me terribly. I've prepared a feast—join us tonight."

A maid entered, placing tea beside Nathaniel. "Your tea, sir." He gave no reaction, eyes fixed on unread text.

Harrison's regretful reply came. "I'm sorry, but a hospitalized friend requires my presence tonight."