Chapter 385

Everett's lips were unexpectedly cool against hers, sending an unfamiliar thrill through Rosalind's body.

Though she'd never kissed anyone before, Rosalind had imagined this moment countless times. Nothing could have prepared her for the electric sensation coursing through her veins.

Everett remained frozen, his piercing gaze locked with hers. Neither of them closed their eyes, creating an intense, almost challenging connection.

Rosalind's wide, expressive eyes shimmered with a mix of innocence and daring curiosity. At this age, the natural desire to explore intimacy with someone special burned brightly within her - both sweetly naive and boldly adventurous.

Her plush, cherry-red lips moved experimentally against his, then suddenly she nipped at his lower lip.

A jolt of heat rocketed through Everett's body, starting from the base of his spine and spreading like wildfire. His vision blurred momentarily, pupils dilating with primal hunger.

Pressed flush against him with her arms looped around his neck, Rosalind soon became aware of something unfamiliar pressing against her thigh.

She broke the kiss, tilting her head in confusion. "What's that?" Her hand drifted downward instinctively.

Everett caught her wrist in an iron grip before she could investigate further. "Enough," he growled.

Rosalind studied his stony expression - still as unreadable as ever - but found herself undeterred. She twisted free and tugged him closer. "I'm not finished."

"What more could you possibly want?" His voice was rough.

Pulling out her phone, she thrust it toward him. "Add me on Instagram. Right now."

Everett's eyebrow arched. "Why?"

"Do this, and we're even. No debts between us." Her tone brooked no argument.

With a barely perceptible sigh, Everett retrieved his phone and sent the friend request.

When Rosalind's profile loaded, her display picture showed her laughing face bathed in golden sunset light. Loose chestnut curls framed her delicate features, capturing a moment of pure, youthful joy.

Everett's gaze lingered a second too long before he abruptly looked away. "Done."

He turned on his heel, long strides carrying him toward the door.

Wait - he was leaving? Just like that?

Rosalind stared at his profile - a stark black square with only the name "Everett Sinclair" displayed. His feed was completely empty, revealing nothing about him.

Despite the lack of information, a giddy warmth spread through her chest at their new digital connection.

Everett stood by the open window, letting the crisp night air cool his overheated skin. This unfamiliar, overwhelming sensation - he'd never experienced anything like it before.

Everett couldn't stand being near Rosalind. Her presence wrapped around him like honey, thick and suffocating.

After composing himself, he strode back into the hospital room. Margaret was already dressed, folding her belongings into a small suitcase.

He rushed forward. "You shouldn't be up yet."

"I'm perfectly fine now," Margaret said, zipping the bag shut. "Let's go home."

"But the test results—"

"Everett," she interrupted, placing a hand on his arm. "Dr. Theodore already brought them. Just low blood sugar, that's all."

His brow furrowed. "Are you certain?"

Margaret thrust the papers at him. "See for yourself. Since when do I lie to you?" Everett scanned the documents, tension easing from his shoulders as he confirmed the normal readings.

"Alright," he conceded. "I'll stay home with you this week. But you need to be careful about your sugar levels." His fingers tightened around the papers. "No more skipping meals."