MR BILLIONAIRE'S REGRET: CHASING HIS IRRESISTIBLE WIFE

(JARED'S POV)

"Are you in that much hurry to get rid of us?" I asked Maverick, raising a brow as I tried to stifle a grin.

He chuckled, his eyes sparkling with more mischief. "Maybe. My mommy needs rest and she doesn't need two bodyguards watching over her."

Dwayne and I exchanged puzzled looks. What was this kid saying? We were trying to protect his mother, not guard her like prisoners.

As if on cue, Mrs Meyers, who was almost dozing off on her seat, stirred and opened her eyes. She tiredly stretched her arms, and then her eyes landed on us.

"It's time for you two to leave," she announced, her voice gentle but firm. "You should go home, freshen up, and have a change of clothes and proper meals. I appreciate you both coming, but I just have to insist that you leave."

Dwayne and I protested in unison. "We're fine-" but she held up a hand, cutting us off.

"I mean it, you two. You can't stay here all night. Besides, I'm sure you both have work to attend to tomorrow." She glanced at the wall clock, her eyes widening in surprise. "It's really late, you should get going."

I began to grumble under my breath, feeling a little offended at being asked to leave. Dwayne didn't look too pleased either, as his Jaws ticked. Maverick, on the other hand, was having the time of his life as he kept giggling beside his mother.

Finally, Dwayne and I reluctantly rose to my feet, our movements slow and begrudging. I stared longingly at Arielle's sleeping form, wishing she was awake so I could tell her goodnight. Glancing at Dwayne and judging from his facial expression and the way he was looking at Arielle, too, he seemed to have the same thoughts.

I decided there and then to come early the next morning, to beat Dwayne and be able to see Arielle first. With that silent resolve, I bid Mrs Meyers and Maverick goodnight.

"All right, I'll leave now. Goodnight Mrs Meyers. Good night, buddy," I said to Maverick, pulling his cheek gently. And then I leaned over to kiss Arielle's forehead. She was still sleeping peacefully, but I hoped the kiss lingered and she felt it.

"Goodnight, boys," Mrs. Meyers said, as the sarcasm in her tone was not missed. "Thank you for coming."

Maverick waved at me, still grinning. "Goodnight, Daddy. Good night, Uncle Dwayne. Come back tomorrow."

I smiled and waved back and Dwayne did the same. And then I turned to face him, "I'll walk out with you."

He snorted, totally ignoring me as he beat me to the door, turning the knob and letting himself out. Well, whatever. We were both sent out so I don't see the need for the extra attitude.

I walked out of the hospital with Dwayne who was bent on being left alone. I wasn't in the mood for a conversation either, so we kept ourselves and went our separate ways.

The drive home was quiet, my mind revisiting the events of the day. I was exhausted, both physically and mentally. And as soon as I walked into my house, I headed straight for the bathroom, turning on the faucet to fill the tub with cold water. A cool bath was just what I needed to unwind.

After my bath, I fixed a quick night's dinner, my stomach growling with hunger. While I ate, I replied to the business updates Oliver sent me and a couple of important W******p messages. Tiana had sent me tons, but I was too tired to want to reply to them. I'd deal with her later.

As I finished up, I set my alarm on my bedside alarm to wake me up early, planning to head back to the hospital to see Arielle. I collapsed into my bed afterward, feeling its softness enveloping me. Sleep claimed me quickly, my body grateful for the long-craved rest.

*******noveldrama

The next morning, my alarm blared to life, forcing me awake. I sprang up, feeling refreshed and ready to start the day. I got busy immediately, freshening up and getting dressed. I wanted to fix Arielle a light breakfast, but I thought against it, not wanting to risk being late. Instead, I opted to stop by a popular eatery on my way to the hospital.

I was soon done preparing and I headed out. On my way, I got Arielle breakfast and continued on my way to the hospital. On arrival, I made my way to Arielle's room, a proud smile spreading across my face when I found just her, Mrs. Meyers, and Maverick inside. Just what I wanted.

"Good morning, everyone," I greeted energetically, grinning from ear to ear. Maverick, who was looking dressed for school, hurried into my arms. I was always happy at how elated he was whenever he saw me.

"Did you sleep well, buddy?" I asked, looking him up.

"Yes," he bobbed his head.

"That's good," I added, ruffling his hair.

On the other hand, Mrs Meyers and Arielle seemed surprised to see me.

"Did you sleep at all?" Mrs Meyers teased.

"I did," I responded, chuckling.

And

was

approached Arielle, who

morning brighter and better t

see

It gladdened my heart to

her recovering. Contet

"Hey, how're you?" I asked, stopping beside her.

"I'm much better," she smiled at me. "Thank you."

b

I smiled back, feeling warmth lick through my chest. Then I showed her the package in my hands. "I brought you breakfast."

Her eyes lit up. "Thank you."

"You'll have to feed her because I'm taking Maverick to school now," Mrs Meyers called out behind me.

"Mom-" Arielle tried to protest but I was quick to cut her short.

"You don't have to worry, I'll make sure she eats well."

Mrs. Meyers nodded, a look of gratitude in her eyes. "Thank you, Jared."

And then she turned to Maverick. "Now you come here, little boy, it's time to leave for school."

Maverick obliged and picked up his backpack. "Bye Mom, bye Dad!" He yelled.

My face broke out in an affectionate smile. "Bye, buddy! Pay attention in class, okay?"

"I will," he yelled back as he followed his Nana out the door.

།

Alone with Arielle now, I walked to the table and placed the food pack on it. I began to take the food out, the aroma of scrambled eggs and toast filling the air.

"You're not gonna feed me, are you?" Arielle asked.

I chuckled, returning with the uncovered plate of food. "Watch me," I replied, sitting down at the foot of the bed.

She sighed in resignation, but I could

see the hint of a smile on her lips. I

held out a spoonful of the food to her, and she opened her mouth, letting me feed her. We sat there in a comfortable silence, the only sound the gentle munching sound Arielle was emanating.

She was halfway into the meal when the door went open, and Dwayne walked in.