Chapter 31

Tyler’s POV.

The birds of the air, the breezy weather—I love nature; it has a way of bringing calmness to a troubled soul. My mind was at ease; I took a deep breath and my mind was free.

“Are you okay, bro?

“Yes, Jackson. I am fine.

“Don't worry, we will soon be at the hospital; we are just a few minutes away.

We finally got to the hospital, and I didn't even wait for Jackson to park properly before I got out of the car. I walked into Andrea’s ward and found Nancy beside her. Ami wasn't in the ward at that time, and tears rolled down my eyes when I saw her. She couldn't move yet, and she couldn't talk properly. She just tried to smile, but her cheek couldn't sustain the smile. She tried to talk, but her voice was faint; it was as if there was something restricting her from speaking.

“Don't worry, babe, just relax. Don't try to talk; you will be alright. Hi Nancy, thanks for staying with her.

I’m still upset with you, Tyler. Why didn't you tell me as soon as this happened? I was so worried about her. I was calling throughout the night and Andrea didn't pick up. I knew something was wrong but I couldn't pinpoint what was wrong.

“The tension that night was something else; it was a matter of life and death. Andrea collapsed in my arm, she was vomiting blood and I couldn't think straight. My brain wasn't functioning at that moment, and I didn't know where her phone was when we got to the hospital. I would have called you.

"It's alright, I understand you. My heart almost jumped out of my chest when Ami told me what happened to her. I still cannot explain how I got here to this hospital; it felt like I was flying on air in the Uber ride. Physically, I was in the car but mentally, I was flying on air. I’m glad she is okay, though.

“How about her family members?

“She is the only daughter of her parents, and they live very far away from here; they are not even in this city.

“Don't you think we should inform them about her health?

“No, there will be no need for that; it will only make them worry more.

“Fair enough.

Jackson walked in at this moment. I wonder why it took him so long to come into the ward.

“Jackson, why did you take so long?

“I couldn't find a place to park; I was on a work call.

“Are you sure you do not need to be at your bar?

“Do not worry about that; my manager will take care of anything that comes up; she is competent. Hi, Nancy, even though we haven't met properly, it is so good to see you.

“I guess you are Tyler’s best friend; nice to meet you too.

Jackson extended his hand for a handshake. The handshake took longer than it should. I cleared my throat and Jackson took off his hands. It was as if he was lost in the moment for a few seconds. He ran his eyes through Nancy’s body. I've known Jackson for decades and I know when he is feeling someone and he had that look on at that particular moment.

“You have beautiful eyes, Nancy; they are piercing.

“Are they piercing deep into your soul?

I wanted to distract Jackson from flirting with Nancy but I decided to let him do his thing when she reciprocated. Since they were having their moment, I decided to turn and face my lover.

Andrea was looking and smiling at Nancy and Jackson.

“I was so scared, babe. I don't know what I would have done if something bad had happened to you. You are a very strong woman, babe, and I'm happy you were able to fight and win. I’m glad that you are alive, Andrea.

“I cannot die; I'm still young.

Her faint voice made me smile. I had a large smile on my face when she spoke softly to me.

“I know, babe, we are going to grow old together; you cannot die and leave me here on this earth.

As I held her hand against my cheek, I felt a wave of emotion wash over me. I was overcome with joy, relief, and gratitude. The simple act of touching her hand gave me a sense of connection and closeness that I didn't want to let go of. I knew that things were still uncertain, but in that moment, all I could feel was pure joy and hope. I knew that I had to cherish this moment and savour the feeling while I could. I was grateful to still have this precious connection, and I closed my eyes, breathing in the reality of her presence.

“I love you, Tyler; I really do.

As I heard those words, I was overcome with emotion. It was the first time she had said those words to me, and it meant more to me than I could ever express. My heart was pounding in my chest, and my mind was racing with thoughts and feelings. It was like a dam had broken, and all the love I had for her was rushing out. I wanted to tell her how much I loved her, how grateful I was for her, and how I would never take her for granted again. But all I could do was hold her hand and breathe in the words that she had spoken. I kissed her lips; I couldn't contain my joy. I wish I could give her a big hug.

“Get a room, guys!

“Don't be silly, Jackson; it was just a kiss. Allow Nancy to be; she needs to rest; she has been stressed out since today.

“Well, that is none of your business; face your girlfriend; you both have a lot of catching up to do. And by the way, Nancy isn't complaining; she seems to like my company.

I had no words for Jackson; I just giggled. If there is one thing Jackson knows how to do very well, it would be to engage someone in a conversation; he was good with his words. his first impression is that he is calm and reserved, but once you start a conversation with him, you would want the clock to stop ticking so you can spend more time with him.

I was smiling and looking at Andrea when my phone beeped; it was a message from Ami.

**“The footage is out!**