Chapter 68: The Healer’s Compassion–1
Chapter 68: The Healer’s Compassion
(Olivia’s POV)
After asking about the situation, Hosh sat up in bed, his bandaged right arm propped awkwardly on a pillow. The absence of his hand was jarring, even beneath the wrappings.
He was hunched over his phone, struggling to navigate the screen with his left hand.
Need some help with that?” I asked gently.
Noah’s head snapped up.
I moved closer, noticing the frustration in his eyes. “What are you trying to do?”
He hesitated before answering. “Just ordering some food. Hospital meals aren’t exactly appetizing.”
“May 17” I gestured to his phone,
After a moment’s hesitation, he handed it over. The screen showed a food delivery app with a distinctive yellow icon. As I scrolled through his order history, my heart sank.
Every single order was under $10, Instant noodles. The cheapest burger combo. A small side of fries split
between two people.
Is this what you and Leah usually eat?” I asked, trying to keep my voice neutral.
Noah’s jaw tightened defensively, “It’s what we can afford.”
I continued scrolling, noting the poor nutritional quality of everything listed. My wolf bristled protectively-
this wasn’t just about money. This was about health and healing.
“Noah,” I said carefully, “your body needs proper nutrition to heal, especially after such a serious injury. And Leah needs quality food to help her through her treatments,”
His eyes flashed with a mixture of pride and shame. “We manage.”
I handed the phone back, making a quick decision. “I’m going to grab something from the restaurant downstairs. Would you mind if I brought back enough for you and Leah?”
“We don’t need-” he began.
“Please, I interrupted gently, “Consider it a working lunch. We have a lot to discuss about your case.”
Before he could protest further, I slipped out of the room. In the hallway, I leaned against the wall for a moment, composing myself. The Budget Delivery App Order History had affected me more than I’d expected. It was such a small thing, yet it spoke volumes about their struggle.
* made my way to the hospital’s restaurant, ordering three portions of a nutritious meal–grilled chicken with steamed vegetables and brown rice, Simple but nourishing food that would actually help their bodies heal.
While waiting for the order, I made a few calls. By the time I returned to Noah’s room with the food, I had arranged for two professional caregivers to assist the siblings.
Leah had joined her brother, sitting in a chair beside his bed. Her thin frame seemed to disappear in the
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oversized hospital gown, and the pink woolen beanie on her head couldn’t hide how pale and drawn her face
WAS.
“Thope you’re hungry.” I said, setting down the food containers.
Leah’s eyes widened at the sight. “That smells amazing.”
I distributed the meals, noticing how both siblings hesitated before taking their first bites. Once they started eating, though, it was clear they were starving for proper food.
I’ve made some arrangements I’d like to discuss with you,” I said as they ate. “I’ve hired two caregivers to help you both during your recovery.”
Noah’s fork paused halfway to his mouth. “We can’t afford-”
“It’s covered,” I said firmly. “Daniel Foster will be assisting you, Noah. He’s trained specifically in helping patients adapt to hand injuries. And Rachel Winters–no relation to me–will be helping Leah through her treatments.”
Leah looked up, her eyes filling with tears. “Why would you do this for us?”
The vulnerability in her voice nearly broke my heart. “Because you deserve proper care. Both of you.”
Noah set down his fork, his expression troubled. “The hospital bills are already more than we can handle. We can’t accept more charity.”
“It’s not charity,” I insisted. “It’s an advance on the settlement we’re going to win from Northern Industrial Factory”
J didn’t mention that I’d already paid their hospital deposit and treatment fees. That conversation could wait.
“Speaking of which,” I continued, pulling out my tablet, “I’ve been reviewing similar cases. We have strong precedent on our side.”
As we discussed the legal strategy, I noticed Noah gradually relaxing. Talking about the case gave him something to focus on besides his injury and their financial situation.
After we finished eating, my phone pinged with a notification. Noah had sent me a digital money transfer–a small amount, but clearly all he could spare.
“What’s this?” I asked, though I knew exactly what it was.
“For the food and your time,” he said stiffly. “I’ll pay you back for everything else when we win the case.”
I immediately declined the transfer, my amber eyes meeting his. “That’s not necessary, Noah.”
“I don’t want to be in debt,” he insisted.
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