Chapter 4: Rumors, Rivals, and a Bold Move

I wandered around the first-floor garden like a headless chicken. A group nearby whispered, glancing at me. "Is that the girl from the fifth floor?" "Yeah, that’s her—Mrs. Wilson’s talking about her." I eavesdropped. No progress with Chase, but I’d heard several versions of the rumor.

In summary: I cheated on Chase and I’m a heartless player. And him—after learning the truth, he still stuck by his sick girlfriend.

Thinking of the lady’s odd behavior: "Chase, here’s a photo of my friend’s daughter—pretty and sweet." Every time Chase brought me food, a few young women would come over, pretending to chat with the lady, but really sneaking glances at us. At dinnertime, I dragged myself back to the ward and found Chase already there. For once, the lady wasn’t. But by her bed sat a gorgeous woman with chestnut waves, wearing a tight beige dress that showed off her curves. I looked down at my striped hospital gown. Compared to her, I felt like a joke.

Chase looked over, anxious, and rushed to grab my arm. "Molly, why didn’t you answer my calls? Trying to worry me on purpose?"

He wore beige linen shorts and a matching shirt—unintentionally matching with the wavy-haired beauty. I felt a pang of jealousy, even though I tried to hide it.

I replied, deadpan. "My phone died."

I shook off his hand and went to eat. Twenty minutes later, most of my food was still there. I’d spent the whole time watching the wavy-haired girl. She made no secret of her affection for Chase—bold and intense. I stared at her, she stared at him, he stared at me.

"Why are you eating so little? No appetite?" Chase asked, checking my temperature with the back of his hand. His voice snapped me back. My chest felt tight. "Even rabbits eat more than me. Nothing tastes good."

The wavy-haired girl came over with a box, speaking sweetly to Chase. "I made these treats myself. They’re pretty good. Want to try?"

Hello? I’m the patient here.

"Thanks, but no. She doesn’t like sweets."

How did Chase know my taste?

"What do you like, then? I’ll bring some next time."

Next time? Really?

Zoe’s words echoed in my head: "You’re not even as bold as your cat." Time to take action.

After Chase left, I messaged him: "My roommate took Cottonball for an ultrasound. Five kittens. Any thoughts?"

Little punk’s dad: "What do you mean?"

I sent a voice message, turning up the volume: "Girls are mine, boys are yours. I trust you’ll treat them well."

He started typing, then after a long pause, just sent back: "Okay."

The lady went out to make a call. I hid behind the wall to eavesdrop.

"Chase won’t do. He’s so young and already has a kid. Listen, I’ll find you a better match."

When she returned, she pressed me: "Molly, how many kids do you two have?"

"Five."

She slapped her thigh. "Oh my, young people these days! So irresponsible—no shame at all."

I shot back: "Ma’am, you’re spreading rumors about me and I haven’t even called you out yet."

"Who has five kids before marriage? Shameless."

"Why should I be ashamed? We’re in a legit relationship, not doing anything illegal. But you, ma’am—you’re trying to set my boyfriend up with someone else right in front of me."

With Chase gone, I lied more boldly. She looked embarrassed at being caught. Suddenly, she glanced behind me like she’d seen a savior.

"Chase, just in time! Your girlfriend’s out of line—say something!"

I froze. Chase stood at the door with a lunchbox, face unreadable.

The air went still. My anger fizzled like water on a fire. Chase walked over, put his arm around my shoulders. "Sorry, ma’am. I’ll be sure to discipline my girlfriend later." He hit those last four words hard. Any hope I had was gone—he’d heard everything.

On a bench in the garden, Chase’s stare made me squirm. "Chase, why are you back again?"

"I saw you were upset and talking about splitting up the kittens. Thought you wanted to cut ties."

Splitting up the kittens?

"I was just mad earlier. The lady was spreading gossip, so I wanted to annoy her."

"That’s all you were mad about?" Chase’s eyes were intense. "What about her introducing me to other girls? That didn’t bother you?"

"A little."

"Molly, you block all my admirers and don’t want to take any responsibility?"

"Guess I’ll have to compensate you with a girlfriend, then."

"Any other options?"

"Nope."

Chase tucked my hair behind my ear, gentle and careful not to break the moment. My stomach growled. I eyed the lunchbox. "Chase, I’m hungry."

He smiled helplessly. "Molly, you’re harder to figure out than a cat."

The steaming mac and cheese was my favorite, and the smell made my mouth water. Just as I picked up my fork, Chase closed the lid in front of me. "You can’t eat greasy food right now. Just smell it."

After much begging, he tapped his cheek and smiled. "Kiss me and I’ll let you have a taste."

Molly, get a grip. The food kept tempting me. Moonlight filtered through the leaves onto Chase’s face, his eyes captivating in the night. While no one was around, I gave him a quick peck. My heart raced out of control. Chase’s smile widened. He took my hand, holding it close. Before he could do more, I fled back to the ward, cheeks burning.