Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

When little Nina woke up, Briony was already on the phone.

She stood by the window, her back to the bed.

Nina watched her mother quietly. She knew Mom was busy, but her mouth felt dry and she wanted a drink.

"Mom..."

At the sound of her voice, Briony turned, but just then the hospital room door swung open and a figure dressed in black hurried in, reaching Nina's bedside before Briony could.

"What does little Nina need?"

Briony paused in her tracks.

With Blair shrouded head to toe in black—a dark hat pulled low and a mask covering all but his eyes-any child would normally shrink away in fear.

But for some reason, little Nina always felt safe around Blair.

"Mr. Monroe, I'm thirsty, could I have some water?"

Blair's voice softened. "Of course. Just stay still, I'll get you some."

"Thank you, Mr. Monroe," Nina replied, her voice as gentle as a whisper. Curled

up in bed, she looked so fragile it made your heart ache.

Blair reached out to touch her cheek, then turned to fetch water, only to find himself meeting Briony's gaze unexpectedly.

a flicker of nervousness flashing

you were busy. Since your little one woke up, I

he explained, his voice deep and rough,

expression didn't change; she gave a faint

Was he just

again,

"Water, please?"

the bed rail. With gentle hands, he propped Nina up so she was half-reclining, then held the straw

rush or

her bright eyes curving into a crescent-moon smile.

gazed at her, unable to hide the fondness in

Nina back, tucking

listen to the doctor, little Nina. That's the only way to get well

I promise." After a moment, she looked up at him. "Mr. Monroe, will you stay with me

was caught off

spoke up, "I have another call to make. Blair,

turned to look

his

that alright?" she

his Adam's apple bobbing with the

bed, brushing her hand over her daughter's

had gone