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.

of nervousness flashing in his dark

you were busy. Since your little one

explained, his voice deep and rough, sounding nothing

she gave a faint

he just being paranoid? He'd half expected

again, her

"Water, please?"

grabbed the pink children's thermos from the table, unscrewed the lid, and lowered the bed rail. With gentle hands, he propped Nina

slowly, don't rush or

warm water, feeling much better. She looked up at Blair, her bright eyes curving into a

unable to hide the

tucking the covers around

to the doctor, little Nina. That's the only

solemnly. "I will, I promise." After a moment, she looked up at

was caught off

could answer, Briony spoke up, "I have another call to make. Blair, could you keep an

turned to look

met his gaze,

that alright?" she

Adam's apple bobbing with the effort

the bed, brushing her hand over her

fever had gone