Chapter 8
“No, we have to get Ava to the hospital first! I won’t let anything happen to her. Nothing–nothing–is more important than her safety!“}] Brad’s frantic, almost wild shout was the last thing Christine heard before the world faded away.}
Darkness swept in, swallowing her whole.”
Christine felt like she’d been stuck in a never–ending nightmare. When she finally woke up, the first thing she saw was Tina, eyes red and puffy from crying.
“Christine! I just got back home and heard you were in an accident and ended up in the hospital. The doctor said you lost so much blood, they almost couldn’t save you. I was so scared!”
Seeing Tina, all the hurt Christine had been holding back just came rushing out. Tears filled her eyes and she threw her arms around her.
“I’m okay now… don’t worry…”
They clung to each other for a long time. Eventually, Tina poured her a glass of water and helped her drink, then tried to keep things light, like the doctor suggested.
“So, how have you been these last few years? Has Brad been treating you alright? Didn’t you say you were dating someone? When are you going to introduce him to me? I have to check him out first–if he’s not good to you, I’m not signing off.”}
Christine froze, her smile fading.”
“Mr. Tate keeps work and personal stuff separate. He’s never been anything but professional. As for the boyfriend… we broke up.“}
Tina didn’t expect things to end so soon, so she hurried to cheer her up.
“It’s fine! Like they always say, when one guy’s gone, the next one’s even better. I know plenty of cute guys–I’ll set you up!“}
She hadn’t even finished when the hospital door swung open and Brad walked in, looking tense.
“Set her up with who? Absolutely not. Every guy you know is a player–not a single one is good enough.“}
Tina’s mouth dropped open at how quickly he shot her down.
“What do you mean, players? Brad, don’t be ridiculous. They’ve only dated two or three people, tops. Not everyone is hopelessly devoted like you, hanging onto Ava for years. And besides, why do you care if I set Christine up? That’s not your call.“}
Brad’s eyes narrowed, his tone sharp.
“I said no, and I mean it. You can’t force these things. Stop trying to play matchmaker.”
Yeah, love can’t be forced.”
Funny how it took Christine four years to really understand that.”
She gave Tina’s hand a gentle squeeze, turning to Brad with a calm, almost distant smile.
“Tina’s just joking, Mr. Tate. Did you need something?“>
Brad visibly relaxed when he saw she was okay. For a second he looked like he wanted to say he’d come to check on her, but he caught
himself.
“Nothing urgent. Tina heard what happened and came straight here from the airport. I’m just here to take her home. And, well, to see how you’re doing.”
“Alright, Brad. I’ll go home tonight, okay? Now leave us alone. And don’t even think about giving Christine any more work while she’s recovering.”
Tina pushed him out of the room before he could argue.
With just the two of them left, Tina started in on Brad again, this time with a fond smile.
“You know, for all his tough talk, Brad really does care about you. The nurses said you were hanging by a thread last night, and it was Brad who pulled every string in the city to get you the blood you needed. He saved your life.”
