Chapter 54

When Nicholas first opened his eyes, Maria had been standing by his side. His gaze had scanned the room, searching for Emily, but she was nowhere in sight. A mix of disappointment and other emotions tugged at him, though he couldn’t quite name them.

Later, Nicholas learned that Maria had stayed outside his ward for three days and nights without rest. The news stirred a mix of emotions—he felt both touched and heartbroken, yet an unexpected sense of dissatisfaction toward Emily began to fester. Even though they were in the process of divorcing, they hadn't fully parted ways. How could she be so heartless, so indifferent, and disregard him entirely? His anger bubbled up.

Maria, noticing the shift in his mood, quickly shook her head. "Nicholas, I'm not tired. I want to stay here and take care of you."

Nicholas's gaze softened as he looked at her, his tone gentle in a way it never had been before. "Alright," he said, with a sigh of helplessness, almost indulgent toward her.