A Moment's Grace

Nick lay back in his hospital bed, his mind racing, replaying everything that happened the night before. There was something about Jane that kept him thinking about her all the time. It wasn't just her beauty—it was the way she handled the situation and how she took control when he was at his most vulnerable. He couldn't shake the feeling that she was different. She could have chosen to walk away or just call the ambulance, but she helped him and stayed. 

He thought about the way she was stealing glances at him, her eyes. She looked so beautiful, but not in the way most people did to get his attention. Her off-shoulder top made her look effortless, like she didn't need to try too hard. It wasn't about flash or attention. Her kindness made her even more charming.

When she left, he wanted to grab her hand and make her stay just a little longer. He had to clench his fist to stop himself from reaching out. She caught his gaze for a moment, her eyes full of concern, and then she smiled softly before turning to leave. 

It was strange. For the first time, Nick felt self-conscious about the way he looked. He couldn't help but think that Jane must see him as a mess—someone to pity, not someone worth her attention. He stood up, feeling the ache in his body, and walked to the washroom. He looked at himself in the mirror, seeing his messy hair, swollen face from the punch, and the ugly bruise on his hand. He ran a hand through his hair, feeling even more out of place.

After splashing cold water on his face, he climbed back into bed, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn't think about anything else but her. 

Soon after, Adam walked in, looking a little panicked and a lot worried. He pulled up a chair and sat next to Nick.

"What happened, Nick?" Adam asked, his voice filled with concern.

Nick grimaced, rubbing his jaw where the pain still throbbed. "I don't know who's behind the attack."

Adam's eyes darkened as Nick spoke. "Let's not make this worse than it is," he said. "You shouldn't stay here too long. With the media sniffing around, it's better to get you out of here."

Nick nodded, but the thought of leaving so soon made him uneasy. He hadn't even seen Jane yet, and he hated the idea of leaving without saying goodbye.

When Adam mentioned the discharge, the doctors weren't convinced about it. They asked Nick to stay for a few more tests. When Adam informed them of the identity of Nick, they finally agreed to let him go after the tests.

That night, Nick stopped by the reception. His face was serious as he handed over a small envelope to one of the receptionists. "When Jane gets here, please give this to her," he said, his voice low and firm.

He wanted to see her, but he knew it wasn't safe for him to stay longer. The last thing he needed was to put her in danger. 

Adam helped Nick into the car. Just as Nick settled into the passenger seat, his eyes caught sight of Jane's car pulling into the hospital parking lot. He motioned for Adam to wait, his attention fixed on Jane as she stepped out of her car, carrying a bag of food.

As she walked inside the hospital with a smile on her face, Nick couldn't look away from her. 

He hadn't really believed she would show up. He leaned forward in his seat, unable to stop his gaze from following her as she disappeared through the doors. "Is she the one who saved you?" Adam asked. 

"Yes. Let's wait for some time." Nick says, while his gaze is fixed on the entrance of the hospital.

Minutes passed before Jane reappeared. She held the envelope he had left for her, her brow slightly furrowed with curiosity. Nick's heart began to race as she opened it. He watched as she read the note he'd written—a simple thank-you—and the blank cheque with his signature.

A small smile pulled at her lips as she read, and for a second, Nick's heart sank. Was she just like the others, someone who only cared about money?

But then, to his surprise, Jane tore the cheque in half. She didn't even look back as she tossed the torn pieces into the trash with a smile on her face and kept the thank you note in her bag. 

Nick looked at her with a proud smile. 

"Did she just...?" Adam murmured from the driver's seat, clearly surprised. "It was a blank cheque. She could've filled it with any amount." He said, looking at Jane.

Nick couldn't help but feel proud. This girl—who had saved his life—wasn't interested in money. She was different, and it made him become more attracted to her. 

He watched as Jane walked toward her car, casually pulling a piece of chicken from the dinner bag and eating it as she went. A small smile tugged at his lips. She is so… adorable. He thought. 

"Let's follow her," Nick said. 

Adam gave a quick nod, starting the car. They kept a safe distance as Jane's car merged onto the road. After a while, Jane pulled up to an apartment building. She stepped out of the car, smiling as she waved at her friend, who was waiting on the sidewalk.

Jane handed the dinner bag to the girl, and they began chatting and eating as they walked into the building. Nick felt a flicker of jealousy. That food was meant for me, he thought, but the feeling quickly faded as he watched her, a soft smile growing on his face.

He didn't look away until she disappeared from view. On the drive back, Nick pulled Jane's business card from his wallet. He ran his fingers over the embossed letters of her name. Adam looked at his friend in the rearview mirror and gave a knowing smile.