At around 12.45am, Kaylee stirred from the darkness, her eyelids fluttering open as she emerged from the depths of unconsciousness. The sterile scent of the hospital and the beeping of machines gradually became clear as she adjusted to her surroundings. Pain and fatigue washed over her, but she was relieved to find her body responding, albeit weakly.
Victor... The thought of him immediately surfaced as she recalled the events before she lost consciousness. She struggled to look around and realized she was alone in the room, then a wave of comfort kicked in: He should be safe now, she reassured herself.
Her mind drifted to the dream she had just woken from, where Victor had confessed his feelings for her. Her cheeks flushed with a soft pink. The next moment, she rolled her eyes at herself, dismissing the daydream of something between her and Victor, but she lingered around that idea for a little longer, a small, unbidden smile forming at the corners of her lips.
"Ouh..." her brows furrowed as the pain from her dry, cracked lips snapped her back to reality.
Shortly after, a night-shift nurse entered the room for routine checks.
"Aww, you're awake!" the nurse said softly, her smile warm and genuine.
"How are you feeling, miss?" she asked, gently holding Kaylee's arm to assess her muscle recovery from hypothermia.
"Every movement is still quite painful and sore," Kaylee responded weakly, offering a bittersweet smile to the kind nurse.
"That's to be expected," the nurse reassured her with a comforting smile as she tended to Kaylee's needs. "With proper care, you'll be feeling better soon."
News of Kaylee's awakening soon reached Hann, who was resting overnight at the hospital. The specialist had advised that if her vital signs remained stable, she could be moved to a normal ward by morning and, once she could swallow liquid food, might be discharged for continued recovery at home.
Hann decided to let Victor sleep and only informed him when he woke up around 7am.
Victor's athletic body had recovered surprisingly well, thanks to its unusual resilience to extreme cold. After a good night's rest, he could move and walk around more easily without assistance.
Overjoyed by the news, Victor walked briskly to Kaylee's new room next door. After a light knock, he pushed the door open.
Hearing the door, Kaylee turned slightly. There stood Victor, with a few days' stubble giving him a rugged look, a contract to his usual meticulous grooming.
Kaylee was speechless, her eyes locked on him as he approached her bedside. Victor reached out his slightly trembling right hand and gently cupped Kaylee's left cheek, their gazes meeting.
Feeling the warmth of Victor's palm, a surge of emotions overwhelmed Kaylee. The sight of him rekindled a deep longing from his absence, her heart aching with tenderness for the suffering they had both endured. At the same time, she felt immense gratitude for surviving the ordeal together. A wave of relief washed over her, grateful that despite everything, he was there with her.
Tears streamed down her cheeks, unnoticed until Victor's thumbs gently wiped them away, his own eyes filling with tears. At that moment, she broke into a cry of relief, releasing the overwhelming emotions she had been holding in – her fear, worries, and tension from the ordeal.
Victor's heart ached to see her in such distress. Without hesitation, he leaned down and embraced her tenderly, one hand cradling the back of her head, the other around her shoulder, his wet cheek pressed against hers. They wept together, sharing their emotions in the quiet of the room.
Hann who had followed Victor into the room, instinctively stepped back when he saw the intimate moment unfold. The scene unfolded too quickly, and as they began to cry, he turned to leave, gently closing the door behind him, feeling like he shouldn't intrude on such a personal moment.
Standing outside the room, he sniffled and said to himself, "Wow, that was very touching..." He sniffled again, a smile forming as he thought, I might get a Mrs. President soon. With that thought, he walked away, reflecting on the poignant scene he had just witnessed.
***
By late afternoon, Kaylee was able to eat soft foods, but despite her progress, she still felt persistent aches and weakness in her body. Every painful movement served as a reminder of her vulnerability.
Victor, ever attentive, had arranged for Kaylee to be moved to his home for her recovery. Aware of her fragility and motivated by a desire to ensure her dignity and privacy – especially given their unmarried status – he had thoughtfully hired a professional nurse, Corinna Soo, to provide round-the-clock care at his residence.
This arrangement would not only offer Kaylee the best medical attention but also shield her from any potential gossip or unwanted scrutiny, allowing her to recover in a safe and private environment.
Victor also wanted to be personally involved in her recovery, ensuring she received the best care. After discussing his plans and concerns with Kaylee, she thought about her rented apartment and her parents being away on a mission trip. Realizing that no one else could care for her during this critical first week, and moved by Victor's sincere pleading and hopeful eyes, she finally agreed to the arrangement.
Upon returning to Victor's home, Kaylee was greeted by Corinna, who had already arrived to prepare for her care. She was gently guided into the guest room that had been set up with her comfort in mind – soft lighting, a cozy bed, and Corinna's reassuring presence as she began to settle Kaylee in.
Victor's concern was evident as he ensured Kaylee was comfortably settled into her new environment. He was careful to respect her privacy and dignity, arranging for Corinna to stay nearby, just next to her room.
As Corinna wheeled her into the room, Kaylee began making a list of items she needed from her apartment for her stay at Victor's place. She felt a twinge of embarrassment at the thought of asking Victor or someone else to pack her clothes, especially her underwear, when Corinna finally positioned her wheelchair in front of the wardrobe near the changing area.
The wardrobe was filled with outfits chosen specifically for her comfort. Corinna had brought several cozy homewear options for Kaylee to choose from, all in her size and style – something not easily found in most stores due to her unique body contour. The most surprising find was a selection of high-quality innerwear from various brands, including Kissy, which Kaylee had been wearing, all in her exact size.
Kaylee's cheeks flushed with warmth. She quickly reassured herself that it was probably not difficult to estimate her size, given that Kissy's sizing chart is based on height and weight.
Not wanting to dwell on it, she chose a set of cozy homewear and Kissy innerwear to change into later.
Corinna then wheeled Kaylee to the bathroom to check the toiletries that had been prepared. Kaylee wasn't particular about shower cream, so she only glanced at the ingredients list for the shampoo and conditioner. Seeing no blacklisted ingredients, she gave a silent nod of approval.
As they left the bathroom, Corinna noticed Kaylee glancing at the sink area and immediately said, "President Victor mentioned you might have your specific skincare brand, so he would like me to ask you about it."
"Oh, I have my products at my apartment," Kaylee replied politely. "I was just thinking of having them brought over along with a few other items I need."
***
At dinner time, Victor had prepared a simple yet nutritious meal.
She still struggled with bending her, so Corinna took on the task of feeding her at a small table in her room.
Victor knocked gently at the door, asking for permission to bring in the meal. They chatted casually while Victor checked on how she was adjusting. "Is there anything you need?" he asked, his concern evident.
Kaylee hesitated before responding. "Actually, there are a few items I need from my apartment, if it's not too much trouble," she said softly, sliding a note across the table to Victor. It listed her Bible, spiritual journal, and skincare products.
Victor glanced at the note and nodded without hesitation. "I'll go get them for you."
Seeing the sincerity in his eyes, Kaylee took a deep breath and decided to trust him. "Okay. I'll text you my address and entry code. My Bible and journal are on the desk in my bedroom, and my skincare products are on the dressing table."
Victor gave her a reassuring smile. "I'll make sure they're here by early tonight."
As he turned to leave, Kaylee called after him, "Victor, thank you so much. Really." She thought of the wardrobe full of clothes and innerwear and felt her cheeks warm.
Sensing her need for reassurance, Victor replied, "Kaylee, I should thank you. You didn't give up on me. Let me be here for you while you recover. You can trust me with anything."
After Victor left to fulfill her request, Kaylee felt a profound sense of gratitude. Despite the circumstances, she felt safe and cared for. Victor's respect for her wishes and his thoughtful assistance touched her deeply.
True to his word, Kaylee's Bible, spiritual journal, and V Magic skincare products arrived in her room two hours after dinner, delivered by Corinna.
After Corinna helped her with a sponge bath in place of a shower, washed her face, and brushed her teeth, she assisted Kaylee with applying her tonique, serums, and lip balm. Kaylee noticed a new box of V Magic H Serum among her skincare products. With her current H Serum nearly empty, she was touched by Victor's attention to detail. This man is too charming, she sighed to herself.
Initially, Kaylee felt awkward about Victor's involvement in her recovery. But as the days passed, she came to appreciate his genuine care. He wasn't intrusive; rather, he offered a quiet strength that made her feel safe and understood.
The first two days at Victor's home were a blend of recovery and adjustment. Corinna diligently monitored Kaylee's vital signs and managed her medical and physical needs, while Victor took on the role of a supportive friend, maintaining a caring presence without being overbearing.
Victor had moved his work to a home office to be close to Kaylee while allowing himself ample time to recover. Every day, he prepared nutritious meals and ensured that Kaylee had everything she needed for a comfortable recovery. The combination of his warm home and professional care created a soothing environment that facilitated her healing.
Though Kaylee remained weak and in pain, she found solace in the calm, supportive atmosphere. Victor's understated presence was a constant source of reassurance. His attentiveness and respect for her privacy allowed her to focus on her recovery without additional stress.
Gradually, Kaylee's trust in Victor deepened. She began to rely on his presence and found comfort in his attentiveness. He assisted with her physical therapy exercises, supporting her as she took tentative steps toward regaining her strength. During moments of frustration and pain, Victor was there with encouraging words and a comforting hand.
By the start of the fourth day at Victor's, Kaylee began to feel a tentative sense of normalcy returning. This morning, as usual, she had cleaned herself up, applied her skincare routine and lip balm, and sat at the small table in her room, preparing for her daily Bible reading and worship.
Corinna had learned Kaylee's morning and evening routine. As a Buddhist, she respected Kaylee's faith and usually gave her space during these times.
Hearing a gentle knock at her door before she began, Kaylee called, "Come in." Victor's head appeared around the doorframe. Standing there, he asked awkwardly, "Good morning, Kaylee. I thought it might be nice to join you for your Sunday worship. Would that be alright?"
Victor had missed spending time with Kaylee but was also genuinely interested in rediscovering his faith, which he had left behind over a decade ago after his mother's passing. His recent encounters with Kaylee had really rekindled something within him.
Kaylee chuckled. "Sure, come on in. Our Sunday service is starting soon," she joked.
Victor came prepared. Upon receiving permission, he entered with a notebook and pen.
Sitting down at the small table, he said, "I haven't read the Bible in a very long time. Any tips for a beginner?"
Kaylee smiled. "The key is to approach it with an open heart. You might want to start with something simple," she suggested, pushing her Bible toward the center of the table for them to share.
Victor reached for the Bible, flipping through it awkwardly. "Simple sounds good. How about I start with this – 'Deuteronomy'? It sounds like some sort of laws, similar to reading business contracts."
Kaylee giggled, How endearing is this president of the Langford Group, she thought. "Deuteronomy might not be the easiest book to start with, but how about we look at Deuteronomy 8," she suggested kindly.
"Deuteronomy 8... Here," Victor said, finding the chapter after flipping through a few pages.
"Do Not Forget the Lord," he read the title of that chapter aloud, and as he absorbed the meaning, he cleared his throat, his ears turning red. He had, indeed, forgotten for thirteen years.
Noticing his guilty expression, Kaylee encouraged him, "Every day is a new day. Let me pray for us before we read the Word."
She extended her right palm toward Victor with a warm smile, her eyes inviting him to join her. Victor took a deep breath, relaxed, and gently placed his left hand in hers. Kaylee smiled and closed her eyes, and Victor followed suit.
She began, "Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us." As she spoke, she felt Victor's grip tighten slightly before relaxing.
"Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, and the power, and the glory are Yours forever. Amen," she concluded.
"Amen," Victor echoed.
He felt a wave of humility wash over him after hearing Kaylee's prayer.
"Let's start by reading from Verse 1 to Verse 20 together," Kaylee guided.
"Be careful to follow every command I am giving you today..." Their voices blended harmoniously as they began reading from Deuteronomy 8:1.
"...that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD..." They continued through Verse 3.
"...You may say to yourself, "My power and the strength of my hands have produced this wealth for me." But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your forefathers, as it is today. If you ever forget the LORD your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed. Like the nations the LORD destroyed before you, so you will be destroyed for not obeying the LORD your God."
After finishing Verse 20, a profound silence settled over them. Victor appeared deep in thought, reflecting on the passage.
"My ability to produce all my wealth comes from God," he murmured, jotting down his main takeaway in his notebook. He found the idea challenging but intriguing.
He had diligently built the Langford Group's business empire through hard work and strategic insight. He had always attributed his success to his own efforts. Now, this new perspective called for a reassessment.
This wasn't the outcome he had anticipated for his first Sunday worship with Kaylee, but he felt a growing curiosity to learn more, and Kaylee could see his eagerness. Then, she had an idea for what to do tomorrow during her first outing, after being grounded at home for so many days of recovery.
"I used to hold myself in high regard – my talent, my potential, my achievements," Kaylee began, her voice tinged with vulnerability as she shared her personal journey.
"When I encountered this scripture, I realized how small I truly am, and how great God is. Since then, whenever I achieve something new or receive praise, I make it a point to give all the glory to God by giving thanks – thanking Him for bestowing upon me excellence, wisdom, and favor, and for allowing me to enjoy the talents and passions He has given me. That helps me keep my pride away," she continued, her gaze soft as she traced the words of the scripture with her fingers.
Victor found that scene both spiritually uplifting and emotionally compelling. The sincerity of Kaylee's reflection struck a chord with him, filling him with a renewed sense of purpose. His curiosity about faith and his contemplation of the scripture were beginning to reshape his understanding of success and responsibility. Kaylee's presence and the morning's insights had ignited a genuine interest in him – one that he was eager to explore further, especially alongside Kaylee.
After they finished their reading, Kaylee and Victor sat in comfortable silence, each absorbed in their thoughts about the morning's experience. The peaceful ambiance of the room, combined with their shared exploration of faith, fostered a deep sense of connection between them.
"Thank you for joining me this morning," Kaylee said softly, her tone sincere. "It's been truly meaningful to share this time with you."
Victor looked at her with a grateful smile. "Thank you for inviting me into your worship. It's been a long time since I've engaged in anything like this, and it feels right to be rediscovering it with you." He hesitated, his cheeks reddening slightly as he gathered his courage. "Um... Would you mind if I joined you for your daily worship in the future?" His voice was tentative, revealing his nervousness about being perceived as intrusive. He admitted to himself that part of his desire was rooted in his enjoyment of these intimate moments with Kaylee, and he had not yet expressed his deeper feelings for her, save for his confession while she was unconscious.
Kaylee's eyes brightened with warmth and understanding. "Of course, I'd love for you to join me. It's a pleasure to worship together," she said, her voice filled with genuine enthusiasm. Victor's heartfelt interest and the meaningful dialogue they shared had brought them closer, and she looked forward to exploring where this newfound curiosity might lead him.
Victor felt a wave of relief, unable to suppress the smile that had crept onto his lips. He expressed his thanks to Kaylee once more, wished her a fruitful day, and left her room with a sense of satisfaction and joy.
***
While peace and occasional laughter reigned at Victor's cozy home, chaos unfolded at Counsellor George's residence.
An ornate ceramic vase, adorned with intricate Dayak motifs, was hurled to the floor, its shards scattering and echoing through the entire ground floor of the double-story semi-detached house.
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