Chapter 36
In a VIP ward of Harrowfell Hospital, Dominick sat by the bedside, letting the pale–faced middle–aged woman hold his
hand.
“Dom, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to worry you,” the woman spoke weakly as if she’d just fought a battle.
“Dom. I didn’t mean for this to happen. My mom was in critical condition and wanted to see you, so I called you,” Marissa chimed in with a concerned look. She poured a glass of water and set it on the side table. “I hope I didn’t disturb you.”
“It’s fine,” Dominick replied and gently patted the woman’s hand. Mrs. Prescott, as long as you’re fine.”
“I’m alright, but I feel bad making you go through all this… I’m just afraid I won’t make it and won’t get to see you one last time,” Linda said, her eyes welling up with tears. “I didn’t want to burden you…
“Mrs. Prescott, please don’t say that.” Dominick reassured her patiently. “When Mr. Prescott entrusted you and Marissa to our family, you became my family. It’s only right for me to take care of you”
Marissa’s father, a former chauffeur for the Vanderbilt family, had always taken responsibility for driving Dominick around. Linda Prescott, Marissa’s mother, had been the maid who had tended to Dominick’s every need since his birth.
Since their parents had worked for the Vanderbilt family, Marissa had known Dominick and his family from a young age.
Bright, charming, and well–liked, Marissa had become like a younger sister to Dominick, and Lauren even brought Marissa to their house and had her attend the same prestigious school as Dominick. Technically, Marissa and Dominick grew up together.
But tragedy struck when Marissa’s father died in a car accident while driving Dominick home. On his deathbed, he asked Dominick to take care of his wife and daughter.
Hearing Dominick’s words, Linda nodded, deeply moved. “I’ve been so lucky to have worked for a family as kind–hearted as the Vanderbilts. Honestly, if I were to die today, I wouldn’t have any regrets…”
“Mrs. Prescott… Dominick’s voice softened.
“Mom: Marissa wiped away her tears. “Please stop saying things about death.”
Linda waved it off and continued, her voice filled with deep emotion, “The only thing I’m worried about now is Marissa. I just want to see her get married and have children, but I don’t know if I’ll get that chance,”
“You will.” Dominick reassured her, trying to lighten the mood. The doctor said you’re getting better. Everything’s going to be fine.
Linda, however, wasn’t convinced. “Dom, you don’t need to comfort me. I know my body better than anyone.”
With that, she gripped Dominick’s hand tightly, her eyes filled with pleading. “Dom, you’ve grown up with Marissa, I can only rest easy if I know she’s in your hands. That way, I can go meet her father without worry.”
“Mom, what are you saying?” Marissa’s face flushed, and her voice trembled as she glanced at Dominick. “We’re… Oh, geez.” The words were awkward, and she seemed almost embarrassed by her mother’s insistence.
But there was something in her eyes when she looked at Dominick, something that suggested more than just friendship.
Linda fixed her eyes on Dominick, waiting for his answer.
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Pocket Broke –
21:57 Mon, Jan 27
Chapter 36
Dominick nodded firmly and answered, “Mrs. Prescott, don’t worry. I’ll take care of Marissa, I promise.”
Linda’s face lit up with relief at his words, but before she could smile fully, Dominick added, “To me, Marissa is just like Kayla
Linda’s smile froze instantly, and for a long moment, she didn’t know what expression to wear.
“Mrs. Prescott, are you alright? Are you feeling unwell?” Dominick asked.
Linda managed a forced smile and replied, “No, everything’s fine…” She glanced at Marissa, whose expression had also turned stiff and awkward..
“Dom, my mom meant to say… Marissa hesitated, her voice trailing off.
“Hmm?” Dominick turned to look at Marissa with clear eyes.
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