Done with Cheater's Coldness Shine in Rival's Arms novel Chapter 138

Chapter 138 The Anxious Vigil Outside the ER

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“Our family’s business is none of your concern,” Eleanor shot back. “No matter what happens, my son will fix it. We don’t need your two cents-quit spouting nonsense.”

“Enough!” Peyton’s voice cut through the tension. He had no patience for their bickering, not when Iris was fighting for her life in the ER.

“This is a hospital-have some decency! Grandma’s still in there being treated. Can you both just shut up?”

He was on edge, frayed by the day’s disasters. The last thing he needed was more arguing.

Eleanor and Donna fell silent instantly. They knew better than to cause a scene in a hospital. Whatever issues they had could wait until they got home.

Then came the long, agonizing wait. Quinn’s nerves were shot. She didn’t care what the guests were saying about her, or the rumors swirling around town. She knew she’d done nothing wrong-and that was all that mattered.

But she couldn’t stop worrying about Iris. Iris had never been in the best of health, and ever since Quinn had entered the Reed family, she’d brought nothing but trouble. Now Iris was lying in a hospital bed because of her. If anything happened to her, Quinn would never forgive herself.

Finally, the ER doors slid open. A doctor stepped out, and the family surged forward.

“Doctor, how is she?” Peyton asked urgently. “She was badly shaken up. Did she recover?”

“The patient has a weak heart. She can’t handle severe stress,” the doctor explained. “Luckily, you got her here in time. She’s out of danger now. We’ll move her to a regular room soon, but she’ll need to stay for observation for about a week. If all goes well, she can be discharged then.

“But you must be extra careful from now on. No more shocks or stress. Another episode could trigger cardiac arrest, which would be life-threatening.”

The family knew Iris’ heart condition was fragile. They’d never meant for her to endure this kind of pressure, but it was too late to take it back.

“Understood. Thank you, doctor. We’ll be more careful,” Eleanor said, relief washing over her face.

“We’ll make sure she’s not disturbed again,” Peyton added.

“Take her to the room to rest,” the doctor instructed, then left.

“I’ll stay here to take care of Grandma tonight,” Peyton said, checking his watch-it was nearly midnight. “You all should go home. It’s late.”

He didn’t want Iris to wake up to more bickering. The last thing she needed was more drama.

“Peyton, don’t play the hero,” Donna scoffed. “Iris ended up like this because of your messed-up engagement. Any of us can take care of her. You don’t get to hog the spotlight.”

“That’s enough, Donna,” Harold interjected, pulling his wife aside. “We’ve caused enough chaos. We’ll take turns. Let’s go home now.”

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Chapter 138 The Anxious Vigil Outside the ER

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Finished

Donna wanted to argue, to keep stirring the pot, but she knew better than to defy Harold, especially when Iris’ health was on the line. Reluctantly, she followed him out.

Quinn didn’t move. She wanted to stay with Peyton, to help care for Iris.

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“You’ve had a long day,” Peyton said gently, turning to her. “Go home and rest. I’ll be fine here alone.”

He’d never blamed her-not once. If anyone was to blame, it was them. They’d rushed the engagement, too caught up in work to plan properly. They’d never seen this disaster coming.

“I’m fine,” Quinn insisted. “I want to stay with you. I won’t be able to sleep until I see her wake up.”

“Two of you here are plenty,” Eleanor said, stepping forward. “The hospital doesn’t need a crowd. I’ll head back first.”

Quinn nodded and walked her to the door.

“Quinn, don’t let Donna’s words get to you,” Eleanor said softly, squeezing her hand. “You’ve been with this family long enough to know what she’s like.”

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