I Walked Away And He Lost His Mind (Zephyra and Steven) novel Chapter 217

Knowing Steven as I did across two lifetimes, he was obsessive and possessive when it came to his feelings. He would stop at nothing to get what he wanted.

If he truly fell for me, I could make him suffer, make him feel the pain of unrequited love. But I was also afraid he would go insane, using his power to trap me as his canary in a gilded cage.

It would be best if he cared just enough for me to torment him, but not so much that I couldn't escape with my life intact.

I told Rachel that if Horace asked, she should just say I could handle it myself.

After hanging up, I arrived at the hospital.

Julian Lopez was in his wheelchair, a blanket over his legs, studying a stack of architectural designs. His bearded face, usually rugged, had a surprisingly scholarly air about it as he focused on the papers.

“Uncle Julian,” I called out with a smile. “How are you feeling today?”

He jumped, startled, and frantically crumpled the designs, hiding them behind his back before I could get a good look.

He forced a smile. “Zephyra, when did you get here?”

I looked at him, puzzled. “Just now. What’s wrong? Can’t I see those designs?”

My uncle shook his head and started looking around for water. I poured him a glass and didn’t press the issue.

“Uncle Julian, we’ll handle the hospital transfer tomorrow. Once you’re settled, I’ll move out of Rachel’s and find a place near the new hospital to make it easier to take care of you.”

Julian looked up at me immediately. “You’re moving out?”

I nodded, pushing his wheelchair over to the window to get some sun. “Yes, I can’t impose on Rachel forever. I’ve been staying with her for a long time now.”

“That’s good. Have you found a place yet?”

I shook my head. He watched me, a hint of caution in his voice. “What kind of place are you looking for? Do you like big houses, mansions?”

I couldn’t help but laugh. “A mansion? Who doesn’t like mansions?”

Only the rich could afford a place like that. If I had a mansion, I’d be the happiest person alive.

A knowing look crossed Julian’s weathered face. “What style do you like?”

He wanted to dote on me. I could see that.

I signed my name where he indicated.

At that moment, I didn’t understand the true meaning behind his words. If I had just asked a few more questions, I might have saved myself from the future shock of beating my chest and wailing about why my windfall had arrived so late.

Seeing my signature, my uncle’s face lit up with joy. He excitedly suggested we go buy dinner.

“Okay,” I agreed. As I was leaving, I saw him take out his phone and make a call. I caught a glimpse of his serious expression as he gave orders, his demeanor suddenly that of a powerful man.

“Transfer the deed immediately. This house has to be in my niece’s name today. And get it furnished within twenty-four hours. I want only the best. Add some pink accents…”

His voice grew softer, and I couldn't hear the rest as I stepped out of the room and pressed the elevator button.

The elevator was slow to arrive. In that short time, my phone buzzed with a series of notifications. I looked down, and my jaw dropped.

“Holy crap!!!”