Next Man, Better Plan novel Chapter 282

So she had been calling Jonathan to the hospital?

Did Quennel need him for company?

His rival?

But Quennel didn't let any of his feelings show on his face.

The coldness in Jonathan’s eyes dissipated slightly when he heard Stephanie's explanation.

The two men locked eyes, and the atmosphere between them was anything but harmonious.

It was a silent war. Quennel's gaze held a clear challenge, as if flaunting the fact that Stephanie had personally brought him to the hospital late at night.

That was his advantage.

He and Stephanie were childhood friends who grew up under the same roof. If something truly happened to him, she would never be able to just leave him.

Quennel felt that the falling planter had been a godsend, an opportunity created just for him.

Facing Quennel's provocation, Jonathan casually draped an arm around Stephanie’s shoulders. “The weather’s turned. Are you cold?”

Stephanie shook her head. “What about you? Why are your clothes so wet? Didn’t you use an umbrella?”

Jonathan's tone was exceptionally calm. “I just finished up at work. I was in a hurry to see you.”

In reality, the moment he learned Stephanie was spending the evening with Quennel, Jonathan couldn't remain calm for a second. He had parked his car and run over, not even bothering to grab an umbrella.

As a man himself, Quennel instantly understood Jonathan’s intentions.

With a smile on his face, he leaned back against the bed and stared at him. “Were you afraid that if you came any later, Stephanie might have a change of heart for me?”

Jonathan gave him a dismissive look. “Why would she? My wife and I have a very strong relationship, and we’re also very compatible… in that way. Nothing could tear us apart.”

Stephanie’s face flushed red.

How could he say something like that out loud?

Was he just trying to provoke Quennel?

As expected, hearing Jonathan mention their physical compatibility made Quennel’s face darken in disbelief. “What did you say?”

Jonathan replied, “I said, Stephanie and I are going home to enjoy our marital life. Is there anything else you need? If you really need company, I can pay for a nurse for you.”

At the time, he thought she was just embarrassed by Jonathan’s bluntness, but now, thinking back, something didn’t feel right.

Seeing Quennel putting on his shoes to get out of bed, Hobart panicked. “Sir, where are you going?”

“I’m checking out!”

“But your concussion… The doctor said you need to rest… Besides, it’s pouring rain outside.”

Annoyed by his chatter, Quennel shot him a harsh glare.

Hobart immediately fell silent.

Standing under the awning at the hospital entrance, Quennel said weakly, “Get the car. We’re going to… The Obsidian Circle.”

…

Meanwhile, after Stephanie and Jonathan left the hospital, he pressed her into her seat.

Jonathan stared into her eyes, one hand cupping the back of her head, the other resting on her waist, applying gentle pressure.

“Personally taking your ex to the hospital? Hmm? And staying with him while he gets treated?”