The Coldest Man in the Room Melted Only for Me novel Chapter 196

Mrs. Gable had already taken Alora back to her own bedroom.

Seeing Riley emerge, Pierce set his glass of water down. "Riley, my suitcase is in the car down in the garage. I'm feeling a bit dizzy—would you mind walking down with me to grab it?"

"Let's go."

Pierce stood up, swaying dramatically. When Riley just stared at him without offering a hand, he sighed. "You're not even going to help me up?"

"You're not drunk. You're standing perfectly fine."

A wry smile touched Pierce's lips. She was still fiercely defensive. He knew he couldn't rush this; he had to play the long game. "Lead the way."

They headed for the front door.

She barely took two steps before a loud crash echoed from the nursery. Whirling around, she sprinted into the room to find Sebastian crouched on the floor, collecting shards of shattered glass.

Blood smeared his fingertips; he had clearly cut himself.

Horrified, she lunged forward and batted the broken glass away. "Stop touching that."

"I apologize," Sebastian muttered, his voice heavy with remorse.

It was painfully obvious that he had tried to get a drink of water, only for his intoxicated motor skills to betray him.

"It's fine, just sit down. I'll handle it." Riley guided him back to the edge of the bed.

Pierce appeared in the doorway. "Is everything okay?"

"Sebastian cut his hand." She tossed the explanation over her shoulder before turning back to her patient. "Stay put. I'm getting the first-aid kit."

"Okay," Sebastian replied.

Riley rushed out into the hallway.

Sebastian pressed a bloodied hand hard against his temple.

Taking in the chaotic scene, Pierce instantly regretted proposing the drinks. His plan to cozy up to Riley was officially ruined.

Returning with the medical supplies, Riley bumped into Mrs. Gable in the hall. "Is Alora asleep?"

Riley was speechless.

Why did this man insist on boring holes into people when he was drunk?

It was painfully awkward.

Too unnerved to hold his gaze, she dropped her eyes, focusing intently on the bridge of her own nose.

Once the bleeding subsided, she bandaged the cut and quickly cleaned up the shattered glass and puddle of water. She then poured a fresh cup of water and brought it back over.

He clearly wanted hydration earlier. "Here, have some water."

"Thanks." Sebastian reached for the glass.

Terrified he might drop this one too, Riley spoke without thinking. "I'll help you drink it."

Sebastian's eyes widened fractionally. His hand froze in midair.

Realizing how incredibly suggestive that sounded, a hot flush crept up her neck. Forcing a perfectly neutral expression, she tried to act like it was no big deal. "Are you thirsty or not?"