The Regretful Housewife: Divorce and Rise Again novel Chapter 18

ter 18 From Today On, We’re Your Family

Chapter 18 From Today On, We’re Your Family

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After the doctor finished treating him, the swelling on Jensen’s half–face finally eased a little.

“Mom…”

His voice was dry and hoarse. Half–delirious, he suddenly grabbed a soft, warm hand.

It felt cool and soothing, chasing away the burning heat inside him.

Jensen’s eyes snapped open. Nina jumped in surprise. “You’re awake?”

It was strange–the doctor had said his fever was severe, that the IV would take at least an hour, and he probably wouldn’t wake up until morning. Otherwise, her parents wouldn’t have gone to handle the admission paperwork.

When Jensen didn’t reply, Nina touched his forehead. It was still burning hot. “You have a really high fever. We’re at the hospital. My parents just finished your admission papers. We can go home tomorrow morning.”

At the word “home,” Jensen’s eyes darkened.

Nina went on, “To my home. You never have to go back to the Mercers‘ again.”

Hearing that, Jensen froze.

He was still feverish and confused, his consciousness barely there.

He had no memory at all of what had happened outside the Mercer Villa.

Just then, Marvin and Esther walked into the room. Seeing Jensen awake, Esther approached gently.

“Jensen, just rest here. Marvin and I will pick you up tomorrow morning. I’ve already called the school to excuse your absence. You can go back when you’re better.”

Jensen’s eyes reddened. He whispered, “Thank you, Mrs. Tann…”

“It’s alright. We’re family now.”

Esther patted his head.

Nina said, “Dad, Mom, you guys head back. I’ll stay here. I’ll go to school directly tomorrow morning.”

14:29 Tue, May 5

Chapter 18 From Today On, We’re Your Family

Esther glanced at Nina, then at the weak Jensen.

Deciding it was better not to leave him alone, she agreed.

Marvin frowned worriedly. “Should I send a nurse to stay with you?”

“No need, Dad. It’s just one night. Just have Sam pick us up tomorrow morning.”

Marvin couldn’t convince her otherwise, so he gave in.

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Once her parents were gone, Nina soothed Jensen, “Get some rest. You won’t have to work yourself to the bone anymore, or miss dinner, or get locked out. From today on, we’re your family.”

At Nina’s soft voice, Jensen’s throat tightened. After a long moment, he choked out, “Okay.”

He slept peacefully through the night. Early the next morning, Marvin sent the driver to bring Jensen home.

The downtown hospital wasn’t far from Linholt High, so Nina decided to walk.

By pure coincidence, Chase had his driver pick up Katrina that morning. Nina watched as they got out of the car holding hands.

Nina tried to ignore them, but Katrina spoke up sweetly, “Nina, why are you walking to school today?”

Katrina clung to Chase’s arm and sauntered over, clearly showing off. “Nina, walking must be tiring. Since you don’t live far, Chase can give us both a ride every day.”

Chase had been driving Katrina to and from school every day lately. Their relationship was closer than ever, practically inseparable.

Chase spoiled her rotten–anything she wanted, he bought.

“No thanks. My place isn’t on your way,” Nina said.

She tried to walk past, but Chase stopped her. “Nina, Katrina was being nice. What’s your problem?”

He was still furious about the Tanns defending Jensen the night before, and seeing Nina ignore him only made it worse.

She used to follow him around like a lost puppy. When had she dared look at him like that?

14:29 Tue, May 5

Chapter 18 From Today On, We’re Your Family

“She was being nice, but I just don’t want the favor. Satisfied?”

Nina walked straight past them.

Katrina looked hurt. “I was only trying to help. Did I upset her? I should go explain.”

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14:29 Tue, May 5

Chapter 19 The Mercers Are Going Bankrupt!

Chapter 19 The Mercers Are Going Bankrupt!