BRYAN
Immediately she left, my phone rang. I checked the caller ID—it was Mum. I groaned inwardly and picked up the call sluggishly.
"Hi, son," Mum said sweetly.
I sighed. What now? I thought.
"Hi, Mum," I replied weakly, rubbing my temple.
"I'm sorry, son, but I'll have to come tomorrow instead. I'll be free from then," she explained, and I gasped.
"O… okay," I replied, trying not to stutter or show how shocked I was.
"Bye, see you soon, son," she squeaked like a baby and hung up.
I scoffed. See me soon… or see my girlfriend soon?
I dropped the phone immediately and called for Cali. This mother of mine was a bag of trouble.
"Sir, you called me?" Cali said, staring at the floor.
"Drop the formalities, Cali. I just got off the phone with my mum. She said she'll be coming tomorrow," I said.
I saw her gulp. She nodded slowly, like she was trying to digest the information. From the look on her face, I was sure she already knew what I was about to say—but I said it anyway.
"So I suggest you go home today, check on your brother, and handle whatever else you need to do. First thing tomorrow, my driver will come pick you up," I said hurriedly.
She didn't respond.
"Understood?" I asked, raising a brow.
"Yes," she replied softly and left.
I think she understands that I don't appreciate grand gestures, even though she loves them.
I just hope all this goes well without Mum noticing anything. I can't afford to be exposed.
Just then, my secretary walked in.
THOMAS
A familiar rush of air hit my face as I stepped off the plane and slid on my sunglasses.
I could already see reporters and paparazzi swarming, trying to get close, but my well-trained guards kept them back.
I wasn't here for the attention. There was only one reason I came. Luckily, my men had been keeping track of her.
I smiled. Now it was time to reclaim what belonged to me—my love.
I hoped she wasn't taken yet, because if she was, that person would have to back off. I was back for real.
My name is Thomas Winthrop, CEO of the renowned Winthrop Enterprise, based in New York—because of someone.
The main reason I came to Gorgie City was Cali. Yes, Cali Rillion. That girl drives me insane, and now I'm ready to get her back, no matter what.
I popped a bubble with my gum and laughed darkly.
"Cali, here I come," I muttered with a grin.
"Boss, we've found her," one of my men said.
I nodded. "I'll go for her tomorrow."
CALI
When I got home, I dragged my feet into my room, took off my clothes, and headed straight for the bathroom. Even under the shower, my mind refused to rest—I kept thinking about my life.
After dressing up, I went to the hospital to check on my brother. When I reached his ward, I froze. The place was empty.
My eyes watered. Could it be…?
No. I shook my head. It couldn't be. I tried to convince myself.
Just then, a nurse walked by, and I stopped her.
"Sorry to disturb you," I said.
She nodded.
"I'm Cali Rillion. I'm here to see my brother, Rillion Edward, but I can't find him in his ward."
"Oh, an anonymous person ordered that he be moved to a special ward," she explained.
I thanked her and headed there.
The ward was different—special. Machines surrounded my brother's bed. After some time, I went to see the doctor.
"Good day, sir," I greeted, taking a seat.
"Good day, Miss Cali," he replied.
"I want to tell you not to worry. Your brother is fine," he said.
"Okay… but why was his ward changed, and who ordered it?" I asked.
"It was an order from a high-ranking hospital official. He wishes to remain anonymous," the doctor explained.
I nodded. "Thank you, doctor."
"You're welcome."
We shook hands, and I left. I checked on my brother one last time before heading home.