Chapter 1996

Mavis was deep in thought when Nathaniel continued, "The doctor recommended that you need someone to be with you twenty-four hours a day. I can arrange for Troy to come over or hire a female caregiver to be with you all the time. They can keep you company, take you for walks, and help you stay active. How does that sound?" Mavis' tone grew colder as she replied, "Isn't having two bodyguards outside enough? Do you want someone to follow me even to the bathroom?" "Mavis, that's not what I meant." "But that's how I feel." Nathaniel was at a loss for words. Considering her depression, he tried to speak more gently and explained, "I'm doing this for your own good. It's necessary to have someone with you." "How about this? Valentine's Day is coming up. If you don't like Troy or the caregiver, you can choose someone else. Treat it as my Valentine's Day gift for you. Who do you want to be with you?" Mavis' eyes finally showed some light. "Anyone I want?" Nathaniel emphasized, "Anyone except male friends. As long as it's someone you genuinely want, I'll arrange for them to come." "In that case, I choose… Ella." Ella was the daughter of a wealthy estate owner and a local Deltsburg resident. If she could come, it would give Mavis a chance to help her with her plans to leave. Plus, Nathaniel would be less likely to mess with Ella in Deltsburg. As she became more determined, a glimmer of hope appeared in her eyes. Nathaniel noticed her improved mood and nodded in agreement. "Alright, I'll have her here within three days. I'll pay her triple the usual rate to take care of you until you give birth." This was the best news Mavis had heard in days, and she was almost overwhelmed with happiness. "Thank you." Her simple reply left Nathaniel stunned. It had been long since Mavis spoke to him with such calm and gratitude. Not only that, but Mavis also smiled, her happiness shining through her eyes. Nathaniel felt a stir in his heart. Then, he leaned in slowly and gently kissed her forehead. "Have some rest. I'll take care of this right away." Mavis nodded and watched him leave the room. Once the door closed behind him, she sat up, eagerly glancing toward the door. Sheena had advised her to act depressed and respond negatively to every question the psychologist asked. She had not expected that this would actually lead to Ella coming over due to the depression diagnosis. Her admiration for Sheena grew even stronger. … Nathaniel was efficient with his task. As soon as Ella heard that she would be taking care of Mavis during her hospital stay due to pregnancy-related issues, she did not hesitate. Ella practically flew to Mavis' side. The next morning, Mavis woke up to find Ella, tearfully emotional. "My poor Mae, you look so worn out, and your eyes are so lifeless. It breaks my heart seeing you like this!" Ella said, touching Mavis' face with a look of deep concern. Mavis' eyes welled up too. "How have you been?" "I'm fine, but I was so worried about you. I couldn't find out which hospital you were in no matter where I asked!" As if reunited after a long separation, the two friends chatted excitedly. Nathaniel stood by the door, listening to their conversation. He was glad to see Mavis smiling again. Later, he quietly stepped out, leaving the two women to talk privately. Once Nathaniel was gone, Mavis immediately asked Ella for her phone. Fearing there might be listening devices in the room, she could only type a message on Ella's phone and show it to her. [Ella, I need your help. Please.]