Chapter 34

James’ POV At the far end of the VIP ward corridor, tucked away behind frosted glass doors, was a small smoking lounge. Everett Robinson sat there, sprawled lazily on a leather sofa. One long leg was crossed over the other, his back half-sunken into a cushion. A thin curl of smoke rose from the cigarette held between his fingers. He didn’t say a word. I was slouched in the chair opposite him, hunched over my phone, thumbs flying across the screen. Every so often, I peeked at him. By the time he lit his third cigarette, I had just wrapped up my game. Shoving my overheated phone into my pocket, I shot him a look and scrunched my face. “Dude, are you trying to turn into a chimney or what? I played one match, and you’ve already smoked three sticks!” He lifted his eyes and sent me a frosty glare, then went right back to smoking as if I didn’t exist. Being ignored like that got under my skin fast. “Hey, Robinson! Ever heard of basic manners? I’m talking to you!” “You’re noisy,” he said coldl