Chapter 77

Jolene hesitated for a moment before turning her back toward Steven. Then, she slowly took off her jacket. Her back was covered in horrific wounds. Steven scooped out a large dollop of cream with his fingers. Subsequently, he began slowly and gently spreading it all over her back. She couldn't help but flinch. The cream had a cooling sensation. It soothed her burning wounds. "No woman has ever protected me like that before." He had a dark look on his face. Jolene wanted to turn around and look at him, but she felt a cold kiss on her shoulder. "Mr. Welsh…" She shielded her chest with her arms. Her entire body was tense. In the heat of a moment, he reached out to hug her from behind. Then, he shut his eyes. He felt at peace. "Let's go to the countryside with your grandmother tomorrow, Jolene," he suggested. "That'll be great. Grandma has been wanting to go back for the longest time now. She brings it up every time I call." "I've already informed the hospital," he said softly.