Orion

The hospital’s sterile scent struck my senses as I was led down the long corridor. Cold, white tiles stretched before me, each step echoing. Anticipation thrummed through my veins as the guard paused in front of a door.

“Miss Holly is inside,” he announced, casting me a sideways glance that lingered on the bag in my hands. I met his gaze with an easy smile, masking the storm beneath.

“Thank you,” I said smoothly. He nodded and moved away.

Pushing open the door, I stepped inside. The room was bathed in soft morning light filtering through the curtains.

The room didn't look like a typical hospital room. Trust Ava to go the extra mile. She had the room decorated as though it's a teenager's room with pink curtains and soft mats on the floor. Kpop wallpapers adorned the walls like a shrine. There were teddy bears on the bed and couch.

I must admit, she really loves her sister.

Holly Rodriguez sat upright on her bed, her auburn hair falling in waves around her face. She was younger than I’d expected, her big brown eyes wide with curiosity and bubbling excitement as she caught sight of me.

I could see the semblance. They must really look like their mother. Mr Rodriguez is…well an average looking man.

“You’re here!” she exclaimed, her voice a mix of relief and delight. Holly’s smile was infectious, lighting up the room. For a split second, guilt pinched at my conscience. But I buried it deep.

I stepped closer, the mask of the attentive brother-in-law slipping easily into place. “Holly, it’s so good to finally meet you,” I said, my voice warm. I placed the gift bag on the small table beside her bed. “I’m sorry it took so long. I should have come sooner.”

Holly beamed, brushing back a strand of hair. “I can’t believe you’re really here!” She shifted to the edge of the bed, but the IV line tethered her back. I moved quickly, offering her a hand.

“Careful,” I murmured, supporting her as she stood. Her grip was firm, but I noted the frailness beneath. “You shouldn’t push yourself too hard.”

Holly laughed softly. “I’m okay! I’ve been waiting forever to see you.”

“You shouldn’t have had to wait.” I guided her back to sit, making sure she was comfortable before releasing her hand. “It’s my fault.”

“No,” she said quickly, shaking her head. “You’re busy. Ava always talks about how important your work is.”

Ah, Ava. I tilted my head, feigning remorse. “Ava.” I sighed, taking a seat beside Holly. “You know, I’ve tried my best to be there for her. For both of you. But... sometimes things don’t work out as planned.”

Holly’s smile faded, replaced by a furrow of concern. “What do you mean?”

I leaned in slightly, the gesture conspiratorial. “It’s complicated.” I paused, letting my voice soften. “I asked Ava to marry me, to truly build a future together. I wanted us to be a family. I wanted to take care of you, too. But...” I trailed off, casting a sorrowful glance at the ground.

Holly’s brows drew together. “But what?”

“She turned me down.” The words hung heavy in the air. I lifted my eyes to hers, ensuring my expression conveyed the perfect mix of disappointment and resolve. “I’ve tried to understand why, but it’s difficult.”

Holly’s lips pressed into a thin line. “That doesn't sound like Ava,” she whispered, her hands clenching. “She's the sweetest. How could she—”

Sweetest? Ava? Give me a break.

“Shh,” I interrupted gently, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “It’s not Ava’s fault. Honestly, it's my fault. She’s been through so much. I just... I thought we could be stronger together.”

Holly’s eyes welled up with tears. “She shouldn’t have done that to you if you are being sincere.”

I let the silence stretch, allowing her emotions to settle. Inside, satisfaction coiled like a serpent. It was easier than I thought. Too easy. “All I want is for you both to be happy,” I continued, my voice low. “To protect you.”

Her fingers trembled as she reached for my hand. “I believe you,” she said, sincerity radiating from her. “I really do. But Ava is a really good person. Maybe there's a misunderstanding you both need to clear up, but don't worry. I'll help you!”

I smiled, squeezing her hand. “That means the world to me, Holly.” I reached for the gift bag, pulling out a delicate bracelet adorned with small, colorful charms. “I brought this for you.”

Her face lit up, the earlier tension forgotten. “It’s beautiful!” she gasped, slipping it onto her wrist. “Thank you.”

“Anything for my favorite sister-in-law,” I said lightly. “You deserve so much more.”

Holly giggled, and for a moment, the room felt brighter. I leaned back, savoring the victory. If only Ava were like her sister—open, trusting, easy. How different things would be.

“Orion?” The sharp voice sliced through the moment like a blade. I turned slowly, my stomach dropping at the sight of Ava standing in the doorway, her eyes blazing.

She took in the scene—the clasped hands, the gift on Holly’s wrist—with a mix of shock and barely contained fury.

She looked…breathtakingly gorgeous. She wore a white dress that hugged her form perfectly, matching it up with a pearl necklace and a simple purse. She looked like the perfect definition of beauty and class.

If only…if only nothing. Too bad she's my father's whore and a golddigger. Would things have been different if I hadn't faked my own death and married her?

But that wouldn't have changed who she really is underneath all the glamor.

“What the heck is going on here?” Ava demanded, her voice cold and dangerous.

Holly’s grip on my hand tightened, but I kept my gaze on Ava. This was a confrontation I’d expected, though not this soon. Time to improvise.

“Just catching up with family,” I said smoothly, the mask slipping back into place. “Is there a problem?”

Ava stepped into the room, her eyes never leaving mine. “You tell me.”