Chapter 214

Ethan Roscente's grip left angry red marks on Sophia Lowell's slender wrist. She rotated it gently, her voice calm. "Get some rest. I'll make congee."

Before he could respond, she'd already left the bedroom.

His gaze followed her until the door clicked shut. Only after hearing pots clattering in the kitchen did he close his eyes with relief.

By the time the congee was ready, Ethan had fallen into a deep sleep. Sophia pressed a hand to his forehead and frowned at the scorching heat.

"103.6°F..." She grabbed an ice pack from the fridge, wrapped it in a towel, and placed it on his forehead. A basin of cool water and repeated sponge baths followed.

After several rounds, the medication finally took effect. His fever broke. Sophia exhaled sharply—she'd been moments away from calling an ambulance.

She texted Zachary Evans: "ETA?"

"Still tied up. Appreciate your help, Ms. Lowell."

"I'll wait." After sending the reply, she collapsed onto the couch. Exhaustion from her own cold and nursing Ethan pulled her into sleep.

Golden sunset streaked through the half-drawn curtains. Ethan woke to the dim light, his eyes immediately searching for Sophia.

Finding her curled on the couch, he lifted her carefully and placed her on the bed. The bitterness of medicine faded when his lips met hers, sweetness taking its place.

"If only you'd always be this obedient..." His fingertip brushed her nose. Sophia frowned in her sleep, turning away from his touch.

Ethan pulled her close, tucking her against his chest. Breathing in her floral shampoo, he closed his eyes in contentment.

Dawn shattered with the shrill ring of a phone. Sophia groped blindly, her fingers encountering cool, firm muscle instead of her device.

A sharp inhale sounded beside her ear. Just as her exploring fingers trailed lower, her wrist was captured in an iron grip.

"Sophia." Ethan's voice was rough with sleep and something darker. "You're playing with fire."