Chapter 216

The group returned to the hotel happy, grateful, and fulfilled. The hardest part of their work seemed to have been settled.
As the car slowly pulled into the hotel’s parking lot, Ethan helped Davis out and wheeled him carefully into their suite.
Once inside, Davis gave Ethan a curt nod before heading toward the door.
“Ethan, take a break for the day… Maybe use the opportunity to explore Noveira,” he said.
Ethan nodded. “I understand.” He glanced lightly at Jessica before leaving for his room.
Jessica walked over to the sofa and sat down, her head throbbing. Still, she dared not complain—Davis would worry too much, and he already had a scheduled meeting with some of his friends later.
Davis’s gaze settled on her, sharp as ever, observant. He took in the lines of tension around her eyes, the paleness just under her skin. “Babe, are you okay?” he asked, his voice laced with concern.
“Yes, I’m very, very okay,” she replied with a sigh, then added, “I just didn’t expect Mr. Stan to be so sentimental and attached to the company.”
“Yes, he is quite sentimental. I’ve noticed that over the years. His motivation stems from his hard work and the goodwill he’s built for the company,” Davis explained thoughtfully.
“That’s the benefit of having a manager who’s worth the stress.” She smirked, her thoughts drifting to Richard, who had always kept her company afloat while she indulged herself. “When last did you speak with Richard?”
“Last night,” Davis said shortly. “He called to ask about you—and how you’re settling into the new environment.”
She let her head fall back against the sofa cushion, her words slipping out on a whisper. “I’m becoming obsolete now.”
“I’m becoming obsolete now,” she murmured, her voice carrying both a complaint and a hint of relief.
“Did I just detect a trace of jealousy?” Davis asked with a soft smile dancing on his lips.
“Not really. But it seems like most of my subordinates now report to you rather than me,” she said.
It felt like they had all given her their blessing to live a long, peaceful life with him. What else could explain their attitude?
“Well, you’re free to command my subordinates as much as you want,” he chuckled.
He glanced briefly at his watch before looking back at her. “Do you still want to visit the club?”
“Of course. It’s important—it’ll be your first time seeing your friends again since the accident a year ago,” she replied.
Though tired and worn out, she wanted to support him. He needed this step forward, and the only way to encourage him was to go along.
She understood his way of doing things. If Davis discovered she was unwell, not only would he cancel the outing, but he’d also insist she see a doctor immediately.
She meant it. Even if her body felt heavy and her bones seemed to ache with exhaustion, she wouldn’t miss this. Not for him.
Davis narrowed his eyes. “Are you sure?” he asked gently, watching her closely.
“Are you sure?” he asked again, studying her face intently for signs of weakness.
“Of course I’m sure. Or are you doubtful just because I’m sitting?” she teased, pretending to rise in proof.
He chuckled, the sound easing some of the tension between them. “Alright. Rest for a bit. We leave in four hours.”
“Sure.” Jessica slowly eased herself deeper into the sofa. She had wanted to rest all along, and now the permission to do so only intensified her desire.
“Go over to the bed,” Davis said gently, brushing aside a few stray strands of hair from her face.
Jessica mumbled something incoherent, and he shook his head lightly.
Davis studied her in silence for a moment. Then, he rose from the wheelchair and stretched lightly relieving the tension. Though he would have preferred carrying her to the bed himself, his still-recovering leg made such activity too risky. Frustration flickered briefly in his eyes.
He stepped into the bedroom and returned moments later with a thick blanket. With tenderness, he draped it over her, brushing a few strands of hair from her face, his fingers lingering just a moment longer than necessary.
As Jessica sank into slumber, Davis returned to his work—his mind already mapping out the mountain ahead. He switched on his laptop and retrieved some of the files they had gathered since their arrival.
With his plans to complete the renovation, restructuring, and relaunch of the company within just one week, Davis had much to do to succeed—Restructuring. Securing investment. Creating a relaunch plan that would inspire confidence again.
With Ethan having the day off, he must do things by himself. He had to do the work himself.
Restarting the company meant securing fresh investments and trustworthy investors.
As the company dealt in diverse products—beauty, healthcare, and food. With the shutdown, it had taken a hard hit and couldn’t restart without a solid marketing plan. The market had to show long-term viability.
There was a need to review their strategy, assess the lab conditions, and find sustainable sources for raw materials.
Taking a deep breath, Davis began drafting a flexible marketing plan. He also reached out to a few of his former R&D staff while working on an investment proposal.
At intervals, he checked on Jessica, who was sleeping soundly on the sofa. His gaze softened, but his brows furrowed with concern.
“I doubt you’re okay,” he muttered quietly in the silence. You love your beauty sleep but this is different. You’ve been sleeping more… and deeper these few days. If this continues, we’re seeing a doctor the moment we return.” He said.
Three hours later, Davis put the final touches on his proposal and reviewed the draft of a revised marketing strategy. He’d reached out to a few of his former R&D experts and was already scheduling interviews with potential investors.
A soft rustle caught his attention.
Jessica stirred. Her lashes fluttered as she blinked against the fading sleep. When she tried to speak, her voice was hoarse, nearly lost, making her wonder what she could have possibly eaten or drank to cause that.
Davis was beside her in an instant, offering a glass of water. She took a few small sips and exhaled.
“Did I oversleep?” she asked, glancing toward the clock.
“No. Are you okay? Any discomfort?” he asked immediately.
Jessica smiled. “I’m fine. Why do I feel like you’re too anxious?”
“I’m not,” Davis replied, though his tone betrayed him. “I just want to be sure you’re okay.”
Jessica smiled more brightly. “I’m good. Let’s get ready,” she said, grateful for the rest. She felt rejuvenated—though the lingering worry remained.
This fatigue had started to feel like a part of her life that she couldn’t help wondering if this was part of a married life.