?Chapter 84:


    The money garnered from these sales found its way into Laura’s medical ount. She harbored no guilt; in her mind, it was merely iming what she deserved.


    On the morning of her hospital discharge, Alex was already there when she woke up.


    He had taken care of all the discharge formalities and was holding a bouquet of lilies, their fragrance subtly permeating the air.


    “Congrats on getting out of the hospital,” Alex said, his voice tinged with relief as he extended the flowers toward Sadie.


    Sadie epted them, a faint smile ying at the corners of her lips. “Thank you,” she murmured.


    “So, where are you staying now?” Alex asked, worry flickering in his eyes.


    Sadie’s voice carried a trace of uncertainty. “With my apartment canceled by him, I’m left without a ce for now.”


    Alex paused, considering her situation. “Not far from here, a friend of mine has a lovely guesthouse. It’s cozy, and she offers reasonable rates. I can talk to her about giving you a discount if you’d like.”


    The idea of staying somewhere less conspicuous, somewhere Noah might not think to look, seemed appealing to Sadie.


    She nodded slowly. “Okay,” she said softly. “Could you tell me where it is? I’d prefer to get there on my own, to avoid any further trouble for you.”


    Alex’s smile widened, radiating warmth as he spoke with his characteristic gentleness. “Don’t worry about it. It’s practically next door to me—we’re going the same direction anyway.”


    Sadie hesitated, her lips parting slightly in uncertainty.


    She had initially nned to decline, feeling uneasy about the proximity to Alex’s ce. The idea of staying so close to him seemed fraught withplications. Yet, with nowhere else to go—every hotel or guesthouse she contacted seemed under Noah’s influence, ready to turn her away at his behest—she found herself without options.


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    “Well…” She faltered, the word hanging in the air.


    Alex, perceptive as ever, noticed her difort and inquired softly, “What’s the matter?”


    As Sadie nibbled her bottom lip, her resolve weakened. “It’s nothing,” she replied, managing a strained smile. “Thank you for your kindness.”


    She thought she’d stay at the guesthouse Alex suggested until she found something more permanent.


    With the owner’s rxed attitude and reasonable rates, Sadie had no trouble reaching an agreement.


    As sunlight streamed through the window, its rays filled the room with the earthy scent of polished wood. Sadie inhaled deeply, feeling the knots of tension in her shoulders begin to unwind.


    She turned to Alex, her expression softening with genuine gratitude. “Alex, I can’t thank you enough for all your support during this ordeal,” she said.


    Alex’s smile turned tender, his gaze lingering on her face with an unspoken promise of protection. “It’s nothing, really,” he replied, his tone smooth andforting, like a quiet reassurance.


    Reflecting on the countless ways Alex had been her unwavering support, Sadie felt a surge of warmth spread through her.


    “There’s an upscale restaurant nearby with great reviews. Are you avable? My treat,” Sadie offered.


    Alex hesitated briefly. “Your doctor rmended a light diet for now—no seafood, among other restrictions.”


    His gaze held a flicker of concern as he studied her.


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