Chapter: 92
Jonathan opened the bedside drawer and rummaged through the medicine box for anti-inflammatory drugs and painkillers.
"I'm fine. It will heal by tomorrow!"
“Bethany, hiding a wound doesn't heal it. It only makes it worse."
His comment was about the physical bruise, but it also hinted at her emotional state.
Jonathan grabbed the ointment and went to the bathroom to clean his hands before tending to Bethany's face.
Bethany hesitated, stepping back slightly. Despite their closeness in private moments, his sudden closeness caught her off guard.
"I... I can handle it myself!" she said.
However, as she reached for the ointment, Jonathan held it back, his face showing a flicker of annoyance. “Turn towards me."
"I really can do it myself," Bethany repeated.
Jonathan said nothing, just kept his eyes on her.
Feeling defeated, Bethany reluctantly leaned in like a child.
Up close, she could make out the fine hairs on his face-details usually obscured by the typical distance between them.
Jonathan gently applied the ointment, its coolness bringing relief.
Bethany looked up. Jonathan's concentration was evident as if he were handling something delicate. He applied the ointment with a gentle touch, ensuring not to cause her any discomfort.
Jonathan had a striking presence-not traditionally handsome in a feminine way, but radiating a raw, heroic charm.
His features were sharply sculpted, his jawline firm, and his dark eyes and full lashes gave him a dramatic, almost artistic look.
“If the swelling hasn't reduced by tomorrow, I'll take you to the hospital after work."
Jonathan's voice snapped Bethany back to the present. She looked down.
"I'm not that fragile."
For the first time, being with Jonathan made Bethany feel genuinely cared for. At times, her emotions for him were overwhelming.
"When you're with me, it's okay to be vulnerable," he said gently yet decisively.
Bethany lifted her gaze and locked eyes with Jonathan.
They remained silent until he broke the silence.
“You need my help, don't you?"