Chapter 2: Just a Contractual Relationship?

Upon her arrival at the hospital, Sophie Mitchell quickly inquired about Henry's room and made her way there. After undergoing treatment, Henry had already come to, with medical staff having vacated the room. "You're here," Henry remarked, a warmth filling him as Sophie stepped inside. Though their relationship was based on a contract, he had, over the last couple of years, found himself genuinely drawn to her. There was no denying it; Sophie was a beauty, radiating an intelligent allure, her presence reminiscent of a pristine lily. Her worry for Henry had been so immediate that she had forgotten the rain outside, rushing to his side without even an umbrella. Seeing her soaked appearance, Henry felt a warm tug at his heart. Catching her breath, Sophie, observing Henry's pallid complexion, demanded, "What happened?" "Oh... It was dark, raining. I was rushing home and got hit." Henry tried to brush it off, but there was an underlying fondness in his gaze, appreciating the presence of the woman he had grown to cherish. "Why didn't it just finish you off?!" she snapped, her annoyance evident at his nonchalant tone. He chuckled wryly, "If it had, wouldn’t you be without a husband to look after you?" "Shut it. Remember, it's just a contract between us! If not for that, I'd hardly care if you were alive or dead." she retorted sharply. "And remember, there's plenty of chores waiting for you at home." Sophie’s gaze swept across the spacious hospital suite, noting its luxurious details. She couldn’t help but wonder how Henry, given his financial situation, could afford such an opulent room. In the face of her skepticism, Henry tried to offer an explanation, "Relax, I won’t be left with any permanent injuries. I’ll handle the chores just fine. As for the room, it was arranged by the guy who hit me. Must be someone with deep pockets." But Sophie was far from convinced. Just as she was about to press further, the door opened to reveal Lily Turner, her expression one of pure disdain as she regarded Henry. "And in three days, the international superstar Ava Evans will be performing in King City. Let's go together!" Lily Turner exclaimed, suddenly remembering and eager to share the news. "Really?" Sophie's face lit up upon hearing this. "Absolutely, but I've heard the tickets are pricey. Standing room alone is over ten thousand, and the front row is going for a whopping one hundred and eighty thousand." Sophie's enthusiasm deflated slightly. With a rueful smile, she said, "Maybe another time. Given my current position in the family, I can't even afford the cheapest ticket." "But Sophie, Ava Evans is coming to King City on an invite from the Emerald Melody Jewelry Group!" Lily leaned in conspiratorially. "You know, they're the biggest jewelry conglomerate in King City. They've been booming these past few years, and they're on track to be the top in the country. This concert is to promote their new collection." "So?" "Don't forget, Gavin Smith has been chasing after you. Rumor has it he's tight with the heir of the Emerald Melody Jewelry Group. I'm sure he could snag a couple of tickets for us without breaking a sweat." Sophie couldn’t help but cast a discreet glance towards Henry, who appeared to be sleeping. The mere sight of him, feigning obliviousness, irritated her. "Alright then, I'll leave you two lovebirds alone," Lily teased, though her voice held an edge. With one last look at Sophie, she left. After Lily departed, Sophie turned her gaze back to Henry, her face deliberately impassive. "I never imagined our first night sharing a bed would be in a hospital room." "Get lost! I'm here because I was worried they'd let you die," Henry shot back, his tone playful yet stubborn. Sophie gritted her teeth in annoyance. "Need I remind you of our agreement?" Henry lifted an eyebrow, "Just a contractual relationship?" Sophie remained silent, the weight of their past and current situation hanging heavily between them.