Chapter 1996

Mavis was deep in thought when Nathaniel continued, "The doctor recommended that you need someone to be with you twenty-four hours a day. I can arrange for Troy to come over or hire a female caregiver to be with you all the time. They can keep you company, take you for walks, and help you stay active. How does that sound?" Mavis' tone grew colder as she replied, "Isn't having two bodyguards outside enough? Do you want someone to follow me even to the bathroom?" "Mavis, that's not what I meant." "But that's how I feel." Nathaniel was at a loss for words. Considering her depression, he tried to speak more gently and explained, "I'm doing this for your own good. It's necessary to have someone with you." "How about this? Valentine's Day is coming up. If you don't like Troy or the caregiver, you can choose someone else. Treat it as my Valentine's Day gift for you. Who do you want to be with you?" Mavis' eyes finally showed some light. "Anyone I want?" Nathaniel emphasized, "