Chapter 325 It's Better to Be Cautious
Riley rolled up to the hospital, thinking she'd carry Winston in. But the little dude was all, "Nah, I got this," worried she'd get worn out. So, she had to let him do his thing.
With a kid in each hand, Riley got them checked in and headed straight to the second floor. "How you holding up, bud? Stomach still giving you trouble?" Riley asked, her voice full of mom-worry.
Winston, not wanting to stress his mom out, just shook his head, even though he was clearly hurting. Riley saw right through his brave act, her eyes clouded with concern.
As they passed the elevator, the doors slid open. "Your arm still bugging you?" A familiar voice cut through the air. Riley and the kids turned to see who it was.
There stood Donovan and Hollis. Hollis had her arm in a cast and was rocking a thin hospital gown under an oversized suit jacket. Donovan, sleeves rolled up, was all focused on Hollis.
Riley and the kids froze for a sec. Sure, they knew Donovan and Hollis' engagement, but seeing them all cozy was a different story. Donovan's jacket was draped over Hollis, and he was all about her injured arm, showing he really cared.
Riley felt a mix of emotions, mostly a bit of self-pity. She knew Donovan would end up with Hollis and remembered how obsessed he was with Hollis six years ago. She shouldn't have second-guessed his feelings for Hollis just because Donovan had been kinda nice to her lately.
She wondered how the reporter who snapped pics of Donovan with her at the hospital last time would spin this scene. Even though she was mistaken for his fiancée by the media then, now she felt like a true stand-in for Hollis in those photos. Donovan treated Hollis way better than he ever treated her!
Feeling silly for doubting Donovan's feelings, she shook her head.
The kids, meanwhile, were fuming, their little fists clenched. 'Bad daddy, ditching us and mommy for another woman! And this Hollis had bullied mommy before!' they thought.
Donovan and Hollis strolled out of the elevator. Hollis, looking a bit sorry, said to Donovan, "I'm fine, just got a little freaked out earlier. No need for a doctor."
As she spoke, Hollis glanced at Riley. Then she smiled and looked straight at them. Donovan, still clueless about their presence, frowned at Hollis's words. "Better safe than sorry."
After all, his mom had caused her injury, so he felt responsible.
Then he looked up and finally noticed Riley and the kids.
"Ms. Monroe, what a surprise. You feeling okay? Or are the kids sick?" Hollis greeted Riley casually, adjusting the jacket on her shoulders with her good arm.
