Chapter 4
Valentina's POV
When we arrived at the hospital, Sofia had already been wheeled into surgery. The hallway under fluorescent lights reeked of disinfectant as I stared at the red light glowing outside the operating room, my legs so weak I could barely stand.
Sebastian helped me to a waiting chair, then went to speak with doctors about the situation.
"The doctor says surgery went smoothly, but she needs overnight observation." He returned with coffee. "You need to rest."
"I can't leave her." I shook my head stubbornly.
Sebastian looked at me, complex emotions flashing in his eyes. Then he sat beside me, saying softly, "Then I'll stay with you."
"You don't have to—"
"Contract terms include protecting family." His voice was gentle. "Sofia's my family now too."
I stared at him in shock. The contract contained no such clause, but this kind lie made my eyes water.
All night, Sebastian stayed by my side.
When I dozed in the cold chair, he covered me with his jacket. When hunger made my stomach ache, he bought my favorite sandwich. When worry made me cry, he handed me tissues, saying nothing, just quietly staying with me.
At 3 AM, Sofia finally woke up.
"Sister..." she called weakly, fear still lingering in her eyes.
"I'm here, I'm here." I gripped her hand, tears flowing uncontrollably.
"Who's this..." Sofia looked toward Sebastian standing by her bed.
"This is my... my husband. Sebastian." I blushed introducing him.
Sofia's eyes widened, then she smiled weakly but mischievously. "Wow, he's really handsome."
Sebastian chuckled, sitting beside the bed. "Hello, Sofia. I've heard so much about you from Valentina."
"All good things?" Sofia winked.
"Of course. She says you're the bravest girl in the world."
Sofia giggled, then looked at me. "Sister, is he good to you?"
My face grew redder. Around Sofia, I could never hide my emotions.
"He's... he's very good." I said quietly.
Sebastian looked at me with tenderness I couldn't decipher.
Over the next few days, we took turns caring for Sofia.
I discovered Sebastian and Sofia got along remarkably well. He'd buy her favorite strawberry pudding, patiently listen to her school stories, even teach her card games.
Watching them chat together stirred indescribable emotions in me.
"Sister, he really cares about you." One sunny afternoon in the hospital room, Sofia whispered, "I can tell—he looks at you differently."
"This is just a contract..." I mechanically repeated this phrase, but even I didn't quite believe it anymore.
"What contract?" Sofia asked, confused.
Realizing I'd slipped up, I quickly changed the subject. But Sofia's words planted seeds in my heart.
Did he really care about me? Or was he just fulfilling contract obligations?
A week later, Sebastian gave me news.
"There's a charity gala next Saturday. I need to bring my wife." He said over breakfast. "We need to buy you a gown."
"Charity gala?" I grew nervous. "That kind of... high society gathering?"
"Relax, you just need to hold my arm and smile." Sebastian reassured me. "Leave everything else to me."
Friday afternoon, Sebastian took me to the most expensive boutique on Fifth Avenue. The luxurious décor made me uncomfortable—every dress cost enough to live on for months.
"Welcome, Mr. Sterling." Staff greeted us respectfully.
"Select the most suitable evening gown for my wife." Sebastian said.
In the fitting room, I stared at myself in the mirror wearing a dress worth thousands of dollars, feeling like I was dreaming.
The first was black—simple and elegant. The second was blue—flowing like seawater.
I tried each one for Sebastian, his gaze growing more intense.
When I changed into the third dress—deep red—even I was stunned by my reflection.
Red silk flowed like water over my curves, outlining my slender waist and full bust. The backless design made my skin glow pearl-like under the lights, radiating mature allure.
"This one." When I emerged in the red gown, Sebastian's voice was hoarse, his gaze lingering long on me. "This one."
"Isn't this too expensive?" I asked quietly, voice trembling.
"You deserve the best." Sebastian stood, approaching me. "You'll need matching jewelry."
Staff brought diamond necklaces. Sebastian stood behind me, personally fastening one around my neck.
His fingertips brushed my nape, warm breath touching my shoulders. In the mirror I saw our reflection—him tall and handsome, me nestled in his embrace, looking like truly loving spouses.
"You look... beautiful." He whispered in my ear.
My heart raced, cheeks burning. Through the mirror, I saw his gaze burning and focused, as if I were the only person in the world.
Was this still acting?
Saturday evening, we arrived at the Waldorf Hotel.
The ballroom was magnificent—crystal chandeliers cast soft light, classical music floated gently through the air. Everywhere were ladies in expensive gowns and gentlemen in tailored suits.
I was so nervous my palms sweated, clutching Sebastian's arm desperately.
"Relax." He said softly. "You're the most beautiful woman here tonight."
We were introduced to various business luminaries. I tried remembering everyone's names, tried appearing graceful, but Sebastian's hand never left my waist, giving me security.
"You two look so in love." An elderly lady said enviously. "Sebastian, it seems you've found true love."
"Yes." Sebastian looked down at me tenderly. "She's my whole world."
My heart beat so fast I suspected everyone present could hear it.
When music began, Sebastian extended his hand. "Would you dance with me, Mrs. Sterling?"
I nodded, letting him lead me onto the dance floor.
His hand rested on my waist, mine on his shoulder. Following the music's rhythm, we began dancing.
"You're trembling." Sebastian said softly.
"I can't dance." I admitted.
"Just follow me."
Under his guidance, I gradually relaxed. We spun around the dance floor as if everything else disappeared, leaving only us two. His gaze was so focused, as if he could see straight through to my soul.
"Valentina..." Sebastian's voice was soft.
"What?" I looked up at him, lost in his deep blue eyes.
"I want to..."
His face drew closer, I could feel his breath. My eyes involuntarily closed, heart pounding as I waited for that kiss...
"Sebastian?"
A sweet voice suddenly interrupted everything.
