Chapter 133: Do you still care about me?
Ava’s breathing hitched, his sudden action startling her. They looked at each other with wide eyes.
Dylan’s expression softened as he recognized her, the tension in his grip easing. "Ava," he murmured.
"I-I brought you coffee," she stammered, pulling her hand away quickly. Her cheeks flushed, and she turned aside to mask her unease. "I’ll get the first aid kit," she added in a rush, moving toward the cupboard without waiting for his response.
Retrieving the familiar box from the top shelf, she returned to him, setting the kit down on the desk as she met his concerned gaze.
"You’re worrying too much," Dylan said dismissively, attempting to dispel her concern. "It’s just a few scratches."
"I know, but you can’t just ignore them," Ava countered as she opened the box and retrieved the antiseptic cream. "If they’re not treated, they could get infected."
She dipped her fingers in the cream and began applying it to his bruised knuckles with delicate care. Dylan winced slightly but didn’t pull away, his gaze fixed on her concentrated face.
Memories of the past flashed before him—moments when Ava had selflessly cared for him during his illnesses, moments he had once taken for granted. Now, as she tended to his wounds with such tenderness, he realized just how fortunate he was to have her in his life.
Dylan reached out and gently grasped her wrist, pulling her down onto his lap. Ava gasped, startled, her eyes locking with his.
"What are you doing?" she stammered, her hands instinctively bracing against his chest.
Dylan’s arms encircled her firmly, holding her in place. "Do you still care about me?" he asked huskily.