Chapter 24- a hidden purpose
Robert hadn’t expected to find Janet here. His gaze fell on Philip in the wheelchair, his face clouded with anger. Without hesitation, Robert stepped forward, gently took Philip from Janet’s hands, and helped him onto the bed. Then, he started massaging Philip’s legs with practiced familiarity.
"Let me do it," Janet said softly, moving to the bedside. She looked at Philip’s furrowed brow, sensing his discomfort but determined. She was his wife, after all—this was her responsibility.
"Mrs. Janet..." Robert nodded approvingly at her earnest expression and then rose to guide her through the process step-by-step. Because Philip had been confined to the wheelchair for so long, his leg joints had stiffened. Regular nightly massages were needed to improve circulation and sensory function.
"Don’t forget to remind the master to take his medicine before bed," Robert added, pointing to the bottle on the nightstand.
Janet nodded and knelt beside the bed, her delicate hands gently resting on Philip’s numb legs. The soft yellow light bathed her in a pure white dress, making her look almost angelic. Philip held his breath as he watched her—so gentle, so focused. Somehow, her touch seemed to stir warmth and blood flow in his once lifeless legs.
"Janet..." Philip’s voice was strained as he averted his gaze. From his angle, he looked down at the beautiful woman kneeling before him in a strapless dress. Usually so devoid of desire, he felt a stirring within.
"Did that hurt?" Janet looked up, meeting his intense eyes. A sudden electric current seemed to pass through her, and she startled, sitting upright. She reached for the now lukewarm water on the bedside table, pouring two pills into his palm.
Remembering his limited mobility, she carefully guided the medicine to his lips. Her fingertips brushed his mouth, and she could feel his breath warm against the back of her hand. She quickly withdrew and placed the cup of water before him.
Watching him swallow the pills, she still felt the heat of his gaze locked onto her.