How a Dying Woman Rewrote Her Epilogue

In that brief moment between movements, there was a sudden knock at the door.

A hotel staff member entered, pushing the door open.

She walked right in on a scene that made her pause in surprise.

Her unexpected arrival completely cut off Jarrod's intentions and actions.

It was a white woman, balancing a tray with chilled drinks-clearly sensing the charged, delicate atmosphere hanging in the air.

She offered an apologetic, knowing smile. "Sorry to interrupt, you two. Just bringing your drinks-sometimes a little wine is just what the evening calls for."

It was obvious that she was unfazed by such situations; she even winked playfully at Elodie.

After setting down the drinks, she turned on her heel and left as nonchalantly as she'd come.

Elodie knew her. The woman seemed easygoing, but in reality, she was one of their security detail for this trip—a formidable bodyguard beneath the friendly exterior.

Jarrod, meanwhile, was left visibly frustrated by the interruption, his expression darkening.

His displeasure was written all over his face.

The woman just smiled and sauntered away, but the mood had been thoroughly broken.

Jarrod's refined features tightened in a slight frown as he considered what to do next.

As he was lost in thought, Elodie offered a gentle, reassuring smile. She leaned in, her left hand caressing his cheek, and pressed a soft kiss to the corner of his mouth—a small gesture of comfort.

Jarrod responded to her kiss, instinctively leaning into her touch, the corner of his mouth lifting beneath her lips.

After the brief kiss, Elodie feigned innocence. "I'm really tired. Haven't slept well these past few days."

she'd barely had any rest,

could finally relax, exhaustion washed

her into his arms. "Go ahead and sleep.

of course, but seeing her so worn out tugged at his heartstrings.

up and sleep on her own, but Jarrod had no intention

was too tired to protest, and just let herself

her hard and

palm moving in a slow, soothing

the Financial Times

no idea how

finally stirred, half-awake, she opened her eyes to find Jarrod holding

She caught him red-handed.

awake, she reached out

phone. "Are

of me?

the

too! Jarrod,

about her looks,

in that sleeping position, there

time, Jarrod simply lifted his arm out of

up,

Cooded her. "Nope. Get

bet

we're landing."

from affectionate to cold in a blink, clearly refusing

into his pocket.

her teeth in