Trapped with My Billionaire Ex-Husband by Mariya Mercedes

Chapter 42
BLAIRE
“How is he?” Ethan asked as he handed me a cup of coffee. Blaze was sleeping on the bed.
We’ve been here for a week now. And Blaze’s condition isn’t getting better.
“It’s not looking good. He might be needing surgery sooner rather than later,” I answered.
“I think that’s the best thing to do. We can’t afford to wait any longer until it’s too late for him.”
“I think it’s the best thing to do as well. But even if I sold the shop, it wouldn’t cover all the expenses for the surgery. I have no idea where to get the money,” I told Ethan, the thing that I’m most concerned about.
Ethan’s gaze softened with concern as he absorbed the weight of my words. “We can figure this out together, Blaire. Selling the shop might not be the only option.”
I frowned as I turned to my side and looked at him with a confused look. “What do you mean?” I asked.
“Do you
remember the new hotel that I was telling you about? I think this is the best time for you to consider their offer. They have a huge offer if you win their bid. I heard they are giving half the amount stated in the contract once you win the bid. That’s a huge amount of money, Blaire. It can already cover the expenses in the hospital,” Ethan explained. The prospect of the hotel offer lingered in the air, its potential casting a glimmer of hope amidst the shadows of uncertainty. “New York could be the solution, Blaire. Think about what it could mean for Blaze,” Ethan pressed gently, his eyes. reflecting a blend of encouragement and understanding.

A conflicted sigh escaped me as I glanced at Blaze, vulnerable in his slumber. “It’s a tempting offer, Ethan. But leaving Blaze alone feels like abandoning him when he needs me the most.”
Ethan’s expression softened, his reassurance a steady anchor. “You have nothing to worry about, Blaze. I’ll take care of him while you’re in New York. I’m sure he’ll better.” understand why you have to leave. This could be his only chance to get
As I wrestled with the choice ahead, the hospital room became a battleground of emotions, where love and duty clashed in a silent struggle.
I nodded, acknowledging the truth in his words, yet the ache in my heart persisted. “I need time to think. I can’t imagine being miles away while Blaze fights for his life.”
MOIL, 2.
Chapter 42
Ethan squeezed my hand, a gesture of solidarity. “Take the time you need. We’ll be here for Blaze, and when you’re ready, we’ll be here for you.”
As I watched over Blaze, the hospital room transformed into a realm of decisions, where love and sacrifice danced in the delicate balance of life’s unpredictable symphony. The coffee grew colder, mirroring the unresolved tension that clung to the
air.
“You have no idea how this means so much to me, Ethan. I don’t know how to repay you, I said as I gently squeezed his hand tightly.
“You know what I want from you, Blaire,” he said.
I gulped in sudden awkwardness as I gently pulled my hand away from him. “I already told you my take on that matter. I can’t give you the love you deserve, Ethan. I’m a scarred woman, Ethan. I’m not ready to be in another relationship. I already have a lot on my plate. I don’t think I would be able to give you the love that you wanted. I-I’m sorry. I really appreciate all your help, but I think you should stop coming here,” I said. I’ve been aware of his feelings for me. But I don’t think I still have a heart to give him. My heart was already broken and shattered. There’s nothing he can do to fix it. “You’re a good man, Ethan. And I’m sure you’ll find a more suitable woman for you. I feel guilty for taking advantage of you.
“No, no, no. Don’t say that. Everything I did, I did because I wanted to. Not because I wanted something from you in return. I’m not expecting, but I’m hoping that someday you’ll find it in your heart to give me a chance. That’s all I’m asking, Blaire. A chance to prove to you that I’m not like your ex-husband.”
I let out a loud sigh. Ethan has been nothing but good to us since I got here. But I don’t want to be selfish anymore. I should stop receiving help from him.
“I’m not the right woman for you, Ethan. You’ve already wasted so many years waiting for me, I think it’s the right time for you to move on and look for someone who can give you the love that you deserve.” I stand firmly behind my decision. It’s not fair for Ethan to continue taking care of us when I know to myself that I can’t give him anything more than friendship.
He took a loud breath, feeling defeated. “I respect your decision, Blaire. But please don’t stop me from helping you and Blaze. Let me help you; if not as your man, then at least as your friend,” he insisted.
“Ethan…”
“That’s not up for argument. I’m going to stay as your friend for as long as you need
me
Ethan’s unwavering determination echoed through the room, and a grateful warmth