The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 471

"Ms. Vance, you heard Mr. Baylor just now," Aaron said, blocking her path. "He gave me a very clear look. If I open that door for you, knowing his temper, he'll dock my bonus—or worse, fire me."

Stella shot him a venomous glare but kept her mouth shut. She hadn't been persuaded; she just knew arguing with a brick wall was useless.

Meanwhile, Jamie rushed toward the entrance of the convenience store. His heart had been lodged in his throat the entire drive, burning with anxiety. It was only when he finally spotted Suzie sitting on a small stool by the door, previously hidden behind a stack of crates, that he finally exhaled.

She looked as though she had fallen asleep leaning against the corner of the wall, her arms wrapped tightly around her knees. Even in slumber, the sheer exhaustion on her face was impossible to hide.

Jamie's eyes darkened. He slowly crouched down in front of her.

The moment his large hand brushed a stray lock of hair from her forehead, Suzie's brows furrowed and her eyes fluttered open.

The woman staring back at him had bloodshot eyes ringed with red. She looked profoundly weary, and a flicker of deep-seated panic danced in her gaze. Her chapped lips trembled slightly as if she wanted to speak, but no sound came out.

Jamie slowly wrapped an arm around her back, pulling her into a tight embrace while gripping her hand with his other. "Don't be afraid," he rasped. He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead.

It took a moment for Suzie to fully register her surroundings. Frowning, she pushed against his chest and asked in a strained, exhausted voice, "Where's Stella? Why are you here?"

"Let's get you to the car first," Jamie said, bypassing her questions as he scooped her up into his arms and strode toward the vehicle.

Jamie cut them off, glancing at his assistant. "Aaron, get some water."

As he carefully settled Suzie into the backseat, he murmured softly, "Save your strength. Try to rest. I'm taking you to the hospital."

Stella moved to climb into the back with Suzie, but Jamie had already slid in beside her. Before Stella could round the car to the other door, Aaron handed a bottle of water inside and gently suggested, "Ms. Vance, why don't you ride shotgun? It's probably for the best."

Following Aaron's gaze, Stella peered into the backseat. Jamie had Suzie tucked securely against his chest, holding the water bottle and gently coaxing her to drink. Suzie was completely limp in his embrace, looking even weaker than when she had first spoken.