Reborn From Oblivion

Every time Nathalie headed out to work, Morris couldn't shake off the anxiety that gripped him. Tonight felt even more unsettling as the clock ticked past eleven, and still no sign of her return. His worry only deepened.

He often second-guessed his decision to push her into such a high-powered career. She wasn't cut out for the cutthroat world of business. Nathalie was proud, honest, and perhaps too trusting-qualities that could easily lead to trouble. He feared the day someone might take advantage of her without her even realizing it.

A sudden, urgent banging on the front door jolted Morris, like a hammer striking his heart. Quickly, he adjusted his wheelchair to its fastest setting and rushed to open the door to the living room.

As he swung the door open, Dominick came barreling in, Nathalie draped over his back. Her face was flushed, and she was biting down on her fist, trying desperately to hold back something.

Morris, usually the epitome of calm, felt his facade crack. His voice quivered, "Dominick, what's going on?"

Dominick struggled to articulate, managing only a brief explanation, "I don't know. When Nathalie was conscious, she only mentioned meeting Colby from East Bay and Mick from Vincent Corporation. Nothing else."noveldrama

Upon hearing Morris's voice, Nathalie seemed to find a lifeline. "Put me down."

Dominick gently set her down, and Nathalie immediately pointed to the door. "You two, out."

Ford and Dominick exchanged uncertain glances. "But, Nathalie, if we leave, who's gonna look after you-"

"Just go!" Nathalie yelled, her voice cracking with hysteria.

Reluctantly, Ford and Dominick stepped out.

Morris took in Nathalie's flushed face, the intense emotion swirling in her eyes. His expression turned grim.

"Nathalie, who did this to you?"

Nathalie staggered towards Morris, her steps unsure, and reached out, gently lifting his chin with a teasing touch.

"Nathan, I don't feel right."

Morris glanced around their spacious living room. "Upstairs."

He turned and headed towards the bedroom.

Nathalie followed, stumbling and tripping her way up the stairs.

She fell repeatedly on the steps.

Morris watched her with a darkening expression.

By the time she caught up, he was already inside the room.

Out of nowhere, she let out a wry laugh. "Nathan, maybe this is fate." She collapsed at his feet.

Morris's expression darkened further.

"Look at yourself, Nathalie. Promise me you won't go through this again."

Nathalie raised her dazed eyes to him, her gaze dreamy. "Nathan, what do I get if I promise?"

Morris closed his eyes. "What happened to your dignity and restraint?" Nathalie giggled, got up, and headed towards the door.

Morris felt a hint of relief;

she could still hold on to soapset Her instincts

ouhint of relief; perhaps

intact.

But instead of leaving, Nathalie locked the door.

She wobbled back towards Morris.

Stumbling and crawling.

A truly pitiful sight.

When she reached Morris, she began to unbutton her clothes.

"Nathan, I'm burning up."

She pressed her face against his hand. "Your hand is so cool. Help me cool down."

Morris sighed deeply.

Nathalie continued shedding layers until she was nearly bare.

She

as if

to him, and Morris &

in a sauna. It

Nathalie; he was feeling the heat too.

"Nathalie, can you handle this?"

Nathalie looked at him with pleading eyes and shook her head.

As

was in her system

hold, Nathalie's attempts to maintain

I began to falter. Hook

body

shook like a leaf in a storm

Yet Morris remained still, even as Nathalie's lips met his, causing his eyes to

widen in shock.