Chapter 33

Kura

His voice felt like my heart had been ripped out from my chest. Surely he stole the phone from Quinn just to speak to me.

“Nile…” I resisted a sob while calling his name. The only name that has been crossing my mind crazily.

“Tell me where you are.” I could feel he was gritting his teeth as he spoke. He was controlling his rage. I could even imagine him clenching his fist.

“I…” I breathed shakily. My hands and body were trembling. “I will send my location. I’m going to turn off the phone after that. This isn’t mine, Nile. I only stole it so I can’t keep in touch with you. It will only risk my location.” A sob almost broke out as I spoke but I held it in.

“Got it. Wait for me, alright? Stay there and don’t move.” His voice was firm, reassuring me.

I nodded but forgot that he couldn’t see me. “Okay.” I croaked but I hoped he didn’t recognize my cry.

So I waited and waited in the same spot. I didn’t know how much time had passed but I remained in my form under the tree. It was getting colder and colder and the rain was pretty much the same but it wasn’t as heavy as before.

My eyes were getting droopy as I shivered from the cold. I might be nearing hypothermia but I prayed that it was not. The only heat available was myself so I had to curl up even more. The only advantage of the cold was it was numbing the pain of my wounds and the injury on my foot.

After a while, I heard a vague sound. It was faint but it still grabbed my attention. I studied the sound and listened to it intently. I noticed it was getting clearer and louder. My ears perked up at the realization.

“Rose.” The voice was now nearer. I instantly got up to search for the familiar voice.

I stepped out behind the tree and walked towards the wide road. I saw a light and knew straight away that it was from a car. My heart was beating rapidly at the possibility. My aching yet numb feet started to walk faster until I ran.

I stopped when a shadow loomed over me. I looked up and saw the face I’ve been longing to see. Both of our eyes widened as time stopped for us. I broke the freezing time by lunging at him for a hug. He in no second thought engulfed me in his strong arms.

“Nile.” I sobbed, no longer wanting to resist my cry. My aching throat loosened, finally letting out the frustration that clogged up.

I never thought Nile Veselov could be my relief. His warmth… his presence calmed me down. His scent invaded my senses despite him being wet from the rain. It made me feel safe and secure. I felt the weight that burdened me disappeared. I can finally rest.

“lyuBImaya.” He whispered against my ear. I dug deeper against his chest and wrapped my arms around him tighter.

His arm was around my waist, pressing me against him tighter. His other hand was brushing my hair in a comforting way.

“Rose.” I heard Colton spoke behind Nile and I didn’t have the mind to acknowledge him. I can’t seem to move from here. He was silent after and didn’t seem to mind. I then heard Quinn calling my name but I still didn’t move.

Everyone understood my silence and I was grateful that they respected the moment.

I felt so drained and I just couldn’t take it anymore. I’m just so exhausted. I slumped against Nile, almost losing my consciousness.

“Kura, Kura.” Everyone went alert when they saw my state.

Nile shifted his position so he could lift me and carry me in his arms, bridal style.

“Let’s get her to the hospital.” Quinn suggested. I could hear the extreme worry in her voice. For a slight moment, it made me feel guilty.

Maybe it was a wrong idea to escape, thinking what Jacob might do to us… to them. But I brushed off the idea right away. No. I will fight this time. I’m sure these most important people in my life will agree with me.

“No… no. Don’t… Not hospital.” I said in between my consciousness. I was in and out of it but I tried hard to resist the temptation of darkness. I want to reassure them that I was fine.

The hospital reminded me of when I was stabbed. I almost died at that time if it weren’t for the cop doing his usual routine. I didn’t like the experience. I don’t think I want to relive it either. And besides, I had only scrapes, bruises and a few wounds. And maybe an injured foot but other than that, I was fine. I only need enough sleep to recover.

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Nile

“We should really bring her to the hospital, Nile. She doesn’t look good.” Seeing Kura already passed out, Quinn insisted with utmost concern. Her fiance was by her side while sheltering her in the umbrella.

“Let’s call a doctor instead and respect her wishes.” Tyler suggested. Quinn didn’t seem convinced but it was her friend’s wish not to be brought there so she relented.

I walked towards my car while carrying Kura in my arms. I placed her in the backseat of my car not minding that we’re already dripping wet.

“I’ll take care of her.” I said as soon as I saw Quinn behind me looking at Kura with unending worry and concern.

“Where do you plan on bringing her?” She didn’t even know where I’d bring her yet and she already sounded like she was protesting.

“Where do you think? I’m going to bring her to my home where I can watch over her myself.” I deadpanned. Her mouth opened which I’m sure to protest. “Don’t even think about opposing. You want to take care of her? What about Jacob Moore, huh? Do you think you can handle him once he comes back for her?”

She was silent, tears pooling in her eyes. She was frustrated that she couldn't do anything for Kura. Not even Tyler would’ve handle it. We all know I was the best bet.

“Please… take care of her, alright? Update me whenever I ask. If I call or text, you have to answer it. Got that?” She demanded firmly.

“Come on, Quinn. Nile will in no doubt take care of her.” He said as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder urging her to go with him but she only stood still, challenging me with her eyes.

“Do you understand, Nile?” Her tone was sharp and resolute.

I nodded. She then whirled around and stomped towards their car. She left Tyler who still had the umbrella. The woman didn’t mind being wet from the rain.

“Please take care of her for us, Nile. Call us as soon as she’s fine.” I nodded at his request. He nodded back before he followed his fiancee to their car.

I went inside my car and grabbed Kura beside me so she could feel my warmth. Her body was shivering from the cold. Her skin was pale, lips turning purple. I took off my jacket and put it around her. I pulled her into my lap and hugged her again, giving her head a kiss.

For once, I was thankful for Kura’s friend. He understood my situation and voluntarily drove for us without saying a word.