Dominic said, "After Collin's accident years ago, his recovery required extensive care. The muscular and nervous systems need consistent stimulation to regain their former strength. If you commit to assisting him with daily therapeutic massages, it could significantly aid his long-term mobility. But it must be consistent—every day, for at least half an hour, to see real progress."
Linsey nodded without a second thought. "I understand, Dr. Larson. I'll make it part of our daily routine."
Dominic met her eyes, his expression solemn. "No exceptions. Consistency is the key to any miracle."
After she thanked him and left, Dominic exhaled in relief and shut his office door. He turned toward the quiet corner of the room. "She's gone. You can come out now, Collin."
The moment he finished speaking, Collin stepped out from the shadows. Half an hour earlier, Josh had tipped him off that Linsey was heading to the hospital to consult Dominic. Uneasy, he had canceled his morning meetings to arrive first.
He had heard everything. Hearing her inquire so earnestly about his recovery hit him with an intensity he hadn't prepared for. Then, she went as far as to promise she would stay by his side—regardless of the clinical outcome. Her words echoed in his mind, rattling the walls he had built around his heart.
Noticing the shift in Collin's expression, Dominic smirked. "You heard her, didn't you? Linsey is completely devoted to you. You're a lucky man, Collin."
"She is my wife," Collin replied, his voice low, though a flicker of undeniable pride lit his eyes.
Dominic chuckled, noticing how Collin suddenly seemed to stand a little taller, radiating a newfound sense of contentment. "I suggest you let her proceed with those daily massages. It’s good for your health—and your marriage. A little proximity goes a long way in building trust."
Collin furrowed his brows, feeling a wave of irritation at the thought of the daily "test" this would pose to his facade. "Why would you encourage that? It makes things... complicated."
Dominic adopted a more pragmatic tone. "You and Linsey are a family now. The more time you spend supporting each other, the stronger your bond will become. And who knows? Perhaps a bright future with children of your own isn't that far off."
Before Collin could retort, Dominic headed for the door. "I've got a surgery to attend to. When your family grows, I'll be the first to send my blessings."
The door swung shut, leaving Collin alone with his thoughts. The idea of having a child had always been something he'd dismissed with indifference. But if the child was Linsey's—someone who inherited her resilience and her effortless smile—the thought didn't seem so foreign anymore.