My Concern

Your Health.

Evelyn walked directly to Alexander's wheelchair. She placed her hands on the handles and firmly pushed him into the room.

"Hey now," Alexander laughed softly. "I'm not entirely incapable, you know."

Her smile vanished. "Alexander, I spoke with Dr. Carter today. About your legs. He's very hopeful about your recovery prospects." Her tone was serious. "You gave me your word you would focus on your health. I intend to make sure you keep it. No more delays. Your well-being isn't just your own affair anymore."

His eyebrows rose in genuine surprise. A playful smirk appeared on his lips. "Oh? And why is that?"

"Because I am your wife," Evelyn stated simply, as if it were the most obvious fact in the world. "Your health is my direct concern. Ignoring it is the same as ignoring me."

A deep, rich chuckle escaped him. "In that case, I suppose you'll have to take exceptionally good care of me, won't you?" He paused, then changed the subject slightly. "What else did Benjamin say?"

Evelyn's mind immediately went to the pile of books she had collected. "Dr. Carter recommended regular therapeutic massage for your legs," she explained. "So, I dedicated my entire afternoon to the library. I immersed myself in studying massage techniques. I'm practically an expert now."

She beamed at him. "So, how about it? Let me try. I promise to be very gentle. Trust me."

Alexander watched her, his expression softening.

He hadn't anticipated this level of dedication from her. Spending a whole day researching just for him.

After a moment of consideration, he spoke gently. "Evelyn, you were just released from the hospital. You need your rest, not more exertion. Let's postpone the massage. We should both get some sleep."

"But I've been home for two days already," she countered softly. "I feel perfectly fine. It's just a massage. It won't drain my energy."

She was resolute. She wanted him walking again. Every day mattered.

The sooner they began, the sooner he could leave this wheelchair behind.

A thoughtful look crossed his face. "You know, you've done so much for me. I feel I should return the favor. Instead of you massaging me, why don't I give you a massage? You can use this time to truly relax."

Evelyn was startled by his offer. Her eyes flickered to his handsome features. "You know how to massage?" she asked, disbelief coloring her voice.

His expression remained perfectly calm. "Not yet. But I am a quick study. I hope you'll grant me the opportunity."

His voice dipped lower. "If you can learn for me, I can certainly learn for you."

Evelyn felt a strange sensation bloom in her chest.

It was warm and tender, like a soft breeze on a spring day.

Later that evening, after she had washed up, she settled herself in front of him. A quiet anticipation filled the space between them.

Alexander lowered his head, his gaze falling on the graceful line of her neck.

Her skin looked incredibly smooth and fragile. It seemed a mere touch might leave a mark.

"Have you been experiencing any soreness or discomfort lately?" he inquired.

Evelyn thought for a second, then pressed a spot on her shoulder. "I spend many hours bent over my drafting table. My shoulders get quite stiff."

He nodded in understanding. Without another word, he placed his broad, warm hands on her shoulders.

The moment his skin touched hers, even through the fabric of her pajamas, Evelyn's heart stuttered. She instinctively held her breath. The heat from his palms seeped into her skin.

She tried to remain composed, silently scolding herself for the sudden flutter of nerves. It was only a massage. There was no reason to react this way.