ARIEL POV
I could have been bothered about the new discovery I just made, but my mind seemed to have drifted. I can't seem to be at peace with the presence of Kathleen around as I cooked.
It reminded me of the villain in the typical romance novel I always read. Does that mean that she would be the villain in Ryan and I love story?
I shook my head, trying to drive away my thoughts, as I tried to concentrate. Just like Eva told me, I should be least bothered by her. Hopefully, she will come around.
I decided it was best not to think about her presence, especially her taunts. She wasn't the type that gives up. Not that I blamed her much, after all, her best friend happened to be Ryan's ex-wife who died all of a sudden. It would be difficult for her to accept me for her brother.
Gently placing the oatmeal and flask of hot tea, with bottled water in the basket, I made to leave the kitchen, but was interrupted anyway.
"I doubt if your cooking will taste good, by the way. I guess you must have bewitched my brother.”She stated with contempt brewing from her words.
It was difficult not to give her a proper reply, as I almost laughed. My lips curled to the right, to prevent me from grinning.
"Bewitched? You are funny,sister-in-law. Meanwhile, I left some in the pot. You can have some.”I stared at her, as I spoke.
Her heavy stare cut to mine, as we seemed to be in a staring competition. She looked angry, but I was calm.
"I should get going now.”Holding on to the basket, I took my steps, ready to leave.
She held my hand, stopping my forward movement.
"How dare you want to walk out of me?”
I jacked my hand off her, as I placed the basket in my hand on the stool beside me.
"I am human too. Pull yourself together for once, Kathleen. As much as I am willing to respect you, I do hope you stop this malady. Your brother is mine, and there is nothing you can do about it. We are married.” I stated, enunciating each word, as I raised my hand to show her the ring in between my fingers.
"You…" Her eyes widened, as she glared at me.
I took the basket, as I proceeded to leave immediately. I was glad I gave her some words to think about. I might be gentle, but not stupid.
Her last words before stepping out of the kitchen echoed in my ears.
"I will teach you a lesson.”
"Looking forward to it,” I mumbled.
I refused the urge to be bothered by her statement. I am a wall. Her threats weren't meant for me. Meanwhile, I need to discuss this with Ryan.
**********
By the time I got to the hospital, the drip on Ryan's hand had been removed. Yet, I was struggling with something.
I groaned inwardly as I stared at Ryan being stubborn.
"Feed me, mi amor.”He hesitated, making my stomach warble.
Eva won't stop swooning, and the smile on mum's face was priceless.
"Ryan.”I raised my brow at him, trying to indicate that he reduced his showy display of affection, to what I termed to be something else.
"Eva, come with me to clear the hospital bills.”Mrs Selina said, as they both began taking their leave from the hospital room.
Eva mouthed some words, making my face flushed.
As decoded, her words were 'Make out '.
I felt my heart thumping, as it was only Ryan and me. Great, isn't it?
"Happy now?”Ryan wiggled his brows, as I stifled laughter.
I held the spoon to his mouth, as he opened his mouth to take the morsel into his mouth.
I could not help but stare at how his mouth moves in rhythm as he munched on the food. His lips kept calling unto me, prompting me to look sideway.
"Are you angry with me, Ariel?”
That seemed to do the trick, as I felt my hand hanging on the spoon I held.
He raised my chin to make me look at him.
"I'm sorry. I should have called instead of texting. And I shouldn't have starved myself, but your food has been my only addiction.”My lips moved a bit, especially at his last words.
"It is fine, Ryan. I should have called you to know your welfare. I should have sent you some of my food recipes. Accept my apology.”
"It is okay. I miss you.”I felt my heart flutter, as he said those words.
It was as if the words were slow and kept ringing in my ears.
"I miss you too.”I found my voice, as I spoke.
I raised my hand to continue feeding him, but he raised his hand to stop me.
"I will eat later. We need to talk.”I pursed my lips, not sure what he wanted to discuss .
"Can't it wait? . You need to be well-fed. Most importantly, rest well.”I insisted, as he shook his head.
He covered the flask as he set it aside.
"Here. Can you sit beside me?”I looked at him, now sure he really meant it.
I stood up, adjusting my gown as I sat beside him. He pulled me closer, as we were a few inches apart. I felt my breath hitch, as his hand rested at the small part of my back.
The next few seconds was simply a staring competition. His eyes hover on my face, making my inside feel jelly.
"Ryan.”I tapped him, as he breathed out gently.
"Sorry. I was lost in your beautiful eyes.” I blushed, as he smiled.
I think we have more pending matters at hand. Not only that, but I also wanted to mention Kathleen's behavior, but my subconscious decided against it.
"If beauty were to be a crime, you might be found guilty, Ariel.”I hit his shoulder, as he laughed.
"Where the hell did you find that pickup line?”I rolled my eyes, as he smirked.
"I was just stating the truth. And you know what else is the truth.”I felt my heart skip a bit, as he leaned closer to me, his breath fanning my lips.
At that moment, different thoughts clouded me. I knew he wanted to kiss me. I wonder what his lips or tongue will taste like. Soft, moist with him being slow and steady. Probably sweet too,' I thought.
"I want to kiss you.”I felt my eyes shut, as his lips jammed into mine. I leaned closer, holding on to his shoulder, as our lips moved in rhythm. It was only a few seconds, and I felt it would continue for a long time.
I yearned for more.
The sound of the door opening jolted us out of our almost passionate kiss as we both jerked away.
I turned abruptly as mum stared at us, with a smile hanging on her lips.
"Wow. Did I interrupt something?”Mum giggled, as Ryan let out a sigh.
"Apologies, please go on. I will leave.”She turned, holding on to the door handle.
I was beyond embarrassed.
"I hope with your lovey-dovey, I can have grandchildren soon.''My mouth dropped open as the door closed.
I turned to face Ryan as his eyes twinkled with mischief.
"You heard what she said. Let's continue kissing, shall we?”He winked at me.
He is kidding, right? I was bewildered as I kept looking at him.