Chapter 41
Moments later, Ethan’s car pulled into the hospital’s driveway. Axel had made a call just before they arrived, and the hospital manager and director were eagerly waiting for them. It was a rare sight to see Ethan in person at the hospital, given his status as a major patron, and the staff were eager to accommodate his wishes
The hospital manager stepped forward and opened the car door with a wide smile, ready to welcome Ethan. Axel seized this opportunity to step away discreetly to find out about Daisy’s condition.
Ethan quickly transitioned into business mode, pretending that he had come to inspect his contributions and projects at the hospital as part of his public involvement. The hospital director eagerly answered his questions and led the way, although Ethan’s mind was preoccupied with thoughts of Daisy.
Ethan, however, was barely paying attention, appearing bored by the Director’s detailed explanations. His mind was focused on Daisy and her condition. He was itching to go to the children’s ward, but he couldn’t do so without arousing questions and suspicions. The hospital environment was devoid-of distinct smells or sensations, all masked by the overpowering scent of antiseptic..
Axel rejoined the group just as Ethan’s patience began to wane. He proposed, “Let’s tour the children’s wards. You may recall we promised to create a recreational center there during our last visit. Since we are here, it’s an excellent opportunity to evaluate how else we can
contribute.”
The director enthusiastically concurred, feeling honored to lead the tour for someone as prestigious as Ethan Wild. As they headed to the elevator, Axel sent a text message to Ethan, indicating that they were head to Ward Twenty-Two.
Upon reaching the children’s ward, the elevator doors opened to reveal a vibrant, color-splashed environment. Adorning one end of the floor was a mural created by the young patients. It was a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere of the adult ward. At the same moment, Hazel emerged from a conversation with a friendly nurse. Her demeanor conveyed an air of relative calm, which eased Ethan’s anxieties. At the sight of Hazel, he heaved a sigh of relief, grateful for the assurance that Daisy wasn’t in immediate danger.
Hazel’s eyes widened in surprise as she spotted Ethan and his entourage. She questioned, “Ethan… uh, Mr. Wild?” She corrected.
She was taken aback by his presence at the hospital and couldn’t fathom how he had found her there.
Quickly, Ethan offered his ready-made excuse, stating, “I’m a major shareholder here, just conducting some routine inspections.” He lied smoothly.
The hospital staff exchanged glances, while the Director inquired, “Mr. Wild, do you know her?”
Ethan maintained the ruse, responding. “She is an acquaintance,” he said finally. He’d paused for a moment initially unsure of what to address Hazel as.
Hazel was puzzled. From what she knew he was supposed to be at the company, there was no way the briefing would have ended my this time and Ethan was supposed to be present at that meeting.
“What’s happened?” He asked peeking into the ward, his gaze softening on the sight of the little girl. His heart melted immediately, she looked so small and frail he had the urge to
scoop
her kn his arms and protect her, seeing her lying there made his heart hurt. He didn’t like the room she was in
He turned to the people accompanying him.
“Hazel here is an acquaintance.” He accentuated the words once more at the Director. The man caught on immediately in understanding.
In that case, they’ll be well taken care of. I can assure you that. The Director said eagerly. “Have them moved to the VIP ward this instance. They’re VVIP.” He instructed his staff. “Wait… What are you?” Hazel asked puzzled by his reaction. The manager passed down the message and the nurses and HR began to make arrangements to move to the VIP ward. “Ethan, look I appreciate what you’re doing but She started feeling overwhelmed.
“But nothing Hazel. This is nothing” He insisted firmly.
“I’ll pay you back.” Hazel finished off weakly. She didn’t have anything else to say to him.
Now her daughter had full and rapt attention and was being hovered constantly by doctors.
Moments later Daisy was well strapped in and wheeled away.
Stepping into the VIP section Hazel gasped in shock.
It was like a luxurious hotel room.
“This is a hospital room?” She mumbled.
“Yes. Ethan assume standing by the door.
“We can’t….” Hazel started to say.
“You will stay here. I insist. Ethan said decisively and stubbornly.
“Make it more conducive. Add some bright wallpapers and so stuffed animals and
decorations to brighten this place up. It looks gloomy. Ethan instructed.
“And bring in another bed. She has a twin brother who I’m sure would insist on staying here with is sister some times and also so the mom doesn’t get worn out.”
“I’m not sure that would be very urm.” The Director started awkwardly, he was going to say ‘not very proper’
“Did you say something?”Ethan thundered.
“No no.” The man chuckled nervously. “One extra bed.” He said to his assistant who was jotting everything in a notepad.
Daisy had already been moved into the room and from the small bed to the larger and more comfortable one
The room screamed luxury. It had its air conditioning and heating system, and the wall opposite the bed had a large-screen television. Ethan tested it to ensure it worked and said, “You know, so she doesn’t get bored.”
There was a door inside the room and she went of exploring expecting it to be another ward but Instead saw it was the toilet and bathroom.
A private one.
It has its own restroom? She exclaimed.
More so it was updated with the latest technology although functional and minimalistic.
While she stood there Ethan was still giving orders and instructions, she stared at his back, he looked so serious as he barked out instructions.
It’s fine. Thank you, I think that’s enough now.” She said feeling overwhelmed.
“Alright then.” Ethan said calmly. Finally free the Director left with his Assistant to carry Ethan’s instructions for things the room needed
Hazel ventured to express her gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Mr. Wild,” as she held back. tears. She felt overwhelmed and saddened. While the
might have to be confined there for years. Sensing om was nice and luxurious, Daisy
moved closer and inquired gently.
that something was still wrong, Ethan
“What’s wrong? You can tell me. What’s the disease she has. Is it deadly?” Ethan urged gently sitting next to Hazel
Hazel bit her lips, this man was her ex-husband, she didn’t want him getting too involved. But she wanted to talk to someone, to just let the burden out.
Hazel, trying to remain composed, explained, Daisy needs surgery, but no doctor is daring enough to perform it on her at her age. The only doctor I know who is specialized in this with a low mortality rate is retired.
What’s his name? The name of this doctor?” Ethan asked, and Hazel replied, “Dr. James Gomez senior.”
“So we’ve been managing her illness. She’s a happy energetic child, I couldn’t just bind her to the hospital, I want her to have a normal happy childhood not one cooped up in a hospital. Hazel’s voice broke and tears ran down her face. Ethan passed a handkerchief to her with which she wiped her face, she hated feeling feeble and breaking down in front of him like this.
“I can imagine what you mean,” Ethan said, empathizing with her situation. Hazel, however, asked defensively, “Why are you so concerned about your ex-wife’s kids?” when she noticed his soft and loving gaze on her daughter.
Ethan tried to sound detached, saying. “You work for my company, and I have to ensure my workers are fit in all areas to maximize their effectiveness. The head…..of designs, bothered. with issues like this, would slow down work and progress. We don’t want that, do we?” Hazel, still speechless, was relieved that he was doing this for selfish reasons, and she chuckled lightly.
Ethan’s eyes went back to the little girl on the bed.
“She’s adorable.” He said with a chuckle.
Hazel gave a small smile.
“She clung to my leg that day at the airport like a bothersome rabbit.” Ethan recalled lightening the atmosphere. Hazel released a bark of laughter.
Try not to worry too much. Everything would be fine. Ethan added before standing.
Thank you Mr Wild. Hazel said mustering a smile.
Ethan nodded.
With a nod, he turned and walked out of the room.
“Mr Wild, I’ve handed your instructions to the staff the room would be ungraded to your taste. So can we continue with the tour?” The general manager asked hurrying up to keep with Ethan’s pace.
Ethan paused mid way and turned abruptly.
“Make sure all of the little girls needs are met and update me regularly.” He instructed instead ignoring the question.
“And as for the sponsorship, forward your demand to Axel.” He finished
“Is she some what related to you?” The manager asked curiously.
Ethan ignored the question heading for his car where Axel waited for him.
He opened the car and Ethan settled into it.
Through the ride back Axel kept glancing back through the rear view mirror. Ethan sighed.
He had done it once more, acted irrationally again. Still he felt relieved. Daisy would be okay. He would make sure of that.
For some reason, Hazel’s kids mattered to him.
“Find Dr. James Gomez. Ethan instructed.
Axel gave a small nod