Chapter 31: Casserole and Company-1
+25 Points/
The morning light was soft when Maya stirred, her body heavy with fatigue and memory. Jamie had fallen asleep again sometime after Damien left, still curled beside her, his hand tucked near hers-as if afraid she might vanish if he let go.
A soft knock stirred him awake. Moments later, Ms. Janice stepped into the room with a gentle smile, a bag of fresh clothes in one hand and a warm, homemade casserole in the other-just in time for lunch.
“Thought you two might be hungry,” she said kindly, setting the food down on the small table near the window. “Brought Jamie something clean to change into, too.”
Maya’s throat tightened. “Ms. Janice… thank you. You didn’t have to…”
“I did,” she cut in gently, brushing Maya’s hair back from her forehead. “You’re family now, sweetheart. And family shows up.”
Maya blinked rapidly, holding back a fresh wave of tears.
Ms. Janice’s voice softened even more. “You’ve got a long road ahead. But you’re not walking it alone, you hear me?”
Maya nodded slowly, lips trembling. “I hear you.”
She managed a small smile as Jamie sat up beside her, rubbing his eyes.
Ms. Janice gave him a warm smile. “Go freshen up, sweetheart. And both of you-eat while it’s warm. Once you’ve had lunch, I’ll take Jamie home for a bit. He needs proper rest, and you need a little peace and quiet.”
He hesitated, eyes fixed on her with quiet worry. But Maya reached for his wrist and gave it a gentle squeeze.
“I’m okay, Jamie,” she whispered. “Go with Ms. Janice-just for a while. You’ll be more comfortable at home, and you need real rest. I’ll be right here when you get back.”
“You need a proper rest, Jamie,” Ms. Janice said warmly. “A hot bath, fresh air, your own bed -and don’t forget your medicine. I’ll bring you back tonight, sweetheart.”
He nodded. “Ok, I’ll come back tonight.”
Ms. Janice gave Maya’s shoulder a gentle squeeze, her voice soft and full of reassurance.
“Don’t worry about a thing, sweetheart. You just focus on getting better, I’ll take care of
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Jamie like he’s my own.” +25 Points Before she could respond, a gentle knock interrupted the moment-and then the door slowly opened. “Helloooo?” a bright, familiar voice rang out as the door creaked open. Harper burst in, wide-eyed and already misty. “Oh my god-Maya.” Behind her stood Trina-calm, composed, and immaculately put-together, as always. Maya’s chest squeezed as Harper flung her arms gently around her, careful not to touch anything wired or tender. “I wanted to come sooner, but they wouldn’t let us. I brought cookies. And a stupid unicorn stress ball because… I don’t know, it made me think of you.” A wet laugh escaped Maya’s throat. “Thank you,” she whispered. “It’s good to see you safe, Maya,” Trina said, her tone steady but sincere. “How are you feeling?” Maya offered a small, respectful bow of her head. “I’m feeling better, Ms. Trina. Thank you. And… I’m really sorry for missing work. I didn’t mean to cause trouble.” Trina gave a subtle nod, her tone calm and measured. “Your safety is the priority. We’re just glad you’re okay. Don’t worry about work- I’ve already sent a notice to HR. Your schedule is suspended until you’re cleared to return. Mr. Blackwood has personally approved everything.” Harper gave her a once-over, then glanced at Trina with a playful smirk. “Approved, huh? More like he gave the orders, let’s be real.” She turned back to Maya, eyes gleaming. “Anyway.. you look like crap. But beautiful crap.” Maya laughed-really laughed this time, a faint blush coloring her cheeks at Harper’s bold words. The sound was shaky, but real. A breath she hadn’t realized she’d been holding finally slipped free. When Harper’s eyes landed on the boy near the bed, she brightened. “Oh! You must be Jamie?” she said, stepping forward with an easy smile. “Hey there-I’m Harper!” Comments 529 Cedella Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.