I returned to the hospital room to keep Selena company.
I wasn't sure why, but ever since that shower we had, it felt like she had become a different person. She had grown increasingly clingy and was always eager to chat with me. Even when she could tell the conversation was fading, she would switch topics cheerfully and laugh heartily.
However, no matter how funny her jokes were, the thought of being stuck in the hospital with no way to leave or contact anyone without Zion's permission dulled any humor.
Seeing my serious expression, Selena stopped laughing and shook me gently. "Hud, what's wrong? Why don't you smile at any of my jokes? Did I not tell them well? Are they not funny?"
I shook my head, sighed, and looked at her.
"Scientific studies show that if a person stays in a confined space for too long, they'll start feeling ill."
Her eyebrows shot up in response. "Hud, are you saying you want to go outside?"
I definitely wanted to go outside, but I had no idea where to go. I wanted to return to Carzonia, but neither Zion nor Selena would agree to let me leave.
"I do want to get out. It's too stuffy here, but I don't know where I'd go."
Hearing this, Selena's face lit up with excitement. "That's easy! Just wait for me."
I was tired of hearing the phrase "for your own good". It often led to harm, and after hearing it so many times, it became irritating.
Selena clearly felt the same way. She abruptly yanked her hand away from Zion and pointed at him, fuming. "Zion, have I spoiled you so much that you've forgotten our identities and relationship?
"Just remember that I'm the one in charge here, and you're just a maid I hired with my money. Now arrange for a car for me and Hud so we can go have fun!"
Her words seemed to hit Zion's nerves, and I could see the surprise and sadness in his eyes. Still, after what she said, he eventually relented. He pulled a set of car keys from his pocket and handed them to the person at the door.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Love That Wasn't Meant to Last