Chapter 154

The film crew were merely coworkers, not close friends. Bothering them with personal matters seemed inappropriate.

"That's quite all right," Vivian murmured. "Since it's nothing serious, I'll just take a taxi home after the IV."

Before she could leave, Maxwell approached again, his voice steady as always. "Let me accompany you to the hospital. It's no inconvenience."

Though grateful for his kindness, Vivian had no intention of growing closer to him.

She shook her head. "That won't be necessary, Mr. Sterling. Thank you for everything tonight."

Undeterred by her polite refusal, Maxwell gave a faint smile. "My security team got drenched tonight and seem to be coming down with colds. They'll need IVs too."

"Might as well stay together." Nearby, a female officer who'd been observing their exchange chimed in cheerfully, "It's always better to have company in situations like these. A familiar face makes everything easier." Cornered, Vivian forced a small smile. "Very well then. Thank you, Mr. Sterling."

At the hospital, Vivian felt completely disconnected from her own body. Her legs shook with every step, and she barely made it to the hospital bed with support from two officers. The medication made her drowsy, but fear kept her alert.

Fumbling for a solution, she borrowed a phone from one officer. Lydia wasn't in Emberglow County, and aside from Sebastian, the only person in the crew she somewhat trusted was Isabella Thornton, the makeup artist. Isabella was notorious for her late nights, often scrolling through social media until sunrise.

The phone barely rang once before Isabella's voice came through. "Hello?"

"Isabella, it's Vivian," she whispered. "Could you come to the hospital? I... I could really use some company."

Isabella's tone shifted immediately, laced with concern. "What happened? Are you hurt? Should I call Sebastian—"

"No!" Vivian interrupted, panic rising. "Please don't tell anyone. It's nothing serious. I just... don't want to be alone right now."

"Alright," Isabella said softly but firmly. "Send me the address. I'll be there as fast as I can."

Vivian quickly texted the location before returning the phone. She leaned back as the nurse prepped her arm for the IV. Her skin was translucent, blue veins clearly visible beneath. Just as the nurse was about to insert the needle, the door opened, revealing Maxwell holding a plastic bag.

"I noticed you were still in wet clothes," Maxwell said gently. "Didn't want you catching a chill, so I found something for you to change into."

"Most shops were closed, so hospital pajamas will have to do." His tailored navy suit accentuated his refined features, every movement exuding quiet confidence.

The simple gesture earned Maxwell admiring glances from nurses and officers alike. Soft whispers circulated among them.

Maxwell's lips curved into a subtle, self-satisfied smile. He clearly enjoyed their reactions, but his attention remained fixed on Vivian.