Thirty and Single.

Chapter 18.

I opened my eyes to the sterile white ceiling of a hospital room, the rhythmic beeping of machines echoing in my ears. The scent of antiseptic was unmistakable. As I tried to sit up, a firm yet gentle hand pressed me back onto the bed.

"You need to rest," Colton's voice was soft but insistent.

"What happened to me?" I croaked, my throat dry.

"You fainted at the office," he replied, concern etched across his face. "I rushed you here."

Fainting? That was new. In all my years, I'd never lost consciousness like that. Before I could process further, a doctor entered the room, clipboard in hand.

"Miss Green, glad to see you're awake," he said with a reassuring smile.

"Doctor, what caused me to faint?" I asked.

He glanced at his notes. "You were dehydrated. It's essential to consume at least three litres of water daily. Your body needs it, especially with your active lifestyle."

I nodded, feeling a mix of embarrassment and disbelief. Dehydration? Really?

"How are you feeling now?" he inquired.

"I'm fine," I replied, though Colton shot me a sceptical look.

"Excellent. Get some rest, and we'll discuss discharge soon," the doctor said before exiting.

Colton turned to me, his eyes searching mine. "Are you sure you're okay?"

"Yes, I just want to go home," I insisted, attempting to swing my legs off the bed.

"You can't leave yet. The doctor said—"

"I don't care what the doctor said!" I snapped, frustration bubbling. "I'm going home."

I began searching for my phone to call an Uber when the door burst open.

"Genesis! I heard you fainted. Are you alright?" Corey rushed in, his face a mix of worry and relief.

"I'm fine, Corey. Just trying to get home," I said, trying to mask my irritation.

He stepped closer. "Are you sure you're okay?"

Before I could answer, Colton stood up, his posture tense. "She said she's fine."

Corey frowned. "I wasn't talking to you."

"Maybe you should leave," Colton retorted, his voice rising.

"I'm not going anywhere. I have every right to be here. Who are you, anyway?" Corey challenged.

"I'm someone who cares about her," Colton shot back.

"Care? You're probably the reason she's here!" Corey accused.

In a flash, Colton's fist connected with Corey's jaw. The room erupted into chaos as the two men grappled, exchanging blows.

"Stop it! Both of you!" I screamed, but they were too engrossed in their brawl.

"Enough!" I shouted, my voice echoing off the walls. They froze, panting, eyes locked onto me.

"What's wrong with you two? Acting like teenagers in a hospital room? Grow up!" I scolded.

Neither responded. I grabbed my phone, requested an Uber, and stormed off to change. When I returned, both men stood, seemingly waiting to speak.

"Green, I'm so—" Colton began.

I held up a hand. "Save it."

I walked past them, heading to the waiting area. Corey followed.

"Genesis, I'm sorry. He started it," he said softly.

"Just leave me alone, Corey," I replied, not meeting his gaze.

I found the doctor, signed the necessary forms, and left the hospital. My Uber awaited, and I couldn't be more grateful.

At home, I tried to relax, but the day's events replayed in my mind. My phone buzzed.

"Love, are you alright? I heard you fainted," Brooklyn's voice was filled with concern.

"I'm fine, sweetie. I'm home now," I assured her.

"I'm on my way. Be there in ten," she said, hanging up.

True to her word, Brooklyn arrived, finding me attempting to cook dinner.

"Girl, you're supposed to be resting!" she exclaimed, taking over the kitchen duties.

I chuckled and retreated to the living room. Moments later, she joined me, wine glass in hand.

"You won't believe what happened today," I began.

She raised an eyebrow. "Do tell."

"Colton and Corey got into a fight at the hospital," I revealed.

"What? Why?" she gasped.

"Colton wasn't pleased with Corey's visit. He seemed... jealous," I mused.

"Jealousy? Oh my! He likes you, Genesis!" she declared.

"I don't know. They've disliked each other since day one," I countered.

"Still, there's something there," she insisted.

She returned to the kitchen to check on the fish. I decided to take a quick shower. Afterward, dressed in shorts and a tank top, I returned to the living room, only to find Colton sitting with Brooklyn.

"What is he doing here?" I asked, surprised.

"He insisted on talking to you. I couldn't stop him," she explained.

Colton's face bore the marks of the earlier fight, a black eye and bruised cheek. He looked remorseful.

Brooklyn excused herself, leaving us alone.

"What do you want?" I asked, arms crossed.

"I need to apologize," he said, standing. "I'm not proud of what happened. I lost control."

"You should apologize to Corey," I pointed out.

"I will. On Monday," he promised.

He stepped closer, gently cupping my face. "Are you feeling okay?"

I nodded, and he pulled me into a hug. His embrace was warm, comforting. I didn't want to let go.

As we separated, I noticed him flinch. "You need ice for that bruise," I said, leading him to the kitchen.

I retrieved some ice, gently pressing it to his cheek. He winced but didn't pull away.

Our eyes met, and without thinking, I leaned in, pressing my lips to his. The kiss was brief, tender.

He pulled back, eyes searching mine. "I have to go now," he whispered.

I nodded, watching as he left, the door closing softly behind him.