Maia

33

Word Count: 972

A/N: Hi everyone, I apologise for the boringness of this chapter. I'm currently experiencing a bit of writer's block and I've just been busy with life. I'm trying my best to catch up on assignments and lectures. Once I do, I'll be ready to dive back into writing properly. Thank you for your patience!

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THIRD POV

Alessandro stood by the window in the hospital room while Maia lay on the bed. He gazed out at the small park beside the building, observing a young family walking by happily. Sometimes, he wondered what life would have been like if he had been born into a different family - a normal family. He often dreamed of escaping his current life, but he couldn't, especially not now that he had found Maia. She needed him now more than ever.

The door creaked open, revealing a petite woman with gentle features. Fine lines etched around her eyes and her warm smile radiated affection as she looked up at Alessandro, fully aware of his notorious reputation; it seemed to precede him wherever he went. Unlike many, she felt no apprehension in his presence. After all, she shared a deep bond with his family, having dedicated years to helping them.

As she moved gracefully across the dimly lit room, her steps were deliberate and soft, mindful of the fragile stillness around her. She walked carefully around the sleeping form of Maia, ensuring that the child's slumber remained undisturbed.

She spoke gently to Alessandro about Maia. Unfortunately, Maia had suffered a few broken bones in the past that hadn't healed properly, but these issues could be treated with surgery and time. Alessandro felt a pang of fear about the surgery; he himself had undergone a few surgeries, as had the rest of his brothers. However, because this was his little sister, he felt even more nervous.

Fortunately, Maia's rib wasn't broken as they had initially thought; it was severely bruised and sore. He felt a pang of relief that she had fewer issues than expected. However, the cut had become infected, and he was just thankful she had informed them in time for it to be treated. He stood and listened to the rest of what the doctor had to say. Once she finished talking, he asked if she could inform the others who were waiting outside Maia's room. They were all eager to come in, but Maia had only wanted Alessandro by her side.

Maia was still nervous around the other boys, especially Lorenzo, and she didn't fully trust Rawiri yet. Al was the only one she felt comfortable with.

When he suggested going to the hospital that morning after the events of the previous night, she panicked and initially refused. However, with a little encouragement from Alessandro, she eventually agreed. All the boys stopped what they were doing and rushed over as well. They had their men tracking Jacob, and thankfully, they were close.

Maia clung to Alessandro tightly. She insisted that he wasn't allowed to leave her side - those were her exact words. She didn't like the doctor hovering around, so she held Alessandro's hand. When it became too overwhelming, he could sense it and asked the doctor to leave and come back later. After the doctor left, she hugged him tightly and cried until she eventually fell asleep.

MAIA'S POV

I stir slowly in the confines of the hard hospital bed, my fingers patting around, searching for the familiar warmth of Alessandro. When my hand encounters only the cool, sterile sheets, I quickly open my eyes, anxiety prickling at my skin. My gaze sweeps across the room, landing on the corner where he stands, deep in hushed conversation with Dr. Sam.

His head turns at the sudden movement, his dark eyes locking onto mine. He offers me a gentle nod before leaning in to whisper something to the doctor. She glances my way, her face breaking into a warm smile before she strides towards the door.

As Al approaches, I feel an overwhelming urge to reach out. The moment he's close enough, I clutch his suit jacket like a lifeline. I don't fully understand why, but after everything I've endured, an intense need for his presence has taken hold of me. When he's near, everything feels safe; when he's away, an icy fear creeps in that he might disappear, leaving me vulnerable and at the mercy of Jacob. The thought sends a shiver down my spine.

He settles into the bed, his presence comforting as he gently pulls me into a warm embrace. I can feel the tension in my body start to dissipate as he rubs my back in slow, soothing circles. Leaning closer, he places a soft kiss on my forehead. "I'm right here, Maia. I haven't gone anywhere, and I never will," he assures me, his voice steady and warm. I nod slowly, feeling a wave of relief wash over me as I wrap my arms tightly around him, grateful for his support.

"I just spoke to the doctor, and she mentioned that you'll be here for two weeks for observations," he explains, though I can sense there's more he's not sharing. I choose not to press him for details and simply nod in understanding.

With a hesitant whisper, I ask, "Can you stay too?" My heart races as I wait for his response, hoping he won't leave. He gives me a gentle nod. "I'm sure we can arrange that," he replies his determination to be by my side evident in his tone. The thought of him staying brings a smile to my face.

My stomach rumbles, and I look down awkwardly. "I'll ask the maids to cook you some of that soup you like. Giovanni can go and pick it up for you. How does that sound?" he says. I smile and look up at him. "Perfect, thank you," I mumble in response.

Alessandro stands up and calls one of the maids to discuss the food. I lie down, feeling exhausted from the day and all the medication I've been given. As I listen to the sound of his voice, I feel more relaxed with each passing second.