The Dominants Game

Chapter 46

Later in the Morning: Rosetta's Persistent Sickness

The rest of the drive to work had been relatively uneventful, but the nausea hadn't fully subsided for Rosetta. As soon as they arrived at her office, she found herself rushing to the bathroom, her stomach rebelling against her once more. She spent several minutes in the stall, retching and trying to steady herself.

When she finally emerged, pale and exhausted, she found Mattheo waiting for her with a look of genuine concern. "Rosetta, you can't keep going like this," he said, his usual arrogance replaced by a rare moment of sincerity.

Rosetta nodded weakly, leaning against the sink for support. "I know, but there's nothing I can do about it right now."

Mattheo shook his head. "Actually, there is. I've summoned Dr. Norwood from his office. He'll be here shortly to take care of you."

Rosetta's eyes widened in surprise. "You did what?"

Mattheo's expression was firm. "You need help, Rosetta. And Dr. Norwood is the best we have. He can give you something to manage the nausea until you can see him properly."

True to Mattheo's word, Dr. Norwood arrived within the hour, his expression professional and slightly impatient as he set down his medical bag. "Rosetta," he greeted, his voice clipped. "Let's get you sorted out."

He quickly assessed her condition, his manner efficient and somewhat detached. "Morning sickness is common, but we can manage it. I've brought seven days' worth of anti-nausea potions. Take one each morning, and by the seventh day, come into my office for a full appointment."

Rosetta nodded gratefully, taking the small vials from him. "Thank you, Dr. Norwood. I appreciate it."

Dr. Norwood's eyes softened slightly, a rare moment of warmth breaking through his professional demeanor. "Just make sure to follow the instructions carefully, and get plenty of rest. Stress can exacerbate your symptoms."

Mattheo stepped forward, his presence commanding. "I'll make sure she takes care of herself, Doctor. Thank you for coming on such short notice."

Dr. Norwood nodded, packing up his bag. "Of course. I'll see you in seven days, Rosetta."

As the doctor left, Rosetta turned to Mattheo, her exhaustion evident in her eyes. "Thank you, Mattheo. I didn't expect you to do that for me."

Mattheo shrugged, his usual smirk returning. "You may not realize it, but I do care about your well-being, Rosetta. We need you in top form for the campaign, after all."

Rosetta managed a small smile. "I appreciate it, even if your motives are partly selfish."

He laughed lightly. "Aren't they always? Now, take your potion and try to get through the day. I'll be around if you need anything."

Rosetta took the first vial, feeling the relief start to wash over her almost immediately. She still felt weak and tired, but the edge of her nausea had dulled, giving her the strength to face the day ahead.

Throughout the rest of the morning, Mattheo stayed nearby, his presence a strange mix of support and control. Lucius, at his office, remained on her mind, but she knew she had to focus on the tasks at hand.

With the anti-nausea potion beginning to take effect, she felt a small glimmer of hope that she could manage her symptoms and continue her work, even as the complexities of her personal and professional life continued to intertwine.

After Work: A Shopping Excursion

After a long day at work, Rosetta found herself feeling marginally better thanks to Dr. Norwood's anti-nausea potion. She decided she needed some time to herself and thought a bit of shopping might lift her spirits. As she gathered her things, she mentioned her plans to Mattheo.