Faking It With My Billionaire Husband

A step forward

The first light of dawn seeped through the thin curtains, casting a pale glow across the room. My mother’s breathing had steadied overnight, and the monitors displayed a more stable pattern. I sat by her side, clutching her hand gently, feeling the warmth of her skin and the faint rise and fall of her chest.

Max was asleep in the chair beside me, his head tilted back, a slight crease of worry still lingering on his brow. I watched him for a moment, grateful for his quiet strength—his unwavering support that had become a lifeline.

A soft knock at the door pulled my attention away. A different nurse, older and with kind eyes, entered quietly. She checked the monitors and offered a gentle smile.

“Good morning,” she said softly. “Your mother’s doing quite well this morning. We’re planning to keep her comfortable and continue monitoring her closely, but there’s good reason to be hopeful.”

I nodded, feeling a faint flicker of relief. “Thank you,” I whispered.

The nurse paused, giving me a reassuring look. “I know this is a difficult time. But your presence makes a difference. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares is the real medicine.”

I looked down at my mother’s peaceful face, her features softer in sleep. I felt a surge of gratitude and love—an ache in my chest that reminded me how precious these moments were.

Max stirred awake and sat up, rubbing his eyes. He caught my gaze and offered a small, reassuring smile. “Morning,” he said softly.

“Morning,” I replied, voice husky with emotion.

After a few quiet moments, I leaned over and pressed a gentle kiss to my mother’s forehead. “I’ll be right outside if you need anything,” I whispered.

The nurse nodded and stepped out, leaving us alone with her. I hesitated, then quietly excused myself to the hallway, taking a deep breath as I stepped outside.

The corridor stretched long and quiet, the hum of activity faint in the background. I pulled out my phone and hesitated before dialing. I needed to tell someone—anyone—what had happened last night. I selected a familiar contact and pressed call.

It was my friend, Liana.

“Hey,” she answered, her voice warm but concerned. “How’s your Mom?”

“She’s stable,” I said, voice trembling. “She’s resting now. The doctors say she’s doing better, but… it’s still so fragile. I’m just… trying to hold it together.”

Liana exhaled slowly on the other end. “You’re doing amazing, Alina. I know it’s hard, but she’s lucky to have you there. And Max, too.”

I smiled faintly. “Yeah. He’s been incredible.”

There was a pause, then Liana’s voice softened. “You know, I wish I could be there with you. But I’m sending all my strength from here. Keep holding on. We’ll get through this.”

“Thanks,” I whispered, feeling a swell of emotion. “I’ll keep you updated.”

After hanging up, I leaned against the wall, closing my eyes for a moment. The weight of the night before still pressed on me, but so did a flicker of hope. My mother’s resilience, Max’s unwavering support, and the love of my family—all of it was rooted in something stronger than fear.

I took a deep, steadying breath, ready to face whatever came next. As I lingered outside the hospital room, the soft hum of activity around me felt distant. My mind was caught in a swirl of hope and uncertainty, when I saw Max approaching. His face was serious, yet gentle.

He stopped beside me, his eyes searching mine. “Alina,” he began softly, “I’ve been thinking about your mom… and about how she's going to get through this.”

I looked up at him, my heart pounding a little more. “Yeah?”

He hesitated, then took a deep breath. “I honestly think it might be better if she stays in private care, somewhere she can get more personalized attention. Hospitals are good for emergencies, but for recovery… I want her to have the best environment possible.”

My eyes widened slightly. “You mean—”

“I’ve already looked into a place nearby,” Max continued, his voice steady. “It’s well-rated, with excellent staff. And I want to pay for it. I want to make sure she’s comfortable, safe, and surrounded by people who care.”

A rush of emotion flooded through me. The sincerity in his voice, the way he was willing to step up like this—it was more than I could have asked for. I felt tears prick my eyes again, but this time they were tinged with gratitude.

“Max, that’s… so generous of you,” I whispered. “You don’t have to—”

“I do,” he interrupted gently. “Because I care about her. And I care about you. I want to do everything I can to help you both get through this.”

I looked at him, feeling my heart swell with affection and relief. “Thank you,” I managed, voice thick. “Really. That means more than I can say.”

He reached out and took my hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. “We’re in this together, remember? No matter what comes next, I’ll be here—every step of the way.”

In that quiet moment, surrounded by the sterile hospital walls but warmed by his words, I felt a renewed sense of hope. My mother’s recovery, Max’s support—everything was uncertain, but with love and kindness, I knew we could face whatever lay ahead.

I took a deep breath, anchoring myself. “Okay,” I said softly. “Let’s do it. I’ll talk to the hospital about the arrangements today.”

Max nodded, a small smile touching his lips. “Good. And I’ll take care of the paperwork. Just focus on being there for your mom right now.”

As we turned back toward her room, I felt a quiet strength settle within me. Whatever challenges awaited, I wasn’t alone. Not anymore.