Ch. 371..380
A Cue for Love Chapter 371
Plan Ruined By The Four Little Ones
Natalie had previously assumed that Samuel would be spending his thirtieth birthday together with her and the four little ones.
However, it was only when Samuel took her to the hot spring resort that she realized that he had left the four kids at the Bowers residence.
As such, right after they got out of the car, Natalie couldn’t help but ask, “Samuel, is it really just the two of us today?”
“Franklin and Sophia are too clingy. If they were here, your attention would be focused on them,” the man replied while holding her chin. “Today is my birthday. I want to have all of you today. Every second of your time is mine,” Samuel said in his deep voice.
Natalie chuckled when she heard that.
“What are you laughing about?” Samuel asked, frowning.
“I’m laughing at how childish you sound,” Natalie patted his hand and said, “You’re already thirty years old. I can’t believe you are jealous of four five-year-old kids.”
Samuel released his grip on her chin and smiled affectionately.
“Whatever you say. Anyway, you won’t be able to escape tonight,” he replied.
Natalie’s heart did a double somersault at the man’s words.
She was at a loss and was biting her lips nervously, pretending that she did not know what he was talking about. Seeing that, the corners of Samuel’s lips curled up into a smile. There’s no use pretending. I’m definitely not gonna let you off.
He had desired her all this while but tried hard to control himself. Not wanting to scare her, he decided to take it slow.
Even though the memories had faded, his body could still clearly remember the ecstasy and satisfaction it felt from that fateful night six years ago.
The pair walked into the resort hand in hand.
As steam rose from the open-air hot spring, mist enveloped the entire area, creating scenery that looked just like paradise.
After Natalie changed into her bathrobe, she stood on the ground barefooted and felt especially comfortable and relaxed.
Just then, the phone rang.
Before Natalie could pick up the call, Samuel rejected it and switched off her phone.
“Samuel…”
“Didn’t I say that every second of your time is mine today?” Samuel said, pulling the woman into his embrace. Gently biting on her earlobes, he continued, “Focus on me today. You’re my birthday present.”
Although the man was biting very softly, Natalie’s earlobes were so sensitive that she could feel her body slowly going limp.
When Samuel reached into her bathrobe effortlessly, a blush crept up the woman’s cheeks. She finally understood why he had chosen to spend his birthday at the hot spring resort. Since there were no buttons or zips on the bathrobe, it made the perfect attire for the man to do whatever he wanted.
The atmosphere was gradually charged with the couple’s building desire for each other.
One moment later…
Frenzied footsteps were heard running toward them.
Both Natalie and Samuel snapped out of their passionate moment and quickly tidied up their appearances before they heard the loud voices of the little ones.
“Mommy!”
“Mommy!”
“Mommy!”
“Mommy!”
The children had yet to change into their own bathrobes and were already dashing toward Natalie excitedly.
Natalie’s face was still flushed when she saw the little ones, and she could not help but feel nervous and slightly guilty.
“Mommy, your ears are so red. Are you cold?” Clayton asked curiously while wrapping his arms around his mother’s leg.
“Umm… It’s… Yup!” Natalie replied, brushing over the question. After all, she could not possibly tell the kids that it was because Samuel was nibbling on her ears.
“You should wear more clothes then,” Xavian said.
“That’s right! You shouldn’t wear so little just to look good. You look great in anything anyway!” Franklin added.
As the three boys had already said everything Sophia wanted to say, she could only nod and agree while blinking her big eyes. “Yup! I agree with everything they say!”
Natalie was amused by how adorable her children were.
However, Samuel could not even fake a smile. His gaze darkened while he pursed his lips tightly.
The hot spring resort was almost two hundred miles away from the Bowers residence. Even if the little ones knew where their parents were, it was impossible for them to travel there independently. As such, Samuel was sure that someone must have brought them there.
“So tell me, who brought you guys here?” Samuel asked coldly.
A Cue for Love Chapter 372
Skin Him Alive
The four little ones exchanged glances with each other.
Knowing very well that Samuel would not be easily fooled, the kids had no choice but to reply in unison, “Uncle Steven brought us here… We threatened him to do that.”
Samuel turned away and looked toward the corridor. “Where is he?” he asked in a spooky voice.
Franklin took a deep breath and replied, “Uncle Steven knew that you would definitely skin him alive, so he left immediately after dropping us off at the entrance of the hot spring resort.”
“Let’s see where he can run to then.” Samuel’s gaze darkened and a grim expression took over his handsome face.
It took the man a lot of effort to plan his special day, and he was looking forward to spending time with Natalie only.
However, because of Steven, the couple’s quality time together had become a family gathering instead.
Samuel could not help but feel extremely disappointed that his plans were ruined, and a deep crease appeared between his brows.
Shortly after, the resort owner took the four little ones away to change into children’s bathrobes.
Natalie shot a glance at Samuel, who was pulling a long face and couldn’t help but laugh. “You’re so childish!”
“I’m only childish when it comes to matters relating to you anyway,” Samuel replied in a low voice. “Laugh all you like. This is who I am.”
Natalie froze for a second when she heard that before her smile grew broader.
Seems like men can also be really childish!
But he’s really cute when he acts this way.
Natalie stood on her tiptoes and pinched both sides of Samuel’s cheeks. “I know you’re upset but try to control yourself and not scare the kids. They always go to bed before 10 p.m. After that, you still have time to unwrap your present.”
That was a code phrase between the couple.
Instantly, Samuel understood what the woman meant and held her hands tightly.
“Nat, you’re the one who said that I can ‘unwrap my present’ later. You can’t take that back now.”
“Yes, yes,” Natalie replied very softly.
When the children returned after changing, they were relieved seeing that Samuel’s expression was back to normal.
Jolene was the owner of the hot spring resort. Even though she was already over forty, she did not look like it as she maintained her looks very well. She usually did not receive guests personally but only did so for Samuel.
After bringing a few exquisite dishes into the family’s private room, she left.
Among the dishes was a six-inch heart-shaped cake that Samuel had specially instructed the resort to prepare.
The four little ones took their forks and dug into the cake at once, making lots of holes in the pretty cake.
When Franklin noticed that his father had not taken a single bite of it, he took some cake with his fork and put it next to the man’s mouth.
“Daddy, you’re the birthday boy today. You need to eat some cake…” Franklin said seriously with his mouth stuffed with cake. “Anyway, since you are so rich, you should order a bigger cake next time. This one is too small for all of us to share. If you don’t have enough money, I can lend you some from my savings.”
“I’m not hungry,” Samuel replied with an obstinate expression.
“If that’s the case, I’ll have your share then.”
Franklin put the fork into his own mouth, finishing the cake.
Samuel was speechless while Natalie was laughing so hard that she had tears in her eyes.
Samuel was wearing a black bathrobe and had his fringe down, covering his eyes. His skin was so smooth that there were hardly any open pores. At that moment, he did not look like a high and mighty CEO but more like an awkward kid who did not get to eat his favorite candy.
In fact, he blended in very well with the four five-year-old little ones.
Just as Natalie was still happily giggling away, Samuel cast her a warning stare.
Catching his gaze, the woman covered her mouth with her hand to suppress her laughter, but she just couldn’t get rid of the smile on her face.
After the kids had their fill of food and drinks, they took out their birthday present for Samuel from their bag.
It was a piece of drawing.
Franklin unveiled the drawing and said, “Daddy, Sophia, Xavian, Clayton and I drew this together. It’s the four of us, you and Mommy.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 373
Unwilling To Acknowledge Her As Mother
The man on the left corner of the drawing was most likely Samuel. Next to him were the four little ones—Franklin, Sophia, Xavian, and Clayton, and lastly, on the right, Natalie.
Even though the pencil strokes of those five-year-old children were still blunt and messy, they had put in thoughts and emotions to draw the picture out. It was no wonder why Natalie and Samuel felt warm inside when they saw the drawing.
The term “home” used to be something that was so out of reach for Samuel and Natalie.
Little did they expect what seemed impossible to achieve had now appeared not only on the drawing but even more so before their eyes.
“Happy birthday, Daddy.” Franklin scratched the back of his head and grinned broadly.
“Daddy, happy birthday!” Sophie blinked her sparkling eyes as she sent her well-wishes too.
Before this, Xavian and Clayton had always greeted Samuel as “Mr. Bowers.” But ever since the other time when Samuel had suavely appeared at the office of the Head of Kindergarten and called himself the father of the two boys, they had secretly acknowledged him as their “Daddy” deep in their hearts from then on.
After moments of hesitation, Xavian and Clayton also blurted out one after another, “Daddy, happy birthday.”
Slightly stunned by the scene before him, Samuel broke into a smile. “Franklin, Sophia, Xavian, and Clayton, thank you for the birthday present. I love it so much.”
The four little ones exchanged glances and grinned at each other in satisfaction.
Watching the heartwarming scene before her eyes while resting her right cheek on her hand, Natalie felt warmth in her heart.
She had been urging herself to become stronger in recent years because only that way could she protect the people and things she loved. But deep in her heart, she knew very well all she yearned for was nothing but warmth and simplicity.
Staying beside Samuel, she seemed to have understood the true meaning of security.
After digesting the food they had consumed, Samuel and Natalie went on a hot spring date with their four children.
To be able to get soaked in a hot spring surrounded by warm mist in the freezing winter weather was indeed a pure enjoyment for Natalie from head to toe.
At the same time, Jolene quickly made a call to Yara in another room.
“Ms. Yara, it’s me, Jolene.”
After accompanying Kenneth to the hospital, Yara was on her way to the underground parking lot to retrieve her car. “Ms. Jolene, is anything the matter?”
“Ms. Yara, I have something to say, but I’m not sure if I should bring it up.”
Yara stopped in her tracks upon hearing that and frowned slightly. “I don’t see a need for you to sound me out since you’ve made this call. Go ahead and tell me whatever you wanted to say.”
“Mr. Samuel previously made an appointment to visit the resort today. I thought he’ll be coming with you, but it turns out that…”
“You mean Samuel is at your resort?!” Yara gasped in shock.
“Not only him; he also brought along your children…” Jolene paused slightly before continuing, “Besides, there’s also a woman and her two kids.”
A woman and two kids?
It did not come across Yara’s mind that it would be Natalie since she did not know the latter had two children.
Could it be that Samuel has found someone else again?
“Ms. Jolene, could you please roughly describe the woman’s appearance?”
“That woman is average-looking. She has some freckles on her face. To be honest, her looks are nowhere comparable to yours.”
As soon as Yara heard those descriptions, the identity of the unknown woman became clear to her.
“It’s that woman again?” she unknowingly blurted out of her mouth.
It’s Samuel’s 30th birthday today. He’d rather bring Franklin and Sophia to celebrate his birthday with another woman and not even invite me to join. How can he be so heartless?
Yara felt an immense surge of jealousy and heartache, as though innumerable venomous bugs were gnawing on her heart.
It’s been five years! Are those precious years that I’ve sacrificed for Samuel no match for a woman who has been by his side for only a few months? So much so that I’m unworthy of spending his birthday with him?
“Ms. Jolene, I don’t wish to see Franklin and Sophia call another woman as their mother. I need you to help me with this…”
A Cue for Love Chapter 374
Have You Removed Your Mask
Previously, Kenneth had visited the hot spring resort for a short getaway, where Yara also followed along.
At that time, Jolene was crestfallen after finding out that her husband was cheating on her. She was constantly distracted from work, and as a result, she messed up the arrangements for Kenneth regarding his stay and meals at the resort.
Because of that, Kenneth had wanted to fire her and get a replacement boss for the hot spring resort. Fortunately, Yara had interceded for her and made Kenneth change his mind on that idea.
Yet, Jolene did not know that was one of Yara’s means to win her over.
Other than the enemies she wanted to get rid of, she wanted to try her best to curry favor with anybody who had some ties with the Bowers family.
And now, it was the exact situation Yara wanted Jolene to repay her debt.
“Ms. Yara, I—”
“Ms. Jolene, you’ve been abandoned by your husband before too. I’m sure you know how I feel right now…” Yara’s tone sounded like she was on the verge of breaking down. “I bore my precious children for nine months, and yet, they’re taking another woman as their mother now!”
Jolene could not help but pity her.
“W-What can I do to help you then?”
“Ms. Jolene, do this… And I’ll take care of the rest…” Afraid that Jolene would be overly cautious at doing her task, Yara purposely mentioned Kenneth. “I’m Old Mr. Bowers’ savior and his chosen granddaughter-in-law. Do you still think that I won’t be able to protect you if anything happens?”
“All right, I got it.”
Upon concluding the call, Jolene immediately began to execute Yara’s order.
Meanwhile, the family of six had finished using the hot spring.
The children’s faces were as red as tomatoes, and their round black eyes were watery and sparkly, making them look much more adorable than their usual selves.
Clayton inched closer to Natalie and whispered into her ears, “Mommy, don’t tell me you have not removed that hyper-realistic mask in front of Daddy yet?”
“Not yet.” Natalie nodded in response.
“I can feel that Daddy treats you and us sincerely,” Xavian chimed in. “Why don’t you remove your mask in front of him tonight?”
Clayton and Xavian were immensely confident of their mother’s looks.
That hyper-realistic mask is super ugly! If Daddy sees Mommy’s real appearance, he’ll surely be mesmerized by it!
“I’ll think about it.” Natalie smiled. “I’ll remove it when I find the right time to do so.”
She did not remove it back then because she did not dare to do it. But as time passed, things became harder as she did not know how to divulge the truth. Now, she was used to living with that face in front of Samuel. Adding on to the fact that the man did not seem to mind, she eventually put the matter at the back of her mind.
Seeing Natalie huddled in a corner chatting with Xavian and Clayton, Sophia grew slightly jealous.
“Mommy, what are you all talking about?”
Even though Franklin did not utter a word, he knitted his brows so tightly that anyone could tell he was extremely bothered by it.
As much as that felt like frustration, Natalie still felt an overdose of sweetness.
Aww! Previously Samuel got jealous of the kids for being close with me, but now, even the four kids are jealous of each other because of me!
Franklin and Sophia were not her biological children. Hence, logically speaking, Clayton and Xavian should still come first no matter how much she adored the former two.
But in actual fact, that was a far cry from the truth.
To her, all four children were of equal importance, and she would risk her life voluntarily for any of them if she needed to.
It took Natalie a long while to console the four little ones before a smile began to appear on their faces.
Even though it was Samuel’s birthday, he still had to settle some decision-making matters for the company. Upon receiving Billy’s call, he rushed back to the room in the resort to get back to work.
As for Natalie, she took the four children for a stroll around the resort.
The hot spring resort was spacious inside out and had a whiff of natural wilderness, possibly due to its location in the outer suburbs.
Having been surrounded by Natalie and her brothers, the overjoyed Sophia hummed to the nursery rhymes she had learned in school.
The fast-paced tunes, coupled with Sophia’s voice, sounded pleasant to the ears as they reverberated through the place.
At the same time, Jolene was hiding amongst the foliage, peeping on the backs of Natalie and the four children. She also had a wooden basket in her hand.
A Cue for Love Chapter 375
Protecting Sophia
Upon finishing her song, Sophia cast her sparkly eyes at Natalie and asked, “Mommy, how’s my singing?”
“You did a great job,” Natalie complimented with a smile.
Sophia’s three brothers, all of whom adored her a lot, looked at her with their puppy eyes as they requested for her to sing the songs again.
But perhaps because she had received so much love from her brothers, the meek little girl had learned to throw tantrums too. ”I don’t want to. I’m thirsty after singing for so long…”
Natalie’s lips curled into a smile as she gently caressed Sophia’s head.
It’s great that this girl has a little temper. Otherwise, her brothers would have to be constantly worried about her if she’s soft-tempered and a pushover.
As Natalie was too focused on the children and coupled with the fact that Samuel had arranged to visit this resort, she instinctively lowered her alertness. Therefore, she did not notice that someone was following them behind the bushes and was slowly opening the wooden basket.
Watching the sight of how joyful Natalie and the four children were, Jolene could not help but think of Yara’s words.
Ms. Yara has painstakingly bore them for nine months, yet they’re not close to her? What’s worst is that they even acknowledge a woman who has nothing to do with them as their mother?
Thinking about that reminded her of her failed marriage, and perhaps that made her relate to Yara’s situation even better.
Anyone who breaks a family apart is evil.
Jolene initially had some reservations about releasing the venomous snake. Nonetheless, she no longer found it so difficult to execute the plan after she recalled the pain she went through.
As the wooden basket got unlocked, a snake as thick as the size of a baby’s arm slithered out.
It was common to spot snakes around the resort due to its location.
Of course, that venomous snake was not something Jolene had found within a short period.
Because it was winter, many bugs and reptiles would gather near the resort to keep warm. A while ago, when she was chasing them away, she happened to see that snake and thus kept it in the wooden basket as she had thought of soaking it in wine later.
She would never have thought that it would be of use now!
Sticking its bright red-colored forked tongue out, the snake glided through the dried leaves and branches on the ground, creating a dull ruffling sound.
As the four children were still young, they naturally could not recognize that sound.
On the other hand, Natalie seemed to have heard the strange noise, and it seemed like it was getting closer and closer toward them.
When Natalie turned around, she found a menacing, venomous snake sliding in the direction of Sophia, who was the shortest in height.
That snake was different from Franklin’s pet snake.
Moony was a mild-mannered and nonvenomous snake.
That wild snake had colorful patterns of its body and a pair of long and sharp venomous fangs. The consequences would be disastrous if it were to bite a child.
Without any hesitation, Natalie stood before Sophia and grabbed onto that venomous snake, which was preparing to prance forward for an attack, with her bare hands.
Its poisonous fangs bit onto Natalie’s hand deeply. At once, its venom spread into the body through the wound.
In no time, Natalie felt her hand turn numb. She slammed the snake against the tree till it went unconscious before she let go of her grip.
Among the kids, Sophia was the first to come around since she was the only one who saw the entire process of how Natalie had blocked her from the danger. Shocked, tears began rolling down her cheeks uncontrollably.
“Mommy, are you alright?” The little girl was panicking. “Is there anyone who can save my mommy? Please hurry here to save my mommy! Her hand was bitten by a poisonous snake!”
Upon hearing Sophia’s screams, Franklin, Clayton, and Xavian eventually came to their senses.
“Mommy, do you think you can perform acupuncture on yourself?” Xavian asked.
“Not really…” Natalie’s lip, by then, had turned slightly purple. “I’m unable to exert any strength on my hand right now. Besides, I have to use the crystal needle on the right acupoint; otherwise, there won’t be any effect.”
Franklin frowned. “I’ll go find Daddy. I’m sure he’ll have a solution!”
As soon as his words rang out, the boy ran off to look for Samuel while Sophia stayed by Natalie’s side to keep her company.
At the same time, Xavian was already on his phone searching for hospitals or veterinary clinics around the vicinity.
As for Clayton, he used a bifurcated wooden stick to hold the snake in place so that they could use it to match the antivenom later.
A Cue for Love Chapter 376
Absolutely Atrocious
Jolene covered her mouth tightly with her hands as she could not believe her eyes.
She was the culprit who released the venomous snake.
It was no doubt she saw the snake sliding toward Sophia. If that woman didn’t catch that snake in time, it would have attacked Ms. Sophia. Even at such a critical moment, that woman could catch the snake with her bare hands. Her decisiveness seems something innate to her. Isn’t she the homewrecker who ruined Mr. Bowers And Ms. Yara’s relationship? But she didn’t hesitate a wee bit when she protected Ms. Sophia just now. It seems like she wasn’t even afraid of the drastic consequences that might happen to herself. But Ms. Yara is Ms. Sophia and Mr. Franklin’s biological mother. The one who could do that without hesitation should’ve been Ms. Yara instead of that woman!
Whatever had just happened was the exact opposite of Jolene’s prediction.
Knowing that she must not stay there any longer, Jolene scuffled away with the wooden basket in her hand.
Concurrently, the wound on Natalie’s hand had begun to turn dark purple.
Seeing that the wound was seeping black-colored blood, beads of tears rolled down Sophia’s face rapidly. “Mommy, it’s all my fault. You’re hurt while trying to save me!”
Like any other five-year-old, Sophia was mature enough to understand the meaning of death.
Even so, she did not dare to mention anything about death as she was afraid she would jinx the situation.
“What s-should I do to m-make you feel b-better?” Sophia choked on her words as she was bawling her eyes out.
Even though Natalie felt so cold that her whole body was shaking, she still tried to bring her trembling hand to pat Sophia’s cheek upon hearing her cries.
“It’s just snake’s venom.” Natalie pulled a weak smile on her face. “Don’t worry. N-Nothing will happen to me…”
A brief moment later, Franklin finally returned with Samuel.
Before his eyes was his woman leaning against the tree trunk, her lips drained of color, and dark-colored blood seeping out from a wound at the back of her hand.
Just a moment ago, she looks fine and healthy. How did things become like this in such a short time?
“Daddy, Mommy tried to protect me…” Within a short time, Sophia’s eyes were bulging from the intense crying. “She got bitten by the snake as a result.”
Samuel went up to Natalie and lifted her hand, ready to suck out the poisonous blood from her wound.
But before Samuel’s lips touched her hand, Natalie shook her head vigorously. “Don’t do that.”
“Natalie Nichols.” Samuel frowned, his emotions visibly apparent on his face.
It was the first time Samuel called her so formally after they had acknowledged their feelings for each other. As much as she was dead serious at rejecting Samuel for going ahead with his action, the man was firm about his stand too.
“That won’t do you any good.” Tears began welling up around the rims of Natalie’s eyes. “Y-You… you don’t have to do that for me…”
“As long as it’ll save you, I will do it without hesitation.”
As soon as he said that, Natalie felt Samuel’s grip on her hand tighten.
At the very next second, his warm lips plopped right on her wound, and he began sucking with all his might.
Samuel tried his best to suck the black-colored blood into his mouth before spitting it on the ground.
Of course, Natalie did try to break free from his grip.
But because she was made even weaker due to the snake’s venom, she could not muster any strength.
Thus, her struggle and resistance were not significant to Samuel at all.
“Y-You’re so dumb…”
Natalie felt a tightness in her chest but had nowhere to vent it.
Why is he sacrificing his life to remove the venom? Did he forget that he’s the head of the Bowers family and the father of Franklin and Sophia? So many people respect and look up to him and even hope to get a glimpse of him. Samuel Bowers… how could you risk your life for me?
A Cue for Love Chapter 377
Treat Her First
Samuel spewed black-colored blood on the ground.
With the black blood staining his lips and his dark eyes exuding tons of chilly aura, his appearance was exceedingly petrifying than Natalie’s.
Only at this point did Jolene finally show up.
She could not help but inhale in a deep breath when she saw the sight that greeted her.
She had witnessed it with her own eyes when Natalie was bitten by the snake. But what she did not expect was how Samuel would swallow his pride to suck out the poisonous blood for a nameless woman.
“I’ll go and get some warm water for you to rinse your mouth,” Jolene anxiously exclaimed.
“There’s no need for that,” Samuel uttered.
“But you—”
“Look for an expert who can remove snake venom immediately,” he grimly commanded. His deadly aura, accompanied by the residual blood left on his lips, made him look just like the god of the underworld.
Jolene nodded and hurriedly walked away to make a call.
In truth, she had immediately contacted a hospital nearby the resort after the accident occurred. The doctor was informed to bring some antivenom over.
Of course, she still went ahead to make a call, but this time, to Yara.
Jolene would act on impulse and agree to do the dirty job because Yara had once done her a favor, and besides, she could put herself in the latter’s shoes since she could relate to her situation very well.
Mr. Bowers helped suck out the venom from that woman’s wound, but he didn’t get to rinse his mouth. What if he gets poisoned or ends up with a hidden illness? And if the Bower family finds out that it’s my doing, I’ll be totally screwed by then!
As soon as the call went through, Yara’s voice sounded from the other end of the phone. She seemed to be much more flustered than Jolene.
“Ms. Jolene,” Yara muttered. “How is it? Who got bitten? Franklin or Sophia?”
“Ms. Yara, the one who got bitten is the woman who came with Mr. Bowers.”
After a while of silence, Yara asked, “Ms. Jolene, have you called the doctor?”
“Yes, I did. He’s on his way to the resort.” Jolene’s mind was in turmoil and poured all her emotions on Yara since she reckoned they were both on the same boat. “Ms. Yara… w-what should I do?”
“Try all means to stall the doctor…” Yara did not continue with the rest of the sentence. Nonetheless, her meaning was clear; she did not want Natalie to receive any medical care.
“Ms. Yara, that woman is not the only one poisoned. So is Mr. Bowers!”
“What do you mean? How?”
“He sucked out all that poisonous blood, so he’s likely been poisoned too. M-Ms. Yara, you have to help me…”
The news struck Yara like a bolt from the blue.
Someone like Samuel would risk his life for a lowly wretch? How much exactly does he love Natalie that he could make such a decision without thinking about the consequences?
“Ms. Yara… Ms. Yara…”
Jolene called her name a few times before Yara regained her senses.
“I’ll head over right now.” Yara pursed her lips tight before adding, “You mustn’t scare yourself now. I’ll help you no matter what happens. But if you backstab me, I’ll make sure you don’t get to see your children anymore!”
At this point, Jolene could somehow sense that Yara was not as innocent and harmless as how she appeared to be.
But since she had chosen to place her trust in the wrong person from the beginning, there was no other way out for her, and all that she could do was continue following Yara’s orders now.
Even after hanging up the call, Jolene did not feel any better.
She was overwhelmed with guilt and terror.
Moments later, a doctor in a white robe arrived at the hot spring resort.
When the middle-aged male doctor saw Natalie and Samuel’s ashen faces, he was slightly startled.
Didn’t the caller report that there’s only one person who’s bitten? Why are there two victims? Who am I supposed to save first?
Samuel averted his gaze to Natalie, who was lying on the bed. Then he said without a second thought, “Treat her first.”
A Cue for Love Chapter 378
Her Guardian Angel
Samuel’s gazes were so cold and frosty that they freaked Jolene out. She had wanted to ask the doctor to check on Samuel first, but eventually, she did not dare to do it.
The doctor put down his medical box and began checking on Natalie.
It turned out that it was a rattlesnake, a highly venomous species, that bit Natalie earlier. Fortunately, the hospital had ample antivenoms to counter rattlesnake bites in their medical storage. With proper and timely medical treatment, one would not be in a life-threatening case.
Natalie later went into an unconscious state.
She was freezing and thought of moving around and rubbing her hands to warm herself up. Yet, her whole body felt so weak she did not have the strength.
That made her feel terrible.
Suddenly, she felt something sharp poking through the veins on her arm.
That unusual sensation of intrusion made her curl her body up instinctively.
But at the same time, she felt Samuel’s big warm hands holding onto hers tightly. The skinship gradually aided in the transmission of heat.
Samuel’s hands barely had any calluses, but his index and middle fingers had many creases.
It was so distinct she could tell that it was Samuel holding onto her hand even without opening her eyes.
Instantly, she felt a sense of reassurance.
With him around, no matter how risky the situation was, she felt like she had undefeatable courage within her.
After administering the antivenom for Natalie, the doctor then walked toward Samuel, wanting to check on him.
However, Samuel, who could care less, enquired about Natalie’s condition instead of cooperating with the doctor. “Be honest with me; how is she doing right now?”
The doctor was a little taken aback by Samuel’s reaction but soon recovered from it and answered, “Her condition isn’t too bad. She should be able to recover in about three to five days.”
“Should be?” Samuel raised an eyebrow.
The doctor had always been careful with his words. But having put under the stress, he went through some deliberation and finally replied, “She’ll recover. She’ll be fine after the antivenom shot.”
Samuel only allowed the doctor to treat his wound upon receiving the answer he wanted.
Because he had helped Natalie suck the blood out, he had indirectly swallowed some of the venom and thus was infected. Of course, in contrast to Natalie, his condition was not too grave.
After the doctor gave both Natalie and Samuel the antivenom shot, he then left them with some advice, including having more rest, taking a healthy diet, and avoiding strenuous exercises and activities.
Samuel held onto Natalie’s hand as the corners of his lips curled into a mocking smirk.
Dear Lord, why are you doing this to me?!
He had been anticipating to accept the wonderful gift, that was, Natalie. Yet, the doctor had advised them against partaking in vigorous activities. In that case, I won’t hold myself back when she recovers!
After the treatment, Jolene guided the doctor out of the room and the resort.
“Are the two of them fine, Dr. Walker?” Jolene asked.
“They’ll be alright since they’ve received the antivenom,” the doctor answered honestly.
“That’s good to hear.”
“Did anything happen to you recently?” the doctor inquired. “You’ve been running the resort here for over ten years. Though there are many poisonous creepy crawlies around this place, I reckoned it’s the first time something like this happens, right?”
As much as Jolene knew that the doctor’s questions were out of care and concern, her voice grew agitated as though she was a cat that had gotten her tail stepped on.
“Dr. Walker, what are you trying to imply? Do you think I want such accidents to happen? Is it my fault if such a rare accident occurs?”
It did not cross the doctor’s mind that Jolene would be so defensive. “I don’t mean that…”
In the end, the two parted ways with grudges.
Back in the room, Samuel and Natalie were left alone since he had made it a point to warn the children not to disturb Natalie from her rest.
While Natalie was still asleep, Samuel gently pulled her into his arms for a loving and endearing hug.
He was once unafraid of losing the woman in his embrace. Yet now, he could no longer let her go so easily.
The old Samuel in the past used to think that sacrificing one’s life for another was the most absurd thing in the whole world. He believed it was ridiculous to talk about something that great when one could not even lead a good life. But the current Samuel was no longer the same. Had he met with such a circumstance now, he would be more than willing to exchange his life for Natalie’s.
A Cue for Love Chapter 379
Samuel Is Sleeping With Her
Later, Yara finally arrived at the hot spring resort.
Going up to her, Jolene looked a little hesitant with her words. “Ms. Yara…”
“Ms. Jolene, how’s Samuel doing?” Yara grabbed Jolene’s arm and questioned anxiously.
Her grip was so tight that it hurt Jolene. ”Ms. Yara, Mr. Bowers is starting to display minor symptoms after sucking the venomous blood out for that woman. But the doctor has already injected the antivenom for him. All that he has to do is to have some good rest for the next few days.”
Hearing what Jolene said, Yara finally felt a sense of relief.
“Where is he now, Ms. Jolene? I want to see him. I’m sure he isn’t feeling well since he has some symptoms. It’ll be better if he has my company now.”
“I’m afraid… it’s inconvenient to do that right now…”
“Inconvenient?” Yara’s eyes widened in disbelief. “I’ve given birth to a pair of twins for him! We’ve done the most intimate thing between a man and a woman! What else could be inconvenient for me to see him?”
Left with no choice, Jolene decided to divulge the truth.
“Mr. Bowers is sleeping with that woman. And it seems like he’s going to take care of her by himself,” Jolene explained as her eyes flickered. “He cares a lot about that woman—to the extent that he would even risk his life for her…”
Right away, hatred filled that pair of almond-shaped eyes that were on Yara’s pretty face. She bit her lips so tightly that it almost looked like it was about to bleed.
She had seen Samuel’s affection for Natalie countless times to date. Yet it had never ceased to surprise her with how much he would do for Natalie.
“Ms. Yara, what if that incident—”
“Watch your mouth. Even if you spill the beans and drag me into this matter, the Bowers family would never do anything to me since I’m, after all, Franklin and Sophia’s mother…” Before she went on any further, she abruptly changed the topic. “Ms. Jolene, do remember your status. You and I are different!”
Jolene’s face fell as soon as she heard those words.
Unbothered, Yara continued, “Find me a room, Ms. Jolene. I want to stay here.”
Finishing her orders, she turned and walked toward the corridor.
Jolene stared intently at her back from behind with her brows knitted tightly.
As far as she remembered, Yara was a gentle and meek lady. It was at this moment she finally saw through Yara’s true colors. She was utterly ashamed that she had taken pity of the latter and helped her to spy on Natalie.
One didn’t mind putting herself in harm to save the child… The other one didn’t mind putting her child at risk so that she has a reason to come over…
At that instant, Jolene seemed to have finally seen things through. Mr. Bowers isn’t blind; he has always been alert about people and situations more than anyone else.
In the meantime, Franklin, Sophia, Xavian, and Clayton sat around a table.
“Don’t you guys think it’s weird that a snake suddenly appears at the hot spring resort?” Franklin asked.
“I’ve checked; the snake that bit Mommy is a wild rattlesnake. It’s common to spot this species around this location.” Xavian shared the details he found on the website with the other three children. “Snakes have hibernation periods. There’s a possibility they will slither their way in since there’s a natural hot spring here.”
Clayton clenched his fist tight and asked, “Could that purely be an accident?”
Xavian nodded. “We won’t rule out the possibility that it’s a deliberate act. But judging from the general perspective, it’s more likely that’s an accident.”
The three boys fell deep into thought.
Exactly. There isn’t any evidence that could point out that this was all on purpose.
“I want to learn medicine from Mommy! I want to become a doctor so that no one can hurt Mommy or the three of you!”
The three boys looked at Sophia the moment she said that.
Although Sophia’s eyes were still red and swollen, the tenacity and determination in her eyes were prominent to anyone before her.
“But—” Xavian did not want to break Sophia’s dreams. Yet, he and Clayton knew that Natalie’s medical skills came from the Bayer family, and there was no way they would let an outsider learn those skills.
“Sophia, studying medicine is not an easy task. Let me do it instead.” Recalling the horrifying moment earlier, Clayton thought if someone had to inherit Natalie’s medical skills, he would surely be more suitable than the IT maniac, Xavian.
A Cue for Love Chapter 380
Aspire To Study Medicine
“I’m not afraid of it being difficult.” Sophia sounded firm. “I want Mommy to be my teacher when she’s fully recovered! I’ll work hard to study and learn so that Daddy, Mommy, Franklin, Xavian, and Clayton will not have to suffer from any sickness or pain.”
Among the four children, Sophia was considered the most carefree child.
Moreover, she was the only girl among her siblings.
Not only did Samuel and Natalie adore her, but even her three brothers would also always try to protect her.
Even though Sophia enjoyed the love from her family, she knew she was being excessively adored and protected by them too.
Despite Natalie shivering in cold after getting bitten by the snake, all that Sophia could do was bawl her eyes out uselessly. Not only that, she even made the weak Natalie comfort her.
As much as she could be a soft and sweet girl, she would become completely unrecognizable when she showed her obstinate nature.
Looking at her, the three brothers chuckled.
“Go ahead if you like it then. If Mommy doesn’t want to take you as her student, Xavian and I will help you persuade her. You can always give up halfway through if it gets too tough…”
Before Franklin could complete his sentence, Sophia rolled her eyes at him. “Who said that I’ll give up?”
Ashamed, Franklin quickly changed his attitude. “Yeah, you definitely won’t. I’m speaking nonsense.”
At that, Sophia clenched her fists tight.
Perhaps it was fate that Sophia had somehow set her ambition to learn medicine.
Meanwhile, Natalie lay groggily on the bed and slowly drifted off to sleep in the room.
She felt her limbs still icy despite her body turning warmer than before. It was such an uncomfortable feeling that she moaned, “S-So cold…”
“Where?” A deep yet attractive voice of a man came from beside her ear.
“My hands… and feet… they’re freezing…”
Because those were Natalie’s groans while she was in a daze, she sounded like she was acting coquettish with the man, unlike her usual calm and mischievous self.
Her tone was so sweet and mellow that anyone’s heart would melt for her.
Recalling the doctor’s reminder before he left, Samuel let out a sigh exasperatedly.
It was supposed to be a great birthday with a perfect gift waiting for him. It was a pity everything had fizzled into bubbles since the doctor had advised them against performing strenuous activities.
Frustrated, Samuel’s lips twitched as he held onto Natalie’s hands tightly in his palm as he tried to use his own body heat to warm her up.
Soon, Natalie’s body warmed up. After feeling so much better, her whining also became lesser.
She lay comfortably in Samuel’s arms and fell asleep.
However, the man figured she was not deep into sleep and thus inched beside her ears and whispered, “Are you hungry? Would you like to eat something?”
“I’m craving for some prawn ravioli,” Natalie muttered.
“Sure, let’s have some prawn ravioli then.”
This time, Samuel did not hear Natalie’s response. All he heard was steady breathing from the woman in his arms.
However, he did not dare hug her for too long.
There was no way he would not have any reaction while hugging her since he was wide awake.
Samuel tucked Natalie under the blanket and got out of the bed to prepare to make some prawn ravioli in the kitchen. He planned to cook it later after Natalie woke up so that she would be able to enjoy a plate of steaming hot goodness.
Of course, he still had another urgent matter on hand. He wanted to investigate the snake incident to find out if it was an accident or a case of a mischievous act by someone with intention.
He had been worried about Natalie’s condition earlier, and hence he did not get started. But since her condition had now stabilized, he thought it would be perfect for him to get on it.
Coincidentally running into Jolene while he was trotting around the corridors of the resort, the man instructed her to get someone to prepare him some fresh prawns for the ravioli.
Jolene held her head low throughout the conversation and quickly strode off upon hearing the instructions. As such, she did not arouse his suspicions for her.
Samuel rolled up his sleeves and was on his way to the kitchen when he passed by a room with the door left ajar. Walking out from inside the room was Yara, dressed in a deep blue floral bathrobe.
Her long black hair had been elegantly styled into a loose bun and fastened with a garnet hairpin, revealing the fair skin on the back of her neck.
The spark in her eyes gleamed with affection. Standing in the yard at the resort, she looked absolutely stunning.
It was obvious Yara had specially dolled herself up.
Unfortunately, before she could say anything, Samuel furrowed his brows and asked, “Yara, why are you here?”