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I was…back.
It wasn't an illusion. The familiar feeling in my heart overwhelmed me.
In my past life,Zach was either in class or at the hospital with me.Our close relationship was obvious to everyone.
When the nurses teased us,I’d shyly nod,texting Zach about my surgery updates.
I didn’t know he skipped an out-of-town competition for me.In our later fights,he blamed me for always needing him.
This life,I wouldn’t trouble him.
I had enough money to hire professional caregivers.
I was certain Zach loved me once—I never doubted his heart.But hearts change quickly.
Zach:“Rachel,I’m going to Riverdale tomorrow,can’t visit.I’ll send my buddy to look after you for a few days.I’ll bring you something delicious when I’m back.Call me if you need anything,okay?”
Rachel:“Okay.”
I gently touched the locket around my neck,the last gift from my parents.
I missed them.
After a while,I drifted off into a deep sleep.
The next morning,the scent of roses woke me.
“Rachel,we’ve met.Zach’s busy,so I’ll care for you the next few days.No classes this morning,so I’m here with breakfast.”
“Thanks.”
Ignoring his expectant look and smiling slightly.“But you don’t need to come after today.I’m getting discharged.”
“Huh?”
I said no more.Watching his dejected departure,I prepared to leave for home.
Halfway through my journey,the car broke down.I quickly searched for nearby repair shops.
Ten minutes later,a young man in a tow truck arrived and hauled the car to his garage.
He wore a black apron,fingers stained with oil,sweat beads on his arms.
He exuded a vitality I lacked.
Inside,I noticed his backpack—he seemed to be a student.
I clenched my fists,hesitating,but couldn’t express my thoughts.
The shop owner said the car needed repairs,so I took a cab to my villa.
The housekeeper had already done the cleaning, but I still wanted to rearrange the furniture and my piano.
While it was still early,I hired movers online.
To my surprise,the man who arrived was the mechanic I’d just met.
He froze for a moment, then quickly pulled on a set of work clothes and a mask that he grabbed from his toolbox.
“What do you need done?”
His voice was muffled.I pointed out items to move,trailing him closely.
“You…”He started,then stopped,his breathing loud in the quiet villa.
My gaze lingered on him, noticing the three deep scars on his veined hands.
Compared to Zach’s hands, which looked like those of a basketball player, his were rougher and more striking.
“Student handyman,how much?”
“$100.”
He pulled out his phone,but I shook my head and asked for his contact code instead.
After transferring the money,I finally asked the question I’d held back.
“Student handyman,are you…really short on cash?”
“I noticed you’re working multiple jobs.”
“I need a bodyguard and caregiver to take care of me. I’m willing to pay $2,000 a month. Are you interested?”
