11 - Oakley.

My heart pounds hard against my rib cage as I head toward Eva’s hospital room. The prospect of seeing her has an unwanted effect on me. As I reach the room and glance into the window, I feel my stomach tighten.

Eva sits upright in bed, reading a book on veterinary science. Most girls would sit there scrolling through their phones on mind-numbing social media all day. I’ll give her one thing; she’s devoted to her dreams.

I hate that my admiration for her grows, especially as that admiration works against me. She will be collateral damage in my quest for revenge, but it would be easier if she were easy to dislike.

I draw in a deep breath and walk through the open door into her suite. She doesn’t notice me at first. “You’re coming back with me, Eva,” I announce, crossing my arms over my chest.

Her beautiful hazel eyes widen as she looks up at me. “Oh, I thought I was supposed to remain here for a few days, sir.”

I clench my jaw, feeling that desire tighten its hold on me at the use of th