Chapter 4 Four

Maya's pov

My eyes snapped open, and a groan escaped my lips. The piercing headache made me feel like the world was coming to an end.

"Hey, you're awake," a male voice said softly. I shifted my gaze to see who was talking. It was the same guy I met in David's office.

My heart thumped in my chest as I took in my surroundings. "Where am I? Who are you?" I asked, my voice shaky.

"My name is Ethan, and you're in the hospital. You fainted, so I helped bring you here," he replied.

"Oh, thank you so much for helping me," I muttered.

He smiled, and I checked my phone beside me. Numerous missed calls from Zoe flashed on the screen. She must have been worried.

"What happened?" Ethan asked, concern etched on his face. "A pregnant woman like you shouldn't be thinking so much that it leads to fainting. What if I hadn't been there to rescue you on time?"

"It's not that I want to be in this position, but it's the situation I find myself in," I replied.

His eyebrow rose, and he touched my arm. "What's the problem? Please, feel free to share with me. I can help."

I smiled, feeling grateful for his kindness. "I'm pregnant for a man who doesn't want me. We had a one-night stand, and I just found out he's getting married in four days," I explained, laughing bitterly.

Ethan looked at me with pity, and I gulped. "I'm sorry about that. I know how men can be, and I know how you feel," he said.

"Thank you," I muttered.

"So, what do you do for a living?" Ethan questioned, locking gazes with me.

"I work in a club, but I don't think I can work there anymore. It's not healthy for me or my child," I answered.

"I agree. Since you can't work there, what do you intend to do?" he asked.

"I honestly don't know, Ethan. I have nothing to do and no family or friends to support me," I said with a groan.

"It's okay. I'm glad I met you today. Money isn't my problem. I'll help shoulder your responsibility until you give birth," he offered.

My eyes widened in shock, finding it hard to believe. "Wow, thank you so much. You don't even know me, and you're willing to help. God bless you," I said, my voice laced with appreciation.

"It's okay. I'm glad to help. I hate seeing young women go through hardship when I can help. What's your name?" Ethan asked.

"I'm Maya," I replied.

"Nice name, Maya. When you're ready, I can take you home," he said, and I nodded.

The door opened, and a woman walked in. "Oh, she's awake," she said with a smile.

"Yes, doctor, thank you for your help," Ethan replied, his gaze never leaving mine.

"All thanks to you, Ethan. How are you doing, young lady?" she asked me, staring at me with me curiously.

"I feel much better now, thanks," I replied.

"Okay, you can go home now, but make sure you don't overthink. It's not healthy for you or the baby," she advised, and I nodded.

She handed Ethan a white nylon bag. "Here are her drugs. Ensure she takes them," she said before leaving.

"Thank you so much for your help. I really appreciate it," I said sincerely. He smiled flashing me his white pearly teeth.

"Anything for you, Maya," he whispered, his voice low and a blush crept to my cheeks.

Ethan helped me into the car. I gave him directions to my house. The ride was silent, I felt at peace. Ethan's presence was comforting, and his promise gave me strength.

As we walked to the door, he wrapped his arms around my waist. I couldn't help but feel flutters in my stomach at our closeness.

His hand came into contact with the door. Zoe's eyes widened when she saw us.

"Where the heck have you been? You had me worried!" she exclaimed, her brow furrowed with worry.

"Please, don't yell. She's just recovering," Ethan cautioned softly, while she raised a curious brow.

"Who is he, Maya? Why aren't you saying anything?" Zoe demanded curiously.

"His name is Ethan. He helped me when I fainted at David's office," I replied.

"Really? Thank you for helping her, Ethan," Zoe said, and Ethan smiled.

"I'll see you later, guys. Expect me tonight, Maya," he said.

"Okay," I replied and watched him leave.

Zoe followed him to the window side, gasping at the sight of his car driving off. She turned to me, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. "Where did you meet this one? He's rich, too."

"I told you already. He just decided to help me," I muttered.

She raised an eyebrow. "That's convenient. Are you sure you can trust him?"

I nodded. "I think so. He seems genuine."

Zoe sighed. "Okay, but be careful. You don't know much about him."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and uncertainty. As we settled in, I couldn't shake off thoughts of Ethan. Why was he helping me? What did he want in return?

*****

Zoe and me were having snacks while we watch television when the doorbell rang, breaking my reverie. "That must be Ethan," I said.

Zoe's eyes widened. "Already? You barely knew him an hour ago."

I shrugged. "I know, but he said he'd come back tonight."

"Okay, I'll leave you two alone. But remember, I'm watching him," She said in a firm tone.

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief. With Zoe's support and Ethan's help, maybe I could navigate this challenging situation.

As Zoe left, Ethan walked in, carrying a bouquet of flowers. "Hey, Maya. How are you feeling?"

"Better, thanks," I replied, touched by the thoughtful gesture.

Ethan handed me the flowers with a grin on his face. "I thought these might brighten up your day."

I inhaled the sweet fragrance, feeling a sense of peace wash over me. "They're beautiful. Thank you."

As we sat down, Ethan pulled out a folder filled with documents. "I've made arrangements for you to stay with me in London. You'll have everything you need."

My heart skipped a beat. London? With Ethan? "Are you sure?" I asked, hesitation creeping in.

Ethan's eyes locked onto mine. "Yes, Maya. I want to help you. Trust me." And with those words, my life was about to take a dramatic turn.