Chapter 4 How Did You Know My Name

Tristan felt a wave of relief cascade through him. "Alright, I'll have my assistant address your grandmother's surgery and medical expenses immediately."

Gianna dabbed at the moisture gathering in the corners of her eyes and whispered, "I need to visit the hospital first to see my grandmother. I must ensure she's alright."

Tristan extended the umbrella towards her. "Of course, but wait just a moment."

He shrugged off his suit jacket in one fluid motion and draped it across Gianna's shoulders with natural care. "I'll accompany you."

A comforting warmth enveloped Gianna, and she accepted his gesture without protest. She followed him into the waiting vehicle.

Once settled in the car, Gianna ventured timidly, "I haven't even learned your name yet."

The realization struck her as profoundly odd-they were on the cusp of marriage, yet she remained unaware of her future husband's identity.

"Tristan Murray," he replied, his voice resonating with a captivating depth that filled the quiet interior of the car.

"Oh, my name is-"

"I know, you're Gianna Lloyd," he interjected smoothly.

Gianna froze in astonishment. After collecting herself, she inquired, "How did you know my name?"

Tristan deflected the question with practiced ease. "That's not of consequence right now. We'll arrive at the hospital shortly. Try not to worry."

Gianna's thoughts immediately pivoted back to her grandmother, the question evaporating from her mind.

Tristan exhaled softly in relief. Having only recently returned from abroad, he had been meticulously gathering information about Gianna.

He had uncovered her details and had been eagerly anticipating their reunion, though he never imagined it would unfold in such an unexpected manner.

Fortunately, he had found her and managed to secure her presence by his side.

...

At the hospital, Tristan stood outside the ward, engaged in an intense discussion with the doctor regarding surgical options.

Gianna maintained her vigil at her grandmother's bedside, her gaze occasionally drifting to the scene beyond the glass window. She observed Tristan's brows knitting together in concern-an unmistakable indication that the situation was dire.

A sharp pang of sorrow pierced her heart as she turned back to her grandmother, Paulina White, clutching the elderly woman's hand while silent tears coursed down her cheeks.

Gianna lost track of time until she detected a faint movement in her palm. She hastily wiped away her tears and regarded Paulina with anxious anticipation.

Gradually, Paulina regained consciousness. Despite her evident weakness, she immediately noticed Gianna's tear-stained face and struggled to reach out, attempting to brush away the lingering moisture. "My sweet Gianna, why do you weep?"

Gianna forced her lips into a semblance of a smile. "I'm fine, Grandma. How are you feeling?"

"I fear my journey in this world draws to a close." Paulina sighed, tightening her grip on Gianna's hand. "After I depart, you must take good care of yourself, so I won't carry worries into the afterlife."

"No, Grandma!" Gianna cried, shaking her head with fierce determination. "You won't leave me. I've secured the necessary funds, and your surgery will proceed soon."

Paulina momentarily appeared stunned before asking with evident shock, "Where did you acquire such a substantial sum?"

Gianna hesitated, uncertain how to explain without causing additional distress, fearing that full disclosure might intensify Paulina's concerns.

"Gianna, answer me!" Paulina urged, anxiety creeping into her voice.

Gianna replied vaguely, "Grandma, I'll tell you later."

Paulina studied Gianna's flustered expression with discerning eyes, as if deciphering an unspoken truth. She clutched Gianna's hand even more firmly. "Gianna, promise me you haven't done anything foolish for my sake! If you have, I would rather embrace death this very moment!"

"No, Grandma! Nothing of the sort!" Gianna hastened to reassure her. "Aaron lent me the money."

"Are you telling the truth?" Paulina questioned, skepticism evident in her tone.

"Yes, I am," Gianna affirmed with conviction.

Only then did Paulina's tension dissolve. She released Gianna's hand and gently patted it. "Aaron treats you well. With him by your side, I can be at peace."

Outside the ward, Tristan was about to enter when Paulina's words reached him, causing him to pause in his tracks.