Chapter 5 Going Home And Being Stalked

When Avery walked back into the hospital room, she found Walter waiting for her, paperwork in hand. "Avery, I'm here to get you out of this place today."

"Finally! I thought I'd never be free. If I had to stare at these walls any longer, I'd go insane." Relief swept over Avery, and she threw her arms up, grinning.

Her boundless energy drew a genuine laugh from Walter, who couldn't hide his delight. His eyes crinkled, and a bright smile lit up his face.

In moments like this, he thought his brother was simply irresistible. Still, he couldn't help but notice how fragile he seemed. Once they got home, Walter made a silent promise to help his brother recover his strength.

After signing the discharge forms, Walter guided her outside to a gleaming Cullinan parked at the curb.

Avery's mood shifted instantly when she saw the Cullinan. Memories flashed through her mind-stepping into a car just like this had changed her life, landing her in the Hudson family's tangled web.

Walter picked up on her hesitation. "What's the matter?" he asked gently, concern coloring his voice.

Avery looked up, uncertainty flickering in her eyes.

The innocence in her gaze pulled at Walter's heart, and he felt a sudden rush of protectiveness.

A moment later, he seemed to understand. With a furrowed brow, he turned to the driver. "Take this car back and bring a different Rolls-Royce. In fact, get rid of every Cullinan at home. Avery doesn't want anything to do with them."

"Uh..." Avery's mouth opened, caught off guard by Walter's sudden decision. She glanced at him, surprise flashing in her eyes.

She'd always known the Hudson family was wealthy beyond belief, but this felt excessive, even for them.

Walter looked apologetic. "I'm sorry. I should've thought about how you'd feel. I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories."

She quickly shook her head. "Really, it's okay. I just need a little time, that's all."

Walter wasn't having it. His tone turned determined. "You've been through enough. Now that you're home, nothing's too good for you. In fact, what do you say to a Lamborghini after we get back?"

Avery stared at him. "Walter, I don't even have a license yet!"

He waved off her concern, a teasing glint in his eye. "That's easy. I'll get you the best instructor in town. Give it a month and you'll be cruising around on your own, I promise."

Avery sank into the plush seat, both overwhelmed and amused by just how extravagant their world really was.

As they made their way through the city, Walter started catching her up on the Hudson family news.

It turned out that, besides her three so-called brothers, the family had also adopted a girl-Daniela Hudson.

Walter glanced over to see how Avery was taking the news. "Daniela's a sweetheart. I think she'll treat you like her real younger brother."

He relaxed when he saw Avery seemed unbothered. "After you vanished, Mom and Dad were desperate to find you. Eventually, they found Daniela-she'd been through her own ordeal-and decided to bring her into the family."

Avery offered a gentle smile. "You don't have to worry, Walter. I'm not the jealous type. I'm glad you all looked out for her."

He watched her fondly, pride and affection shining in his eyes.

For someone who'd been through so much, Avery's kindness was a marvel.

Walter's smile widened. "Dad, Phillip, and Zachary have all come home, too. They usually have a million things going on, but none of them would miss this for the world. By the way..."

He pulled out a small, elegant box and handed it to her. "I got you something to celebrate getting out of the hospital. Go on, open it."

Avery undid the wrapping, lifting the lid to reveal a stunning watch inside-a rare Patek Philippe, gleaming under the light.

The gesture left no doubt: Walter spared nothing when it came to her.

"Mr. Walter Hudson, there's something you should be aware of." A quiet voice from the front broke the moment.

Walter lifted his eyes, catching sight of two cars flanking them-both with plates hidden from view.

His expression hardened for an instant, but when he looked at Avery, he managed a gentle smile. She was still turning the watch over in her hands, completely absorbed. "Go on, Avery. See how it feels on your wrist. If it's not the right fit, I'll find you another."

He made a subtle gesture toward the driver.

The driver caught on right away and gently stepped on the gas, picking up speed.