Morbid Fascination: You Mean the Whole World to Me

"Dad, I read the email you sent me. Is it for real or what?"

Freya Walton darted home the instant she landed, her mind reeling with disbelief. In just a matter of days, her mother had fallen gravely ill, slipping into an unconscious state, while the Healthbridge Hospital she founded hit rock bottom.

"Mom poured her heart and soul into that hospital, Dad. We can't let it wither away like this. You must have a solution up your sleeve, right?"

With a frown, Fletcher Walton set aside his newspaper, and sighed heavily. "Listen, Freya, let's take a deep breath and sort things out."

Just as Freya was about to say something more, a sweet, feminine voice cut in. "Don't go giving Dad a hard time. Let's face it. Healthbridge is in a shambles. No amount of money can fix it. It's better to declare bankruptcy and be done with it."

Freya's gaze shifted to the source of the voice.

A young girl, her age perhaps, stood before her, garbed in a flowing dress, exuding an air of haughtiness that made Freya's hackles rise.

Something about the girl gave Freya a sense of foreboding. "And you are?" she asked, her tone guarded.

The girl's lips curled into a smile, but her voice dripped with honeyed venom. "I am your younger sister, Hailey Walton."

Hailey, with her cherubic features, bore an uncanny resemblance to Fletcher in his youth. Her smile was disarmingly sweet.

Yet, her eyes glimmered with malice and repugnance as she leveled a gaze at Freya.

Before Freya could even blink, a middle-aged woman, decked out in a mink coat and heavy makeup, sauntered out of the kitchen, assuming the air of a gracious hostess.

"You must be exhausted, Freya. I've whipped up a little something for you," the woman said, setting the plate on the table.

She then strolled over to Fletcher, seating herself beside him and casting an indifferent look over Freya. "I'm Helen, and I'll be taking care of you and Fletcher from now on."

Freya's mind reeled in shock as she looked to Fletcher for an explanation. But he averted his gaze, clearly avoiding her questioning eyes. In that instant, Freya's worst fears were confirmed.

It was clear that Fletcher had been unfaithful, and his illegitimate daughter, sired from his mistress, was almost as old as her. In his wife's hour of need, he brought his mistress and their love child home.

Freya was overcome with a maelstrom of emotions-grief, sadness, and anger for her mother. She had been living abroad all this time, completely unaware of her family's turmoil. She never imagined things would take such a drastic turn when she returned home.

The urge to march up to them and slap them senseless coursed through Freya's veins, but she knew it wasn't the time to be impulsive. She had more pressing matters at hand.

Freya took a deep, steadying breath and said, "Dad, we can discuss these two women later. But the issue at hand is Healthbridge and it can't wait any longer. You've been in business in Leryport for so long; you must know how to save the hospital."

Fletcher averted his gaze, remaining tight-lipped.

Helen put on a show of faux sympathy and sighed. "Freya, you should think about your father's well-being as well. Healthbridge is in a financial abyss of hundreds of millions. If we don't act soon to sell it, we won't even be able to afford your mother's medical bills."

Freya curled her lips in a sneer, her patience wearing thin. "Shut up! Our family matters are none of your business!"

However, she had to admit that Helen had hit the nail on the head.

Her mother's health was rapidly deteriorating. Now she was in a coma, dependent on equipment and expensive medicine to cling to life. The medical bills were astronomical, and the Walton family's savings would soon be depleted.

In this dire situation, the best option was indeed to sell the hospital.

But Freya had grown up with her mother and witnessed her tireless efforts to build and expand the hospital to its current scale.

If her mother ever woke up to the news that Healthbridge had been sold, it would be a fatal blow, akin to signing her death warrant.

"Be kind to Helen, Freya!" Fletcher interjected out of the blue. "There is a way to salvage the situation, but it depends on your willingness to help."

Freya remained silent, as she anticipated his solution would not be one she would like.

Fletcher went on to say, "You're familiar with the Hayes family, right? They're one of the most influential and wealthy families in Leryport. If we could get them to assist us, Healthbridge will be saved. But of course, nothing comes for free."

He made an intentional pause, relishing in the tense silence that followed.

Knowing that he was waiting for her reply, Freya asked through gritted her teeth, "Well, what do I have to do?"

"It's very simple. All you have to do is marry Brennan Hayes."

Freya's heart dropped. So that was what he wanted from her.

Hailey cackled. "Have you heard of Brennan's ugly face and his track record? His previous three fiancees have all died, and he is in a vegetative state now. If you marry him, your marriage will be sexless and joyless."

Freya now understood why her father would make such a proposal. If there wasn't anything wrong with Brennan, she wasn't even qualified to marry him.

"Freya, you don't have to do this if you don't want to. As your father, I don't want you to suffer. We'll just have to sell the hospital," Fletcher said, feigning concern.

But the threat was clear in his words, and Freya wasn't fooled. She looked at the trio, and her eyes filled with contempt.

They were all good at acting, but Freya knew their true intentions.

She couldn't help but think that leaving this toxic environment was probably not a bad idea. After all, she had a chance to save Healthbridge Hospital and her mother, and that was all that mattered.

Taking a deep breath, Freya made her decision. "Fine, I'll marry him," she said, her voice steady but her heart racing.

As the sun peeked through the clouds, the sound of the car engine disrupted the quiet morning. Freya felt a sudden surge of anxiety, knowing what was awaiting her. She stepped into the Bentley alone, and the driver started it.

Soon, the car reached the premises of the legendary Hayes Mansion.

Looking out of the car window, Freya saw the magnificently carved iron gates slowly closing behind them. Her mind raced as she marveled at how the Hayes family could build such an opulent castle in the heart of Leryport. Surely, they had the power to save Healthbridge Hospital.

"Miss Walton, we have arrived." The driver's voice jolted her back to reality.

Freya quickly straightened her dress before stepping out of the car. She overheard the gossip of the servants.

"Look! The butler brought another woman here. I heard she's going to marry Brennan."

"Oh my goodness! Who is this unfortunate girl?"

"Who knows? I heard that the previous women who came here disappeared without a trace. I wonder how long this one will last."

"Money truly makes people blind to danger. How can an ordinary woman even think of marrying into the Hayes family?"

The servants' rude whispers continued to echo in Freya's ears as she trailed behind the butler, her heart racing with unease.

With each step, she felt like she was walking deeper into a dark abyss, with no hope of turning back.

But she knew that she had to keep going. For the sake of her mother and Healthbridge Hospital, she had to make this sacrifice.

After what felt like an eternity, they arrived at the door of Brennan's room. "This is your room from now on. Please make yourself comfortable."

"Okay." Taking a deep breath, Freya steeled herself, ready to face her fate.

As Freya pushed the door open, her heart pounded with anxiety. She still couldn't believe that she had to marry a man she barely knew. However, this was her choice, and she had to stick with it.

Her eyes fell on the figure lying in the bed. His face wasn't as ugly as the rumors claimed. On the contrary, he had a sharp jawline and high cheekbones that gave him a chiseled look.

But then she noticed his lips, tightly pursed like a zipper, making him look like a man of few words.

Freya's mind was filled with all kinds of rumors about the man in front of her.

According to hearsay, he was born with a cold nature, never close to his family. Ever since he took over the family business, he had done many vicious things.

Yet, this was the man she married, the person she would spend the rest of her life with.

If he weren't in a deep coma, he would have been a ruthless tyrant.

Regrettably, he was now in a vegetative state.

Freya summoned her courage and squat beside Brennan, studying his handsome face more closely. "Your skin is so good," she murmured softly.

Freya's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she touched Brennan's cheek gently.

Despite her touch, the man remained unresponsive.

Emboldened, she playfully pinched his face and observed him.

Freya couldn't help but admire his features. "Your face is so striking, even more handsome than the celebrities on TV. And those long, thick eyelashes are envy-worthy. If I had them, I'd be looking at myself in the mirror every day."

The close proximity made her heart beat faster as she marveled at the fact that such a stunning man was now her husband.

As Freya's mind wandered, her phone interrupted her thoughts.

Without enthusiasm, she answered the call to hear Fletcher's fake concern. "Freya, how are you getting along with the Hayes family?"

Hoping to cut the small talk, Freya got straight to the point. "I'm here like you asked. Have they paid you the money they promised?"

"Easy there. Such a large sum has to be transferred in stages."

Clutching her phone tightly, Freya replied in a hushed voice, "Okay, just keep your word. Notify me once the investment is made."

Fletcher obliged.

After ending the call, Freya lost interest.

Freya pulled the quilt over Brennan and spoke with a tinge of self-mockery, "I bet you didn't expect to marry a complete stranger either, but we have no choice, do we?"

At that moment, a knock on the door interrupted her thoughts.

"Ma'am, my master is waiting for you downstairs." A maid's voice drifted in from outside.

"I'm coming."

Freya scrambled to her feet but lost her footing, falling onto Brennan.

Her face reddened, and she hastily stood up, apologizing, "I'm so sorry. Are you okay?"

The man on the bed didn't stir.

Freya breathed a sigh of relief. Fortunately, he was in a vegetative state and couldn't move or feel anything.

Without giving it much thought, Freya rushed out of the room and followed the maid. She didn't notice that Brennan's finger moved slightly.

Guided by the maid, Freya descended the stairs.

There were many people in the large living room. Sitting on an armchair was a man in his seventies with a commanding presence.

Freya observed his features, recognizing the striking resemblance he shared with Brennan. It was evident that the man in front of her was none other than Jarrod Hayes, the most influential figure in the family.

With a poised demeanor, Freya approached him and greeted him politely.

Jarrod beamed at her, his expression warm and benevolent.

The more he looked at Freya, the more he liked her. With such a sensible woman as Brennan's wife, he could finally relax.

In a tender and paternal tone, Jarrod addressed Freya, "My dear, you've been here half a day now. Have you grown accustomed to your new surroundings?"

Without hesitation, Freya replied with deference, "The environment here is truly splendid. I relish in my new home."

"I am relieved to hear it. As you may know, Brennan's health is in bad shape. Therefore, I urge you to take good care of him for me," Jarrod reminded.

"You need not fret. Freya was a former medical student. I am sure she will tend to Brennan with the utmost skill and care," Sylvie Hayes interjected.

Sylvie was the second wife of Brennan's late father. Though over 40 years of age, she remained a stunning figure, exuding a regal presence and commanding respect.

Freya greeted Sylvie too.

Sylvie grabbed Freya's arm, made her sit next to her, and gestured to the man standing not far away. "Freya, this is Brennan's uncle, Keith Miller. Keith, say hello to Freya."

Keith lifted his gaze from his phone and focused his attention on Freya. As he gazed at her, he was taken aback by her beauty, completely transfixed.

He reached out and grasped Freya's hand, rubbing it. "Freya, you are so beautiful," he murmured, barely taking his eyes off her.

Freya instinctively retracted her hand, hiding it behind her back and wiping it with disgust. Then, she nodded at Keith as a greeting.

Keith's gaze was slimy, flirty, and downright unsettling, causing Freya to feel uneasy. She didn't take kindly to his creepy advances.

Then, Sylvie presented a document to Freya. "This is a prenup I asked a lawyer to prepare. Our family isn't some average family, so we must be cautious when it comes to marriage. But don't worry. It's merely a formality. You'll be treated well after you're married."

Freya nodded, grateful that they were willing to provide the funds. She wasn't looking for anything more from them.

She quickly scanned the document and signed it without hesitation.

Jarrod nodded with satisfaction and pulled out a check that he had already prepared. "Here, this is my gift to you."

When Freya saw the staggering number on the check, she was taken aback. "This is too much!"

The Hayes family had promised to give her hundreds of millions to save Healthbridge Hospital. How could she now take a gift worth millions?

"The gift is for you, my dear. We're family," Jarrod insisted.

Reluctantly, Freya accepted the check, thanking him for his generosity.

A glint of something sinister flickered in Sylvie's eyes as she took a brief but noticeable look at the check.

The rest of Freya's day was spent in conversation with the Hayes family in the living room.

By the time she finally retired to her room, it was already past midnight. Exhausted as she was, she knew that rest was not an option.

There was something she needed to do. Jarrod had asked her to clean Brennan's body.

In the quiet room, Freya's gaze fixated on Brennan's still form, feeling grateful that she was free from Keith's revolting gaze.

How hard could cleaning one's body be? She had studied human anatomy in medical school. Besides, Brennan was unresponsive and unaware of his surroundings, so this job shouldn't be difficult.

As Freya undressed Brennan, she reassured herself that it was a simple task.

But when Freya was face to face with Brennan's exposed body, her cheeks reddened with embarrassment. It was much different than she had anticipated.

As she began to wipe Brennan's body with a towel, she noticed his hard abdomen.

With a mix of curiosity and admiration, she traced the lines of his eight-pack abs, imagining the man he must have been before his current state. Unfortunately, he was now nothing more than a vegetable.

In no time, Freya was done wiping the upper half of Brennan's body and his legs, leaving only the part concealed by his briefs. She hesitated before realizing that this part needed cleaning too. With a deep breath, she took off Brennan's last piece of clothing, closed her eyes, and reached for the task.

Once she finished, Freya shook her sore wrists and helped Brennan get dressed again.

"Huh?" Freya stopped and glanced at Brennan, who had been motionless in the bed the entire time.

To her surprise, Brennan's face seemed flushed, almost as if he was feeling shy.

Freya knew this was impossible since Brennan was in a vegetative state and shouldn't be able to perceive any of it.

Perplexed, Freya muttered to herself, "Maybe the room temperature is too high."

But the strange feeling didn't bother her for long. After a quick wash-up, she crawled into the bed and dozed off in a corner.

Freya closed her eyes, her thoughts consumed with her mother's recovery and her determination to protect Healthbridge.

Soon, she drifted off to sleep.

In her slumber, she felt a hand caressing her shoulder, making her uneasy.

She felt uncomfortable and shifted herself slightly. Sure enough, she got a moment of peace.

But then, she was enveloped in a pair of warm arms.

Had she accidentally rolled over onto Brennan?

Groggily, Freya fumbled in the covers, trying to locate Brennan's position. He was right in front of her.

Then who was the one behind her and holding her in the arms?

Fear gripped her, and Freya broke into a cold sweat.

With a start, she snapped her eyes open and demanded, "Who's in the room?"