SARAH'S POVAfter what feels like hours of arguing and pleading, the hospital staff finally relent. They provide me with a sterile gown, head covering, and gloves, then lead me through the sterilization process. My hands shake as I scrub them under the harsh fluorescent lights."Ma'am, you need to follow the exact protocol," the nurse instructs me. "Any contamination could endanger your husband's life.""I understand," I reply, though my voice comes out as barely a whisper.Once I'm properly suited up, they escort me into the operating room. The scene that greets me is terrifying—machines beeping frantically, medical staff rushing around Michael's still form on the table, and the sharp smell of antiseptic filling the air.The lead surgeon looks up from his work, his face flushed with anger and stress. "What the hell is she doing in here? Who authorized this?""Doctor, she insisted—" one of the nurses begins."I don't care what she insisted!" the surgeon snaps. "This is a sterile envir

MICHAEL'S POVI sit up straighter as the doctor and his team of nurses enter my room. The familiar routine of medical examinations has become second nature over the past few hours, but Sarah still hovers behind them like a protective guardian angel."Let's see how you're healing, Mr. Thompson," the doctor says, approaching with his stethoscope. "I need you to lean forward slightly."I comply, wincing as the movement pulls at my bandaged ribs. The cold metal of the stethoscope presses against my back through the thin hospital gown."Take a deep breath for me... good. Another one... excellent."Sarah watches every movement with anxious eyes, her hands clasped tightly in front of her. I can see the worry etched into every line of her face, and it makes my chest tighten with guilt.After several minutes of poking, prodding, and checking various monitors, the doctor straightens up with a satisfied expression."Well, Mr. Thompson, I'm pleased to say you're healing remarkably well. Your brea

MICHAEL'S POVI watch the clock on the wall, counting down the minutes until Sarah arrives. Santiago adjusts his cufflinks for the third time, looking every inch the sophisticated businessman in his tailored suit."She should be here any moment," I tell him, though I'm starting to worry.My phone rings, and Sarah's name appears on the screen."Sarah? Are you still coming?""Yes, I'm on my way to the hospital now. I just wanted to confirm the details."Relief washes over me. "Are you wearing the pearl necklace I gave you for our anniversary?"There's a long pause that makes my stomach sink."Michael, I—""Just come," I say, unable to hide the disappointment in my voice. I hang up before she can explain.Santiago notices my expression. "Everything alright?""She's not wearing the pearls.""Maybe she has a good reason."I lean back against my pillows, feeling deflated. That necklace represented months of saving every penny from my various jobs, working extra shifts just to afford somethi

SARAH'S POVThe lights dim to a sophisticated blue glow as the auction officially begins. Everyone settles into their seats, and an excited murmur fills the room. The stage is set with elegant displays, and the auctioneer takes his position behind the podium.I glance around nervously and spot Derek sitting several rows away. His jaw is clenched tight, and I can see his lips moving as he mutters something under his breath. His eyes are fixed on me with an intensity that makes me uncomfortable."Have you ever done this before?" Santiago asks quietly beside me."Done what? Been to an auction? No, never."He hands me a numbered paddle. "Then you're doing this one."I hold it awkwardly in my lap. "What exactly is this for?""Simple. When you see something you like, you raise the card during the bidding war.""Bidding war? That sounds intense."Santiago leans closer, his voice low. "It's exactly what it sounds like. The auctioneer starts at a base price, and people raise their paddles to b

SARAH'S POVThe car pulls up to my family home, and I feel exhaustion settling deep into my bones. Santiago turns in his seat to face me."The items will be delivered in the morning, Mrs. Thompson. Discreetly, as per auction house policy.""Thank you, Santiago. For everything tonight.""Are you sure you don't want me to come in with you? Explain what happened to your family?"I shake my head firmly. "No. They wouldn't understand, and honestly, I don't have the energy to deal with their questions right now.""If you need anything—anything at all—call me immediately.""I will. Goodnight, Santiago."I walk into the house, and I can already hear my mother and grandmother's voices from the living room. Something about the auction, no doubt. I head straight for the stairs, hoping to avoid them."Sarah! Is that you?" My mother's voice calls out."Yes, Mom. I'm going to bed. It's been a long night."I don't wait for her response. I just climb the stairs and disappear into my room, locking the