Dr. Nathan Watson carefully stitched up Ethan Roscente's wound and wrapped it in pristine white bandages.

"Keep the wound dry. Change the dressing every three days." He adjusted his glasses. "Drink plenty of water and rest."

Ethan gave a noncommittal grunt, grabbing Jenna Roland's hand to leave.

The hospital lobby buzzed with activity.

Jenna suddenly stopped walking.

Officer Liam Hill approached in his police uniform, accompanied by his colleague Dr. Cole Macmillan.

"Officer Hill." Jenna smiled in greeting. "Still at the hospital?"

Liam's gaze lingered on Ethan before shifting to Jenna. "And this is?"

"Her husband." Ethan spoke first, tightening his grip on Jenna's hand. "Officer Hill, I presume? Heard a lot about you."

Jenna shot Ethan a glare.

Liam's expression darkened. "So Ms. Roland is already married."

"Yes." Jenna forced an awkward laugh. "Here on a case, Officer?"

"Brought in an injured suspect for treatment." Liam's tone remained neutral.

After brief pleasantries, Jenna quickly pulled Ethan away.

Cole nudged Liam with his elbow. "Smitten?"

Liam averted his gaze. "Any man would admire a beautiful, sensible woman."

"Too bad you're late." Cole teased. "Her husband doesn't seem like someone to trifle with."

Liam didn't respond.

The man was undeniably striking. Standing beside Jenna, they looked like a painting.

"Let's go pay the bill." He turned toward the counter.

Inside the car.

Ethan stared at the passing scenery. "How do you know that Officer Hill?"

"When Milo got into that fight at the police station." Jenna focused on driving. "He also handled the incident when Leo Lombardi vandalized our stall."

Ethan tapped his fingers against his knee. "What a coincidence."

"I called the police the first time." Jenna explained. "Aunt Tanya reported the second incident. He's been helpful."

Ethan let out a cold laugh.

"When I pushed Lydia Lombardi, all the vendors testified for me." Jenna continued. "This time with Leo's injury, if not for Officer Hill—"

"No one helps without reason." Ethan cut her off sharply. "There's always an ulterior motive."

Jenna's grip on the steering wheel tightened.

The air in the car turned icy.