Elizabeth's eyes fluttered open.

A splitting headache pounded behind her temples.

The memories rushed back in a painful flood.

The other person landing on her.

The crushing weight.

The searing, unbearable agony before everything went black.

How badly was she injured?

What about her stunt double?

A profound weakness seeped into her bones.

"You're awake." A man's voice, familiar and unwelcome, cut through her thoughts.

She turned her head, her gaze landing on Ethan. A frown instantly marred her features. He was the last person she wanted to see. Yet, he always appeared.

This was a serious incident. Where were her parents? They would be sick with worry knowing she was hurt.

Had they gone home to rest after keeping a vigil all night? Her eyes scanned the room. The ward was surprisingly crude. Why had she been placed here?

"Did you not tell my parents I was hurt?" Her voice was feeble, laced with accusation and hurt.

Was he hiding this to avoid their anger? Could he be so selfish? What if she had died?!

Ethan ignored her question. "Does it hurt anywhere?" he asked instead.

"I don't need your fake concern, Ethan. Let me be clear." She drew a shaky breath, gathering her resolve. "You can't cover up this accident, even with your control over the film set. I won't keep this from my parents. And I certainly won't hide it from my grandfather."

She was determined. She would never lie for Ethan Parker.

He simply changed the subject, his tone calm. "Are you hungry? Do you want something to eat?"

Elizabeth didn't answer. She tried to push herself up, intent on calling her parents herself. Wasting breath on Ethan was pointless.

His hands shot out, stopping her. "Don't move. Your liver ruptured from the impact. The doctor insists on complete bed rest for a week."

"Don't touch me!" she spat, putting all her feeble strength into the words.

His hands slowly released her. Elizabeth stopped struggling. Her brief attempt had proven she wasn't going anywhere.

"I'll adjust the bed. You can sit up," he told her.

He seemed unbothered by her foul mood. She wasn't surprised. He'd always been infuriatingly calm and detached, even as a boy. Besides, he bore responsibility for this mess. His guilt was expected.

"The doctor said you should eat something bland when you wake—" he began.

The ward door swung open, cutting him off.

Nancy walked in.

Curiously, William was with her, not Ivan.

"Mom!" Elizabeth called out, her voice sweet with relief.

Nancy's face was a thundercloud. She didn't respond.

Elizabeth assumed it was just worry. She tried to sound cheerful. "I'm fine, Mom. Really. I just can't walk right now, but I feel okay. Please don't be upset. I'll be more careful next time."