Sunday, March 15th, 2020

Julian's POV

I can't believe that Chase was bold enough to send Bliss some flowers. He must think we are crazy to give them to Bliss.

The surprising arrangements of flowers were from Nolan. He really has changed since his daughter was born. And Shane sent flowers too. For him to send flowers, Shane must still care. But why did he hurt her the way he did? There has got to be a reason.

Grayson and I are in Bliss's room now. Bliss was in and out of sleep, so we just sat with her to keep her company.

"Oh, hi, my name is Tessa. I will be Ms. Sanders's massage therapist. I will massage her legs, arms, and hands to stimulate movement in those areas. It should take me about 20 minutes. And you both can stay."

"Okay. Thank you."

Grayson and I pulled the chairs away from the bed and let the therapist get started on the massage. Another person walked in.

"Hi, I wanted to introduce myself. I am Peter, and I will be Ms. Sanders's rehab nurse. I will be back later to work on her rehab. The break in between will give her time to rest."

"I'm Bliss's brother, Julian. And this is her boyfriend, Grayson."

"It is nice to meet you both." The therapist then exited Bliss's room. I could tell Grayson was irritated that Bliss's therapist was a man, but he didn't let it be known that he was.

After the massage therapist was done, she left too.

Bliss pointed to the pictures as a way to ask who drew them. So, I answered.

"Braelyn, Día, Rocco, Devin, Lauren, and your youngest fan, Hayden. You met Lauren before flying to Barbados."

She nodded her head to say okay.

"We will be sure to tell them. Get some rest, Bliss. We will come back later."

I kissed Bliss's forehead. Then, we exited her room.

"We should probably address the media now, so I'll see if the press can come later."

"Okay. Let's get something to eat now."

**********************

Narrator's POV

Later that day.

Julian's POV

"Thank you all for attending this press conference. I'm here to inform you that my sister came out of her coma yesterday. We are beyond thrilled that she is now awake. But Bliss has a long recovery road ahead. As before, please respect our privacy, and once she is well enough to leave the hospital, we will hold another press conference. Thank you for your time."

Grayson and I then left to go back upstairs. By the time we got back upstairs, it was our turn to sit with Bliss. Jessica and Andrea were in the room, along with the rehab nurse.

"Hey ladies, we are back from the press conference."

"Okay, Jules. I love that nickname Carly gave you. We saw Bliss slowly moving her fingers just a few minutes ago."

"That's great news." Jessica and Andrea then left. Grayson and I took sat down. We looked over at Bliss, and she smiled. We all missed that smile for the past three months. I'm so glad we didn't lose her.

*********

Narrator's POV

Over the next few weeks, Bliss's breathing progressed so well that the doctor was able to remove the breathing tube so she could breathe on her own. Her speech was still slow, but the doctor said it would improve over time.

Emilia brought Hayden for a visit. Even Amy stopped by to visit. Bliss thanked them both for coming to see her. Christina, Erica, and Gunner also visited Bliss.

Adrian searched and searched but couldn't tell who was the culprit at the company. That was until............

*************

Monday, March 30th, 2020

Adrian's POV

I am getting nowhere with this search. Who in the world in this building is tearing my family apart? I was returning from my walk outside, and surprisingly, it was 78 degrees in March in New York. Go figure that one out. I had my back turned and heard an interesting conversation from Bliss's friend, Jillian.

"Look, Bliss is my friend. I have already hurt her enough. She is already going to hate me for what I did. It is bad enough that Bliss is in the hospital. I could never do that to her! Never! And Mr. Landes has been kind, nice, and generous to my co-workers and me. They were perfect for each other. I'm done hurting my friend. Find somebody else."

She didn't see me. After Jillian hung up the phone, she went back to work. I know it can't be only her, but that is just what I needed to start with to find out who. It's time to meet with Ms. Jillian.

*******

"Jillian, why are you hurting Bliss? Who is your friend?!"

She started stuttering. "W-w-what do you mean?"

"Child, please cut the crap! I heard your little conversation at lunchtime!! Start explaining what your role is because I know you are not the only one!"

Shane and my husband came into my office.

"Who were you talking to on that phone?!"

She started crying and shaking.

"Mrs. Landes, I got a phone call back in August, forcing me to place hidden cameras in Bliss' office and Mr. Landes' office. It was the week before Bliss left for Milan. They told me to wait until Bliss left. They said if I didn't do it, something terrible would happen to my family or me. The following week, I had to wait until the executive team left. Security then turned off the cameras on the executive floor for about 30 minutes, allowing me to hide the cameras. So, I did it. I assumed after that; they wouldn't call me back. But they called me today. They told me that I would pay dearly again if I didn't do what they asked. I can't do what they asked. I have no idea who wants to hurt Bliss."

"What did the thugs want you to do, Jillian?" Shane asked her.

"Since they heard through the media that only family and friends were allowed to visit Bliss, they wanted me to g-give Bliss a needle of p-p-poison to kill her. I couldn't do it because Bliss is my friend. She has always been there for me, and the best friend a girl could have. They are going to find me and hurt me. That was the last thing I heard on the phone before I hung up. I'm sorry, I really am."

"Jillian, we are not going to let anyone hurt you. I apologize for screaming at you. It is obvious you were forced. What is the number that was calling, and what do you drive? Shane and my husband will make sure you are safe."

"I drive a navy blue Honda CRV. I parked it right near my friend's Dodge Durango. Her truck is gray. Here is my phone."

Shane's POV

You can tell that she was forced. Jillian gave my mum her phone to write the number down.

"Jillian, I promise you that nobody is going to hurt you. I'll make sure of it. I need a new secretary, so effective immediately that is your new position. I will go with you to get your personal belongings. There are a few floors in the building that no one knows about. Only me and my parents have access to them. Both floors have apartments on them. I had them added for dire emergencies. I want you to stay there. We will bring you the necessities that you will need. Write whatever you need on it and give it to either of us."

I need to have a chat with security now! "Where are your truck keys? Someone will be surprised to find me sitting in your truck tonight."

"They are in my bag at my desk."

"Let's go get your things now." Jillian and I left my mum's office, then made our way to the elevators.

Once we made it to the Primedia floor, Jillian was on; we walked to her office to grab her things.

"Whatever supplies you need, let Mercedes know, and she will order them for you. Who is your boss?"

"Adam Miller is my boss."

"Okay. I will be right back." I walked over to his office and knocked on the door.

"How can I help you, Mr. Landes?"

"I just wanted to let you know that you will need to hire a replacement for Jillian. Effective immediately, she will be my secretary for the executive team."

"Sure thing, Mr. Landes."

I returned to Jillian's office, and she packed her things in a box.

"I'll grab it. Is this everything?"

"Yes, sir. That's everything."

"Jillian, just call me Shane." Then, we made our way back upstairs.

***********

It was after 6:00 pm. I sat in Jillian's car to wait and see if someone would try anything. Sure enough, I saw a figure trying to pry its way into her truck. I punched them right in the face as soon as they opened the door. The police I called then surrounded the intruder.

The police handcuffed whoever it was and took them inside my building. I yanked the mask off the intruder.

"Lucy?!! Start talking now!!" I can't believe I punched a woman in the face.

"It's plain and simple - I can't stand her. She cost me my job. Plus, she was dating you."

"Bliss had nothing to do with you losing your job! You were nothing but ignorant to her, as well as several other of my employees. You were caught on video!! It is none of your business or anyone else's as to who I date! Why can't people understand that?! And why were you trying to kill her?!"

"The only person I was instructed to kill was Jillian. Someone else wants to take care of your ex. This goes higher than me, Shane. And, I am NEVER telling." She had the nerve to start laughing.

"There is nothing funny, you sadistic piece of trash!" I wanted to punch the mess out of her. But, I'll let Big Bertha get her in prison. That will wipe that smug grin off her face. I need to get a brand-new security team because this is ridiculous!!

"Get her out of here!!"

I still need to have that phone number traced. The police hauled Lucy off to jail. And I am sure someone will pay to have her released.

Before all of the police officers left, I called one over. "Can you trace a phone number for me, please? Shoot, I left the number upstairs in my office."

"I can follow you, Mr. Landes."

The police officer followed me to my office. I gave him the number my mum had written on the piece of paper.

"I'll look into this and get back to you as soon as possible, Mr. Landes."

"Thank you." I went back downstairs with the officer. Then, I went to check on Jillian.

She was in the kitchen with my mum and father.

"You will never guess who showed up at Jillian's car."

"Nope, I sure won't. So, just tell us who it was," my mum said.

"When they pried the door open, I punched them in the face. The police dragged the culprit inside the building. I then pulled the mask off, and it was Lucy. I can't believe I punched a woman."

"I knew that girl was no good."

"She said she was only supposed to kill Jillian, not Bliss. Someone else wants to kill Bliss. But, of course, she was not going to tell me. I did, however, give the officer the number to trace. I hope this will help us in finding out who is behind this. I want Bliss back in my life."

******

Narrator's POV

A month has gone by. Bliss continued to progress. She can now move around, so the doctor set Bliss up for physical therapy. Bliss has at least two short sessions a day. Grayson has stayed with her every day since the incident.

The doctor has even given Bliss a target date to go home. Since the NYC penthouse has a bedroom on the first floor, that is where Bliss is going to stay for a few months until she can go up the steps.

The police had a difficult time tracing the number that Shane gave them. They could not see who had been calling Jillian but discovered that it was a London cell phone number. Shanqe didn't recognize it because of the new area code. So, they are back to square one. Shane was so broken because he thought they had a starting point. He wants so badly to see his 'Darling.'

After several weeks of excellent therapy sessions, the doctor has given Bliss a release date of May 13th. She is so looking forward to it.

***********

Wednesday, May 13th, 2020

Bliss' POV

I couldn't wait for this day. I am finally free of the hospital and ready to go. Before I leave, I will address the media in the hospital lobby area. My speech is still a little slow, but it gets better each day.

Once the doctor comes, Julian will sign the papers for me to leave.

"I am so ready to leave. So, who is staying with me at the penthouse?"

"Grayson and Andrea will stay with you in the penthouse."

My doctor came into my room. Dr. Lucas handed Julian the papers to sign. "You are free to leave now. Take care of yourself, Ms. Sanders."

"Thank you, Doctor Lucas."

Julian carried my forearm crutches, and Grayson helped me in a wheelchair so we could make our way downstairs to meet the press.

The lobby was packed by the time we made it down there. It was overwhelming to see so many in the lobby for me. And I could have sworn I saw Shane. I can't be thinking about him. Grayson and I are dating now. He wheeled me to the microphone. I took a few minutes before I began to speak.

"Thank you all for coming. It is overwhelming to see all of this attention. This is humbling, and I will never forget it. My family and friends read every card and letter sent to the hospital. I also understand that flower deliveries had to be stopped because it was so much. Also, the numerous candlelight vigils that were held, not only in the United States but also in Barbados and London. And I am sure my house is filled with flowers, letters, and cards."

Grayson wrapped his arms around me because I cried profusely for a few minutes. Once composed, I began to speak again.

"I want to thank my family, friends, fans, the media, and fellow models for your support. I appreciate each and every one of you. Once I can gain strength fully back in my hands, I promise to reply to every letter and card with my family's help. I love you all so much. I hope they find the person who put me in the hospital since December. I am so tired of people trying to hurt me. I have never, ever hurt anyone. My parents raised me to be friendly and kind toward everyone. I will never understand this society that we live in. Please, stop all of the hate and love each other. Again, thank you all for coming." I am ready to go before I break down again.

I waved to the crowd, then told Grayson, "I'm ready to go to the penthouse."

Grayson rolled me to a Mercedes-Benz limo. He opened the door, then helped me out of the wheelchair and into the limo.

"Thanks."

"You're welcome, Bliss. I will do anything for you."

A trail of SUVs followed us to my penthouse.

*******

The security vehicle in front of us parked in front of the building. Once our limo parked, Grayson got out and helped me into the wheelchair.

"When we get inside, I need some pain medicine. My back is bothering me. And there is an underground garage for residents and guests to park in. I have several spots."

"Sure." Grayson wheeled me inside. I waved to the receptionist as I was wheeled to the elevator. The security team Ashton hired came on the elevator with us. Those guys are awesome and do their job very well.

The elevator finally reached the penthouse floor. There are two penthouses in this building. I have one. OH MY GOSH!!! I knew this looked familiar! Shane has the other penthouse! As long as he stays away from me, then we won't have any problems. Grayson opened the door.

"SURPRISE!!!"

There was a huge banner that said, 'Welcome Home, Bliss!' in my living room.

I scanned the entire room. Everyone was here, including Nana Margie and Grampa Eddie. I saw two people I had never seen before. Are they Grayson's father and his sister?

Devin came over and climbed onto my lap. I gave Devin a big squeeze and kiss. "Thank you, sweetie."

"We got all of the flowers, letters, and cards from your house," Julian said as Grayson wheeled me around the room.

Wow! I saw at least four huge shopping bags of letters and cards unopened.

Grayson helped me out of my wheelchair and sat me in my recliner. Then, everyone gathered around. I started tearing up again.

"First, thank you all so much for your support, especially Grayson, who was with me every day. And I loved all the pictures the kids drew for me. I asked Julian to hang them up in my house, right above the fireplace, in picture frames. Nana Margie and Grampa Eddie, thank you for making a trip from London to visit me."

"You're welcome, sweetheart. We love you, regardless if you are not with Shane. You're a special person, Bliss. Always remember that."

"Thank you, Grampa. Let's all eat because I am so tired of a liquid diet."

"Wait, before we eat, Braelyn has something for you," Austin said as he motioned for her to come over.

"Daddy, let me pick out a present for you." Braelyn handed me a jewelry box that was beautifully wrapped. I opened the jewelry box.

"It's beautiful, Lollipop! I love it. Thank you."

Grayson took the necklace out of the jewelry box and put it around my neck. "Now, let's eat."

"Bliss, I got you." Andrea went to get me something to eat. Layla brought Logan over; rephrase that, Layla walked Logan over.

"Well, aren't you a big boy now?" Logan climbed into my chair with me. "And you are getting cuter each day."

"He missed his Aunt Bliss. We are so glad to have you home, Bliss. Christina, Gunner, and Erica were going to come today, but they couldn't make it. They are so glad to have you back."

"Aww, that was sweet of them."

Andrea came back with some food.

"I didn't put a lot on your plate. Just let me know if you want more. There is plenty in the kitchen. Do you need help?"

"My arms feel a little tired, so yes. Thank you."

"I'll feed you. I told you I would do anything for you."

"Thank you, Grayson. Can I ask you something?"

"Sure. What's up?"

"Who is sitting next to Jessica and Mason?"

"That's my father and Raquel. They visited you at the hospital but wanted to introduce themselves once you were released."

"Okay. I would love to meet Raquel and your dad too."

Andrea then said, "You're welcome, sis. That is what I am here for. Kalani told Grayson he is not to assist you with personal things, such as giving you a bath or shower. And, he told Grayson to sleep in a separate room."

"I sure did. And I got great news this past week. The Sanders' ladies and gent officially became my children."

He came and sat down next to me, and I hugged him. "Thank you. I miss calling and talking to my dad. Now, I can do that again."

"You're welcome, sweetheart."

"Yes! Now, Bliss and I can...." Kam says before Cris cuts her off.

"You and Bliss can do what?" Cris says with arched eyebrows. Everybody chuckled.

"You didn't even let me finish. We can become closer than we already are."

Cris then says, "Smart girl."

Grayson's father and sister came to sit with us.

Grayson's POV

"Thank you both for coming. And for visiting me at the hospital. I appreciate your support."

"Bliss, this is my father, Derek. And my sister, Raquel."

"It's so nice to meet you."

"It's nice to meet you too, Bliss. And you're welcome. Raquel and I were thrilled when Grayson told us you would be okay. We had to come and officially meet you."

"We've never seen Grayson blush so much, Bliss."

Bliss arched her eyebrows. "Thanks a lot, Raquel."

"You know it's true, Grayson. We knew you were special for Grayson to blush so much."

"You should see Grayson when he is flustered." Raquel started snickering and my father started whistling. "Uh, forget I said that. Where are you guys staying?" Bliss asked.

"Grayson got our rooms at the Grandiose Coast Hotel."

"Well, you're welcome to stay here with Grayson and me. There is plenty of room. Plus, Raquel and I can get to know each other better. My sister, Andrea, will be with us too."

"Please, Grayson, I want to stay and talk with Bliss."

"Dad and I will go get your luggage after the party."

"Thanks, bro. And thank you, Bliss. I'm looking forward to spending time with you and your sister."

"It's nice to meet you, Raquel. I'm Andrea. I'll show you which room you can stay in."

Raquel and Andrea walked away.

Bliss's POV

"Can someone help me to the bedroom? I am exhausted now. I want to stay in the bedroom on the first floor."

"Sure."  Grayson stood up and carried me to the room.

"Thank you," I told him as he gently placed me down on the bed.

"Don't go yet. I need to say what I am about to say. Since October, the time we spent together has been wonderful. I care about you so much, Grayson. Did you really stay at the hospital every day?"

"Yes, I did. I cancelled photo shoots because it was more important to be there for you. I've cherished every day we've been together too. I meant it when I said I would do anything for you."

"I really do appreciate everything you have done for me. Sometimes I thought I would never find someone who cared about me. I was wrong. I just hope you're not mad at what I am about to say. I believe I saw Shane today at the press conference. A part of me even wished he came for a visit."

"Not going to lie, but I am irritated. But I understand Shane is a part of your past. I want to be a part of your future. I believe Shane did try. Andrea created two lists - one of the people permitted to visit and the other who couldn't. I'm sure you know which one Shane was listed on."

"I'm sorry, Grayson. The other penthouse belongs to Shane. Hopefully, we won't see him. I hope you are not mad at me. Thank you for even taking a chance on me. And, I still want us to be together and take it slow."

"I'm not mad at all. I understand the hurt, Bliss. I've been there. We can take it as slow as you want. We lost the past few months together. I want to show you that I love you."

"Thank you, Grayson, for everything. You are a very sweet guy."

"You're welcome, Bliss. Get some rest."

Grayson's POV

I wasn't expecting her to say it back yet, but I had to tell Bliss how I felt. I'm in love with Bliss Sanders.

*********

Thank you for reading chapter 44.

The penthouse living room is courtesy of Can Stock Photos - © Can Stock Photo / Bialasiewicz

Thank you all for the votes, reading, and comments. 😘