Flora’s Guide to a Second Chance at Love and Life

"Alright, Fiona, no need to worry," Jackson said with a rare, gentle smile, his eyes soft with affection he didn't even realize he had. "Catch a bit more sleep."

They'd gotten back late the previous night, and Fiona loved her beauty sleep, so she definitely hadn't caught enough Z's.

"You're the best, Jackson!" Fiona chimed, snuggling into his shoulder, drifting back off into a deep slumber.

There was something about Jackson's presence-his calming aura and soothing scent-that made Fiona feel like she could sleep even more soundly.

A faint smile played on his lips.

Watching Fiona through the rearview mirror, Jackson noticed her smiling in her sleep, like she was lost in the sweetest of dreams.

"Take it easy on the road," Jackson gently reminded the driver.

The ride was smooth until they neared a traffic light where a truck suddenly barreled through, cutting them off.noveldrama

The driver slammed on the brakes, the tires screeching loudly.

Jackson's forehead creased in concern as he instinctively reached out to steady Fiona. He cradled her to keep her in the most comfortable position and shielded her ears with his hand.

"What just happened?" Jackson's voice was as chilly as his glare towards the driver. "Didn't I tell you to be cautious?"

"Sir, a truck ran the red light," the driver explained, trying to keep his cool.

Jackson wasn't in the mood for explanations. With a cold glance, he instructed, "Sort it out and get Fiona home safely."

"Yes, sir."

Barely had the words left the driver's lips when a car from behind, unable to stop in time, slammed into them, pushing their vehicle forward.

The sleek front of the black limited edition Maybach crumpled into the back of the truck, breaking open the tailgate. Tons of sand cascaded down, quickly burying the hood until it was out of sight.

The impact threw Jackson and Fiona forward. Jackson held Fiona tightly, so she only got a few scrapes, but Jackson wasn't so lucky-his forehead, face, and joints were bruised.

He sucked in a sharp breath, wincing from the pain.

Fiona pulled away from his hold, her voice laced with worry. "Jackson, you're hurt!"

As the sand continued to pour, the trio managed to escape the car and leaned against the roadside. Fiona frowned, carefully checking over Jackson's injuries. "I'm alright, Fiona. No need to fret."

"It's pretty serious," Fiona murmured, guilt in her eyes as she glanced at him. "You didn't have to go all out to protect me, you know."

If he hadn't, Jackson wouldn't have been injured so badly.

"Sir, the car picking us up will be here in three minutes," the driver said.

He had some injuries too, but thanks to the airbags, he wasn't as banged up as Jackson.

Jackson nodded, managing a pained smile for Fiona. "It's nothing."

The replacement car arrived quickly, and they whisked Jackson to the local hospital. Fiona stayed right by his side, tending to him with ointment and care.

Checking the monitor, Fiona saw that Jackson's arm had been fractured from shielding her. She retrieved a set of acupuncture needles, selecting a few fine ones, and applied them skillfully to different points on his body. Then she expertly set his broken arm and wrapped it in a plaster cast.