Badass in Disguise (Shadow) novel Chapter 268

Chapter 268

Chris emerged from the basement door. Ilis normally pristine appearance was notably disheveled–shirt partially soaked, sleeves rolled up revealing bandaged wrists with fresh blood seeping through. His face was taut with frustration.

Eleanor stood frozen near the kitchen entrance, her eyes fixed on Chris with concern.

“Chris, you’re bleeding again,” she said, stepping toward him.

Chris glanced down at his wrists with mild surprise, as though he’d forgotten about his Injuries. “It’s nothing.”

“Why is your shirt wet?” Eleanor asked, reaching out but stopping short of actually touching him.

“Water situation,” Chris replied vaguely, smoothing back his hair. “Our guest downstairs wasn’t cooperating.”

“Do you need help with anything?” Eleanor’s voice was s

soft.

“I appreciate the concern, Ms. Astor, but I’ve got it under control.” Chris gave her a practiced smile. “I should clean up. I’ll see you in the morning.”

With a slight bow of his head, he started toward the stairs. “I’m heading to my room now, Ms. Astor. Have a good night.”

The next morning, Jade found herself sitting on a plush sofa in Chris’s bedroom, watching as a private doctor carefully unwrapped the bandages from his wrists. Eleanor sat beside her, her cheeks flushing every time Chris winced.

“These are healing well, considering.” the doctor commented, examining the raw, inflamed skin where rope and metal handcuffs had cut into Chris’s nesh. “No signs of systemic infection, but we’ll need to keep an eye on this area.” He pointed to a particularly angry–looking wound.

“How much longer for full healing?” Chris asked, his voice casual.

“Three weeks minimum before the skin fully closes. You’ll have stars, though.”

Chris shrugged. “What’s a few more?”

Jade noticed Eleanor’s quick intake of breath at his words. She was completely captivated by him–this strange mix of polished attorney and damaged man.

wasn’t aware I’d be having an audience for my medical examination, Chris said, glancing in their direction with a raised eyebrow

“If we’re b

bothering you- Eleanor began.

“Not at all,” Chris interrupted with a calculated smile. “Though I am curious why Jade brought you to watch me get bandaged up. Is this some form of entertainment I wasn’t aware of?”

Jade met his gaze evenly. “Eleanor insisted. She was worried about you.”

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12:31 Sat, Sep 27

Chapter 268

“I just wanted to make sure you were healing properly,” Eleanor explained, her cheeks reddening further.

Chris’s expression softened slightly. “That’s very thoughtful.”

“I could help with the bandages, Eleanor offered. “I took a first aid course last year.”

“That’s kind, but unnecessary.” Chris replied smoothly. “The doctor here is quite capable, and these wounds are… rather personal reminders.”

Eleanor nodded, disappointment flickering across her face.

The doctor finished applying the fresh bandages and packed his supplies. Same time tomorrow, Mr.

Jensen?”

“Yes, thank you,” Chris confirmed, already rolling down his sleeves to cover the evidence of his ordeal.

After the doctor left, Chris excused himself to take a call, leaving Eleanor and Jade alone in his bedroom.

“Jade,” Eleanor began hesitantly once they were alone, “can I ask you something personal?”

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