+15 BONUS
Chapter 636
Ariel furrowed her brows. She didn’t need another check–up. No one knew her body better than she did.
Besides, the staff here had no idea she was terminally ill. Subjecting herself to additional tests would only strain her already fragile body.
“I’m fine,” she said firmly. “I’ve just been busy lately and probably lacking some minerals or vitamins. There’s no need for another check–up.”
More tests meant more blood draws. After months of treatment, even routine procedures had become
unbearable.
And now that she had joined the sixth–generation fighter jet project at the 719 base, her health had to
remain a secret. If anyone discovered her condition, they’d have no choice but to reconsider her
involvement.
Jayson frowned. “Ariel, it’s safer to do a thorough check–up.”
Ariel’s expression stayed calm, unreadable. “I’m fine now. What you should do is deal with the man who
caused this. Staying here is a waste of your time, and you’ll put yourself in danger if you don’t act.”
“I’m wasting my time?” Jayson’s gaze sharpened. “Ariel, I’m certain I know how to prioritize better than
you.”
The tension between them was obvious.
The doctor noticed it too. “Take your time to decide. I’m only making a suggestion,” he said before turning to leave. Hospitals respected patients‘ wishes–no one could be forced into treatment they didn’t want.
“Also,” the doctor added, “there’s bruising and swelling on her shoulder. She’ll need treatment for that.”
As they were still in the emergency room, the doctor was soon called away to help other patients.
Sensing the tense atmosphere and well aware of Ariel’s temper, Chad checked the time. “You just threw up,” he said. “I’ll go get you something to eat.”
Silence fell over the room as soon as Chad left.
Jayson wasn’t planning on leaving. He’d already assigned Arthur to handle the abductor’s handover to the authorities. Now, he moved silently, showing no sign of discomfort as he cleaned out the dustbin Ariel had just used.
Ariel watched him. This was Jayson Larkin–wealthy, refined, raised in privilege. Yet here he was, doing something most family members would hesitate to do.
When he was done, he washed his hands, poured her fresh water, and returned to her side. He didn’t touch his phone or try to speak.
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Chapter 636
+15 BONUS
Ariel could sense what he was trying to convey, but she chose to ignore it.
Soon, a young nurse entered. “Ms. Walker, I’m here to treat your shoulder.”
Ariel nodded. “Thank you.”
The nurse couldn’t help glancing at Jayson, who sat quietly nearby. Men like him were rare–elegant, handsome, commanding. Still, she quickly focused on her task.
Ariel winced as the nurse worked. The pain was sharp, but she stayed quiet.
“I’ll do it,” Jayson said suddenly, rising to his feet. He walked over, his voice steady. “Tell me where to
start.”
Startled, the nurse instinctively handed him a cotton bud. “Sterilize the skin first.”
Ariel turned slightly to look at him. “You’re going to do it?”
Moments ago, he hadn’t said a word to her.
Jayson didn’t answer directly. He shot her a sidelong glance, then bent to examine her shoulder.
Her pale skin was marred by angry red marks, swollen from the abductor’s brutal grip. Bruises would
bloom there soon.
“Stay still,” he said quietly. There was a glint of coldness in his eyes, but his touch was steady and gentle
as he applied ointment.
Jayson knew Ariel hated pain. Even a simple blood test made her flinch if the nurse wasn’t careful. Strangely, under his careful hands, the sting seemed to fade.
The nurse watched, a faint smile playing at her lips. “Your husband treats you so well. He really cares for
you.”
Ariel was struck speechless. She wasn’t expecting to hear that from a complete stranger.
Jayson kept his head low as he treated Ariel’s injury. He asked flatly, “The ophthalmology department is
the busiest here, isn’t it?”

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson)
Nice and amazing story with gripping turns, but can you give more chapters? And please we need more romance as readers, it has been dragging on a lot, maybe romance, happy ending and end it soon....
Nice and amazing story with gripping turns, but can you give more chapters? And please we need more romance as readers, it has been dragging on a lot, maybe romance, happy ending and end it soon....