She realized his concern went beyond the physical wound, he was referring to her emotional state as well.
Ulric took out the ointment and excused himself to the bathroom to wash his hands before returning to apply it to her face.
Slightly uneasy, Rosalind instinctively moved back. Despite their previous intimacy, his sudden proximity still made her uncomfortable.
“I-I can do it myself! It’s not like it’s in a hard-to-reach place,” she stammered, reaching for the ointment.
Ulric withheld it, his eyes revealing a hint of displeasure. “Bring your face closer.”
“There’s really no need,” she insisted.
He remained silent, his gaze fixed on her.
Helpless, Rosalind reluctantly leaned forward, feeling like a child under his guidance.
In such close proximity, she noticed the fine hairs on Ulric’s face and the cool-toned fairness of his skin. This intimate distance revealed details she wouldn’t have noticed otherwise.
With precision, Ulric applied the ointment evenly on her face. Its coolness provided a soothing sensation.
Unconsciously, Rosalind glanced up at him. His focused and serious expression conveyed a sense of handling something incredibly precious. It was as though the right amount of pressure held great importance to him, neither too light nor too heavy.
Ulric was undeniably handsome. Not in a delicate way, but with an inherent masculinity and heroism.
His features possessed depth and definition, with a strong and well-shaped jawline. His captivating black eyes resembled ink, and even his extended eyelashes added to his allure.
“If the swelling hasn’t subsided by tomorrow, I’ll take you to the hospital after work,” he offered.
His voice snapped Rosalind back to reality, and she lowered her head. “I’m not that fragile, really.”
This period in her life marked the first time someone genuinely cared for her, occasionally leading to unwarranted thoughts.
“By your side, I allow you to be fragile,” he responded, his words gentle yet resolute.
Rosalind looked up and met Ulric’s gaze…
Neither of them averted their eyes until he broke the silence.
“You need something from me, don’t you?”
“…”
“Tell me, whatever it is, I’ll help you resolve it.”
A whirlwind of images rushed through Rosalind’s mind. She imagined her mother’s reaction upon meeting Ulric-scolding, verbal abuse, perhaps even physical aggression.
But…
His words were tender, his tone filled with affection, almost engulfing her.
He had promised to help her with anything.
“Ulric, I…”
Just as Rosalind was about to speak, his phone abruptly rang!
Ulric frowned slightly, and both their attention turned to the sound.
It was Sirena calling.
“One moment, let me take this call,” he said, picking up his phone and stepping out of the bedroom to answer.
“Are you alone? … Can’t reach the driver? … Alright, wait at home, I’m on my way.”
After ending the call, Ulric returned.
“What were you about to say? Please continue.”
Yet Rosalind had snapped out of her reverie.
She pressed her lips together, reverting to her usual nonchalant demeanor.
“Oh, it’s nothing! I just wanted to say thank you.”
Ulric clearly didn’t fully believe her.
“Did something happen with Lawyer Garner? You should go check on her!”
Distracted from their previous conversation, he hesitated for a moment before nodding. He stood up, grabbing his suit jacket. “You should get some rest. Don’t wait up for me, I’m not sure when I’ll be back. I’ll see you tomorrow.”
“Okay.”
Rosalind watched Ulric hurry out and couldn’t help but smile bitterly.
What was she thinking just now?
She was merely a substitute, yet she wanted to introduce Ulric to her mother?!