Page 2 of Bound in Matrimony

"Purchase…the hospital floor?" Johnson clarifies, his voice faint.

"The entire wing, if necessary. Whatever it takes. I want ownership, Johnson. Do you understand? No lease, no rental. I want that floor to belong to me by morning."

"I—yes, sir. I'll start the legal work immediately."

I end the call and turn to Seraphina, who looks simultaneously impressed and horrified. "You can't just buy a hospital floor, Knox."

"Watch me." I cross to her, taking the small overnight bag from her hands. "Is this all you're bringing?"

She sighs, that soft exhalation that means she's deciding which battle to fight. "It's just a precaution, remember? We'll probably be home tomorrow."

I don't bother responding to that delusional statement. Instead, I guide her toward the elevator, one hand at the small of her back. My phone buzzes continuously—Johnson working his magic, Harris confirming security protocols, Dr. Winters arranging her team. The pieces falling into place as they always do when I give an order.

In the car, Seraphina leans against my shoulder, her breathing even but her posture tense. I run my hand over her hair, the silken strands sliding between my fingers like liquid gold.

"You're scaring me a little," she admits quietly.

I press my lips to her temple. "Good. Maybe you'll listen when I tell you this is serious."

"It's back pain, Knox. Thousands of pregnant women experience it every day without their husbands buying hospital wings."

"You're not thousands of women," I tell her, my voice dropping to that register that makes her pupils dilate. "You're mine. You're carrying my child. Your care will reflect that reality."

She shivers slightly, though whether from my tone or another spasm of pain, I can't tell. The uncertainty gnaws at me, makes my jaw clench.

We arrive at the hospital to find Johnson already there, looking harried but efficient. The hospital administrator—a balding man with anxious eyes—hovers beside him.

"Mr. Vance," he says, stepping forward with an outstretched hand. "I'm Dr. Collins, chief administrator. We're honored to have you with us tonight and are making all the arrangements you've requested."

I ignore his hand, focusing on getting Seraphina out of the car. "The floor?"

"We—that is—such a transaction is highly unusual?—"

I cut him off with a glance, helping Seraphina stand. "Johnson, explain to Dr. Collins that I don't care about usual. I care about results."

Johnson nods, drawing the administrator aside while I escort Seraphina through the private entrance. Harris and two other security personnel flank us, creating a human corridor that parts the curious onlookers and staff.

Dr. Winters meets us at the elevator, her calm presence a contrast to the chaos I've created. "Ms. Vale," she says warmly, before correcting herself. "Mrs. Vance. Let's get you comfortable and see what's going on."

The VIP floor has been transformed in the hour since my call. Fresh flowers line the corridors, the harsh fluorescent lights dimmed to a softer glow. I notice new monitoring equipment being wheeled into rooms, staff scurrying to prepare the space to my specifications.

"Your private suite is ready," Dr. Collins says, materializing at my elbow. He seems to have recovered his professional demeanor. "And I've spoken with our board. While selling a hospital floor is unprecedented, they're…open to discussing a substantial donation that would give you naming rights and certain…privileges."

"Not good enough," I tell him, watching as Seraphina is settled into a room that looks more like a luxury hotel suite than a hospital room. "I want ownership. Complete control."

"Mr. Vance, there are regulations, zoning laws?—"

"All of which can be navigated with the right resources." I turn to face him fully, my voice dropping so Seraphina can't hear. "Let me be clear, Dr. Collins. My wife and child will receive care in a facility that meets my standards. I prefer that facility to be this one, but if you can't accommodate my requirements, I'll build my own hospital by the end of the week."

His face pales slightly. "That won't be necessary. I'll have our legal team work with yours through the night."

"Good decision." I dismiss him with a nod, moving to Seraphina's side as Dr. Winters examines her.

"Your vitals look good," the doctor is saying, "and the baby's heartbeat is strong. The monitor isn't showing any concerning contractions, but I'd like to keep you overnight for observation, especially considering the anemia we noted at your last checkup."

Seraphina glances at me, a silent "I told you so" in her expression. "Is that really necessary?"

"It's done," I interject, my tone brooking no argument. "You're staying."

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