Allison gently reached out and stroked Peyton’s head, her voice soft and warm. "You're just the cutest."
She was sitting with Peyton, chatting away when Joshua's phone buzzed. He gave Allison a quick wave with his phone, signaling he needed to step out for a call.
Once Joshua left, it was just Allison and Peyton in the hospital room. Peyton seemed on the verge of saying something several times, but was clearly holding back.
Allison noticed and asked, "Peyton, is there something you want to tell me?"
Peyton hesitated before blurting out, "Can you... help me with some makeup?"
Allison paused in surprise.
Peyton explained, "I've been feeling worse lately; you might have noticed. My face looks paler every day, and my brother always looks like he's about to cry when he visits. I know it's hard on him, and I don't want him to worry."
A wave of emotion washed over Allison, making her eyes misty.
"Of course, sweetheart. You're already adorable, and with a little makeup, you'll look even more stunning."
Peyton smiled, dimples appearing on her pale cheeks. "Really?"
"Absolutely!" Allison nodded, her voice tinged with emotion. "I'll bring my makeup kit tomorrow and give you a lovely makeover."
"Okay." Peyton's eyes sparkled with joy.
Meanwhile, Joshua was in the hallway, caught up in a call with Thomas.
"Boss, the team in South America has met with Mills. They'll be working on a plan to secure Chris' project soon," Thomas reported.
"Got it," Joshua replied.
Once Thomas had filled him in on other matters, Joshua ended the call and returned to the room.
Inside, Allison and Peyton were deep in conversation, both beaming with happiness.
Allison's face lit up with joy, tears spilling over. She clutched Peyton's hand, laughing and crying. "Peyton, did you hear that? They've found a match for your bone marrow! You can be cured!"
Peyton was stunned, her eyes welling up. "Is there really hope for me?"
Allison’s tears streamed down as she replied, "There's hope! I told you not to give up. You'll get better!"
"That's amazing, just amazing..." Peyton murmured, her eyes shining with tears. "Now my brother won’t have to worry about me anymore..."
It was the best news they could have hoped for.
Allison's long-held worries seemed to vanish. On the way home, she held Joshua's hand. Her excitement was bubbling over all the way back to their apartment.
Allison finally relaxed after days of worry, and Joshua felt lighter too.
As they were curled up on their couch, the atmosphere between them slowly shifted, turning more sensual. Joshua's arm tightened around Allison and his gaze was filled with growing warmth and desire...
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