When Love is a Question Mark
Chapter 204: Small Acts of Care

Chapter 204: Small Acts of Care

Samuel leaned back in his chair, looking at the ceiling for a moment as he considered the question. "Put it on hold for now, but stay ready. When her father’s condition improves and the time feels right, I’ll need everything to be perfect. No rush, no pressure—just the way it should be."

Timmy smiled slightly, admiration evident in his expression. "That’s a good call, Boss. It shows that you’re thinking about what’s best for her, not just about making a grand gesture."

Samuel picked up the ring box one last time, turning it over in his hands before placing it carefully into the drawer of his desk. "I don’t need a grand gesture to prove how I feel about her. She already knows. This ring will wait. Right now, all that matters is being there for her."

Timmy stood, straightening his tie. "I’ll make sure everything’s ready for when you give the word. And if there’s anything I can do to help with her father’s situation, just let me know."

Samuel gave him a small nod of gratitude. "Thanks, Timmy. For now, just help me stay on top of everything at work. I need to make sure Zinnia doesn’t have to worry about anything else."

---

As the afternoon’s work came to an end, Zinnia stepped into the lobby of her office building, the soft hum of conversations and the tapping of heels on the polished floor surrounding her. She was preoccupied with her thoughts, her mind drifting to the hospital and her father’s condition. As she adjusted her bag on her shoulder and prepared to call for a cab, she stopped abruptly.

Standing near the entrance was Samuel, his tall frame unmistakable. His sharp suit contrasted with the casual ease in his posture, as though he’d been waiting patiently for a while. Zinnia blinked, momentarily caught off guard.

"Samuel?" she called out, her voice tinged with surprise as she approached him. "What are you doing here?"

Samuel turned at the sound of her voice, a small smile softening his usually composed expression. "I came to pick you up," he said simply, his deep voice steady.

Zinnia furrowed her brows, a mix of confusion and curiosity flickering across her face. "Pick me up? I didn’t know you were coming."

Samuel took a step closer, his tone calm and reassuring. "I figured you’d want to go straight to the hospital after work to see your father. I thought it would be better if we went together. Let me drive you there."

Her surprise lingered, but it was soon replaced by a sense of gratitude. "You didn’t have to do that, Sam. I would’ve managed on my own."

Samuel shrugged lightly, his gaze steady on hers. "I know you would’ve. But you don’t have to do everything alone, Zia. Besides, I wanted to be there with you."

Zinnia glanced at him, searching his face for a moment. His sincerity was evident, and she couldn’t find it in herself to refuse. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice carrying a hint of warmth.

Samuel gestured toward the car parked just outside. "Come on. Let’s get going. It’ll be faster this way."

As they walked to his car, Zinnia couldn’t help but feel a sense of relief. Samuel opened the passenger door for her, and she slid inside, her bag resting on her lap.

Once Samuel was behind the wheel, he glanced at her briefly before starting the car. "How was work today?" he asked, his tone casual but attentive.

Zinnia let out a small sigh. "It was fine. Busy, as always. I talked to the production team about advancing the schedule. They’re on board, but it’s going to be a lot of work."

Samuel nodded, his hands steady on the steering wheel as they navigated through the evening traffic. "It’s good that they’re supporting you. Just don’t overwork yourself, okay? Your father wouldn’t want you to burn out."

Zinnia gave him a faint smile, appreciating his concern. "I know. I’ll try."

The rest of the drive was peaceful, with Samuel occasionally glancing at her to make sure she was okay.

As they pulled into the hospital parking lot, Samuel parked the car in a shaded spot near the entrance. He turned off the engine and unbuckled his seatbelt, glancing at Zinnia.

"We’re here," he said softly, watching her gather her bag from her lap.

Zinnia nodded, smoothing down her blouse. Her thoughts were already on her father, but as she opened the car door to step out, she noticed Samuel circling around to the back seat.

"Wait," he called out, opening the back door and leaning in.

Zinnia frowned, curious about what he was doing. Then she saw him pull out a basket of neatly arranged fruits, complete with a small bow tied on the handle. Her eyebrows shot up in surprise.

"When did you—" she began, stepping closer.

Samuel closed the door and straightened, holding the basket effortlessly in one hand. "I picked this up on the way to your office earlier," he explained in a casual tone. "It’s for your dad. I thought it might be nice for him to have something fresh to snack on when he feels up to it."

Zinnia blinked at him, her surprise turning into something warmer. "You didn’t have to do that," she said softly, her voice touched with gratitude.

Samuel shrugged, the corners of his mouth lifting into a faint smile. "It’s nothing. I just thought it would be better than showing up empty-handed."

Zinnia smiled back at him, her chest tightening slightly. He always managed to think of these thoughtful gestures, even in the midst of everything. "Thank you," she said sincerely.

He nodded, holding the basket firmly as they made their way to the hospital entrance. Zinnia walked beside him, stealing a glance at his calm demeanor. Even now, with so much happening, he was steady and considerate.

Once inside, the familiar scent of antiseptic greeted them, and the hum of hospital activity filled the air. They moved through the corridors toward Ricardo’s room, the soft click of Zinnia’s heels and Samuel’s steady footsteps echoing lightly.

As they reached the door, Samuel paused, adjusting his grip on the fruit basket. "Ready?" he asked, glancing at her.