Chapter 19: You Cannot Do It

Alexander helped Sophia into his car, his arms wrapped protectively around her as he guided her gently into the seat. She leaned against him, her fingers drifting over his chest. The drug's effect had taken full hold now; her gaze was unfocused, her eyes glazed with a yearning she couldn't seem to control. "Alexander… please, I feel so hot…" she whispered breathily, looking up at him with a longing that made her reach up to touch his face, her fingers tracing his jawline. A soft murmur escaped her lips, her face drawing closer. "Help me… please."

He swallowed hard, his Adam's apple bobbing as he fought his own desire. Her touch was electric, sending a shiver down his spine, but he knew her state. He couldn't take advantage of her, no matter how tempting it was.

The driver glanced at the rearview mirror, catching sight of Sophia pressing herself against his boss, whispering incoherently as she kissed his neck. Alexander shot a sharp glare toward him, catching his eyes. "One more look and I'll have your eyes chopped out," he snapped, his voice low and cold, making the driver turn forward with a shudder. He quickly closed the curtain between the front and back seat, focusing on the road as he sped up.

Sophia's hands continued to roam, her words soft and pleading, her lips brushing his cheek and making it nearly impossible for him to keep his composure.

"To the nearest hotel. Quickly!" he commanded, his voice strained.

"Yes, Sir," the driver nodded, and the car sped up, running several red lights.

They pulled up to the secluded Fairmont Hotel, known for its privacy. The driver rushed out, heading to the front desk to secure a suite as Alexander struggled to calm the fervent woman beside him in the car.

Her lips continued to wander along his jaw, her whisper of his name heightening the tension within him.

When everything was arranged, Alexander scooped Sophia up into his arms and carried her through the grand lobby. Their suite was expansive, adorned with classic artwork and soft lighting. The elegance of the room only intensified the tension within him as he gently laid her down on the plush couch.

Her hands clutched his collar, drawing him close, her eyes pleading. He felt himself standing on the edge of restraint.

"I'm burning… please," she murmured, her voice filled with a blend of need and desperation.

Struggling to shake off the effect of her touch, he helped her to the bathroom and gently propped her up against the cool tiles. He turned on the cold shower, directing the stream toward her to cool her flushed skin. She shivered as her thin dress clung to her, outlining every curve. Alexander's breath hitched, and he forced himself to look away.

But just as he turned, Sophia's arms circled his neck, drawing him close, her soaked skin pressed against him.

She leaned in, her lips finding his, and this time he couldn't resist. He pulled her closer, returning the kiss, allowing himself to be swept away for a brief moment. As the kiss deepened, passion flared between them, and he felt her hands tugging at his shirt.

Just then, the cold shower brought him back to reality. He pulled away, breathing heavily, struggling to regain control. "Sophia… I can't… I won't take advantage of you," he murmured, barely holding himself together.

As he watched her dazed expression, he gently lowered her into the cold bath, hoping the water would help ease the drug's effects.

Leaving her in the tub, he went to the other room, shutting the door behind him as he leaned against it, breathing heavily trying to calm himself. He felt an intense need to cool off. So he took a cold shower letting the icy water clear his mind. Once he was composed, he pulled out his phone and dialed a familiar number. Tim Brady answered after a few rings, his voice groggy with sleep.

"Tim, How do I help someone who has been drugged with some drugs, I think it's scopolamine?"

"Is it a man or a woman?" Tim asked, clearing his voice.

"My wife," Alexander answered firmly.

Tim was silent for a moment, then spoke with concern. " It depends on the dosage; if it's too strong, she might need to go to the hospital or... well, a man can help.

Alexander's jaws clenched struggling to keep his calm. Before he could respond Tim's voice came again, as if realizing something just now.

He chuckled knowingly, " Alex, wait, if she's your wife, why are you even calling me? Don't you know what she needs?"

"It's none of your business!"Alexander snapped, feeling awkward.

Tim laughed even louder, "Come on, Alex, don't tell me you can't do it. Do you have some problem I'm not aware of?"

"Who said I can't do it?"Alexander replied, his patience waning. "I just don't want to take advantage of her."

Tim paused, then let out a thoughtful hum. "That's very noble of you man. Alright, I'll come over; send me your location."

Alexander was about to agree when he realized something. He can't let another man see Sophia in her state.

"Not you just send a female doctor." He replied quickly.

Tim rolled his eyes as if Alexander could see them. Then he replied, "Alright, I'll send a female doctor."

"Good," Alexander muttered before hanging up feeling a sense of relief.

Meanwhile, back in his office, Marcus paced, furious. He slammed his fists against the wall, his face twisted with jealousy and rage. "I was so close," he muttered to himself, seething. "Who is that man who keeps getting in my way?"

The realization that the man had saved her once again fueled his range. "He even beat me up?" He cursed. He later composed himself, his thoughts darkening and a sinister grin spread across his face. 'I wouldn't give up that easily.'

***

Alexander was waiting anxiously when the female doctor arrived about half an hour later. She was a professional-looking woman in her forties, with neatly tied hair and an air of calm efficiency.

She introduced herself briskly as Dr Leah Carter and entered the suite immediately getting to work.

She administered an injection to Sophia to counteract the effects of the drug. She provided instructions to Alexander on how to monitor Sophia. The drug will take effect in 10 minutes, so she can get out of the bathtub by then.

Once Alexander was satisfied, she reassured him, before departing.

After 10 minutes, Alexander returned to the bathroom and found Sophia asleep in the tub, the injection having taken its effect. He gently lifted her, his gaze softening as he looked at her peaceful face. He couldn't help but be captivated by her beauty, his heart aching with a mixture of guilt and admiration.

Setting her on the bed, he carefully dressed her in a loose, soft nightgown he had ordered for her earlier. Each touch was a reminder of the struggle he'd endured, and he stood a steadying breath, resisting the urge to let his gaze linger on her.

Once she was settled, he reyreardyto his room, reaching for his phone. The rage simmered within him as he dialed a number. His voice was low and dangerous as he spoke.

"I want the Hawthorne group dealt with." As he hung up, he took a moment to reflect, a wave of regret washing over him. he had underestimated Marcus, thinking he'd simply try to charm Sophia back or threaten her. If he knew, he wouldn't have put her in danger. What if he was a minute late? He would live with this regret for the rest of his life. He swore to himself that he would never let her suffer again. He will make whoever hurt her pay a heavy price. And Marcus will be the perfect example.