Episode 5

Another silence fell before Sabrina continued:

"Audacious, perhaps. But realistic, for sure, Mr. Maldonado. If your CEO status makes you immune to basic hygiene needs or the fragility of human health, then I really don't know what to say. Believe me, taking care of you brings me no special pleasure other than the satisfaction of doing my job and seeing you improve. But you're making something that's for your own good difficult. And, with all due respect, this tantrum doesn't fit the image of an important CEO. On the contrary, it sounds like someone who's lost control, not of the company, but of themselves."

Sabrina's words hit Arthur like an icy shock. There was something in her frankness, devoid of any trace of flattery or fear, that disarmed him. He was used to being treated with deference, with every word carefully thought out so as not to offend him. This nurse, however, seemed immune to his power and his arrogance.

Another heavy silence settled again. Arthur felt for the first time in a long time a hint of shame. Her words echoed in his mind, stripping bare his childishness. He knew she was right. His refusal was stubborn and irrational.

Finally, after a long hesitation, Arthur sighed, a sound that denoted more exhaustion than anger.

"All right," he murmured, his voice almost inaudible. "You win. But don't think I'm enjoying this."

A small, almost imperceptible smile appeared on Sabrina's lips. "I know, Mr. Maldonado. But the important thing is that you're cooperating. Let's make this as quick and comfortable as possible."

Sabrina moved efficiently, filling the tub with water at the ideal temperature and adding some neutral liquid soap. While the water was running, she prepared a soft towel and clean clothes on the chair next to it.

"Mr. Maldonado, the water's ready. Can we go?" Her voice was calm and professional, seeking to convey security.

Arthur remained motionless in bed for a few moments, his expression tense. The discomfort and vulnerability he felt in the face of this situation was evident.

"I need help getting up," he murmured, his voice hoarse.

Sabrina approached the bed carefully. "Of course. Lean on me. I'll help you."

Gently, she passed an arm under Arthur's shoulders, offering firm support. He hesitated for a moment, before leaning on her, seeking balance. His body was tense, and Sabrina could feel the stiffness of his muscles.

Slowly, with her help, Arthur managed to sit on the edge of the bed. A grimace of pain crossed his face when his feet touched the floor.

"Are you in pain?" Sabrina asked, her voice laced with concern.

"A little... my legs are still weak," Arthur replied, his voice choked.

Sabrina knelt in front of him, looking into his opaque eyes. "I know it's not easy, Mr. Maldonado, but we need to take it slow. Lean on me again. Let's take small steps to the bathroom... But if you wish, we can use the wheelchair."

"No! Even with difficulty, I prefer to walk."

With patience and care, Sabrina helped Arthur to his feet. He staggered a little, and she held him firmly, offering all the necessary support. With each slow and hesitant step he took, the effort and pain he felt was visible. Sabrina maintained a constant pace, speaking to him in a low voice to encourage him.

"That's it... very good... a little more... we're almost there."

Finally, with Sabrina's help, Arthur reached the bathroom and leaned on the sink, panting. The short journey had seemed like an eternity to him.

"Thank you," he murmured, his voice tired.

"You're welcome, Mr. Maldonado. It's part of my job. Now, let's help you into the tub. The water's warm, it'll ease the pain."

"Now I want you to leave," Arthur commented firmly. "I'm going to take off my clothes, I insist that you leave me alone."

Sabrina looked at him fixedly. They were very close because she was still holding him so Arthur wouldn't fall. "Nurse, do you want to see me naked?" A sarcastic smile slid across Arthur's lips. "I know I'm handsome and delicious, but you're not my type. I don't like older, ugly women."

Sabrina felt her face flush with Arthur's words, a wave of irritation almost making her drop him abruptly. His smug smile and the comment about her appearance were like a slap. However, she took a deep breath, remembering her professionalism. Years of experience had taught her how to deal with difficult patients, and Arthur, despite his status, was no exception.

"Mr. Maldonado," she began, her voice a tone colder, but still controlled, "My presence here is not for personal pleasure or for an evaluation of your beauty, which, to be honest, is irrelevant to my work. I'm here to ensure your safety and well-being. As a nurse, my responsibility is to help you with personal hygiene, especially considering your current condition of weakness and pain."

Sabrina was a twenty-seven-year-old woman with a beauty that attracted attention wherever she went. But Arthur simply imagined the opposite of that.

She let him go, but remained beside him, with her arms crossed. "It's not a question of your choice or mine, but of necessity. If you fell while trying to undress or get into the tub alone, the responsibility would be mine. Also, the pain you feel can make movement difficult, and I'm here to make the process as comfortable and safe as possible."

Sabrina gestured toward the tub. "The water's ready. My job is to help you sit down safely and get out of the tub. After that, I can step aside so you can wash yourself. But I need to make sure you get in and out without any risks."

She stared at him with a firm expression. "You may not like my age or my appearance, but my professionalism is not up for discussion. And, with all due respect, you're being a little naive if you think I'm interested in seeing you 'naked' for any reason other than my job."

She paused, her gaze fixed on his face. "So, come on, Mr. Maldonado. Let me help you take off your clothes and get into the tub."

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