“Mrs. Woods,” one of them said, his voice deep but respectful. “The young master asked us to keep you safe, and you should be resting.”

Kourtney bit her lip, feigning a look of distress. “Oh, please! I need to see a nurse right now. It’s very urgent, and it’s… ladies’ stuff,” she lied, the words rolling off her tongue with practiced ease.

The two bulky bodyguards exchanged glances, their expressions conflicted. For a moment, she held her breath, praying that her scheme would work. “Fine,” one of them finally said, stepping aside. “But we’ll accompany you.”

“No!” she exclaimed, forcing the panic into her voice. “I’m fine. I just need...