As I slowly opened my eyes, the warm sunlight streaming through the windows of my bedroom greeted me, signaling a new day. I stretched my arms and yawned, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated after a good night's sleep.
I reached for my phone on the bedside table, rubbing the sleep from my eyes. As I scrolled through my notifications, my heart skipped a beat as I saw a text from Mrs. Jenkins. I quickly opened the message, my eyes scanning the screen with anticipation. And then I saw the words that made my heart soar: "Aries, dear, I have wonderful news! Your mother is awake and doing well. She's still a bit weak, but she's smiling and asking for you. Come visit her as soon as you can." I let out a loud shout of joy, my voice echoing off the walls of my bedroom. "Yes! Oh, thank God!" I exclaimed, pumping my fist in the air. Tears of happiness pricked at the corners of my eyes as I felt a wave of relief. I threw off the covers and jumped out of bed. As I jumped out of bed, I quickly made my way to the bathroom, my heart still racing with excitement. I turned on the faucet to start filling the tub with warm water, then grabbed my phone and dialed Mr. Thompson's number. "Good morning, Mr. Thompson," I said, trying to contain my enthusiasm. "I need you to get the car ready. I'm going to visit my mother at the hospital." "Right away, ma'am," Mr. Thompson replied, his voice professional and prompt. "I'll have the car ready in fifteen minutes." "Thank you, Mr. Thompson," I said, already starting to undress. "I'll be down soon." I hung up the phone and began to prepare for my bath, my movements quick and efficient. I added some bath salts to the water, watching as they dissolved and released their calming fragrance into the air. I then got into the tub, feeling the warm water envelop me like a gentle hug. As I soaked in the bath, I couldn't help but think about my mother and how much I wanted to see her. I felt a sense of relief wash over me, knowing that she was awake and doing well. After a quick ten minute bath, I got out and began to get dressed, choosing a simple yet elegant outfit for my visit to the hospital. I grabbed my bag and headed downstairs, where Mr. Thompson was waiting for me with the car. "Good morning, ma'am," he said, opening the door for me. "I'm glad to hear about your mother's progress." "Thank you, Mr. Thompson," I replied, smiling. "I'm eager to see her." With that, we set off for the hospital, the car gliding smoothly through the morning traffic. "Mr Thompson" I said tapping on the drivers seat from the back. "Ma'am is there any problem" he asked. "Please I would love to get my mom Bouquet of flowers" can you please stop at the flower store?? I asked looking at him through the mirror. "Of course, ma'am," Mr. Thompson replied, his eyes meeting mine in the rearview mirror. "I'll make a quick stop at the flower store." He expertly navigated the car through the traffic, taking a slight detour to reach the flower store. We arrived a few minutes later, and I hopped out of the car, eager to choose a beautiful bouquet for my mother. As I entered the store, I was greeted by the sweet fragrance of fresh flowers and the warm smile of the florist. "Good morning! How can I help you today?" she asked. "Hi," I replied, scanning the colorful array of flowers. "I'd like to get a bouquet for my mother. She's in the hospital, and I want something to brighten up her room." The florist nodded sympathetically. "Aww, that's so sweet of you. What's her favourite colour or flower?" I thought for a moment. "She loves pastel shades and roses." The florist's eyes lit up. "Perfect! I have just the thing." She expertly assembled a stunning bouquet of pale pink roses, baby blue delphiniums, and creamy white carnations. The arrangement was gorgeous, and I couldn't wait to see my mother's face light up when she saw it. "This is beautiful," I said, handing over my credit card to pay. "Thank you so much!" The florist smiled, handing me the bouquet. "You're welcome, dear. I hope your mother loves it and feels better soon." I returned to the car, where Mr. Thompson was waiting patiently. "Here we are, ma'am," he said, taking the bouquet from me and placing it gently on the seat beside me. As we continued our journey to the hospital, the sweet scent of the flowers filled the car, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of joy and anticipation. I couldn't wait to see my mother and give her the bouquet. As Mr. Thompson pulled up to the hospital entrance, I gathered my belongings and turned to thank him. "Thank you so much, Mr. Thompson," I said, smiling warmly. "You're always so prompt and helpful. I really appreciate it." Mr. Thompson smiled back, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "It's my pleasure, ma'am," he replied. "I'm just glad I could help. Give your mother my best wishes for a speedy recovery." I nodded, feeling grateful for his kind words. "I will, Mr. Thompson. Thank you again for everything." As I stepped out of the car, Mr. Thompson handed me the bouquet of flowers, which I took with a smile. "I'll be here waiting for you when you're ready to leave, ma'am," he reminded me. I nodded, feeling reassured that he would be there to take me home. "Thank you, Mr. Thompson. I'll be sure to come find you when I'm ready." With that, I turned and walked into the hospital. As I stepped out of the car, I took a deep breath, feeling a mix of emotions: excitement to see my mother, relief that she was doing well, and a hint of nervousness about how she would look and feel after her ordeal. I walked towards the hospital lobby, my heels clicking on the pavement. As I entered the lobby, I was greeted by the familiar sight of the hospital's modern interior. The sound of gentle chatter and the soft beeping of machines filled the air. I made my way to the elevator, my eyes fixed on the doors as I waited for them to open. When the doors slid open, I stepped inside, pressing the button for my mother's floor. The doors closed behind me, and I felt a sense of calm as the elevator began its smooth ascent.I took a moment to collect my thoughts, adjusting the bouquet in my hand. I couldn't wait to see my mother's face light up.The elevator stopped on my mother's floor, and the doors opened with a soft whoosh. I stepped out into the quiet corridor, my eyes scanning the room numbers as I made my way to my mother's room. My heart beat with anticipation, and I couldn't help but smile to make her happy As I walked through the corridor, the soft hum of machinery and the gentle chatter of hospital staff filled the air. The scent of disinfectant and fresh linens wafted through the hallway, a familiar and comforting smell. I passed by rooms with open doors, catching glimpses of patients and their families, some smiling, others looking worried or tired. I nodded to a few hospital staff members as I passed, exchanging quiet greetings.Just as I turned a corner, I saw Dr. Ryan standing outside a room, sipping a cup of coffee and reviewing a chart. He looked up and caught my eye, flashing a warm
Aries, sweetie," my mother whispered, her voice weak but full of love. I was still holding her hand, and I could feel her gentle squeeze."Mom, are you hungry?" I asked concern etched on my face.My mother nodded slightly, her eyes closing for a moment. "Yes, I am. I haven't eaten much since...since the accident."I turned to Mrs. Jenkins, who was watching us with a warm smile. "Mrs. Jenkins, would you mind going to our house and preparing something for my mom and me to eat? I'd like to stay here with her for a while longer."Mrs Jenkins nodded immediately, her face filled with kindness. "Of course, dear. I'd be happy to help. What would you like me to make?"I thought for a moment, considering my mother's favourite dishes. "Could you please make some chicken soup and maybe some toast or crackers? And some tea, please?"Mrs Jenkins nodded, jotting down some notes on a piece of paper. "I'll make sure to have everything ready for you when you get home. Don't worry about a thing, dear. I
As I sat beside my mother's hospital bed, basking in the warmth of our joyful moment, I suddenly felt a pang of thirst. I looked around the room, searching for something to quench my dryness. My eyes landed on a hot water resistant flask that was sitting on the bedside table. I got up and walked over to the flask, hoping to find some water inside. I lifted it up and shook it gently, but it was empty. I felt a slight disappointment, realising I would have to go somewhere else to get water. I turned to my mother, who was still smiling at me with pride and joy. "Mom, I'm thirsty," I said, feeling a bit parched. "I'm going to go get some water from the cafeteria downstairs." My mother nodded weakly, her eyes still shining with happiness. "Okay, sweetie. Go get some water. I'll be here when you get back." I smiled and nodded, feeling grateful for her understanding. I turned to leave, but then turned back to her. "Do you want me to bring you anything, Mom? Maybe some water or juice?"
I sat in the corridor, still crying my eyes out, My father, Reginald Thornton-Furst, walked towards me, his tall, imposing figure commanding attention. Mrs. Jenkins and I were sitting together, holding each other and mourning the loss of my mother. My father's eyes were fixed on me, but I couldn't bear to look at him. I felt a surge of anger and resentment towards him, knowing that he had never been there for my mother.As he approached, his bodyguards flanking him, my father's expression turned sombre. "Aries, my child," he said, his voice firm but controlled. "I'm so sorry about your mother. I'll do everything in my power to find out what happened I will try my very best."I looked up at him, my eyes filled with tears and anger, but I didn't respond. Mrs. Jenkins, sensing my distress, held me tighter.My father glanced at Mrs. Jenkins, then back at me. "It's time to go home, Aries," he said gently. "I'll quickly wrap up everything here at the hospital. Kelvin, please escort them
I stood in the corridor, waiting for news about my mother's condition, I felt a sense of fear and uncertainty. And then, the doctor's words hit me like a ton of bricks: "Aries, I'm so sorry. Your mother is dead."I felt like I had been punched in the gut. I couldn't breathe. I couldn't think. All I could do was repeat the words in my head, hoping that they would somehow change, somehow become untrue."No, no, no," I whispered, shaking my head. "That can't be right. She was just fine. We were just talking, laughing..."I felt my legs give way beneath me, and I slumped against the wall, sliding down to the floor. I couldn't hold back the tears, and they streamed down my face as I sobbed uncontrollably."How did this happen?" I kept asking, my voice shaking with grief. "She was just fine. We were just talking, laughing... How did this happen?"Just then, Dr. Ryan rushed into the room, his face etched with concern. He quickly dragged the other doctors out of the room, away from me, and
I broke down in tears, I don't know how to deal with the pain and anger that was consuming me. All I wanted was answers to so many questions.As Dr. Ryan carried me out of the control room, I was still sobbing uncontrollably. I felt like my world had been shattered into a million pieces. My mother, who had been recovering so well, was now gone, and it seemed like someone might have had a hand in her death.As we walked down the corridor, I saw a familiar figure approaching my mother's private room. It was Mrs. Jenkins, I had told her to go home and prepare something for my mother to eat, since she had said she was hungry. I was sure she didn't know what was going on.Mrs. Jenkins was carrying a lunch box in her hands, and her face looked concerned. She had been like a mother to me, always caring and nurturing. I felt a pang of sadness, knowing that she would be devastated by the news of my mother's passing.Dr. Ryan g
I felt a sense of purpose and resolve wash over me, and I knew that I was one step closer to finding out what really happened.I turned to Mrs. Jenkins, who was still sitting in the chair beside me, and nodded. "Let's go," I said, my voice firm.Mrs. Jenkins stood up, and we both turned to Dr. Ryan, who was still sitting behind his desk. "Thank you, Dr. Ryan," I said, my eyes locked on his. "I appreciate your help and honesty."Dr. Ryan nodded, his expression sympathetic. "Of course, Aries. I'll keep you updated on the autopsy and any findings. Remember, it's going to be a tough road ahead, but I'll be here to support you."I nodded, took a deep breath, and turned to leave. Mrs. Jenkins followed close behind me as we walked out of Dr. Ryan's office and into the hospital corridor.As we walked, I couldn't help but feel a sense of trepidation. I knew that I was getting closer to the truth, but I also knew that it wouldn'
Tomorrow was my mom's funeral, and I couldn't believe it. The thought of saying goodbye to her was unbearable. The funeral was held at St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, and it was packed with important people from all over the city. Business leaders, politicians, and celebrities came to pay their last respects to my mom, the CEO of MK Technology.As I walked into the cathedral, I was greeted by a sea of somber faces. The pews were filled with people dressed in black, their heads bowed in respect. The altar was adorned with white flowers, and a large portrait of my mom sat atop a pedestal, surrounded by candles.My mom's casket was at the front of the cathedral, covered in a white cloth with gold trim. It was hard to believe that she was really gone. I felt a lump form in my throat as I approached the casket, my heart heavy with grief.The service began, and people started to speak about my mom's accomplishments and leg
As the night wore on, I couldn't shake off the feeling of being an outsider. Leon's family seemed to be sizing me up, their smiles and congratulations laced with insincerity. I felt like a pawn in a game I didn't understand, with no control over my destiny which I hated to feel that way.As I stood there, pretending to be the happy bride-to-be, I caught a glimpse of a figure watching me from across the room. It was a woman with piercing green eyes and long, curly brown hair. She was dressed in a stunning red gown, and her presence seemed to command attention.As our eyes met, I felt a shiver run down my spine. There was something about her that seemed familiar, yet I couldn't quite place her. She smiled at me, a sly, mischievous smile that made me feel like she knew a secret I didn't.I turned back to Leon, trying to focus on the celebration at hand. But my eyes kept drifting back to the mysterious woman in red. Who was she, and what did she want? But I pushed the thoughts away sinc
Time flies, and it is already my engagement day. Everything was perfect. As I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting my diamond necklace, I couldn't help but feel a sense of detachment. The woman staring back at me was a stranger, a puppet dressed in a designer gown, ready to be presented to the world. My father, beaming with pride, entered the room. "Aries, you look stunning. Leon will be thrilled." I forced a smile, my heart heavy with the weight of my situation. "Thanks, Dad," I replied in a calm voice. As we descended the staircase, I was immediately struck by the opulence of the decorations. The entire ballroom was transformed into a fairytale-like setting, with intricate details and lavish adornments. I started asking myself why Is everything so flashy it's just an engagement. The walls were draped with floor-to-ceiling white and cream-coloured silk, creating a sense of elegance and sophistication. The tables were set with fine china, crystal glasses, and crisp white li
I sat at the cushion with my father looking at Sofia who was still looking at me, after a brief silence. My father cleared his throat as if something was choking him."Hmmmm" he cleared his throat. "Aries dear you will be get married."At that moment I felt like I didn't hear what he was saying."Dad please I don't hear you" I said politely not to make him angry."Aries dear I said you are getting married" he repeated but this time his voice was loud and clear."What??" I exclaimed."How? Am I getting married to whom?" "I am too young..... to get married am just twenty-one years old" I pleaded as tears rolled down my eyes.I slumped back into the cushion, my eyes wide with horror and disbelief. My mind raced, refusing to accept the words echoing in my ears. "Married?" I thought. "How can this be? I'm just 21!"My gaze drifted to Sofia, still watching me with an unreadable expression. Her presence made me feel like a pawn in a game I didn't understand."Aries dear I know this would
Since my fate is to be doomed in the hands of my father and his new wife (My stepmother).As I dismissed some thoughts I know will only do more harm than good to me, I quickly packed my things into my bag pack, l looked at Emily who was already staring at me for the moment, her eyes filled with Anger."Hey Emily try to calm down, don't be angry at me" I paused for a while recollecting my thoughts. "I would love to stay but I have some family problems I have to face alone. Please understand.""Did you just say Alone?" Emily asked in anger."Yeah Emily" I walked close trying to calm her down but she retaliated."Aries you seem to have taken me for a fool" Emily spoke her voice shaking as she tried to hold back her tiers."Emily, what have I done wrong?" I asked."Don't play dumb with me Aries" she said as she walked closer to me. "Aries I know you too well, something has been bothering you but you choose to hide it from me why?" Emily said. Tires rolled down her eyes.I felt pity for E
I tapped my foot impatiently, waiting for my ride to arrive, My phone buzzed, and I glanced at the screen."Your ride is 2 minutes away," the notification read, I exhaled but sighed since I was already running late.A sleek, silver sedan pulled up to the curb, its tyres humming on the pavement, The driver, a friendly-looking woman with a warm smile, leaned over to open the passenger door."Hi, Aries! Hop in," she said.I slid into the seat, buckling my belt as she pulled away from the curb, The sedan glided smoothly through the streets, the air-conditioning a welcome respite from the afternoon heat.As we drove, my phone buzzed again, and I glanced at the screen, A text from Emily my best friend flashed on the display:"Hey, Aries! The lecture starts in 20 mins, and you're nowhere to be found! Where are you?"I frowned, anxiety creeping in. "Stuck in traffic," I typed quickly."Estimated time of arrival?" Emily replied."10-15 mins I believe I can make it in time," I estimated."Okay,
After an hour of cooking, Mrs. Jenkins and I finished preparing a delicious meal of roasted chicken, steamed vegetables, and fluffy rice. The aroma wafting from the kitchen was tantalising, and my stomach growled in anticipation of lunch. "Just in time," Mrs. Jenkins said, glancing at the clock. "Mrs. Victoria will be pleased." I nodded, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Let's get everything set up in the dining room." We carefully transferred the dishes to the dining room, where the table was already set with fine china and crystal glasses. Just as we finished arranging the food, Mrs. Victoria swept into the room, Sofia trailing behind her. "Sofia's starving," Mrs. Victoria announced, her eyes scanning the table. "I hope lunch is ready." Sofia's eyes widened as she took in the spread before her. "Finally, something decent to eat," she said, her tone dripping with entitlement. I bit back a retort, remembering Mrs. Jenkins' words: "Don't let those people get to you." Mrs. V
I slept only to wake up the next morning; I brought out my phone to check the time. It was around 9 am."Oh no!!" I exclaimed as I saw the time; I quickly got out of bed and rushed to the bathroom, washed my face; since I woke up late and there was no time for me to take my bath, I walked out of my room.As I hurried out of my room, I nearly collided with Mrs. Victoria, my stepmother, standing in the hallway. Her piercing gaze scrutinized me, her expression a mask of disapproval."Good morning, Mrs. Victoria," I stammered, trying to sound cheerful despite my rush.But instead of a warm response, her face contorted in anger."You call this morning?" she spat, her voice venomous. "You're over two hours late! Your father explicitly told you that you'd be taking care of household chores from now on, and this is how you start?"Her eyes flashed with indignation. "Do you know how much work needs to be done? The laundry, cooking, cleaning... and you're still lounging in your nightclothes?"S
Finally, I drifted off to sleep until I heard a hard knock on my door.Knock!!! Knock!!! Knock!!!. The knock was very intense; I stood up in fear; at that moment, I was very scared.I suddenly Heard my voice behind the door."Aries, open this door", a voice called out my name; I recognized the voice as my dad's. "Open this door, you useless girl"I cautiously approached the door, my heart racing with anticipation. My hand trembled as I grasped the doorknob, hesitating for a moment before slowly turning it. The door creaked open, revealing my father's furious face.His eyes blazed with anger, his eyebrows furrowed, and his jaw clenched. His face was red with rage, and veins bulged from his temples."Aries, you stupid girl!" he thundered, his voice echoing through the room. "What did I tell you about disobeying me?"As he spoke, his hand swiftly rose, and I felt a surge of fear. I tried to dodge, but it was too late. His palm connected with my cheek, delivering a stinging slap.The soun
I entered my room for the first time since my mom's passing, a laugh escaped me—soft and ironic, tinged with the bitter edge of everything that had changed. It felt strange to find even a flicker of happiness amidst the grief that had become my constant shadow. The laughter didn’t feel real, almost like a defence mechanism against the overwhelming sadness.I closed the door behind me and leaned against it, the weight of the world pressing down on my shoulders. My eyes scanned the room—everything looked exactly as I had left it, yet nothing felt the same. The room had a hollow feeling, as though the life that once filled it had been sucked out, leaving only memories in its wake.The silence was deafening. I could almost hear my mom's voice, soft and soothing, whispering in my ear, offering comfort that I so desperately needed. But she wasn't there. She would never be there again.I walked over to m