One year later... Ramon Anderson found himself striving for redemption. His cell's cold, sterile confines had become a space for self-reflection and transformation. "Hey, Mr. Anderson, I heard that you shot your own daughter? Is that true?" a prisoner asked him. He bowed his head and nodded, "Yes, I did." "Sometimes we make mistakes and that's okay. Because from that mistake? We can learn and be better. That mistake would led us to change. To change, to be better," he said to him. A smile formed on the corner of his lips after hearing those words from him. "Thank you for saying that. I hope we will see each other again. She will be able to forgive me," he said, with hope on his tone. "She will forgive you, my friend," he said. Later that day, Ramon had build a lot of friendship inside the cell. He was changing for himself, he knew that he should be better to face his family and especially, Crystal. "Hey! Are you really changing for the better, or are you just pretending t
Felix interjected, "I'll be straightforward. I want you back, Marianne." The words hung in the air, and Marianne's eyes widened in surprise. She stopped in her tracks, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected revelation. "What is this? Why am I feeling this way?" she asked herself, and didn't respond to what he said. As the call ended, Marianne stood in the bustling street, grappling with the unexpected turn of events. The path ahead seemed uncertain, filled with echoes of the past and the weight of decisions yet to be made. Marianne's heart raced as Felix's words echoed in her mind. "I want you back, Marianne." The bustling street around her seemed to fade into the background as she absorbed the weight of his confession. She found a nearby bench and sat, her thoughts in a whirlwind. She sighed and closed her eyes, "What's happening with me? I am fine without him. I am living a good life without him. Why am I feeling this way?" she asked herself in confusion. Opening her eyes,
Four years later... The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the city streets as Nate and Crystal strolled hand in hand. The air was filled with a gentle breeze, and the city's rhythm harmonized with the beating of their hearts. Crystal's eyes sparkled with a mixture of affection and a subtle secret as she gazed at Nate. The city lights began to flicker, mirroring the playfulness in her expression. "I love you, Nate," she uttered, her words hanging in the air like a sweet melody. Nate, abruptly stopping in his tracks, looked at her with a frown. "Why are you being like this? Why? Did something happen?" A mischievous smile played on Crystal's lips as she shook her head. "No, I just wanted to tell you that." A sense of relief washed over Nate's face, and a warm smile replaced his initial concern. "I love you too, Crystal. I love you so much." The sincerity in his voice resonated with the city's evening breeze, and their shared smiles deepened. As the warmth of the
Back at the province, Marianne's life had settled into a comforting routine. The serene surroundings provided a stark contrast to the bustling city life she had once known. Her days were dedicated to taking care of Zoey, who had blossomed into a lively and curious five-year-old. Zoey's laughter echoed through their quaint home, filling it with an infectious joy that brought a sense of completeness to Marianne's world. "I love you, sweetheart," Marianne uttered with a smile and planted kiss on her cheeks. While the province offered a peaceful sanctuary, Marianne couldn't escape the occasional thoughts that tugged at her heart. Emma headed to their direction. "How's our princess doing?" she asked and then looked at Zoey. Zoey smilingly headed to her grandmother and then hugged her. "I am fine, grandma." "Oh, how sweet of you, my dear," Emma uttered and then carried her. Felix remained unaware of the existence of Zoey, and Marianne had chosen to keep this part of her life hidd
Felix's arrival at the village hospital was met with a mix of confusion and concern. His eyes met Marianne's tear-streaked face, and the gravity of the situation began to settle over him. "What happened? Who got hospitalized?" he asked, his voice reflecting the urgency of the moment. Marianne, still grappling with her emotions, looked at him with teary eyes. "Felix, please save her," she pleaded, her desperation evident. "What are you talking about?" Felix pressed, his confusion deepening. Marianne hesitated, taking a deep breath before revealing the truth. "Please save our daughter." The revelation hung in the air, and Felix's eyes widened with shock. He couldn't comprehend the sudden revelation that he had a daughter, and she needed his help. "What do you mean? Our d-daughter?" "I can explain it later. Please save her," she begged. As the medical team prepared for the transfusion, a tense silence settled between Marianne and Felix. The beeping of machines and the distant vo
Felix's face lit up with a warm smile. "I'm so sorry I missed your birthday, Zoey. But I'm here now, and I promise we'll celebrate together." Zoey beamed, her eyes sparkling with delight. "Mommy said we can have a belated birthday party when you come back! Can we, Daddy?" Felix nodded, touched by Zoey's excitement. "Sweetheart. We'll have the best belated birthday party ever. What kind of cake do you like?" Zoey's eyes widened, contemplating her favorite. "Um, chocolate cake with lots of colorful sprinkles!" Felix laughed, "Chocolate cake it is, with a mountain of sprinkles! I'll make sure it's the most delicious cake you've ever had." After dinner, as the evening settled into a gentle calm, Zoey tugged at Felix's hand. "Daddy, can you stay a bit longer? I want to show you my drawings." Felix grinned, unable to resist Zoey's charm. "Of course, sweetheart. Lead the way." Zoey led Felix to her room, where colorful drawings adorned the walls. She eagerly picked up her sketchbook an
One week later... Felix had planned to have a family picnic with Marianne and Zoey. He had set everything; the place, the food; and everything. "Woah, this place is so beautiful, Daddy!" Zoey exclaimed as her eyes roamed around the place. Felix smiled pride rising in his heart at Zoey's enthusiasm. "I'm glad you like it, sweetheart. I thought it would be the perfect spot for our picnic." Marianne looked around, a soft smile gracing her lips. "It really is beautiful, Felix. Thank you for bringing us here." Felix saw her and grinned. Felix broke up the awkward moment between them when he said, "Anything for my girls." "Now, let's find a nice spot to set up our picnic blanket." "Here, Daddy! Let's sit here!" Zoey suggested while pointing at the place near an oak tree and near the riverside. Felix nodded, "Alright, Sweetheart. I think this is the best spot we got." Felix laid out the blanket under the oak tree's cover, the soft sound of falling leaves creating a calming atmosphe
As Marianne stood in the kitchen, she noticed Felix and Zoey playing hide-and-seek in the living room. Their laughing filled the house, bringing a sense of comfort that had been missing for far too long. Marianne, unable to resist, went forward and leaned against the doorframe. "You're getting warmer, Zoey!" Felix exclaimed, and Zoey giggled as she scurried beneath the couch. "Where are you, Daddy?" Zoey's voice was full of enthusiasm. Felix chuckled, his tone humorous as he pretended to hide, "You'll have to search harder than that!" Marianne smiled as she watched them. "Looks like you two are having a blast," she said with a chuckle in her voice. Zoey peeked out of her hiding place, grinning from ear to ear. "It's so much fun, Mom! Daddy is really good at this game." Felix grinned at Marianne. "I've had a lot of practice," he said, his eyes flashing with malice. Marianne chuckled gently, her heart filling with warmth. "Well, it's great to see you both having fun," she responde
A month later... Marianne and Felix's daily routine included sleepless nights and shared parenting challenges. Despite their tiredness, their home was filled with the soothing sounds of baby coos and Zoey's laughing. "I could never been happier. I couldn't wish for more, Marianne. This family we had build together? This is perfect. This is what I am dreaming of." When the evening arrived, Felix and Marianne had been thinking about taking a family photo together to post on the wall for display and memories. "Felix, what do you think about having a family photo? Something we can hang in the living room, a snapshot of our life together despite all the challenges?" Marianne said, her eyes bright with joy. Felix grinned warmly, since he had always been supportive of Marianne's ideas. "That sounds like a wonderful idea. Let's capture these precious moments." He smiled as he gazed at his wife and two children. "Thank God for giving me these beautiful souls. I couldn't ask for more."
In the hospital room, the air was filled with a gentle warmth as Marianne cradled their newborn son. Felix, still beaming with pride, leaned down to place another tender kiss on her forehead. The soft melody of their baby's first cries echoed in the room, a sweet symphony of new beginnings. Just as the new parents were settling into the quiet joy of their family, the door softly creaked open. Zoey, Felix and Marianne's eldest daughter, burst into the room, her eyes wide with excitement. She had just turned six, and her anticipation to meet her baby brother had been palpable. "Mommy! Daddy! Where's my baby brother?" Zoey exclaimed, bouncing on her toes with uncontainable enthusiasm. Felix, with a warm smile, gestured towards Marianne, who was still nestled in the hospital bed. "Zoey, meet your little brother." Zoey's eyes widened with awe as she approached, her gaze fixated on the tiny bundle in Marianne's arms. "He's so tiny! Can I hold him?" Marianne nodded, her heart swelling w
Five months had passed since that memorable family outing, and the Anderson household was brimming with anticipation as Marianne's due date approached. The journey of Marianne's pregnancy had been a mix of joy, excitement, and challenges, making each day a testament to their unwavering love and support for each other. On the morning of the day that would forever change their lives, Felix and Marianne stood in the soft glow of the sunrise, the city gradually awakening outside their window. Marianne, her radiant glow juxtaposed against the delicate hues of dawn, took careful steps while Felix walked by her side. "How are you feeling?" Felix inquired, his eyes filled with concern and love. Marianne offered a tired but genuine smile. "I don't know, Felix. It's a mix of everything. But I can't wait to meet our little one." The journey had indeed been challenging for Marianne. The sleepless nights, the physical changes, and the emotional roller coaster were all part of the intricate tap
The following day dawned with a sense of anticipation in the Anderson household. Felix's plan for a family picnic, featuring Ramon and his two sisters, Crystal and Daisy, was met with enthusiastic agreement from everyone. Marianne, fully supportive of the idea, smiled as Felix shared the details of their day. "Make it the happiest day for him. Enjoy your day," Marianne encouraged, her eyes reflecting the love she felt for Felix and the entire family. Felix grinned, his heart warmed by Marianne's support. "Thank you, love. I love you." With Marianne's blessing, Felix set the wheels in motion for a memorable family outing. The Andersons gathered their picnic essentials – a checkered blanket, a basket filled with sandwiches, fruits, and snacks, and a sense of excitement that permeated the air. As they arrived at the chosen park, a picturesque haven with sprawling greenery and the gentle murmur of a nearby stream, Felix couldn't help but marvel at the perfect setting for their family
The following month proved to be challenging for Marianne. The demands of pregnancy, coupled with the absence of Felix during long working hours, left her feeling weary and alone. With Zoey and Emma at school, the once lively house now echoed with a sense of solitude that weighed heavily on Marianne's shoulders. As she moved through the rooms, each filled with memories of laughter and shared moments, Marianne couldn't shake off the pangs of loneliness. The pregnancy, though a joyful occasion, had taken a toll on her energy, leaving her more susceptible to emotional waves. One quiet afternoon, the house seemed particularly empty. Marianne stood in the living room, gazing out of the window at the swaying trees. The gentle rustle of leaves seemed to underscore the stillness around her, intensifying the feeling of solitude. A wave of emotion washed over Marianne, and she found herself sitting on the couch, her hands resting on her growing belly. The silence pressed in, and she longed f
As the day unfolded, the sun painted the sky with hues of warmth, casting a golden glow over the family picnic. Marianne, Felix, Zoey, and Emma found themselves surrounded by nature's embrace, enjoying the simple pleasures of each other's company. A checkered picnic blanket adorned with an array of delicious treats lay spread out beneath the shade of a towering oak tree. Zoey, her laughter echoing in the air, chased butterflies and picked wildflowers, her enthusiasm adding a touch of joy to the scene. Felix, ever the attentive father, set up a small grill for a spontaneous barbecue, filling the air with the tempting aroma of sizzling delicacies. Emma, sitting on the blanket, couldn't help but marvel at the picture-perfect moment unfolding before her. As Marianne leaned back, taking in the beauty of the day, she felt a gentle squeeze on her hand. Felix, his eyes filled with warmth, whispered, "Are you feeling okay, my love?" Marianne nodded, her heart swelling with gratitude. "I'm
As the stars twinkled above, casting a soft glow over the small family gathered at the cemetery, a gentle breeze rustled the leaves, creating an atmosphere of serenity. Marianne, despite the emotional richness of the day, began to feel a dull ache in her head. She discreetly rubbed her temples, trying not to draw attention to the discomfort. Felix, attuned to Marianne's subtle signs of distress, noticed the furrow forming on her brow. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Are you okay, Marianne?" She offered a small smile, trying to dismiss the growing pain. "I'm fine, just a little headache. It'll pass." Emma, ever perceptive, observed Marianne's discomfort. "Sweetheart, if you're not feeling well, we can head back. We've had a beautiful time here." Zoey, still full of the innocence of a child, chimed in, "Mommy, you should tell Grandpa about your headache. He'll help you feel better." Marianne's heart swelled with both gratitude and warmth at Zoey's concern. "Thank you,
A few weeks after the joyous beach wedding, Marianne, Felix, Zoey, and Emma found themselves standing in front of Marianne's father's grave. The cemetery was peaceful, with the soft rustling of leaves and the distant chirping of birds adding a gentle melody to the air. Zoey, their vivacious five-year-old daughter, clutched a small bouquet of wildflowers in her tiny hands. Her eyes sparkled with innocence as she looked at the headstone, adorned with fresh flowers. "Hi, Grandpa," Zoey chirped, her smile illuminating the somber surroundings. Emma, who had played the role of both mother and grandmother to Marianne and Zoey, felt tears welling up in her eyes. She gently placed a hand on Zoey's shoulder, her voice filled with a mix of love and longing, "I missed you so much, my love." Marianne, holding back her own tears, managed a tender smile. "I missed you too, Father." Felix, ever supportive, greeted the grave with a gentle smile, "Hello, Father. It's nice to see you again." The a
After spending some time at the hospital, Felix, Marianne, and Zoey made their way back home. The drive was quiet, filled with a sense of relief now that they knew Marianne and the baby were going to be okay. Zoey, nestled in the back seat, held onto a small stuffed animal, finding comfort in its familiar presence. As they entered their home, the atmosphere seemed to shift. The living room, once bustling with wedding plans, now felt serene and welcoming. Felix, still carrying Zoey in his arms, glanced at Marianne, his eyes reflecting a mix of love and concern. "Let's get you settled, Marianne," Felix suggested, guiding her towards the sofa. Ethel, who had been waiting at their home, stood up, her eyes filled with worry and guilt. "I'm so sorry, Marianne. I didn't mean for any of this to happen." Marianne offered a tired but genuine smile. "Ethel, it's not your fault. These things happen. And I already told you that it's not your fault."Ethel nodded, her eyes still reflecting the