Chapter 5 A Fractured Alliance

Rita stepped out of the car, taking a deep breath to steady her emotions. The hospital's sterile scent filled the air, a stark contrast to the turmoil raging inside her. She pushed aside the thoughts of Jaden and Percy for now, focusing solely on the well-being of her unborn child.

Inside the hospital, Rita checked in at the reception desk and was soon guided to a room where a doctor would evaluate her condition. As she waited, she couldn't help but reflect on the turn of events that had led her to this moment. Her heart still carried the lingering hope that Jaden would realise the depth of his feelings for her, but she understood that she had to face reality and prepare for the possibility of raising their child alone.

The doctor entered the room, a compa*sionate smile gracing their face. They listened attentively as Rita explained her symptoms and medical history. Sensing her emotional state, the doctor offered words of rea*surance and support.

"Rita, it's normal to feel overwhelmed in situations like these," the doctor said gently. "But remember, you have the strength to navigate this journey. Let's run some tests to ensure both you and the baby are healthy."

As the doctor conducted the necessary examinations, Rita's thoughts drifted to the future. She pondered the challenges she might face as a single mother, but also the incredible love and bond she would share with her child. Deep within her, a determination to provide a nurturing and loving environment for her baby took root.

When the test results came back, the doctor confirmed that Rita and her unborn child were in good health. They provided guidance on maintaining a healthy pregnancy and recommended follow-up appointments to monitor the baby's progress.

As Rita left the hospital, a mix of emotions washed over her. Uncertainty still lingered, but she felt a newfound sense of strength and resilience. She knew that her journey as a mother would not be easy, but she was determined to embrace it with all her heart. Also, she washappy that Jaden didn't follow her to see the Doctor, because she didn't want him to know that she's pregnant.

Rita's phone buzzed, jolting her out of her reverie. She glanced at the screen, and her heart skipped a beat. It was another call from Jaden. Taking a deep breath, she answered, her voice filled with trepidation.

As she received the call from Jaden, her mind struggled to process the information. His request to be the one to put forward the divorce left her feeling a mix of disbelief and hurt. How could he ask her to be the one to initiate the end of their marriage? The weight of the situation bore heavily on her, and she found it difficult to find the right words to respond.

Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Rita replied with a mix of sadness and determination in her voice. "Jaden, I understand that your grandmother is important to you, and I respect that. But asking me to be the one to put forward the divorce... It's not fair. We both entered into this marriage together, and we should navigate the end of it together as well."

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before Jaden responded, his voice filled with a hint of regret. "Rita, I didn't mean to put the burden solely on you. I just thought it might be easier if you initiated the process since she doesn't like Percy's presence."

Rita's voice remained steady as she a*serted herself. "Jaden,How is that my business? You brought up the agreement because you believed it was the best way to move forward. But that doesn't mean I should shoulder the entire responsibility. We both have a part to play in this, most especially you.. Let's find a way to handle it together, with respect and fairness."

"Hold on Jaden, Do you mind telling me what's going on? Why would your grandma be annoyed by Percy's presence? And why do you think I should initiate the divorce? I need answers."

There was a long pause on the other end of the line, and Rita held her breath, waiting for Jaden's response. Finally, his voice came through, but it was laced with an unexpected mix of sadness and determination.

"Rita, I don't know how to explain it all right now. But please trust me when I say that it's for the best. My grandmother's birthday celebration has opened my eyes to some things, and I think it's time we face the truth. I can't talk much longer, but please think about what I've said. We'll talk again soon."

And with that, the line went dead, leaving Rita with more questions than answers. She stared at her phone in disbelief, her mind swirling with a whirlwind of emotions. What had happened to change everything so suddenly? And what did Jaden mean by "the truth"?