The suffocating silence enveloped the house once Catherine left. Kendall remained motionless in the living room, her thoughts still overwhelmed from the conflict. She couldn't stop hearing Catherine words in her mind, repeating endlessly: “I will uncover the truth no matter what”. Kendall was well aware of the unmistakable threat, and she understood that Catherine would inevitably delve too deeply sooner or later.Looking at Jason by the window, she saw him gazing out into the night, his hands tightly clenched at his sides. He had been quiet since his mother departed, only whispering a few words about needing time to ponder. Kendall sensed the tension emanating from him, his feelings of frustration and concern evident. However, the biggest burden on her mind was the doubt that currently existed in their relationship.She had been harboring the pregnancy secret for a long time, wishing that everything would come together. However, as time went on, the burden of that secret became incre
Jason felt overwhelmed as the car zoomed through the peaceful city roads. He gazed out the window, observing the lights whizzing by, his mind lost in a distant place. He lied to Kendall about a sudden business meeting, when in reality he was going to his mother's house, a matter of greater importance than any work emergency.His driver, understanding his boss's attitude, maintained a smooth and quiet journey. Jason needed time to gather his thoughts before facing his mother. He had always been close to Catherine Carter, and their bond meant the world to him. Lately, the bond's strength has been challenged. He kept Kendall's pregnancy a secret from her, but she would soon discover the truth.Jason’s jaw tightened when the car gently pulled up in front of his mother's grand house. Stepping outside, he adjusted his suit while taking a deep breath. Unsure of the outcome, he proceeded with the conversation, knowing there was no way to retreat.Catherine was waiting for him. Upon entering t
During the board meeting, Jason reclined in his chair, feeling bored with the ongoing discussion. He wasn't focused on the presentation displayed on the screen or the financial projections being talked about. He kept thinking about the promise he’d made to his mother—Catherine was coming to visit tomorrow, and she expected everything to be perfectly in place. Looking at his phone briefly, Jason sent a short message to Kendall. He hesitated with his thumb above the send button before sighing and finally pushing it.Tomorrow, my mother will come for a visit. Be ready. We need to act like everything’s fine. Wear the dress I’m sending with the driver. I will handle everything else.Putting the phone back into his pocket, he faced the meeting with an inscrutable expression. However, his mind was focused on something else - fixated on the impending explosion of secrets that was like a ticking time bomb.---On the opposite side of the city, Kendall gazed at her phone's display, repeatedly r
Jason stepped into the house with a purpose, his posture rigid and commanding as always. He held a new dress in his hand, resting on a fragile hanger. The gown was a graceful, elegant deep emerald color, flowing smoothly to the floor, reminding one of vibrant forests. The luxurious silk satin material catches the light softly, improving the dress's smooth shape. Soft cap sleeves sit on the shoulders gracefully, as a subtle V-neckline brings a touch of elegance. The bodice is tailored to gently widen into a skirt that flows elegantly, resulting in a striking hourglass silhouette that moves gracefully with every stride. A delicate train trails behind, adding an element of drama, while intricate beadwork along the waist glimmers subtly, elevating the overall refinement of this exquisite piece that he’d chosen for Kendall because the blue dress delivered earlier didn't fit. The color reminded him of the strength she’d hidden behind all those soft exteriors, but tonight, that strength nee
Kendall's heart skipped a beat when the doorbell chimed. She stood in the kitchen, clutching the counter tightly as though the cold granite could anchor her frantic mind. Standing where she was, she could hear Jason warmly greeting his mother, his voice as smooth as always. He effortlessly transitioned into the role of the caring husband, which was unsettling. On the contrary, she felt like a marionette with worn strings, about to come apart with the smallest tug."Mom, enter," Jason called out, his voice echoing through the entrance hall.Kendall inhaled deeply, adjusted her stance, and ran her hand over the smooth fabric of the green dress that Jason had given to her. She felt beautiful in it, but there was no comfort in that. The dress wasn’t for her. It was another tool in Jason’s well-crafted narrative. A costume in the play they had to perform."Kendall," Jason quietly spoke, indicating to her that the time had come.As she left the kitchen, her stomach twisted while she headed
A few days afterwards, Kendall sat on the couch's edge, with her back upright and hands firmly clasped in her lap. Watching Catherine move effortlessly around the living room made Kendall feel extremely uncomfortable. Catherine’s visit, which had begun warmly enough, was now dragging on, each moment heavy with tension that only she seemed to feel. Jason sat beside her, his hand casually resting on her knee, the weight of it both grounding and suffocating at the same time.Catherine had made herself comfortable, a delicate porcelain teacup in her hand as she chatted about plans for the baby, future family gatherings, and her excitement for their “growing family.” Kendall nodded along, smiling when appropriate, but her mind was elsewhere—spiraling with guilt, fear, and the crushing weight of the lie they were living.“I was thinking,” Catherine said, her voice light and cheerful, “when the baby comes, we should plan a family getaway. Somewhere peaceful, where you can both relax and sett
Kendall watched as the front door clicked shut behind Catherine. The home, previously filled with the comforting presence of Catherine's mother, now seemed overwhelmingly quiet. The clicking of the wall clock seemed amplified, each tick serving as a constant reminder of the increasing stress that had accumulated during the day.She was positioned in the center of the living room, her body tense and her breaths minimal. The forced smile she had been wearing for hours had disappeared, replaced only by the tightness in her chest and the cold, sinking sense of dread in her stomach.Jason, remaining by the door, ran his fingers through his hair, appearing as composed and collected as he typically was. He faced her, his expression inscrutable, yet Kendall couldn't bring herself to look at him. The silence was oppressive as they sat in quietness, the tension heavy like an impending storm.“You did well,” Jason said, his voice measured and flat. It wasn't praise, just an assessment similar to
Kendall had a difficult time ascending the stairs to Alicia's apartment. Each following move became heavier, as though the built-up exhaustion and emotional stress from the past days had finally caught up with her. When she reached Alicia's door, she stopped momentarily, unsure with her hand hovering near the doorknob. What if she lacked the energy to clarify everything that had occurred?Nevertheless, the moment Alicia opened the door, all of those worries disappeared. Alicia's demeanor softened as she observed Kendall's weary eyes, pale complexion, and the visible weight she seemed to bear in her own body.Alicia whispered Kendall's name, expressing concern in her voice. “Come in.”Kendall didn't require a second invitation. Upon entering, once the door shut behind her, she lost her determination. Her knees buckled, and she collapsed into Alicia's arms before she could say anything, her body trembling with fatigue.Alicia softly guided her to the sofa, providing support. "Take a sea
The sales assistants and the driver helped load everything into the car. Jason held the door for Kendall as they exited the store from the boutique. Just as she started walking, Jason's stomach let out a loud growl. Kendall suddenly halted in her steps, turning her head quickly towards him as she chuckled. "Was that... you?" she questioned, disbelief evident in her tone. Jason shyly rubbed the back of his neck, causing his ears to blush slightly. "What else can I say? Shopping takes energy,” he replied, giving her a small grin. Kendall shook her head, still chuckling. “Jason Carter, starving after one hour in a boutique. Who would’ve thought?” "Hey, I never mentioned being famished," he joked, although his stomach rumbled again, proving otherwise. "Maybe I am, alright." “Let’s find a place to eat before this turns into a medical emergency.” Kendall smirked, linking her arm with his. “You’re impossible. Fine, breakfast it is.” Jason noticed a charming café nestled in a corn
As Jason led Kendall toward the car, the bright morning sun filled the lobby, with her hand securely in his. She moved at a leisurely pace, with slightly uncertain steps, yet her smile exuded warmth. Jason sneakily looked at her every few seconds, his spare hand poised to support her if she fell. "Jason," Kendall said with a hint of playfulness in her voice, "I believe I can walk by myself." Jason arched a brow. “Oh, is that so? Because yesterday, you could barely stand without wobbling.” “That was yesterday,” she countered, tilting her head at him. "And I'm still complaining today," Jason responded with a smirk. He held the car door open for her and assisted her as she got in before getting in himself. While the driver placed the bags in the trunk, Kendall smiled and shook her head, with amusement shining in her eyes. Are you aware that you are doing too much? I’m fine, really.” Jason reclined in his chair, securing his seatbelt. "I prefer to go overboard than to wish I had
Jason carefully opened the door, trying to make as little noise as possible, and immediately looked at Kendall. She was nestled on her side, breathing evenly, with a calm expression on her face. The warm glow in the room was created by the setting sun filtering through the half-drawn curtains in shades of gold. Jason paused briefly, observing her, feeling his heart grow with an unnamed emotion. "He thought she appeared very calm," his lips formed a slight smile. “After everything today, she deserves this rest.” Still, the persistent concern eating away at the recesses of his thoughts remained relentless. Jason glanced around the room. The partially filled suitcase by the closet grabbed his attention, quietly reminding him of their impending journey. He sighed while pulling up his sleeves. "Okay, time to finish this," he quietly said, moving closer to the task. While grabbing one of Kendall's carefully folded shirts, he noticed the lingering fragrance of her beloved lavender perfume
Jason watched as Kendall ate the rest of her lunch with little enthusiasm while sitting by her bedside. The chef had excelled with the spread, but Kendall hardly ate any of it. Jason refrained from commenting, as he didn't want to push too much, but her diminished appetite worried him. She appeared improved from the previous night, yet he couldn't overlook the fragility in her. Her typically lively skin tone appeared pale, and although her eyes stayed friendly, they held a hint of darkness, as if she was concealing something. His phone vibrated on the bedside table, breaking the silence. He glanced at Kendall. “I’ll just take this. Be right back,” he murmured, brushing her hand gently before stepping into the hallway. While he departed, Kendall absentmindedly traced patterns on the blanket with her fingers. After the door closed with a click, she released a quiet breath, a hint of unease appearing on her face. She felt another jolt in her stomach. She shifted, adjusting her positio
When morning came, Jason was still there. His body was rigid from remaining in the same position all night, barely shifting. Seeing Kendall wake up and her complexion improving slightly helped relieve the tension in his muscles. “Good morning,” he said quietly, his voice tinged with relief. Kendall blinked up at him, her lips curving into a faint smile. “You stayed.” "Definitely," he stated while removing a loose strand of hair from her face. "What is your emotional state?”“Better,” she said softly, though her voice lacked its usual energy. Jason nodded, his worry not entirely abated but tempered by her slight improvement. “I ran a bath for you,” he said. “Thought it might help you feel refreshed.” Kendall's demeanor became more gentle, clearly showing her appreciation. "There was no need for you to do that." “I wanted to,” Jason said simply. “Come on. Let me help you.” Kendall let him help her, leaning on him while they walked to the bathroom. Even though she had objecte
Jason shifted, sensing the chill void on the opposite side of the bed. Instinctively, he extended his arm and his fingers made contact with Kendall's shoulder. Her body felt unnaturally warm. He immediately opened his eyes and his heart raced as he looked in her direction. Kendall was curled up, her face red and covered in sweat. She took quick breaths and shook under the blanket. “Kendall?” He leaned over her, his voice filled with tension. She moved and her eyelids opened slightly, fluttering. In a soft whisper, she spoke with a hoarse voice that was barely audible, saying, "Jason." "You have a fever," he commented, reaching for her forehead. The fear chilling his spine was caused by the heat emanating from her skin. She muttered, trying to push his hand away, saying "It's... it's nothing." "I will be okay." Jason ignored her protest, sitting up and reaching for his phone on the nightstand. “I’m calling a doctor.” “No!” Kendall quickly reached out and grabbed his wrist firml
The warm golden glow of early sunlight flowed in through the drapes, brightening the room. When Jason opened his eyes, he noticed Kendall curled up on her side. He grinned as he observed her briefly before getting out of bed. He moved quietly, determined to let her sleep a little longer. But as he walked past her to grab a towel, her faint groan stopped him. He turned back, noticing the way her hand clutched at her abdomen, her face drawn in pain even in sleep. “Kendall?” he asked softly, moving closer. Slowly, her eyes fluttered open, briefly looking confused before she managed a small smile. "Morning," she whispered quietly, her voice rough. Jason knelt next to the bed, examining her expression. “Are you okay? You look pale.” She waved a dismissive hand, though her movements were sluggish. “I’m fine. Just… pregnancy stuff. Nothing to worry about.” He frowned. “You sure? You seem—” “Jason,” she cut him off gently, pushing herself up to sit. “I said I’m fine. Don’t start
The villa was peaceful, except for the steady sound of waves crashing far away. Jason had placed a small dining table on the patio, where a gentle, golden light was shining and creating moving shadows on the stone floor. Kendall stopped at the entrance, her eyes locked on the view in front of her. On the table, there was a bottle of chilled sparkling cider in an ice bucket and a neatly arranged bouquet of white lilies, her preferred flowers. Jason stood next to the table, fixing a candle that was beginning to tilt dangerously. At the sound of her steps, he looked back, his face glowing with a small, contented smile. "You've arrived at the perfect moment," he stated as he pulled a chair out for her. "Jason, what is that?" Kendall asked, her voice tinged with surprise as she approached. “Dinner,” he replied simply, his tone casual but his eyes warm. “I thought we could use a quiet evening.” Her gaze softened. "You didn't need to go to such lengths." "It wasn't a problem," Jason r
The cleaner moved briskly but deliberately through the glass doors of Carter Enterprises. She lowered her head, her face showing no emotion, and she moved at a relaxed pace. Despite the pounding in her ears, her demeanor remained calm as she approached the day as she would any other at work. The busy foyer buzzed with its typical activity, with employees hurrying past and whispered chats filling the room. She received no second looks, just as she desired. Her grip on the cart's handle grew stronger as she neared the elevators. She pressed the button and waited, glancing around casually. As she walked by, a security guard nodded at her, so she responded with a friendly smile. The elevator doors opened quietly with a soft sound, and she entered, finally catching her breath as they shut behind her. As soon as the doors closed, she rested against the wall, briefly losing her composure. The cold steel of the elevator mirrored her conflicted reflection. Her mind was flooded with a millio