I felt the bullet pierce my shoulder, a searing pain that radiated through my entire body. I stumbled backward, my eyes locking onto Sarah's terrified face. Her eyes were wide with fear, her skin pale as she screamed my name.As I fell, time seemed to slow down. I felt myself floating, suspended in mid-air. I saw Sarah's face, her eyes filled with tears, her mouth open in a silent scream.And then I was falling. The cliffside rushed past me, the ocean far, far below. I felt a sense of weightlessness, as if I were floating in a dream.But it wasn't a dream. It was reality. And in that moment, I knew I might never see Sarah again. The thought was like a knife to my heart, a pain that eclipsed the physical agony of the bullet wound."God, why?" I whispered, my voice barely audible. "How can you be so cruel? Why must I be separated from Sarah every time? Can't you see how much I love her? Can't you see how much I need her?"Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as I thought of all the m
Nicholas's heart swelled with joy as he gazed at Sarah and thought about their life together. This was everything he had ever dreamed of—a loving wife, a beautiful home, and a child to share it all with.He didn't care if this was a dream or reality. All that mattered was that he was living this life, this moment, with the people he loved.He felt a sense of contentment wash over him as he looked at Sarah, her smile brightening up the entire room. He loved her more than words could express, and he was grateful for every moment they spent together.He put down the coffee cup and reached out, grabbing her waist and pulling her close. Sarah's eyes sparkled with surprise as he lifted her up and sat her on the counter, her legs dangling in the air.Nicholas's hands roamed over her body, tracing the curves of her hips, waist, and breasts. He leaned in, his lips brushing against hers, sending shivers down her spine.Sarah's arms wrapped around his neck, deepening the kiss. They were lost in
Sarah slowly opened the door, her eyes locking onto Nicholas's figure, standing frozen in front of the mirror. She could sense the faraway look in his eyes and the tension in his body.She walked towards him, her footsteps quiet on the tile floor. As she approached, her hand reached out, her fingers gently brushing against the scar on his shoulder.Nicholas's eyes snapped back to the present, his gaze meeting Sarah's. She looked into his eyes, her own filled with a mix of emotions—concern, love, and a hint of fear."I thought I lost you," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "I thought I'd never see you again."Sarah's eyes drifted to the scar, her fingers tracing the edges. "I remember that day like it was yesterday. I was in shock, broken. I saw you get shot, saw you fall from the cliff... I thought my world had ended."Nicholas's eyes never left hers, his expression softening as he listened."I was so scared," Sarah continued, her voice cracking. "I felt like my heart was rippe
Nicholas smiled as he glanced in the rearview mirror, watching Jace chatter excitedly in the backseat."Daddy, I'm so excited for kindergarten today! I'm going to learn about numbers and letters and make new friends!"Nicholas chuckled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "That sounds like a great plan, buddy! You're going to make lots of new friends and learn so many cool things."Jace's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Yeah! And I'm going to tell them all about my mommy and daddy and our house and our car... and everything!"Nicholas laughed, shaking his head in amusement. "I think you might just be the most talkative kid in kindergarten, Jace."Jace grinned, his smile lighting up the car. "That's because I have so much to say, Daddy! And I want to tell everyone about our family and how much I love you and Mommy."Nicholas's heart swelled with emotion as he gazed at Jace's reflection in the mirror. His little boy was growing up to be just like his mother—bright, curious, and full of l
Nicholas's eyes never left Sarah's as he stood up, his movements fluid and deliberate. He reached down, scooping her up in his arms, cradling her like a precious treasure.Sarah's eyes widened in surprise, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she wrapped her arms around his neck. "Nick, what are you doing?"Nicholas didn't respond, his gaze burning with intensity as he carried her towards the bedroom. The warm sunlight streaming through the windows illuminated their path, casting a golden glow over the scene.He pushed open the bedroom door, the bright sunlight spilling into the room, casting a warm, inviting light over the space. Nicholas laid Sarah down on the bed, her body sinking into the plush mattress.He hovered over her, his eyes drinking in the sight of her. Sarah's cheeks flushed with a soft pink, and her lips parted, inviting him to come closer. Her hair fanned out around her, a rich, dark halo that framed her face.Nicholas's heart pounded in his chest, his love for her threat
"Sofia, you have a visitor."Her head jerked up, her eyes widening in shock. A visitor? It was impossible. She had no one left. She had killed her only family, her son Griffin. The thought sent a pang of guilt and regret through her chest, but she pushed it aside.Who could it be? She had given up hope of ever seeing a friendly face again. The years had passed, and she had become a ghost, a forgotten soul trapped in this prison.Sofia's mind racing; she tried to think of anyone who might have come to see her. But there was no one. She had no friends, no family, no one who cared.The officer's voice brought her back to reality. "Sofia, are you okay? You need to come with me." She nodded, still in shock, as the officer led her out of her cell and down the corridor. Her heart pounded in her chest, her palms grew sweaty, and her mind whirled with questions.Who was this mysterious visitor? What did they want from her? And why now, after all these years? As she walked, Sofia's anxiety grew
Nicholas and Sarah were wrapped in each other's arms, basking in the warmth of their love. They stood in their cozy living room, surrounded by the comforts of home and the tranquility of the moment.Sarah's voice was muffled against Nicholas's chest. "Don't forget, you have to go pick up Jace from school today. It's his first day, and I'm a little nervous."Nicholas chuckled, his chest vibrating against Sarah's ear. "I wouldn't forget, my love. I'll be there to pick him up and hear all about his day."Sarah smiled, her eyes sparkling with amusement. "Good, because he's been looking forward to telling you all about his new classroom and teacher."Nicholas's eyes lit up with interest. "Oh, yeah? What's he saying about it?"Sarah laughed, her voice filled with mirth. "You'll have to ask him about that one. But I'm sure he'll regale you with all the details."Their hug tightened. Sarah's mind turned to her upcoming event. "Hey, Nicholas, don't forget that tonight is the night—I'll be rece
Nicholas and Jace entered their grand mansion, the warm glow of the chandelier lighting up the foyer. Sarah, who had been waiting for them, opened her arms wide, a bright smile on her face.Jace's eyes lit up, and he sprinted towards Sarah, jumping into her arms. She caught him effortlessly, twirling him around in a circle. Their lips met in a tender kiss, Jace giggling with delight.Sarah's eyes sparkled with joy, and her voice filled with warmth. "How was your first day, sweetie? Tell Mommy all about it."Nicholas watched the exchange, his expression softening. But beneath the surface, his mind was still reeling from Jace's story about the mysterious man. He forced a smile onto his face, not wanting to alarm Sarah or Jace.Sarah's gaze flicked to Nicholas, her brow furrowing slightly. "Nicolas, is everything okay? You look a little... distracted."Nicholas's smile widened, his eyes locking onto Sarah's. "I'm fine, my love. Just a long day, that's all."Sarah's eyes lingered on his f
The weekend passed in a blur of quality time with Nicholas and romantic moments with Sarah.On Monday morning, Nicholas reminded Sarah of an upcoming family business party."Next Saturday, we need to attend the Smith's annual gala," Nicholas said, sipping his coffee.Sarah nodded, checking her calendar. "I remember. It's a big event for your family's business."Nicholas smiled. "We'll make it a family affair. Mom, Jace, and us."Sarah's eyes sparkled. "I'll make sure to get a new dress."Nicholas chuckled. "You'll stun them all."***************************The day of the party arrived. Nicholas and Jace waited in the living room, dressed to impress.Jace, in a miniature tuxedo, giggled as Nicholas tied his own bow tie."Daddy's going to be the most handsome man there," Nicholas whispered, making Jace chuckle.Sarah emerged from their bedroom, breathtaking in a red evening gown.Nicholas's jaw dropped. "Wow."Jace cooed, reaching out for Sarah.Sarah smiled, taking Jace from Nicholas.
Every Saturday and Sunday, Olivia, Nicholas's mother, visited Jace.She'd spend hours cuddling, playing, and reading to her beloved grandson.Olivia's eyes sparkled as she entered the nursery, filled with toys and colorful mobiles."Hello, my little prince!" she exclaimed, scooping up Jace in her arms.Jace giggled, and Olivia's heart melted.Nicholas and Sarah watched, smiling, as Olivia showered Jace with love."Mom, you're spoiling him rotten," Nicholas teased.Olivia chuckled. "That's what grandmas are for!"Sarah laughed. "We don't mind. Jace loves his grandma time."As Olivia played with Jace, Nicholas couldn't help but notice the resemblance between his mother and son.The same bright smile.The same sparkling eyes."Mom, do you remember Dad's stories?" Nicholas asked, his voice filled with nostalgia.Olivia's expression softened. "Of course, sweetie. Your father was an amazing storyteller."Nicholas smiled. "I want to pass those stories down to Jace."Olivia's eyes welled up w
Nicholas and Sarah sat in their opulent living room, surrounded by plush furnishings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. Baby books and prenatal guides littered the coffee table, a testament to their excitement. They had just confirmed the pregnancy, and the air was electric.Sarah's hands cradled her barely visible bump, a soft smile on her face. "We're going to be parents."Nicholas's eyes sparkled, his hand covering hers. "We're going to be amazing parents."Their luxurious lifestyle ensured every possible comfort for their growing family.Their private estate, nestled in the heart of the city, would soon welcome its newest member.But as the reality of parenthood set in, anxiety crept in.Sarah worried about balancing her thriving art career and motherhood. "What if I'm not good enough?"Nicholas reassured her, "You'll be an incredible mom. We'll figure it out together. We'll hire the best nannies and staff to support us."Nicholas, meanwhile, fretted about
Sarah's face fell as she told Nicholas about the betrayal. "The head of my project, Alex, sold all the details to our rival company, Bluebird. And on the same night of your accident, Bluebird's owner, Marcus, burned down Alex's house and killed him and his family."Nicholas's eyes widened in shock. "What? Why didn't anyone do anything?"Sarah shook her head. "Andrew investigated, but there wasn't enough evidence to prove anything. Hill Cop suffered huge losses and is now bankrupt."Nicholas sighed, feeling a sense of responsibility. "I wasn't there to prevent it. This is why Hill Cop fell."Sarah looked crestfallen, but Nicholas took her hand. "Hey, business is like this. We'll start something new. How about a new cafe chain?"Sarah's eyes lit up. "That's a great idea! We can make it happen."Nicholas smiled. "We will. We'll make it bigger and better than Hill Cop. And we'll do it together."Sarah nodded, a determined look on her face. "Let's do it. Let's show them that we won't give
Dr. Smith's eyes locked onto Sarah's, his expression empathetic. "Sarah, what Nicholas experienced is called confabulation. It's a phenomenon where the brain creates false memories or stories, often due to traumatic brain injury or other forms of brain damage."Sarah's brow furrowed, her eyes filled with concern. "So, you're saying Nicholas's memories weren't real?"Dr. Smith nodded. "Exactly. When Nicholas suffered the accident, his brain's ability to process and store memories was affected. As a result, his brain started to fill in gaps in his memory with fictional information, creating false narratives that he believed to be true."Sarah's gaze drifted to Nicholas, her heart aching. "But why? Why would his brain do that?"Dr. Smith's expression softened. "Confabulation is a coping mechanism. The brain tries to make sense of missing information by creating new stories. In Nicholas's case, his brain wove a tale of time travel, a son, and a future that never existed. It was his brain'
Sarah's thoughts drifted back to the past, to the accident that had changed everything. She had forgotten her resentment towards Nicholas's family; her anger and hurt were replaced by a deep concern for him. She missed him, his laughter, his teasing, and his flirtatious smile. She missed the way he made her feel, like she was the only person in the world.As she sat there, lost in thought, Sarah realized that she had been unfair to James and Olivia. They, too, had suffered, waiting for their son to wake up. They, too, had been hurt by her harsh words, but they never retaliated. They had borne it all, for Nicholas's sake.Sarah's gaze fell on her father's grave, and she felt a sense of peace wash over her. Time heals all wounds, she thought. And who am I to hold onto grudges when the person I love is fighting for his life?With a newfound sense of resolve, Sarah decided to let go of the past. She would forgive James and Olivia and start anew. For Nicholas's sake, for their sake, she wo
Nicholas's eyes fluttered open to the sound of beeping machines. He groggily sat up on the hospital bed, his mind foggy and disoriented. The nurse standing beside him took a step back, her eyes widening in surprise."Mr. Nicholas, you're awake!" she exclaimed, her voice laced with a mix of shock and curiosity.Nicholas rubbed his temples, trying to clear the haze from his mind. He looked around the hospital room, but nothing seemed familiar. He was already confused, and the nurse's reaction only added to his bewilderment."Wha...what happened?" Nicholas stammered, his throat dry and sore.The nurse's expression turned from surprise to concern. "You've been in an accident, Mr. Nicholas. You need to lie back down."But Nicholas was already throwing off the covers, his mind racing with questions. Had he traveled back in time again? Was this some kind of déjà vu?The nurse rushed to his side, trying to gently push him back onto the bed. "Mr. Nicholas, please, you need to rest."But Nichol
Griffin's eyes darted wildly, and he swiftly opened the drawer, pulling out a gun. He pointed it at the group, his hand shaking with desperation. "Stay back! I won't let you take him from me!"Sarah's eyes widened in horror, her voice trembling. "Griffin, please. Don't do this. You're scaring me."Griffin's gaze locked onto Sarah, his eyes pleading. "You don't understand, Sarah. I won't lose him. I won't lose Jace."Sarah took a step forward, her hands outstretched. "Griffin, listen to me. This isn't you. You're not a monster. You're kind, gentle...my friend."Griffin's face twisted, his voice cracking. "You don't know me, Sarah. You never knew me."Leena sneered. "Yes, Griffin, you're a monster. You kidnapped Jace, and now you're threatening us with a gun."Griffin's attention was focused on Sarah; his gun was still trained on the group. He didn't notice Nicholas slowly creeping up behind him, his eyes fixed on the gun.Sarah's words were a distraction, a diversion. And Griffin, blin
Griffin sat on the couch, playing with Jace's toy cars, completely absorbed in the little boy's world. He had never felt this way before, so carefree and happy. Jace's laughter and smiles had captured him, and for the first time in his life, he felt like he was exactly where he was meant to be.Griffin's mind wandered back to his plans for revenge against Nicholas. But for the first time, he felt a twinge of doubt. Was it really worth it? Was his desire for revenge more important than the happiness he felt in this moment?Jace looked up at him, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Griffin, look! I built a castle!"Griffin smiled, feeling his heart melt. "That's amazing, Jace. You're so talented."Griffin realized he had forgotten all about his plans for revenge. He had forgotten about Nicholas, forgotten about the past, forgotten about everything except for this little boy and the joy he brought him.But little did Griffin know, his world was about to be turned upside down. Nicholas a