"It's Hannah,"Elijah responded with smile.I inhaled deeply, attempting to banish those pessimistic thoughts from my mind. Elijah's rendezvous with Hannah was strictly professional, I reassured myself. Yet, a tiny fraction of me couldn't shake off a hint of envy.However, I refused to let those feelings spoil our day, so I plastered on a smile and remarked, "I wish you success in your meeting with Hannah."Elijah flashed me a comforting grin and leaned closer, planting a swift peck on my lips. "No need to fret, it's just a brief gathering."I observed the car departing, carrying Elijah along. Letting out a sigh, I shifted my focus back to the lovely flowers in my grasp. A delightful blend of lilies and roses, my favorites.Lost in contemplation, I failed to see Sofia's car approaching until her voice brought me back to reality."Marcus?" she called out, her voice laced with astonishment.I pivoted to meet her gaze, only to find her stepping out of the car and striding towards Marcus.
My mind was in a whirlwind of disbelief. How could this be happening? Our wedding was just around the corner, and now this. I rushed downstairs, my heart pounding, only to find Marcus sitting in front of the TV, clearly taken aback by my sudden appearance. "Where have you been? It's late," he exclaimed. "Elijah had an accident," I managed to say, my voice trembling with fear. "What? Which hospital? I'll come with you!" he exclaimed, concern etched on his face. "But Marco needs you more," I insisted. "Betty will take care of him," he assured me. Without wasting another moment, we hurriedly got into the car and made our way to the hospital. As we drove, my mind was consumed with worry for Elijah. Finally, we arrived and I dashed towards the entrance, desperately searching for answers. I approached the nurse station, my voice filled with urgency. "I'm looking for Elijah Carter!" I exclaimed. "Room 101, ma'am," the nurse replied calmly. I wasted no time and rushed towards his ro
My anger simmered as I watched Marcus seemingly happy in the presence of his comatose fiancé. However, his response caught me off guard. With a chuckle and a shake of his head, he revealed his true intentions."No, Sam. I just wanted to lighten your load a bit. And I know how much you adore flowers."A wave of guilt washed over me, and I let out a heavy sigh."I'm sorry, Marcus. It's just... everything feels overwhelming. I don't know if I can handle it all."Understanding filled Marcus's eyes as he spoke gently, "I understand, Sam. But you're stronger than you realize. You've faced countless challenges before and emerged even stronger. You can get through this."His words brought comfort, and deep down, I knew he was right. I had to summon my strength for Elijah's sake.Marcus's demeanor shifted to a more solemn tone."While I may not be obligated to you, I still have genuine concern for you, Sam. And I also care deeply for Elijah. He's like a second father to Marco, and I'll do ever
As the door swings open, the doctor strides into the room. The concern etched on his face sends my heart into overdrive. Anticipation fills the air as I brace myself for the news he's about to deliver."Good day, Samantha. Elijah," the doctor greets us with a gentle smile. "How are you both feeling today?"I return the smile, attempting to conceal my mounting anxiety. "He's unable to speak, Doctor. How is Elijah's recovery progressing?"The doctor takes a deep breath, his voice filled with honesty."To be frank, Elijah's brain has suffered trauma from the accident. That's why he's currently unable to communicate verbally."I can feel a lump in my throat as the doctor's words hit me. It's a blow to my stomach, realizing that Elijah's condition is worse than we thought.The doctor adds, "However, this is a temporary setback. With adequate rest and treatment, Elijah will regain his ability to speak."A wave of relief washes over me, thankful that there is a chance for Elijah to get bette
"Sweet heart," I whispered.He gazes at me, and I can sense the familiarity in his eyes."Sam," he murmurs softly.Tears fill my eyes as I realize he's able to speak again. Marcus looks at me with a mix of surprise and relief, tears welling up in his eyes too."How are you holding up?" I inquire, trying to keep my emotions in check.Elijah meets my gaze, pain and struggle evident in his eyes."It's painful," he whispers.My heart shatters seeing him in such agony. The doctors have been giving him medication, but it doesn't seem to be enough. I mentally note to discuss this with them. We both turn to Marcus, puzzled."Why is he here?" Elijah questions."Elijah, we're all here for you," Marcus replies, his voice filled with emotion."Of course, you're my son's step-father and he's also concerned for you. Samantha needs support too, seeing you in this state." Marcus responded calmly.Elijah gives a nod, a faint grin appearing on his face. It's clear that he appreciates Marcus's support,
A frown creased my brow as Marcus' words sank in. Doubts about Hannah's intentions crept in. Why was she at Elijah's hospital bedside? Was she trying to get closer to Marco? Did she have a hidden agenda? My mind raced with these thoughts, and a hint of anger simmered within me."Got it," I responded, striving to maintain a neutral tone."Appreciate the update, Marcus."After ending the call, I shifted my gaze to Marco, noticing his puzzled expression."What's the matter, mom?" he inquired."I'm sorry, son. I have to leave at the moment,"I said and kissed him in his forehead."When will you go home?"Marco asked."I'll get back tomorrow morning,okay?"I said as I kissed him.As I left the room, a feeling of unease creeping up on me. Marcus had just phoned me to let me know that Hannah, one of Elijah's clients, was at the hospital visiting him. It didn't make sense to me why she would be there, especially when Elijah was still recovering from a car accident.The persistent unease in my st
His request caught me off guard, leaving me speechless. It had been ages since he last spoke to me, especially after the accident. The tears welled up in my eyes as I leaned in closer, desperately hoping for more words from him."S-speak again," I whispered, my voice quivering with a mix of anticipation and vulnerability.However, much to my dismay, Elijah remained silent. He simply closed his eyes and peacefully drifted off to sleep, leaving me alone with my swirling thoughts and unspoken emotions.The following day, I made the choice to have a conversation with Dr. Lee regarding Elijah's words. She mentioned that it is typical for patients who are recuperating from a traumatic brain injury to face confusion and challenges with communication. However, she also reassured me that with time and therapy, Elijah would regain his ability to speak."Samantha, please remain here with him," Dr. Lee advised, placing a comforting hand on my shoulder."Your presence and encouragement are vital f
I inhaled deeply, gathering my thoughts before replying."I accidentally dropped my phone earlier and noticed a message from my secretary. The company's sales have taken a hit, and we're in a financial crisis."Marcus' expression immediately shifted to concern as he looked at me."Oh no, that's awful news. But don't worry, we'll find a solution. Right now, Elijah's recovery is the top priority."A wave of relief washed over me, thankful for Marcus' support. She couldn't deny that always been a pillar of strength, especially in times like these."Thank you, Marcus."Before inquiring, "Is there anything I can do to assist? Should I take care of things at the office while you're away?" he embraced me reassuringly.I declined his offer. "No, I'll handle it later. Right now, I want to be here for Elijah."Marco, Elijah's best friend, entered the room with a bag of food. 'Hey guys, I brought some food for us. Let's eat together before I leave.'I couldn't help but smile at Marco's kindness.
After days had gone by, Marcus had fully recovered from the car accident. Samantha's promise to stand by him had filled him with a sense of warmth and comfort. She had vowed to never believe Elijah's lies again, after he had cunningly framed Marcus and made him believe he was the father of Sofia's child. This revelation had caused Samantha and Marcus to break up, but now they both realized that Sofia and Elijah had manipulated their lives out of an unhealthy obsession.One evening, as Marcus and Samantha sat together in their old house, the doorbell rang. Samantha got up to answer it, and when she opened the door, she was met with the sight of Elijah standing on the doorstep.“What do you want?” Samantha asked, frowning.“I need to talk to you,” Elijah said, his voice filled with desperation.“There's nothing to talk about,” Samantha replied.“You've already caused enough damage.”“Please, just give me a chance to explain,” Elijah pleaded.Samantha hesitated, her eyes fixed on Elijah
AUTHOR’S POVSamantha's face twisted in a mix of confusion and anger as she stormed out of bed towards the door, her heart pounding with emotion. When she laid eyes on Sofia, a sharp word escaped her lips."What brings you here, Sofia?"she demanded, her tone dripping with frustration.Sofia met her gaze, her eyes betraying a sense of remorse."I came to talk to Marcus," she murmured softly."I know what went down."Samantha's anger flared even more."Why are you even here?" she pressed, her voice rising."You know exactly why. You and Elijah orchestrated that whole mess, making Marcus think he cheated on me and got you pregnant. How could you do something like that?"Sofia's gaze dropped, tears welling up."I'm truly sorry, Samantha," she whispered, her voice trembling."None of this was supposed to happen. Elijah and I just wanted to split you and Marcus up. We never imagined it would spiral out of control like this. I never wanted to cause you or Marcus any pain."As Samantha absorb
As I diced onions for dinner, my thoughts drifted to the day's events. The presentation went smoothly, and I couldn't wait to celebrate with Elijah over a delicious meal. The scent of garlic cooking promised a tasty dinner.Just as I grabbed the salt, my phone rang, interrupting my focus. The unknown number made me pause, expecting a sales call. But a gut feeling urged me to answer.“Hello?”I answered cautiously.“Is this Mr. Johnson’s wife ?” a woman's voice inquired urgently.“Marcus Johnson?” I clarified, feeling a sudden unease.“Yes. I'm calling from Mercy Hospital. Your husband, Marcus Johnson, was in a car accident and is in critical condition.”The news hit me like a ton of bricks. 'What?' I gasped, barely able to speak. “Marcus?”“Yes, Ms. Johnson. He's in the ER with serious injuries. We stabilized him, but he needs surgery.”Tears welled up as panic set in. 'I'll be there,' I managed to say, my hands trembling.“Third floor operating room. Come to the front desk,” the nurse
As the sun's rays gently filtered through the curtains, the room was bathed in a comforting warmth. Slowly awakening from my slumber, I couldn't shake off the heaviness in my chest. The absence of my son, Marco, was a constant ache that lingered within me. However, today was a new day, and I was determined to mend things with Sofia.Quietly slipping out of bed, I made my way to the kitchen, where the enticing aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air. Sofia was already there, her lustrous dark hair flowing over her shoulders as she poured herself a cup."Good morning," I greeted her softly, stepping closer.She turned towards me, her eyes reflecting a mix of concern and warmth."Good morning, Marcus.""I've prepared breakfast," I announced, motioning towards the table."I hope you have an appetite."A smile graced Sofia's lips. "That's incredibly considerate of you."We took our seats at the table, and I observed her as she savored her meal, her eyes gleaming with pure satisfactio
1 month laterAs we arrived at our new home nestled in a charming countryside town, a mix of emotions flooded my heart. I had taken a leap of faith, leaving behind my painful past to embrace a fresh start in this unfamiliar land, accompanied by Elijah and my son.I couldn't help but notice a change in Marco's demeanor - a distant gaze and a loss of appetite. As he stepped out of the car, his small hand reaching for Elijah's, a wave of concern washed over me, gnawing at my thoughts."Are you alright, my love?" I asked, gently running my fingers through his hair.He looked up at me, his eyes holding a glimmer of sadness."I miss Daddy Marcus," he whispered.My heart sank at his words."I understand, sweetheart," I replied, trying to offer reassurance."But remember, Daddy will come to visit us soon, alright?" I fibbed, hoping to ease his longing.Marco's slow nod indicated that my attempt to console him had fallen short. Unloading the car, the contrast between our new home and the one
SAMANTHA POVFrom my veranda, I observed Marcus's car starting up outside the gate. A pang of envy hit me when I remembered he was staying at Sofia's place.Feeling bitter, I walked to my son Marco's room. He was sitting at his desk, deep in thought."Marco, honey," I started, "Did your daddy leave already? Are you finished playing?"Looking at me with his innocent eyes, Marco replied, "Yes, Mom. Mommy Sofia is sick in the hospital. That's why Daddy had to go."I was taken aback by a sudden wave of astonishment. "In the hospital? Why? What happened?"Marco nonchalantly shrugged his shoulders. "I have no idea," he replied."Daddy didn't give me any details. But he assured me he'll be back soon."The gravity of the news hit me like a ton of bricks. Sofia, in the hospital? What could have transpired? Could it be a grave matter? Countless thoughts raced through my mind. Is the baby safe and sound?With a hint of uncertainty, Marco added, "He promised to call me later."The days stretched
As I hunched down, fingertips brushing against the edge of Marco's bed, the muted chuckles of my son resonated in the room, a melody of happiness in our modest abode."Marco!" I shouted, excitement coursing through me as I awaited his reply.The game of Marco Polo commenced, each call and response a ballet between father and son, a fleeting moment of joy amidst life's chaos.Suddenly, My phone buzzed persistently in my pocket.“Hello, who’s this?”I inquired."Mr.Johnson?" The voice on the other end was composed, yet tinged with urgency."This is Doctor Thompson from St. Michael’s Hospital. I’m calling about your wife, Sofia."Dread twisted in my stomach, a frigid wave of fear washing over me as I prepared for the worst."She’s not my wife but what happened? Is she okay?" I demanded, my voice betraying the turmoil within."She’s in the hospital. Your baby is unstable now," Doctor Nurse Thompson explained."Sofia was brought in a short while ago. We’re still evaluating her condition, bu
And now, as I watched Marco cry in anguish, I questioned whether it was right to uproot his life just to keep him away from his father. I’m so very confused at those times, torn between my anger and resentment towards Marcus and love for my son.Marcus had no right to be Marco's father after he impregnated Sofia. The words echoed in my mind, a bitter reminder of the pain and betrayal that had torn our family apart.I trusted him so much that he won’t going to cheat but he betrayed that trust, destroying everything we had built together.But even as I grappled with my anger and resentment, a part of me couldn't help but wonder if forgiveness was possible. Could I ever find it in my heart to forgive Marcus for his indiscretions? Could I let go of the pain and anger that had consumed me for so long, and move forward with my life?"It's okay, baby," I murmured, my voice trembling with emotion. "We'll figure this out together, I promise."Marco looked up at me with tear-filled eyes, his sm
Elijah's concern lingered in the air, weighing heavily on my mind as I sat at the migration office, diligently completing the necessary paperwork for myself, Marco, and Elijah. The pen felt like a burden in my hand, each stroke of ink a testament to the life-altering decision I was making.Leaning against the counter, Elijah observed me with a mixture of worry and curiosity. His voice pierced through the silence, cutting through my thoughts like a sharp knife."Are you absolutely certain about this, Sam?"His question hung in the air, laden with implications. Was I truly sure? It was a question that had plagued me for the past week, ever since I discovered that Marcus had impregnated Sofia. I couldn't bear the thought of him being near Marco while harboring a child with another woman."Yes, Elijah. I am sure," I responded, my voice unwavering despite the uncertainty that swirled within me."This is something I need. It's something we all need."I could see the worry etched on Elijah's