**Emma’s POV** I sit on the old park bench beside Laura, our usual spot shaded by the sprawling branches of an ancient oak. It’s quieter here, away from the usual hustle of the city, a perfect place for difficult conversations. I start the conversation, turning to her: “I've been thinking a lot about the other day... I'm sorry, Laura. I shouldn't have accused you like that, without hearing you. I was overwhelmed and... I took it out on you.” Laura smiles weakly: “It's okay, Emma. You were under a lot of stress, and I should've been more transparent about everything from the start.” I study her face, the usual spark dimmed by recent events. The loss of her brother, the pressure from her parents—it's all weighing on her. I respond to her with caution: “Daniel told me about your brother... and it hit me. You're carrying so much, Laura. And here I was, adding to that weight. You've always been there for me, like family. I shouldn't have pushed you away.” Laura answers, tears we
**David’s POV** I watch as the hospital room transforms into an impromptu courtroom, the stark white walls and medical equipment serving as a somber backdrop for Jessica's confession. She's propped up in her hospital bed, a shadow of her former self, her movement limited and her speech slightly slurred from the stroke. Yet, there's a clarity in her eyes that suggests she's fully aware of the gravity of her words. Jessica: (voice weak but clear) It started when I returned to the US to manage my father's shares at the hospital. Michael was my obsession and my gateway back into power, but he kept secrets. I knew he was hiding something... or someone. Authority: Ms. Hampton, can you clarify what led you to believe Mr. Thompson was withholding information? Jessica: I tailed him. After his breakup from her previous girlfriend, Emma, his evasiveness didn't end. That's when I found Scarlet, imprisoned like some forgotten doll in his mansion. The room is tense, the air thick with the
**Emma’s POV** Today feels like a surreal blend of dread and relief as I enter the courtroom, my heart pounding in my chest. Daniel thought it wasn’t a good idea to confront Michael, the source of my traumas this way, but I insisted to come. I know I need this, to close this dreadful chapter of my life. It’s odd, sitting here, surrounded by familiar faces and those of Michael’s parents, whom I was once supposed to meet under completely different circumstances. The judge calls the court to order, and the air thickens with anticipation. The prosecution begins by laying out the charges against Michael, a litany of crimes that makes even the stoic faces in the room flinch. Prosecutor: Your Honor, we are here to bring justice for multiple heinous acts committed by the defendant, Michael Thompson. The evidence will show that he not only covered up a murder but also engaged in prolonged physical and psychological abuse, attempted murder, and a host of other crimes that have shattere
**Emma’s POV**I'm feeling significantly better these days—physically and psychologically. It’s been two weeks since Michael's hearing, and my relationship with Daniel is steadily improving. Although I'm not ready for intimacy yet, Daniel's occasional kisses and hugs are comforting, not overwhelming.Today, we're preparing dinner for four in our shared apartment, hosting Laura and David for an evening meant to lighten our spirits. As Daniel and I harmoniously set the table and finalize the meal preparations, I can't help but tease him about his culinary skills, or the lack thereof.“Careful, chef, wouldn’t want to serve finger food in the literal sense,” I tease as he clumsily chops vegetables.Daniel shoots me a mock frown. “I'm just ensuring each piece has a bit of my soul in it,” he retorts before leaning in to plant a quick kiss on my lips that leaves me momentarily breathless.The doorbell rings just as Daniel asks if I'm ready. “Absolutely,” I reply, smoothing down my dress.Lau
**Daniel’s POV** I'm at the airport with Emma, and we've just booked two business class tickets to Istanbul. It's going to be a long flight—about 14 hours—and I can't help but tease her about it. "How will you manage to put up with me for so long?" I ask with a playful grin. Emma shoots back a joke, "There’s nothing to bear with such a handsome baby face; the flight will be fine. Besides, don’t you remember our flight to the Maldives on our honeymoon? That was eight hours of your weird jokes on a night flight." I laugh, reminiscing about those early days—how Emma always found a way to see me as attractive, whether during my chubbier phases or when I neglected my self-care while rescuing her from Michael. “For you, I guess I’ll always be the most handsome,” I say, pulling her close for a kiss. Our light moment is interrupted by a video call from Lily, who's bubbling with excitement about seeing us again. The conversation is filled with laughter and silly faces, and it warms my h
**Emma’s POV**As the wheels of the plane touch down in Istanbul, a wave of nostalgia and relief washes over me. The familiar scent of the sea mingled with the bustling city life fills my lungs, grounding me. "I'm home," I whisper to myself, my heart swelling with a peace I haven't felt in months.The airport is bustling as always, but my focus narrows to the figures of my parents in the distance. As we make our way through the crowd, I spot Lily breaking free from my mother's embrace and sprinting towards me with open arms. "Mommy!" her voice echoes over the chatter, a sweet sound I've missed dearly.I drop to my knees just in time to catch her in a tight hug, lifting her into the air as she giggles. "I missed you so much, little bug," I murmur into her hair."Missed you more," she replies, squeezing me tighter. My parents join us, their faces lined with relief and joy. "Welcome home, Emma," my dad says, his voice thick with emotion as he pulls me into a hug."Did you bring me anyth
**Emma’s POV**The sunlight was already high in the sky by the time I managed to peel my eyes open. The room was silent, save for the distant hum of the city outside. I stretched lazily, enjoying the rare luxury of a slow morning, but the sound of the doorbell sliced through the tranquility. Puzzled, I slid out of bed and shuffled toward the sound, my thoughts still tangled in the threads of sleep.Peeking around the corner, I saw Daniel chatting with my mom in hushed tones, the only word I could hear was “passport.” His back was to me, but I could tell by the way he was gesturing that he was excited about something."What's going on?" I asked, rubbing my eyes as I approached.Daniel turned with a start, a sheepish grin spreading across his face. "Morning, sleepyhead! Just sorting out some paperwork with your mom. Nothing to worry about," he winked, a twinkle in his eye.My mom, ever the conspirator, gave me a knowing look but kept her lips sealed. "Why don't you get ready, dear? Dani
**Emma’s POV***A month later*The thrill of feeling like my old self was palpable as I walked through the familiar scenic route of “the plateau” of my high school. It felt like stepping back into a life I'd put on pause, now ready to play at full volume. My phone buzzed, breaking my reverie. It was Dr. Patel, my old boss, and the last person I expected to call me after the way I'd left things."Emma, I've got a proposition for you," Dr. Patel's voice was as brisk and businesslike as ever. "How would you feel about coming back as an endocrine fellow?""But... after everything?" I asked, my brow furrowing."Let's just say I've made some calls. Your record's clear and, frankly, we need you. Are you up for it?" There was a hopeful note in her voice that warmed me a little."Okay, what do I need to do?" My heart started to race with excitement."There’s the Subspecialty Equivalency Examination next month. Pass that, and I’ll talk to the CMO about getting you a spot," she explained."Coun