6: A Chance Encounter

Mariella’s Pov 

“Allow me…” 

Leonardo reached under my dress and my heartbeat thumped faster.

My whole body was vibrating so much that I was panting.

He kissed my neck and his hand moved in between my legs, gently spreading them apart. 

‘I couldn't do this…I don't want to…’

“Stop!” I pushed him away at arms length, he seemed stunned.

“I can't.” 

“Mariella…I know you want me.” His eyes gleamed, so confidently that he held my chin up and leaned closer to my face.

He snaked out his tongue and let it sweep my cheeks.

“Leave.” That was the only word that escaped my lips. 

I turned to the side and a tear instantly stained my features.

He didn't utter a word. He stared down at me in silence.

It was excruciating. I didn't spare him a glance, I could feel his glare on me, and it only made me feel guilty.

Why did I feel guilty? I had no idea.

Those few seconds of silence felt brutal. And in no minutes, his footsteps echoed and the sound of the door slamming shut caused my heart to break.

I skidded down and sat on the floor. My hands ruffled through my hair, as I pondered if I had made a good decision.

I could only stare at the ceiling recalling the events of the past, trying to remind myself that I had made the right choice.

And just like that, I never heard from him. After a week, I still found myself staring outside the classroom door.

I found myself wanting to ask Tatiana about her father, I've been holding back.

‘This was best’ I muttered to myself every now and then.

…..

It's been almost two weeks since I last saw Leonardo, and my life was finally back to being normal.

Tatiana was doing great in school, and there was no reason to contact her father. 

I was back to my daily routine.

Wake up, go to work and then visit the hospital before heading home.

It was yet another tiring day at work, I had finished a bit later than I had planned. With the traffic, I arrived at the hospital later than usual.

“Mariella…” The caregiver screamed my name from across the hallway.

“Mrs Corey.” 

“You are late, your mother is already asleep.” She smiled.

“How is she doing today?” I already knew the answer to that.

Mother had been hospitalized for the past seven months for IBD. Not only have we spent our savings, but I've taken out loans to help her treatment. 

Seven months!

I was beginning to lose hope, but then- 

“The doctor said she is getting better, and might get discharged by next week.”

My eyes instantly gathered tears and I bite down on my lips. 

I could feel my organs jumping for joy. 

Finally! I took heavy breaths as I walked hastily to the ward. When I got to the door, I held the doorknob and my grip tightened on it.

Gently pushing the door open, staring at my mother who was sleeping so soundly.

It felt like a dream. Finally it's over.

“Where's Felix?” The caregiver asked for my brother.

“I called yesterday, he is doing great at the university. He hasn't caused any troubles for a while.” 

“Oh that kid, he shouldn't be causing any troubles for you, not now when your mother needs you both. Can't believe he was almost expelled.” 

Felix has always been a spoiled brat since childhood. From school violence, private loans, to exam malpractice, to stalking, and getting arrested for drugs.

He was on the last straw, one more mistake, and he risked getting expelled. Even when Mom was in the hospital, he never stopped causing trouble until the final notice from his school.

I've been on edge, and praying he doesn't mess it up.

…..

“Here are the invitations, kindly give one each to your students and make sure their parents come for the yearly children's competition.” Mrs. Brown announced.

The invitations was handed over, as I stared at them, I could only think of one person-

Leonardo.

It was the close of the day, and I handed over the invitations to the students reminding them to make sure they pass it on to their parents.

I noticed the frown on Tatty's face as she held onto the invitation. 

“Hey Tatty…” When she looked at me, my heart broke at the tears that trickled down her cheeks.

“What's wrong?” 

“I don't think my daddy will come.” He muttered with her tiny voice.

“But why? He is on a business trip?” 

“No…” 

“Then why would you think so, Tatty? I'm sure if you have this over, he will not miss it. After all it's a school function, Daddy would love to attend that with you. He wouldn't want to miss your competition.” I patted her hair.

“He has never attended any one of my functions, it's not going to be any different.” She tossed the invitation away and carried her bag as she was about to walk out.

I quickly grabbed her hand and pulled her closer, “Do you want me to deliver that to him?” 

“Can you also make sure he comes?” Tatty asked.

“Yes.” 

I wasn't certain. There was no way Leonardo would even let me into his home.

“Then come with me home.” Tatty smiled so brightly that I instantly nodded.