Chapter 6

The drive to Jake's mansion felt interminable. Amelia sat tensely in the passenger seat, her gaze locked on the rapidly moving landscape outside. The view outside became a blur of muted colors, yet an unsettling feeling of being drawn into an unavoidable trap remained inside her. Next to her, Jake hummed to himself, tapping his fingers on the steering wheel in a rhythmic pattern.

“You’re going to love it,” Jake declared, breaking the silence with a tone that bordered on arrogance.

Amelia chose not to respond, her grip on the seat tightening as her nails pressed into the leather. Whether it was her worries about the future or the burdens of the past that weighed on her, the atmosphere in the vehicle felt stifling.

Upon reaching the mansion, she was taken aback—though she would never admit it—by the stunning view before her. The estate was expansive and a striking example of contemporary architecture, with large glass windows reflecting the gentle moonlight. The driveway, bordered by neatly trimmed hedges, led up to an impressive oak door framed by stone columns.

After Jake got out of the car, he dramatically opened her door. “Welcome home, Amelia.”

Amelia hesitated, feeling the cool air against her skin, before replying curtly, “Thank you,” and walked toward the entrance ahead of him, her heels resonating on the stone path with deliberate steps.

Inside, the living room resembled a setting from a high-end interior design magazine. Towering ceilings loomed overhead, adorned with ornate chandeliers that filled the area with a soft golden glow. Luxurious sofas surrounded a sleek fireplace, while modern art decorated the walls.

“You’ve got an amazing house,” Amelia stated, her tone flat as she assessed the room. “And it’s impressive that you live here alone.”

Jake chuckled lightly, stepping closer. “I appreciate the compliment. But I won’t be alone for much longer—now that you’re here.”

Her irritation sparked at his comment. Turning to face him, she retorted, “And why do you think I plan to stay? I’m just here to sort things out, Jake. Don’t get ahead of yourself.”

Jake merely tilted his head, his smirk growing wider. “As you wish.”

Without saying anything more, she turned and climbed the grand staircase, her dress brushing against her legs. She could sense Jake’s gaze on her, but she refused to look back. Once upstairs, the hallways remained equally magnificent, carpeted to silence her footsteps. She found a guest room and firmly closed the door behind her, pressing against it and letting out a deep sigh.

The darkness enveloped Amelia, encroaching from all sides. She felt as if she were in a familiar but distorted room, the air heavy with an unexpressed tension that made it hard to breathe.

“Ro—Ro—Ronald… please don’t leave me,” she pleaded, her voice trembling.

Ronald’s tall figure stood before her, emanating a cold detachment that pierced her heart. His expression was one of icy indifference, his jaw set tight.

“You’re not good enough,” he replied sharply, his words harsh and resolute.

Amelia flinched as though she had been struck. “Ronald, please. We’ve endured so much together. You can’t just throw it all away. I love you!”

“Love?” he scoffed bitterly, his laughter devoid of warmth. “Your love means nothing to me. I’m done with you.”

She reached out toward him, her hands trembling. “Please don’t do this. I can change. I’ll be better. Just give me one more chance!”

He sneered, loosening his tie in annoyance. “Your promises mean nothing to me, Amelia. They’re as empty as you are.” Before she had a chance to reply, he violently pushed her away. She staggered back, her head spinning as she fell. Agony coursed through her body when her stomach hit the ground.

“My baby!” she cried out, gripping her abdomen. “No, no, my baby!”

Amelia jolted awake, her chest pounding and sweat dripping down her forehead. Instinctively, she held her stomach, her breathing uneven. The soft illumination from the bedside lamp highlighted her tear-stained cheeks as her shaking hands hovered near her belly.

“It was just a dream,” she murmured, her voice trembling. “Just a dream…”

However, it didn’t seem like just a dream. The anguish and fear were too intense and genuine. She curled up, tears streaming down her face. “I’m so sorry, my child. I swear I’ll keep you safe. I’ll make everything alright.”

A knock at the door startled her.

“Amelia?” Jake’s voice came through, soft yet filled with urgency. “Are you alright? I heard you scream.”

She hesitated before slightly opening the door to meet Jake’s worried eyes.

“What happened?” he inquired, stepping inside without waiting for her to affirm.

“It was merely a nightmare,” she whispered, sinking down on the edge of the bed. “I had a dream about Ronald. He pushed me, and I fell. I lost my baby…” Her voice broke, and she began to cry again.

Jake sat next to her, concern deepening on his face. “It was only a dream, Amelia. Your baby is okay. I guarantee you, nothing will happen.”

“It felt so genuine,” she said quietly, her hands still shaking in her lap. “I can’t get rid of this feeling. It hurts so much, Jake.”

Jake rested a comforting hand on her shoulder. “You possess more strength than this. I’ll support you through it. But for now, you really need to rest. Stress is not good for either of you.”

Amelia nodded, exhaustion enveloping her. “Thank you, Jake. I’m not sure what I would do without you.”

He gave her a small smile. “That’s why I’m here.”

The following morning, the drive to the hospital was silent. Jake insisted on accompanying Amelia, his protective instincts unwavering. The hospital loomed in front of them, its sterile facade a jarring reminder of reality.

Dr. Victoria greeted them with warmth and genuine care. “Amelia, it’s wonderful to see you. Ready to start?”

The examination was thorough, each step taken with meticulous care. Amelia’s heart raced as the ultrasound machine whirred to life, the rhythmic sound of her baby’s heartbeat filling the room.

“Your baby is completely healthy,” Dr. Victoria reassured her with a smile. “However, you need to concentrate on relaxing. Stress is your biggest enemy right now.”

Amelia released a breath of relief. “Thank you, Doctor.”

As they left the office, Amelia bumped into someone near the entrance. Her apology became lodged in her throat as she recognized the person before her.

“Catherine,” she breathed, her voice nearly a whisper.

Catherine’s smile was filled with malice. “Well, if it isn’t Ronald’s little reject. What brings you here, Amelia?”

Amelia stiffened, keeping a composed exterior despite the pain in her eyes. “I don’t owe you any explanation.”

“Of course not,” Catherine mocked. “But understand this—I’m always watching. You won’t escape.”

Jake stepped forward, his demeanor darkening. “Let her go, Catherine.” He took Amelia’s hand, guiding her away with a firm but gentle grasp.

As they walked away, Catherine stood at the entrance, her gaze sharpening. “Amelia with another man?” she pondered with a malevolent smile. “How fascinating. Let’s see how this unfolds.”