The detective gave a firm knock before entering Celine's hospital room. He had a no-nonsense air about him as he addressed us."Mr. Hernandez, Ms. McDermott. I’m Detective Rogers, in charge of investigating the assault on Ms. Roberts. Let's get down to it - fill me in on what you know."Rogers pulled out a notebook, pen ready to jot down details. He fixed his gaze on me intently. "Ms. McDermott, walk me through your connection to the victim and how you became aware of this incident."I took a steadying breath. "Celine and I only recently became friends through working together at Mr. Hernandez's company."The detective gave a curt nod for me to proceed as he made some initial notes."A few days ago, I saw the first real signs of trouble," I went on carefully. "It was her boyfriend, Louis. I know it."Rogers' eyes sharpened at this, his jaw tensing slightly. "Did you directly witness him acting violently towards her?"Throat tightening, I pulled out my phone and queued up the unsettli
I repeatedly called my mom but there was no answer. I considered going to the hospital, but it was late, and leaving Dawson home alone wasn't a smart move.I decided to text her, urging her not to leave Celine alone with the visitor and to confirm who that person was by showing the video evidence I had. Still, no response came through.Growing increasingly anxious, I began pacing back and forth, trying to reach her. Then a thought struck me - why not call the hospital directly? I quickly dialed their number."Hello, I need to check on the status of Celine Roberts," I stated urgently after the call connected."Alright, let me transfer you to her room," the person replied.I waited several minutes, tapping my foot impatiently but the call never went through to Celine's room. My worry went through the roof."What's going on? Hello?" I prompted when there was no update."It seems she may be out of her room at the moment," the voice said hesitantly."Out of her room? Are you kidding me? B
I gently approached my mom after what seemed like hours. “You should go home and try to get some rest,” I suggested. “You have been through so much already.My mom shook her head adamantly. “I can’t leave. Not until we know Celine is fine.”I persisted. “But you will be no good to anyone if you’re exhausted. “I’ll stay here and they can update me on any developments. Reluctantly, my mom finally agreed. “Alright, but you have to promise to call the second you hear any news.”“Of course, Mom. I swear it,” I assured her giving her a hug. “Now please, go home and at least try to sleep for a couple hours.”I watched as my mom dragged her feet and made her way to the hospital exit. Now alone in the hospital waiting area, I tried to stay awake and alert for any updates. But my head began nodding despite my best efforts, jet-lagged from the emotional whiplash. I jerked awake with a start each time, silently cursing myself for succumbing to exhaustion.I didn't even realize when a new figu
It was almost time to head into the office, so I had to drag myself away from the hospital to go home and get ready. I was completely drained - my whole body screaming from not getting any real sleep, but I didn’t have a choiceWhen I got in the shower, I caught myself nodding off while just standing there. It took everything I had to shake myself awake and quickly wash up. I threw on some clothes in a daze, then went downstairs where Mom was tidying up the kitchen while Dawson had finished his breakfast."Morning, honey. You look like you could sleep for a week straight," Mom said sympathetically."Tell me about it," I mumbled, forcing down a few bites since I was running late.As I was about to leave, I kissed Dawson goodbye, but Mom stopped me. "Oh, you'll need to take him to school today. I've got to get back to the hospital to be with Celine.""Sure thing. Why would I forget about my kid?" I said with a tired smile, stretching out my hand. "Come on, baby, let's get going."The us
Time just kept dragging by painfully slow as I couldn't concentrate on anything. Not knowing what was going to happen to me was making me crazy. My eyes were fixed on the entrance, jumping to my feet every time I heard a sound, and totally wishing he would finally show up.As closing time was approaching and he still wasn't there, I felt completely torn - should I just go home and risk looking like I didn't care at all, or stick around despite my rising anxiety levels? After battling with myself, I ultimately decided waiting was the smartest choice.At exactly 8 pm I received a call from him asking me to come drive him home so I hurried there. When I got there I couldn’t find him right away so I began searching the bar and calling his number until his ringtone led me to where he was. He was completely wasted"Alex?" I said cautiously as I approached where he sat all slumped over."Well if it isn't daughter of Eve herself. What are you doing here?” he slurred, swatting my hand away whe
The next day was still a regular workday, so as usual, I went to Alex's house. I was hoping and praying he didn't remember how I had fallen asleep and missed those important meetings yesterday.When I arrived, I unexpectedly found Alex in the living room - a first since starting this job."Did you see something startling?" He asked upon noticing my surprised reaction."Good morning, Mr. Hernandez," I greeted, choosing to ignore his remark."Do I have anything important on my schedule today?""No sir, just a dinner meeting with the Cox family scheduled," I replied after checking my notes."Cancel that engagement."I paused, a bit taken aback. "I should...cancel the Cox dinner?""Did I stutter or speak in another language?" He said bluntly."No sir, I'll cancel it right away," I confirmed."Then that means I have an open schedule for the full day, correct?""Yes, that's correct.""We'll be leaving the house in 30 minutes then," he said before going to his bedroom. As I waited, I became
Alex finally came out, giving me a nod to indicate we were leaving. I hurried behind him, and we boarded our boat. I stole sidelong glances at him, trying to read his inscrutable expression, but he refused to meet my inquisitive looks - no doubt aware of the questions burning in my mind that he didn't want to address.We hadn't gone far when the skies opened up in a furious downpour, the waters becoming dangerously choppy as powerful gusts of wind lashed the small boat. I thought I was going to die, so I began saying silent prayers, making my peace in case the worst happened. When I managed to lift my eyes, I saw Alex looking remarkably composed. How could he not feel any fear? Did he have such little regard for his own life?"We're gonna have to pull in somewhere and wait this one out!" the boat captain yelled over the roar of the tempest. "There's a little village up ahead - best chance we've got!"Sure enough, we soon arrived at a rundown, isolated village miles away from any city.
THE PAST Alex arranged a little date for just the two of us in his car; we were sharing a kiss and spending time with each other. The music was simply in my soul, and his spontaneity had just caught me off guard. "I have a surprise for you, something exciting," he uttered.What is it this time, babe?" I asked, teasing him a little."It’s a surprise, and I can only show, not tell," he replied playfully."Don't you ever run out of surprises?" I asked with a laugh."Nope, never," he said, reaching back to grab a blindfold."What's this for?" I asked."Cover your eyes, sunshine," he said smiling."I can't, I'm too curious! I'll go crazy not knowing!" I protested."Do you trust me though?" He asked in a softer voice."Of course I do," I told him, looking right into his eyes."Then please," he said, offering me the blindfold.So I turned around and let him gently put it on. "Too tight?" he checked."No, it's just right," I said, getting excited and curious.I swear I must have asked a mil
My gut twisted as Alex and I entered the hospital. I couldn’t believe I was here to visit Herbert. The antiseptic smell hit me as we stepped inside making me wrinkle my nose."You okay?" Alex asked softly, squeezing my hand.I simply nodded my head. It was at this time that I saw my mother in the lobby looking so worried yet relieved to see me.“Sophie, honey,” she called out and ran to us. "I am happy you are here."Alex greeted her with a kiss on the cheek. "Hi, Mrs McDermott. How are you holding up?""As well as can be expected, Alex. Thank you for bringing Sophie."I frowned, crossing my arms. "Mom, why are you even here? I still don't understand."My mother sighed, her eyes pleading. "Sophie, I'm human before anything else. He has nobody to look after him. I'm just doing what's right.""He has money, Mom," I argued, feeling my frustration rise. "That can get him all the care he needs. What makes a man who didn't support you so important to you?""Sophie, I didn't raise you to hav
We just settled into a more comfortable conversation and the atmosphere gradually became more relaxed. They kept asking several questions about Dawson and couldn’t help smiling at his antics "He sounds like quite the character," Mrs. Hernandez said, her eyes twinkling. "Just like his father at that age."Alex chuckled. "I wasn't so mischievous, was I?"Mr. Hernandez lifted an eyebrow. "Son, you once convinced the gardener's boy to help you 'redecorate' my study with finger paint. It took weeks to get the walls clean.""Oh, I remember that!" Mrs. Hernandez laughed. "You were so proud of your 'artwork'. We couldn't stay mad at you for long."As laughter filled the room, I felt myself relax. Alex's parents were so different from the harsh, condemning individuals I remembered from years before.There was a faint knock on the door. Duncan entered, his face serious."Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez, I apologize for disturbing but there is urgent news," he said.Mr. Hernandez's smile vanished. "What
The day had finally arrived. Alex had informed his parents we were coming, and my nerves were in shambles. I put on a brave face for Alex, assuring him everything was fine, but inside I was a mess. When he went to get Dawson ready, I seized the moment to steady myself.My fingers shook as I dialed my mother's number."Mom, it's happening," I muttered. Today."On the other end, there was an unexpected rapid intake of air. "Oh, sweetheart. Are you ready for this?"I closed my eyes. "I have to be. For Dawson. For Alex.""And for yourself," Mom added gently. "You've carried this weight for so long. It's time to put an end to it all.""But what if history repeats itself? What if they-""Stop right there," Mom interrupted. "You're not that young girl anymore. You're a strong woman and an incredible mother. Stand tall, Sophie. Her words gave me strength, but I still doubted myself and I knew I needed one more boost. I quickly called Celine."Sophie! What's up? Everything okay?" Celine's voi
I walked into Alex’s house feeling weary but relieved after talking to my mom. The living room was lit with the faint sound of a cartoon playing in the background. Rounding the corner, I was immediately struck by the cutest sight.Alex was lying flat on the couch with Dawson dozing on his chest. I had to bite back a smile at how cute they looked in their matching superhero pajamas. Alex noticed me, his eyes brightening and a lovely smile spreading across his face."Well, well, look who decided to join us," he teased softly, careful not to wake Dawson.I rolled my eyes playfully. "Miss me that much, huh?""Always," Alex replied, his voice husky. He carefully shifted Dawson and stood up, crossing the room in a few long strides. Before I could react, he had me in his arms, spinning me around."Alex!" I laughed, wrapping my arms around his neck. "Put me down, you goof!"He set me down but kept his arms around my waist. "You’re not getting away that easily," he whispered, his lips inches f
The ride up to our suite seemed to take a lifetime. My heart was like a drum as I tried to come up with something to say to her but as soon as the lift doors opened, everything I had planned to say vanished. I lightly knocked on the door, a slight trembling in my palm. I felt a rush of emotions when the door opened with my mom at the other end "Mommy.” I choked out, giving her a tight hug. “I’m sorry.”“Sophie, my baby,” she whispered and embraced me closely. We both dissolved into tears.After a moment, Mom gently pulled back. "Let's go inside, sweetie," she murmured, her voice filled with emotions. When I entered the room, I turned to face her and really took her in. She appeared exhausted, her eyes red and swollen. "How are you?" I asked softly She gave a watery smile. "I am happy you are here. I have missed you so much.""You didn't call," I said, unable to keep the hurt from my voice.Mom reached out, taking my hand in hers. "I know you needed time and space to process ever
“Hey, toss it here!" Alex called out, waving his arms.Dawson laughed and aimed the ball toward Alex. With a slightly unsteady flight, he caught it by a dramatic leap."Nice throw, buddy!" he cheered, making Dawson beam with pride.I couldn't help but smile from my spot. Watching them play, hearing their laughter...it was a dream come true."You got this, Dawson," Alex encouraged as he rolled the ball back. "Just take your time."Dawson stuck his tongue out slightly, focusing hard on the ball. This time, his kick sent it flying straight and true."Goal!" Alex shouted, throwing his hands up in celebration. "We've got a little Messi on our hands!"Their game went on, there was clapping, laughing, and a little bit of ‘oh no’ when the ball went astray. Finally, it rolled to a halt right in front of me.“Okay, you two,” I said, as I grabbed it. “I believe that is enough for today”‘Mommy,’ Dawson complained, then his face twisted into a smile. "Did you see? I won!"Alex came over, ruffling
I woke up with a start, having Alex’s arm around my waist. I was confused for a second about what had woken me up. Then I heard it… raised voices from downstairs."Mrs. Hernandez, please," a stressed female voice pleaded. "I'm only following Mr. Alex's instructions. You can't just barge in like this!""I am his mother," came a sharp reply. "I have every right to see my son!"My heart raced. Alex's mom was here? I turned to face Alex, who was still sound asleep beside me. "Alex," I muttered, softly shaking his shoulder. "Alex, wake up. Your mom's here."Alex groaned, his arm tightening around my waist. "Mmm, five more minutes," he mumbled, nuzzling into my neck."Alex, I'm serious," I insisted, though I couldn't help but smile at his sleepy affection. "Your mother is downstairs, and it sounds like she's about to break down the door."Alex cracked open one eye, a mischievous glint visible. "I don't hear anything," he said, his lips curving into a grin as he started planting soft kisses
I tried to reply, but the words would not come out. Rather, I pressed my face against his shoulder and sucked in a quivering breath."It's fine. I'm here now," Alex murmured soothingly, his arms strong and secure around me.After a moment, he gently pulled away and scooped up Dawson, securing him in the back seat, and guided me into the seat next to the driver. "I do not want to go home," I murmured Alex's eyes met mine, filled with understanding. "I didn't have any intention of leaving either of you. “We're going to my house."As we drove, Alex glanced at me like he just remembered something. “What about your mom?”"She's okay, but I'd prefer not to discuss her at this time." Alex took out his phone and made a call to one of his housekeepers. "Sarah I need you to get some new clothes and toiletries for a child. Yes, as quickly as feasible.”The rest of the drive passed in silence. When we arrived at Alex's house, he turned to me. "Why don't you go freshen up? I'll take care of Daw
My mother's eyes softened as she looked at me. "James was a good man, Sophie. He raised you as his own because he adored both of us.” "That is the father I have known my whole life and will know for the rest of my days. This man here can never be my father," I sobbed, my voice trembling with wrath. "Sophie, I know you are upset but please try to understand,” my mother begged. "We made this decision out of love.""Love?" I scoffed. "You call lying to me for decades love?""I wanted to give you a stable family, a father who would be there for you-"I cut her off. "By erasing my real father from my life? By pretending Dad was my biological father?""It wasn't that simple, sweetheart. I was young, afraid, and alone when I found out I was pregnant-""So you just decided to trap Dad into raising another man's child?"I spat, regretting my words instantly but being too hurt to take them back. "Sophie!" My mom let out a gasp, her eyes filling with tears. "That wasn't the case. Your father..