The next morning, I made arrangements for the girls to visit Nicole at the hospital. I knew it wouldn't be easy, but I was determined to make it happen. Sarah offered to come too, providing emotional support and helping me prepare the girls for what they would see."Remember, Mommy's sick, and she might look different," I explained, trying to soften the blow.The girls nodded solemnly, their faces etched with concern. I had hinted at Nicole's situation to them in a way that wouldn't be too overwhelming. And, of course, I didn't mention her impending death, a piece of news they wouldn't be able to handle.As we arrived at the hospital, Nicole's frail body and sunken eyes shocked me. But her smile, though weak, still lit up when she saw the girls."Mommy!" Elizabeth exclaimed, rushing to Nicole's bedside.Hayden and Harper followed, surrounding Nicole with hugs and tears."We've missed you," Hayden said, her voice trembling as she pulled away, and I could sense the uncertainty and sadne
FEW WEEKS LATER.......I stood before Nicole's tombstone, the crisp winter air stinging my face. I recalled it was just a usual day of me waiting for some news at the hospital while thinking of a way, a glimmer of hope, to save Nicole. But then the hospital's call came with its final blow."Mr. Clinton, we're sorry to inform you that Nicole passed away last night, surrounded by our staff."The words were shocking, though I'd known it was coming. I had visited her once before her death and watched her fade away, bit by bit.But now I gazed down at the tombstone, the inscription reading:"Nicole Loving Mother and Friend Forever in Our Hearts"Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes as memories flooded my mind: Nicole's smile, her laughter, her final moments with the girls.The girls...How would they cope without their mother? I thought about the faces they would make when I got back, for Sarah and my mother had assured me they would break the news themselves in the most gentle and
SARAH'S POV FOUR YEARS LATER..."Happy Graduation Day!" I heard a chorus of boisterous voices echoing in my ears, forcing me to open my eyes. My grogginess faded into clarity as my eyes met the wonderful sight in front of me.Hayden, Harper, Elizabeth.And Xavier.I sat up, rubbing my eyes, wondering if I was dreaming. But the voices grew louder, more insistent."Surprise!" they chorused again, and I noticed each of them was holding up bouquets of different flowers with wide smiles on their faces. They were beaming with joy, and I was forced to chuckle and then laugh in amusement and surprise.As the girls held colorful bouquets, their faces alight with excitement, meanwhile Xavier stood behind them, a proud smile spreading across his face."How do you like the surprise, love?" He winked, and my brow furrowed, still reeling from the surprise."Graduation day?" I repeated, still disoriented."The big day!" Hayden exclaimed."You did it, Sarah!" Harper chimed in.Elizabeth jumped up an
The exhaustion of the day melted away, replaced by a different kind of tension. The thought of my father contacting me any moment, requesting that I go over to France, made my stomach twist into knots. I had managed to push the thought aside during the graduation celebration, but now it lingered, refusing to be ignored.I had managed to ignore the thought for the last four years, convincing myself that I had time. But now, with graduation now over and the real world looming ahead, the inevitability of my father's request settled in.I knew what that meant - leaving Xavier and the girls, leaving behind the only life I'd known for the past four and a half years. The thought of being separated from Xavier and the girls was unbearable. Our relationship, built on laughter and tears, late-night conversations, and stolen glances, was about to be put to the ultimate test.I wondered how my father would react if I told him I didn't want to come.And what would he say when he found out about my
My mouth was agape as I stared at my father standing with a bouquet in his hand."F-father!" I stuttered, my face twisted in discomfort, but I tried to keep my voice steady. "What... brings you here?"My father's brow furrowed, caught off guard by my question. "Aren't you... happy to see me?"Oh, I am supposed to run into his arms and hug him—silly me. I mentally facepalmed myself.A wide smile spread on my lips as I spread my arms apart. "Of course not, Father! I've missed you!" I exclaimed, trying to sound convincing, but my father's keen eyes narrowed slightly, as if sensing the insincerity. He handed me the bouquet, a mix of red roses and white lilies, his signature gesture."I've missed you too, dear," he said, his voice warm but laced with a hint of sarcasm.We hugged, my embrace tight, but I felt stiffness in my shoulders. I pulled back, trying to compose myself.Such bad timing! I wasn't prepared for his arrival. The impending day I and Xavier had been waiting for the last fou
"Alright, alright," I said, throwing up my hands. "Ask your questions, but don't expect me to spill all my secrets."My father grinned mischievously. "Secrets, huh? Now I'm intrigued."Xavier shot me a reassuring glance."William, let's focus on catching up, not interrogating Sarah," Xavier suggested.My father waved his hand. "Oh, no, no. I've got four years of missed conversations to make up for."Meanwhile, Harper and Hayden continued giggling at the exchange."Father, let’s get this over with," I said in defeat before adding, "I think I can handle your questions."My father leaned forward. "Excellent! Now, Sarah, tell me about your love life."I hesitated, unsure how much to reveal."Sarah, don't make me pry it out of you," my father warned, his eyes sparkling.Xavier intervened again, saving me from another awkward silence."William, perhaps we should discuss this later, in private.""Ah, secrets, Xavier? You're making me curious." My father raised an eyebrow, more intrigued.Wel
Oh no, this is spiraling out of control, I thought, my mind racing.My father wouldn't stop probing until he got answers, and we've already made him suspicious.I glanced at Xavier, his expression calm, but his eyes betrayed a hint of concern and were also scolding. But I don't think coming clean is the best idea.My father's voice cut through my thoughts."Sarah, Xavier, answer me. What's going on?"I took a deep breath, trying to maintain my composure."Nothing, Father. Just... just nervous about the move," I stammered. But my father's eyes narrowed."I don't believe you, Sarah."Xavier glanced at me with a frown, and I just flashed him a reassuring smile, trying to convey that I had everything under control.Xavier's expression softened, and he turned to my father."William, let's not pressure Sarah. She's already stressed about the move."My father's gaze lingered on me for a moment before shifting to Xavier. "Fine. But this conversation isn't over, Sarah. I insist on meeting tha
WILLIAM'S POVI didn't know what was taking Xavier so long to open the door after telling me he would open it in a minute. A minute had turned into an eternity."Xavier!" I called again, attempting to knock on the door again, but it opened, revealing Xavier's wry smile."Hey," he said, scratching the back of his head. "Why are you here?"My brow furrowed. "Didn't you hear what I said? I said I need help. That's why I came. Now will you let me come in?" I said and gently pushed him out of the way, letting myself in.I tossed the towel I was holding onto his bed and turned to meet his surprised, perhaps shocked, expression."Why are you here with the towel?" he asked, chuckling."Sorry for disturbing you. I wanted to take a late-night bath, but my water system isn't working," I explained, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible, despite the curiosity brewing inside me."Water system's out? Figured I'd use yours. Hope that's okay."Xavier's raised eyebrow and amused smile hinted that h
A month had passed since we left Paris. Our little family had settled into a cozy villa overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Well, we moved in for the wedding, actually. Now, standing in front of the mirror, I smoothed out my lace wedding gown. My heart fluttered as I thought of Xavier waiting for me at the altar. "Sarah, you look stunning," my maid of honor said, adjusting my veil. Who else would it be? It's my best friend, Helen. I smiled, feeling like a princess. The ceremony was intimate, with only close friends and family attending. "Hey, kiddo." A voice interrupted my thoughts, bringing a smile to my face. "The guests are waiting. Are you just gonna sit there and admire yourself?" Juniper appeared at the door, crossing her arms and wearing a feigned frown on her face. Juniper had helped out with the wedding planning; she even brought her kids along. Although I was grateful for her expertise, her planning ways exceeded Xavier's budget, but he didn't complain. "Juniper, you'
SARAH'S POV "About what!" I snapped, my eyes blazing. Xavier held my shoulders to placate me, but I was beyond reasoning. My baby was at risk because of him, and he was lucky nothing happened to him or her. If something had happened, I would have... I stopped and forced myself to stay calm when I noticed my father's soft gaze.He leaned against the wall without speaking, letting me pour out my anger. Only when I was done did he finally speak. "I meant to say..." He hesitated, glancing at Xavier. "I'm... sorry."It was as if he forced those words right out of his mouth.I looked away, breaking eye contact, and Xavier gently stroked my shoulder again."Sarah, calm down. Don't stress yourself out, okay?"Yeah, I'm pregnant. I shouldn't stress myself out.I flashed him a soft smile and leaned on his shoulders, making sure to avoid eye contact with my father."Sarah, I'm happy for you," my father continued, despite my bad attitude. "Now that there's nothing else I can do, you're free to l
My eyes widened in shock as I found Sarah lying on the bed, pale and motionless. In an instant, my heart sank, and my world crumbled around me."Sarah?" I whispered, approaching her cautiously.My legs felt heavy, as if rooted to the spot, but I forced myself to move closer. William's presence faded into the background, irrelevant to the only thing that mattered – Sarah.I gently sat beside her, my hand reaching out to brush away the strands of hair clinging to her forehead. Her skin felt cold and clammy."Sarah," I whispered, my voice trembling.Her eyelids fluttered open, and our gazes met. For a moment, I saw a glimmer of recognition, a spark of life.But it was fleeting.Her eyes, once bright and full of laughter, now seemed dull and lifeless."Sarah, please," I begged, my voice cracking. "Talk to me.""Sarah!" William, who had finally broken out of his stupor, rushed over to her side, shaking her gently, completely disregarding my presence.Then he froze, staring at Sarah, as the
XAVIER'S POV"Daddy, when is Sarah coming back?" Elizabeth had asked after I had watched as William's car disappeared, taking Sarah away from me. My heart felt like it had been ripped out. I couldn't believe I had to let her go.But I knew it was necessary. William's anger and determination to keep us apart were palpable.I crouched down to meet Elizabeth's height, her big brown eyes filled with concern. "Soon, sweetie. Sarah needs to go for now." I offered a reassuring smile."Where's William, her dad?" Harper chimed in, her brow furrowing. "Did the two of them leave?"I glanced up at Harper, who stood beside Hayden, his expression serious as if they were interrogating me.I let out a sigh and tried to simplify the truth. "Like I said, they're gone, but—" I was interrupted by Elizabeth whining. Her face scrunched up. "Why did Sarah leave without telling us? This is so unlike her."I took a deep breath, choosing my words carefully. "Sometimes, grown-ups need to figure things out. She
With my curiosity piqued, I got off the bed and made my way to the door. Walking down the hallway, the sound of heels clinking on the floor grew louder, making me even more curious about who had come to visit. Ever since I moved in, we’ve never had visitors, and that thought only fueled my curiosity.I entered the living room only to find a woman and my father walking from the door. My father’s gentle smile was a stark contrast to the tension that had filled the air moments before.Seriously? So I am the only downer here who won't get what she wants. I scoffed and quietly strode towards them.My eyes remained fixed on the lady, and I couldn’t help but keep my mouth wide open as I saw her intimate with my father. Her lips were pressed against my father's, and he responded with equal fervor, completely oblivious to my presence.So he has a girlfriend in Paris, huh?Way to go, Father; only you deserve happiness.I felt a mix of disgust and betrayal surging through me. I’ve learned to use
"Welcome to my humble abode. Don't you like the view?" My father's cheerful voice cut through my thoughts. Again. He kept interrupting my moping with his unnecessary small talk and fake enthusiasm. Can't he see I'm still reeling from the pain he's caused?I forced a glance around the luxurious penthouse apartment, trying to appear unimpressed. To be honest, it was quite breathtaking, but I wouldn't say it."It's nice, Father," I said flatly, my voice devoid of enthusiasm.My father's smile faltered for a moment, but he quickly recovered."I'm glad you like it. You'll be comfortable—""Cut the small talk,I wasn't done talking." I spat, cutting him off. I chuckled, still glancing around. "It's just that it's missing something."My father, sensing my fake enthusiasm, leaned close with a smile. "What do you think is missing?"A mischievous grin spread across my face as I replied, "My happiness."My father's smile froze, his eyes widening, caught off guard by my true intention."Sarah, co
I turned and walked away, leaving Xavier behind. My father's suffocating grip on my arm guided me toward the car. I felt numb, my heart heavy. As we drove away, I glanced back at the duplex, the building fading away. There wasn't any sight of Xavier, and it hurt to sense he was giving up. Or isn't he? I really don’t know. I didn't even get the chance to say goodbye to the girls; they would be devastated when they wake up without me beside them. This can't be happening. "We're going to Paris, Sarah. You'll be safe there. We're better off without him." My father's voice cut through my thoughts. His words felt like acid in my throat. I turned to him, my face twisted in a mix of anger and desperation. "Safe from what, Father?" I demanded. My father's expression remained unyielding. "From Xavier. From his influence on you." I felt a surge of indignation. "You don't even know him," I spat. "And you claim he is your best friend." My father's grip on the steering wheel tighte
SARAH'S POV"Father, what are you doing!" I rushed over to Xavier's side and cupped his cheek, blood trickling out of his nose. My eyes locked onto my father's scrunched-up face, his eyes blazing with fury."Get away from him, Sarah!" he growled.But I stood firm, my heart racing. "You're hurting him!" I pleaded, my eyes welling up. "How could you do this, Father?"Xavier's eyes fluttered open, and he winced."Sarah, I'm fine," he whispered.My father's face twisted in disgust."Don't talk to her, Xavier. You've done enough damage."I felt a surge of anger. I never expected this kind of reaction from him."That's not true! I did the damage!" I said, my voice firm as I walked towards him. "It was me who fell for him first, so if you're angry, then pour it on me."My father's gaze snapped back to me, and I could see the disappointment and hurt in his eyes."Sarah, I didn't expect this from... both of you," he said, his voice soft with a layer of pain and betrayal. "I trusted him."I sto
WILLIAM'S POVI didn't know what was taking Xavier so long to open the door after telling me he would open it in a minute. A minute had turned into an eternity."Xavier!" I called again, attempting to knock on the door again, but it opened, revealing Xavier's wry smile."Hey," he said, scratching the back of his head. "Why are you here?"My brow furrowed. "Didn't you hear what I said? I said I need help. That's why I came. Now will you let me come in?" I said and gently pushed him out of the way, letting myself in.I tossed the towel I was holding onto his bed and turned to meet his surprised, perhaps shocked, expression."Why are you here with the towel?" he asked, chuckling."Sorry for disturbing you. I wanted to take a late-night bath, but my water system isn't working," I explained, trying to sound as nonchalant as possible, despite the curiosity brewing inside me."Water system's out? Figured I'd use yours. Hope that's okay."Xavier's raised eyebrow and amused smile hinted that h