A beautiful glow fills the room as the room's white drapes let in the soft light of morning. I feel a surge of apprehensive anticipation mixed with joy as I wake up on the morning of my wedding. Today is the day Jordan and I begin our adventure together as married couples—a day I have been dreaming about since Jordan proposed to me. I stretch and take a deep breath, savouring the mix of emotions that flutter within me. The scent of fresh red roses Jordan delivered the night before lingers in the air, creating an atmosphere of romance and celebration.I glance at the clock, realising that all the people that are going to help me get ready for today will soon be on their way. A smile plays on my lips as I think about the moments awaiting me today.My bridesmaids, my closest confidantes, are all staying with me, all of them in different rooms adjacent to mine, adding an extra layer of joy to the morning as everyone is a bundle of excitement. As I make my way to the mirror, I can't help
Ray and I are the happiest people on earth as we speak. Watching Louis walk Patricia down the aisle was a subtle reminder of how lucky I am. If a magical mirror were placed in the room, my sister would be the fairest of all. I couldn't have asked for a better bride. Brains, beauty—you name it. Patricia Pearl is now Patricia Baker.It was quite a sight seeing Mrs. Charity today, all glammed up and looking a lot different from her usual extra-simple makeup to events as always. My parents were super emotional earlier today at the church, and my princess Ray executed her flower girl’s duty excellently well. It's safe to say Patricia is the ray of sunshine Rachel and I have always needed in our lives.I have a list that I created last month for our honeymoon. It contains so many fun and romantic activities. I chose Italy because, for starters, it is a land for romance, and then secondly, Pat gets to attend the Milan fashion week, and I get to see beautiful timeless architectural structures
Amidst the clouds and the soft hum of the aeroplane engines, Jordan and I settle into our seats, eager to embark on the journey of a lifetime and to create a cosy movie marathon in the sky.The cabin becomes a private cinema as we both immerse ourselves in the movie we’re watching. As the flight progresses, we move seamlessly from one movie to the next, losing track of time in the happenings unfolding on the screen.As the final credits roll, signalling our imminent arrival at our destination, Jordan and I exchange smiles as the pilot announces that we have arrived at our destination.Milan, the city of fashion and romance, awaits. It's one city I’ve longed to explore after Paris, and to be here right now for my honeymoon is super thrilling."Well, someone is excited,” Jordan comments, seeing my expression.“I am. I can’t wait to explore the city, but first I need a good nap.""And a good nap you’ll get at the resort,"Jordan's hands intertwine with mine as we step out of the jet and
Under the January sky, the terrace's stunning view of Milan is evident. The expansive cityscape is dotted with the colourful vitality and antique buildings that characterise this Italian city.As I settle down on one of the wooden chairs on the terrace, flashbacks from yesterday resurface. I look at the glittering ring Jordan slipped onto my finger the day before at the altar, and I'm grateful for how my life is playing out. I've never been this happy and fulfilled.I pray nothing comes between our unions. I love Jordan so much, and I don't know if I can live without having him right beside me. During our dinner yesterday, he mentioned he wasn't in any haste to have children, and he's ready whenever I am, which is quite thoughtful.I feel Jordan’s hand snake around my neck from behind.“My love,” he coos.“My husband.”“Why did you leave me all alone in bed?”“You were sleeping soundly.”“Which is strange because you know I'm an early riser.”“Well, blame it on my charms.”“I see. You
The car pulls up in front of the hospital, and Patricia and I rush in. Everything's a whirlwind - just moments ago, we were wrapped up in the joy of our honeymoon. Now, there's this gnawing anxiety, this heavy sadness hanging over us.Entering the hospital feels like stepping into a different world. The antiseptic smell, the hushed tones—it's a stark contrast to the carefree moments in Milan. As we search for Tony and Brittney's ward, worry consumes me. Seeing Tony pacing, worn out and on the brink of tears, my heart sinks."Tony, we're here," I offer, my hand on his shoulder, trying to be a pillar of support. "How is she?"Tony's face is etched with worry as he tells us there's been no change. It's agonizing not knowing the outcome, the uncertainty gnawing at all of us."We're here for you," Patricia assures him, trying to inject hope into the air, hoping our positivity can somehow make a difference.“How's she?"Tony sighs, worry etched across his face. "No change. She's still in a
These past weeks have been tumultuous. The hospital has practically become Jordan’s second home. He breezes in and out of the house just to freshen up or eat. Numerous attempts to sway him into swapping days with a family member or me have fallen on deaf ears. His constant response is that Tony would do the same if the roles were reversed.Tony and his family have been consumed with catering to Brittney’s baby, Laurene, since her discharge from the hospital. Juggling demanding classes, late-night studies, and proving myself without favoritism claims has been draining. I'm relieved Ray is safe with her grandparents.“Süsser, are you okay?” Jordan asks, walking into the room with his hospital bag.How do I convey the ache of returning to an empty, cold house for weeks after just getting married, without seeming selfish? I understand his closeness with Brittney, but we're all affected by her condition.“I'm good.”“You sure, sweet?”“Yes. Did you forget something?”“No, Tony forced me to
The door creaks softly as I open it and head to the living room. A heavy silence hangs in the air, save for the rhythmic sound of Patricia's quiet breathing. She lay asleep on the couch, a troubled expression on her face.Last night's argument lingers in my mind. I'm exhausted from the long nights spent at the hospital, watching over Brittany, who still remains in a coma. Patricia's plea for my presence makes me feel guilty for not being able to be there for her as much as I want. I recollect my numerous comings and goings from the house these past weeks, and guilt consumes me even more as I gaze at her, wondering how to bridge the growing gap between us.The memories of our wedding, just a few weeks ago, resurface in my head. The vows we exchanged, promising to stand by each other through thick and thin, seem to echo in this quiet room now. Yet, here I am, caught between my commitment to Patricia and the obligation to be with Brittany during this trying time.I lower myself onto the
My skin is softly caressed by the morning sun, luring me out of my dream world. I sigh softly and slowly open my eyes, letting go of the sheets' embrace as I stretch and greet the day in a calm manner. My eyes open, and I'm greeted by the calm atmosphere of the room. I smile peacefully, feeling thankful for the new day that lies ahead. I've been feeling low since I received that email from Bryan. Why do I always have to jump from one problem to another? Am I cursed or something? I've been trying hard to hide my emotions around Jordan. Ever since we discussed balance, he insisted on staying home for three days, and then we'll take turns.Being unsure of what to do feels like being at a crossroads, where each path seems promising but also fraught with danger. It's similar to juggling opposing emotions as I attempt to strike a balance between my heart's desires and what my head says is reasonable. Decision-making becomes a struggle between reason and passion, between prudence and longin
Epilogue6 months later I tap my fingers on the driving wheel, humming along to the pulse of the road, feeling the beat echo within. Each song becomes a personal concert, and my audience is the world outside my window. With each note, the journey transforms into an adventure full of songs and delight, making every mile unique.The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow as I drive , my pregnant belly gently cradled by the steering wheel as I embark on a journey to pick up Ray from her mother Vanessa's house. The anticipation of seeing Ray radiates through me blending with the rhythmic kicks of the little one in my belly.Arriving at Vanessa's house, I take a moment to steady myself before ringing the doorbell. Vanessa greets me with a warm smile. "Thanks for doing this, Patricia, for allowing Ray spend the weekend even though it wasn’t my week.” Vanessa says her expression soft with gratitude."It's my pleasure. Ray and I have a special bond, and it’s important that she has that type of
“Son, we are so happy for you.” father says super proud “Your father is right and we are glad you are very happy because we see how your face lights up all the time.”“Thanks. I love how both of you show up for me every time and support me. How you guys helped me raise Ray with unwavering love.”“You are our child and she's our granddaughter. It's our duty.” father says.“All the same, thanks again.” “I’ll leave you two to discuss while I check on what's cooking.” mother says excusing us.“So how's work?”“Going smoothly, dad. Thanks for asking.”“Don’t you think it's high time you take a break?”“I was thinking so too. Tony and I are organizing a group trip for our ladies.”“Now that's my boy. How's Ray and how’s she coping with this new chapter?”“Surprisingly good. Vanessa is good with children and I'm wondering what changed.”“People change. You did too.”I nod, father's words sinking in. "Yeah, people do change," I agree, pondering the evolution of myself and those around me."Y
The car hums softly as we embark on the journey back home after an emotional reunion with Ray's birth mother, Vanessa. The air in the car is thick with a mixture of lingering tension and unspoken questions. Ray, sitting in the back seat, stares out of the window, seemingly lost in thought. I wonder how she must be feeling after meeting her mother and if she has any question on her mind. Jordan, his hands steady on the wheel, steals a glance at Ray. Concern etched on his face, he speaks gently, "Ray, how are you feeling?"Ray sighs , her gaze still fixed on the passing scenery. "I don't know, Dad. It's a lot to process." I turn in my seat reaching out to touch Ray's hand. "We're here for you, sweetheart. Whatever you're feeling, it's valid."Ray nods , a small smile playing on her lips. "I appreciate that, Mom." I love it when she calls me mom and the thought of having a little child growing in me that will call me mom as well is so exciting. The car moves in a comfortable silence
Vanessa stands there, seemingly untouched by time, her slender figure and unchanged appearance hinting at a timeless beauty. There's a momentary question lingering as to whether she could truly be the mother of the boys following behind, given the absence of any visible resemblance."Vanessa," I call out from the car."Welcome to my home. Jordan and Patricia, thank you very much for this. I do not take it lightly," she acknowledges."Hi, Rachel. It's so lovely to see you. I'm Vanessa.""Hi, Mom," Ray greets warmly.Vanessa's face lights up, glowing with joy like a myriad of stars."Can I give you a hug?""Yes, please," Ray responds, embracing her eagerly."These are my sons, Gabriel and Nathaniel Parker. My husband and their father are late," she announces."Sorry for your loss," we chorus, following the boys' greetings."It's alright. It was a long time ago. Shortly after I got married to him, he took ill and passed. Let's not waste any further time out here. Let's all go in."As we
It's a relief that Jordan and I were able to work through our issues and emerge with a renewed vow to never let secrets ruin our relationship. The lesson acquired from the difficult experience emphasised the critical value of honesty and transparency.What truly surprised me was Jordan's apology for his impulsive decision to ask me to leave without taking the time to process everything. Admittedly, my choice to withhold essential information felt like a significant breach of trust, casting a shadow over our relationship.However, Jordan's perspective on the dynamics of marriage startled me. Despite the hurt caused by my actions, he believed that a successful marriage necessitates navigating such challenges through open communication and forgiveness.At that moment, I felt conflicting emotions—my initial guilt for withholding information, Jordan's surprising apology, and his conviction in the essential aspects of trust and openness in a marriage. It forced me to rethink my concept of t
In the solitude of this past week, amidst the echo of my own thoughts, I've embarked on an odyssey within myself. In the wake of shattered trust, I find myself navigating a labyrinth of emotions, haunted by the echoes of betrayal. Yet, amidst the debris of fractured promises, there's a yearning to rebuild what was once a sanctuary of companionship. The road to reconciliation feels like walking on shards of glass, each step a cautious maneuver to bridge the chasm that divides us. But within this tempest of hurt lies a glimmer of hope, a desire to unearth the truth, to mend the rift, and perhaps forge a stronger bond, weathered yet resilient in the face of adversity.The air in my father's study hangs heavy with the weight of unspoken words and hidden truths. Stepping into this sanctum of memories, the familiar scent of aged books and polished wood offers solace amidst the impending revelation.Mother's absence is a blessing in this moment, sparing her the pain that lingers within the d
The ticking clock echoes in my quiet room, each passing second emphasizing the void left by three days of strained silence. The memory of the argument with Jordan replays in my mind, the pain still fresh, and the weight of regret settling in my chest.My phone lies untouched on the table, its screen devoid of messages or missed calls. I can't bring myself to break the silence, understanding that the wounds from my actions need time to heal. I feel empty without him, unable to eat or sleep properly, spending my days confined in the room, looking like a mess.Regret gnaws at my conscience as I replay the argument in my mind. I had kept a secret, thinking it would be a protective shield for Jordan, only to realize that it has become a barrier between us. Communication truly is key in a relationship; the outcome might have been totally different if I had spoken to him about it as soon as it happened and we had discussed ways on how to go about it. Now I feel like I’ve lost his trust and I
I lay in the hotel bed totally famished and emotionally drained. I don't deserve this. My head is spinning from days of trying to phantom everything that has happened.We were supposed to be on our way to Greece today. I hope she's out when I get back. I need a break from her to be able to think things through. If I'm going to have to get over her which I doubt is possible, I would have to see less of her or her things till I've made a decision. I feel so betrayed!I had to put off my phone because she kept calling non-stop. Only Tony knows my whereabouts and what's going on. I can't bring myself to tell my parents.A knock on my door draws my attention back to my surroundings. That must be room service. I can't let them see me like this.“I'm very busy at the moment, kindly check back later,” I say from behind the door.“It's Tony man.”Arghhhhhh. How do I conceal the wounds on my knuckles?“I'm waiting or else I'll have them bring down this door.”I open the door and resume back to m
The weight of reality hits me hard—I can't believe he found out before I had the chance to tell him. Not that his reaction would have been different, but I wanted to be the one to explain. The door closes behind me, leaving me on the floor, where minutes ago I was pleading with Jordan not to leave.Unable to stand, I remain seated, weeping, and wondering how it came to this. It's only been three months of marriage, and now this. What if he decides on a divorce? I can't lose him; imagining life without him feels unbearable.The gravity of the situation hits me, and I crumble into more tears, my shoulders shaking with the weight of heartache. Realizing I've lost something irreplaceable, coupled with the remorse for not trusting Jordan with the truth, devastates me. I should have mentioned it the very day Bryan sent the message, but I just couldn't. And now, my greatest fear has come true.I don’t know how long I sit crying, but by the time I wake up, it’s past nine. Summoning the courag