CHRISTIAN
I looked at my ex-wife, falling silent at Blake's words. She was still beautiful, only there was no longer the tenderness she once showed me.
I remembered how she called Zeon "my son," as if he were not hers. At that moment, I couldn't help but be glad Zeon was asleep. He didn't need to know what a cruel person his mother was, though her leaving three years ago was proof enough.
"Can we spend the night here, Madam?" Assistant Blake asked, his voice begging.
"It's Dr. Granger," she corrected, and I scoffed.
I could see she was hesitating, yet I couldn't understand what was troubling her while Zeon was still feverish. Did she really not care at all?
Just when I was losing my patience, she finally nodded. "Well, you can stay. But only for a night. You have to make other arrangements tomorrow."
"We have no wish to stay here either," I interrupted, anger raging in my chest. "If it weren't for this unusual nature, we wouldn't have troubled you."
"Whatever!" She replied nonchalantly. "Maria, show them their rooms on the north side."
Veronica stepped toward the door without glancing back. Suddenly, some monitor rang, and a child's cry cut through the atmosphere.
She froze, and the next second, she rushed off the door to the main villa with a worried face.
"I-is that a child crying?" Blake gasped, his gaze turning to me in surprise. "I believed the mada-- Dr. Granger resided alone! Is there any other patient except us?"
"I apologise for the inconvenience." The servant followed Blake in the chamber slightly bowed at us. "Madam has placed baby monitors throughout the house as our young miss is quite young and frequently requires her mother's attention."
It was like a thunder hit my heart. A little child— So she's with another man already?
The stark reality pierced my heart, causing intense emotional ache. Memories of that night three years ago resurfaced—the night I returned home to find her short note on the floor. 'Let's separate, Christian. I've signed the divorce papers and left them for you. You are free from today onward....' and then that ruthless paper I found.
The only words she had for me after five years of marriage. She even left a second note for Zeon, seeking his forgiveness.
Her departure stirred something within me, and I, like a crazed man even though she was never completely into me to begin with. I searched for her throughout the city, but no trace of her was found; she disappeared into thin air.
I hadn't realized she was serious about divorce when she mentioned it the other night; I thought she was just expressing boredom. So, I intentionally brought up Zeon in our conversation, so she stops thinking to leave me. However, in the end, she left me and our son.
Tonight felt like a blessing in disguise when I finally found her, but— Now, she has a daughter…
"P-papa—" Zeon's weak whisper broke my thoughts as I immediately rushed to his side.
"Yes, I am here." I touched his head; the fever had slightly reduced.
"M-om… D-did sh-e c-co-me to s-ee m-e?" He queried, his little voice cracking from exhaustion. "I-I h-ha-ve se-en h-er…"
My heart ached as if gripped by an iron fist. Swallowing the hard knot in my throat, I caressed hishead-- "she'll be in front of you when wake up, now go back to sleep, okay?" I assured him.
He slowly blinked, then turned away and closed his eyes—perhaps silently questioning my truthfulness, as he has in the past. But my son, I wasn't lying this time. She is here, very near to you. Papa just doesn't know if she wants you anymore.
"Boss, we should move the young master to his room," Blake said softly from behind.
"Yes," I murmured, pushing aside my troubled thoughts. I carefully lifted my son and followed the servant.
The guest room was quite spacious and tastefully decorated, reflecting her simple yet pleasant style.
I laid my son in bed; his eyes remained closed as he turned away from me. He's not asleep yet. Of us all, Zeon misses her most. Although he rarely mentions her, except during his illnesses, I know my son. He endures his sorrow quietly and alone.
After tucking him in with a warm quilt, I left the bed and turned to my assistant, "Keep an eye on the weather. We must leave by the morning." I stated coldly. I wished to avoid any further interaction with that woman and spare my son the distress of her presence.
"Sir, the weather forecast is unfavourable; I'm not certain we can leave in the morning," he replied hesitantly.
"Then manage something else!" I glared at him.
"Yes, sir!" he said hurriely before quietly departing.
Throughout the night, I was unable to sleep. Her harsh tone, the infant's cry, haunted me. The urge to rush and ask her why she did that to us kept me unsettled.
She had a child with another man? Did she leave us for him? Did she consider Zeon's feelings at all? I wonder if she is happy now, despite the hurt she caused us. I had many questions for her, but I chose to remain with my son instead.
As dawn broke, I felt a little drowsy when a small disturbance caught my attention. I blinked and turned to Zeon; he was softly weeping in his sleep, murmuring, "M-mom-my..."
My heart aches for my son as I hold him close. His fever has not fully subsided yet.
I gently patted his back as I gazed at the ceiling. Zeon is my world, and I can not bear to see my child suffer. This innocent boy is enduring pain through no fault of his own.
Should I speak with Veronica about this? Will she be receptive now? I am uncertain, but I can attempt to discuss it. Zeon longs for his mother's love, and although it pains me to admit it, only Veronica can offer him that comfort.
Soon, the morning approached, yet darkness and heavy rain persisted outside. I checked on my son and was relieved to find his fever had subsided completely. Thank God.
I got out of bed and decided to speak with Veronica first. I am uncertain of the outcome, but I am prepared to do anything for my son.
On my way out, I encountered a servant from the previous night. I stopped her and asked about Veronica.
"Madam is in the kitchen downstairs, sir," she replied. "You will find her there."
With a racing heart, I hurried downstairs. However, upon nearing the kitchen, I paused, stunned by the scene before me. Behind the counter, she was smiling happily with a man.
Who is he? Could he be the father of her daughter?
CHRISTIANMy gaze was stuck on the scene… My now ex-wife was standing close to another man, leaning toward his phone and smiling brightly at his words as if he had promised her the nectar of eternity.My hands were clenched tightly, possibly leaving bruises; I don't recall her ever laughing so joyfully in our five years of marriage.She has a daughter. Now, this man—did she leave us for him? Who is he, father of her daughter? Did she truly remarry?A dull ache spread through my heart as I watched her joyful laughter. Upstairs, her own son is in need of care. That little one longs for his mother's attention, and she— my eyes welled up.Is he the man who was between us during our five years of marriage? For whom she could not become fully mine?Did she truly forget her own son and embrace her new life with her daughter and husband? Does Zeon mean nothing to her?My fists tightened. I've decided to leave immediately; I can't bear to watch Zeon suffer further heartbreak by interacting wit
VERONICA"Mom—" is simply a small word, but at that moment, the heaviness of the word filled me with indescribable warmth. I didn't realize that I had craved to be called "Mom" by him so badly.And that broke me. Tarnished me to the point that, even though it wasn't my fault, I despised myself for leaving him three years ago.Since yesterday, I had repeatedly stopped myself from showing affection to him in front of Christian, but at that point, the mother within me forced me to go near him, and I did."Hey..." I said, softly smiling at him as tears blurred my vision.Raising my hand, I touched his cheeks as he stared at me. His eyes were longing and teary. He slowly leaned into my touch. "M-Mom, yo-u came." His tone cracked.The way he looked at me felt as if he had longed for me just as I had for him. Did he really miss me in these three years? Did he call for me? Am I really meaningful to him?My heart bled involuntarily... "Y-es, I'm he-re..." My voice broke as well. I want to embr
VERONICAI was puzzled to see Assistant Blake holding his large figure, which now lay on the floor."Madam, please help!" His urgent tone brought me back to the present, and I hastened to his side.With the assistance of assistant, Blake, we gently escorted him to the guest room where his children were playing. Upon seeing us, Zeon quickly dismounted from the bed and helped Cadence as they approached their father."Papa!" His voice quivered with fear as he gazed at his father.Gently placing him on the bed, Blake began removing his shoes and loosening his clothing while I sat with my children. Cadence was frightened, though she didn't understand, and immediately hid in my chest as Zeon watched anxiously.I caressed his cheeks and softly reassured him, "Mom's a doctor; he will be alright." This slowly calmed his expression as he nodded.After reassuring the children, I returned to his side and asked for my medical kit from a servant. Upon examining him, I discovered he had a high fever
CHRISTIAN"Christian, you are not the man for me," she stated, her gaze unwavering. She was leaning against another man—the man with whom she shared joyful laughter."Ple-ease, Veronica," I pleaded. "D-don't leave m-e—"She laughed coldly, "In your dreams—" She looked up at the man and smiled radiantly, a smile that pierced my heart. "Let's go, darling," she murmured softly and departed."N-no! Veronica!" I attempted to follow her, but I was unable to; a powerful force held me back as I fell face-first. My hands reached out, "N-no!" My vision blurred as she slowly faded away...My eyes flew open as I bolted upright in bed. Sweat slipped through my pores as I panted hard from the cold, terrifying nightmare that had haunted me for the last five years.The only difference was that the man now had a face."Director, you're awake!" A shriek startled me as I saw Blake appear before me. "Thank God, it's a relief. I was quite worried!"A dull ache pulsed in my head as I massaged my temple and
CHRISTIANThrilled with the possibility, I gazed at the little girl. Her features were taken after her mother, except those eyes—but how is it even possible?Since she had gone through hard labour, I was scared for her health and refrained from touching her. I threw myself into work and deliberately stayed away from home so I wouldn't lose myself, except that night five years ago.I missed her so much that when she was near, I couldn't help but love her and want to be with her. But later, I mixed a strong birth control pill in her water; therefore, the equation didn't fall into place, and it made me more confused.Despite the confusion, I decided to ask her about it and immediately leave the children's room to find her. However, the room opposite was closed, and I froze at the reminder of another man's presence in her life.Her smiling face at him from yesterday flashed before my eyes as I stepped back, my hands clenching at my sides.She is with another man now, a man who is possibly
VERONICAI stormed into my room and closed the door, leaning against it to catch my breath. My pulse raced, and my legs trembled, causing me to almost lose my balance.I suppressed a rising feeling of anxiety as the recent encounter replayed in my mind—had it not been for Blake's timely intervention, the consequences would have been—No, no, no!I covered my mouth, realizing the gravity of the situation.Stupid woman! I scolded myself.How could I lose myself in front of him? The man who hurt me, pushed me to the edge and forced me to leave my own son.— How could I be so shameless as to fall into his web? How could I react so pathetically in front of him?Wasn't he murmuring her name in his unconscious state only? How could he behave that way?I pulled my hair in frustration. Anger and embarrassment gripped me strongly. I felt like disappearing into thin air.How could his presence still affect me even after the heartache he caused me? Fuck! Why did I even bother to check on him!?Shit
VERONICAUpon Celine's arrival, Christian immediately disengaged his hand from my arm. "What are you doing here?" he inquired, frown creasing his temple.Her gaze fell upon us, widening slightly, perhaps in surprise at seeing me. "Veronica—" she whispered.The situation became increasingly uncomfortable as I withdrew from Christian. First him, and now his lover— what unfortunate circumstances I find myself in!"Why are you here?" Celine inquired, her tone laced with suspicion. "Didn't you leave years ago? Why have you returned?" Her eyes held a cold accusation.I found her boldness rather amusing and met her gaze steadily. Raising an eyebrow, I let out a cold, bitter chuckle. "My presence here, you ask? How ironic! Apparently, none of you noticed the prominent nameplate at the entrance." I scoffed."I wonder if you're all losing your sight together? No worries, though. I can recommend some outstanding eye specialists for the sake of our old rivalry." Sarcasm dripping from my voice."W
VERONICACeline immediately approached Christian, gripping his arm. "Christian, what is happening? Why are you remaining silent, danm it!?" She demanded. "Surely you aren't considering a reconciliation with the woman who abandoned you and Zeon years ago, are you!? And now—" Her gaze intensified, fixing on my daughter, whom I drew closer, trying to hide her from her poisonous gaze. "—and now she has a child with another man! Christian, I'm asking you something!" She cried out frantically.Her wailing polluted the peaceful atmosphere of my home, heightening my anxiety and anger."Enough!" I roared, glaring at the unpleasant couple before me.I was quite upset by their toxic behaviour, and in a moment of frustration, I raised my voice in front of my children, particularly Cadence. She is not accustomed to such volatile situations and becomes quite distressed.I immediately attended to my daughter, comforting her until she calmed down. As the unpleasant couple showed no sign of leaving, I
VERONICAI looked in the mirror; staring back at me was a gorgeous woman in a beautiful dark green satin dress. Her beautiful face had a touch of light makeup, and she complemented her look with burgundy lips.Smiling at my reflection, I retrieved my purse and took a deep breath. Today, I am going on a date with William.That evening, I had agreed to go on a date with him. I didn't know if anything would change between us tonight, but I knew I couldn't deny him, not after how he had helped me.Therefore, I accepted his request.Soon, I descended the stairs. Upon my arrival, I noticed everyone looking at me."Oh my goodness, Vero!" Zaya gasped, clasping her hands to her mouth.Aunt Lucy was staring at me as well; her thoughts were incomprehensible.My two children were also looking at me, their wide eyes making me feel a little self-conscious.I scratched my neck, “what's wrong, guys? Am I looking too weird?”
DIANA SPARKLESLife has a surprising way of changing things. Just a few days ago, the woman who annoyed me, now I no longer feel offended by her.Veronica—I never liked her because of her dicey personality and always resented her. Suddenly, I found myself no longer bothered by her presence.Perhaps it's more due to her daughter. Before I met Cadence, I only detested her, but everything changed the moment that little soul threw herself into my arms and called me ‘Gamma’ with her sweetest, childish voice.My heart softened, and I found myself unexpectedly drawn to the little girl.I didn't understand my own mind at all. When it was divided between Zeon and Cadence, I didn't even realize. It all felt like a surreal dream.Perhaps it is because she reminds me of my own daughter, who sadly passed away at the age of three. Cadence is around her age, and I feel I see my daughter in her.Soon, I was whipped by the little gir
VERONICAMy heart beat rapidly upon seeing Matilda. However, I attempted to remain calm, as it was our first meeting, and technically, I should not have been privy to their conversation.I flashed my most professional smile at her, “Hello, Ms. Petersfield, how can I help you?”Her gaze was sharp, intently studying me for a few seconds before her smile widened. "Might I borrow a moment of your time, Doctor? I won't keep you long," she said gently. If I hadn't heard her threats to ruin my life that day, I might not have believed that she was the same woman.I pursed my lips. Even though it sounded like a request, in my heart I’m well aware that it wasn't a request but a command.“Well, alright, Ms. Petersfield, please take a seat.” I offered her a seat opposite of me.She sat down, looking around my chamber for a while, her gaze fixed on me. “I must say, you have quite an exquisite taste, Dr. Granger.”
VERONICAFool, a huge fucking fool—that's what I truly am!The man who had broken my heart repeatedly, my foolish heart throbbed for him again! What is fucking wrong with me!?His touch, his words, even his breath—fuck! Everything about him almost tottered me, and I was provoked to give in. If it wasn't for Zaya's call at that moment, I would have found myself beneath him.Sigh… I had been considering a custody battle for Zeon, yet still getting whipped by that man. I'm not sure if I'm being rational anymore?I felt it was prudent to leave the man's presence as soon as possible, so I quickly gave Diana the list of Christian's meals and departed with Cadence without even saying goodbye. I preferred not to risk encountering him again.I'm rather confused; how could he still flirt with me while Celine was at home? What does he think of me? His paid whore? That fucking asshole!Rubbing my temple, I turned to my sleeping
CHRISTIANDarkness—that's all I could see around me. I was trapped in an unknown dungeon, and for a while, I didn't know how to escape from that tormenting imprisonment.Nevertheless, that gentle, calming voice—my sole source of comfort during that difficult confinement—is hers, Veronica's, and it sustains my hope.In that moment of vulnerability, her soothing guidance kept me alive and motivated. I followed her voice. I don't know for how long, but I didn't give up.At one point, I also heard from Zeon, who pleaded with me to return to him, which gave me renewed hope. Then, my mother's remorseful pleas urged me to return to her as well.With the support of my family and loved ones, a glimmer of hope appeared on the horizon. I eagerly pursued it and was soon enveloped in its radiant glow…My eyes were fluttering, and my eyelids felt like they weighed a ton.“Christian…?”Her gentle voice pierced my awareness, causing me to forcibly open my eyes. Initially, my vision was blurry, but he
DIANA SPARKLES"How can you be so careless, Celine?" I questioned, feeling devastated by the humiliation."How could I possibly be mistaken?" she inquired, sounding bewildered. "Auntie, how could I have known he was feigning an allergic reaction? Turns out he's inherited his mother's talent for deception.”““What did you say?” I felt agitated by her comment. “Did you forget that you’re talking about my grandson?” I glared at her.What is she trying to point out? My grandson is a liar?Celine frowned, seeming displeased. “Auntie, how can you blame me after everything I did for him? I was always there, trying to please him and be his mother, and now you're blaming me for one little issue?” She retorted, “If that's the case, then you're to blame as well, aren't you, Auntie? How did you not know he was faking it?” She challenged me, heightening my dissatisfaction in her.“Celine, you were always there for him, attempting to fulfil a motherly role,” I said, frustration bubbling up inside m
VERONICAI monitored Christian's vital signs, and they were stable. His complexion improved significantly after just one day of appropriate care. While some stress was still visible on his face, it was considerably less than before… Overall, his health is improving.After taking over his care, I ceased all presence in his room. Without my permission, no one was allowed to enter. Although I expected denials from both Celine and Diana, surprisingly, Diana did not refute my order; in fact, she relayed it to everyone, including Celine.I truly wonder what has gotten into her. However, I must accept that although her intervention was unexpected, it did alleviate some of my stress…After checking on Christian, I left his room after closing his door. The bodyguard near the door slightly nodded at me before I walked away.Well, yes, for some reason, Diana even planted a guard before his room, who stopped everyone except her and I.Initially, I harboured some doubt regarding whether she suspec
CELINEI stared at Veronica's cold eyes in disbelief. They burned with accusation, as if—as if she truly knew!But how?"Wh-at are you saying? What drug?" I tried to control my shaky tone, my fists clenched tightly.A smirk played on her lips as she advanced, inquiring, "Attempting to deceive me, Celine? Have you never heard the saying, ‘One must never lie to a doctor?’” Her gaze was sharp, her tone dripping with sarcasm.I swallowed hard under her intense gaze. It felt as though she was concealing much more beneath her blazing orbs.Di-id, she perhaps find out about the accidents already? My blood ran cold at the thought. However, I refused to believe it. Knowing Veronica, she wouldn't ignore it if she knew the truth! Furthermore, there is no way she will discover my involvement.I held her gaze, and I wouldn't let her have the satisfaction of cornering me! “I have no idea what you're on about! I didn't do a thing!" I hissed, then bolted from his room.Rushing into my room, I locked
VERONICAI drive back home with a troubled heart. William's argument with that woman arose numerous questions within me…What is my connection to all of this? Why is William postponing his surgery on my account? What are his intentions? Or could I simply be an unintended consequence, and is there a larger story at play?Perhaps there is another Dr. Veronica, for whom William is hesitant to undergo surgery… However, I quickly dismissed that possibility. While coincidence is possible, it seems unlikely.After hearing them go at it, I figured it was best to bail. Wasn't I already swamped enough without more drama piling on?Alas! What is happening in my life?Following all that has transpired, I still find myself pondering one question: Why would William decline his surgery because of me?Stopping the car before my Christian's villa, I sighed. How could I possibly be implicated in all of this?I rubbed my temples in frustration and turned to the back seat, where Cadence was sleeping peac