Mia's POVKyle's appearance had disrupted my plan. He had returned too early. I wasn't ready to discuss any of the “kidnapping” things with Kyle. I hadn't fully digested Mrs. Chen's words, but I was pretty sure I didn't want to tell Kyle all of it right now.I shot Mrs. Chen a quick glance, catching the slight nod of understanding in her eyes. I turned to Kyle, “I'm going back now, I just came to get my things.”Kyle sighed, “Mia, I can tell when you're lying. I hope we can do without the lies. No pressure.”The simple observation knocked me off balance. When did Kyle become able to tell when I was lying? Since when could Kyle Branson read me so easily? I was a little stunned. "I don't owe you explanations anymore."I didn't respond to his question, ”Kyle, you're a smart guy. You should understand why I chose to get a divorce. I really don't want you involved in my life anymore.”I saw Kyle slowly let out a breath. “That's a good point. But Mia, I didn't initiate the divorce, and I ne
**Mia's POV**The slam of my car door echoed through the parking garage. I heard Kyle's door open too, but thankfully, he didn't follow. My legs carried me forward, each step a small victory against the urge to look back.*I love you.* His words tumbled through my mind like clothes in a dryer, tumbling over and over, impossible to ignore. Why did he have to say that? After everything, after all this time, why now?I try to walk faster. His words won't stop playing in my head. They've touched something in me. I hate the sincerity in his words. I hate that he wants to make amends.I can't let myself love him anymore. It's getting really bad.The divorce didn't bring me the peace I was hoping for. Especially since Kyle came back into my life, I realized I can't just laugh about the past. Just because you're no longer married to someone doesn't mean you magically forget all the details. He shouldn't expect us to start over. Because we can't just pretend like nothing happened."Get it toge
**Mia's POV**The hostess guided me through La Maison's elegant dining room, weaving between tables filled with the city's well-dressed lunch crowd. My lower back ached slightly as I followed her. Side effect of carrying twins."Just over there," she said, gesturing toward a corner booth where I immediately spotted Scarlett's unmistakable red hair. Scarlett was laughing at something Morton had said, her head thrown back in that carefree way I'd always envied. They hadn't noticed me yet, giving me a moment to observe them unguarded.Something about Scarlett looked different. She was still stunning, of course - impeccably styled in what was probably this season's latest designer outfit. But there was something else, something new. A softness around her edges, perhaps? A contentment I'd never associated with my perpetually restless best friend.Oh, I guessed I found the word. Scarlett was happily married.Morton leaned in, saying something that made her smile again. He looked every bit
**Mia's POV**Paris.The word lingered in my mind like the aftertaste of expensive wine. I watched Scarlett's animated face as she continued outlining her vision for our Paris trip, her hands moving while Morton looked on her."We could stay at Le Meurice," Scarlett was saying, scrolling through something on her phone. "Their suites have the most gorgeous views of Tuileries Garden."I pushed my half-eaten salad around the plate, considering the possibility with surprising seriousness. "I don't know, Scar. Paris is a long flight for someone who has to pee every twenty minutes," I said, but my tone lacked conviction.The truth was, the idea had taken root. I wasn't too far along yet—just starting my sixth month. Flying was still safe according to Dr. Matthews, and travel would become increasingly uncomfortable as the twins grew. If I was ever going to see this architecture firm, now might be the perfect window."First class has bathrooms," Scarlett countered immediately. "And we can re
Mia's POVI rubbed absently at my lower back where one of the twins was pressing uncomfortably. I had to talk to Nate about it. The thought came unbidden, surprising me with its immediacy. Not just because he'd suggested the firm originally, but because... well, because I wanted his opinion. Because something about our last conversation still felt unfinished.Gas came bounding to the door when I arrived home, his entire body wiggling with excitement as if I'd been gone for days instead of hours. I crouched awkwardly to scratch behind his ears, my center of gravity shifting daily as the twins grew."Hey buddy," I murmured as he pressed his head against my hand. "Miss me?"Mom appeared in the hallway, looking refreshed after her afternoon rest."How was lunch?" she asked, moving to help me with my coat. "Scarlett still trying to set you up with her brother?"I laughed. "Now you know too, Mom? Scarlett is really crazy!""Please. That girl's been playing matchmaker since you were both in
Mia's POVThe next morning brought sunshine streaming through my curtains and the insistent buzz of my phone. I reached for it blindly, still half-asleep, and squinted at the screen. Five missed calls from my lawyer, three texts from Scarlett (already sharing links to Paris apartments "just in case you fall in love with the city!"), and one unexpected message from Kyle.*Morning. Hope you're feeling well. The trust paperwork is ready when you are.*My fingers hovered over the screen. The trust paperwork. Of course. Despite everything, Kyle was still ensuring the twins would be financially secure. It was the responsible thing to do, the practical thing. I told him I would raise my child by myself, but he obviously doesn't care what I think. Fine.I set the phone aside without replying.Gas stretched beside the bed, his morning routine of downward dog followed by an enthusiastic full-body shake that always made me smile."Morning, buddy," I said, swinging my legs over the edge of the bed
Mia's POVNate's response was simple and polite.*Bernard Leblanc is still there, and would definitely meet with you. When are you going? I can set something up.*The knot of anxiety in my chest loosened slightly. *Around the 15th, for two weeks. Still finalizing details. Would really appreciate the introduction.*Three dots appeared, disappeared, then reappeared.*Absolutely. I'll email him today. How are you feeling these days? *We all silently agreed not to mention what happened last time.*I am okay. How are your dogs?**Missing their friend Gas. Marie keeps checking his usual spots when we go to the park.*So did Gas. I smiled.*He misses them too. Actually, I was wondering if you might be able to help with something else. If I go to Paris, I'll need someone to check on Gas during the day. Mom will be with him at night, but she's still not up for walks. Would you be interested? He loves your dogs, and they already have a routine.*The three dots appeared almost immediately.*Of
Mia's POVThe next day, Dr. Matthews officially cleared me for travel, with the usual cautions about staying hydrated and taking frequent breaks. And Scarlett, of course, sent daily updates about itinerary adjustments and accommodation options each more luxurious than the last. And Kyle continued to text about the trust paperwork. For some reason, I gave him a perfunctory reply. And I delayed the meeting we had previously agreed upon. Kyle always makes me unhappy. I hate that he has this power over me. So I tried to save myself by not seeing him.Then Wednesday arrived.The West End Cafe was quiet at three o'clock, the lunch crowd long gone and the after-work rush not yet begun. I spotted Nate immediately at a corner table, already waiting despite my being five minutes early. "Mia," he smiled, pulling out a chair for me. "You look well.""Thanks," I settled into the seat, grateful to be off my feet. "Though 'well' is a relative term these days. Pretty sure I've officially entered th
Mia's POV"One last check of the discharge papers, Mrs. Branson, and you'll be all set to go home," Dr. Matthews said, her practiced smile not quite hiding the concern in her eyes. "Remember, the twins still need frequent monitoring. The home health nurse will visit daily for the first week, then we'll reassess."I nodded, scanning the stack of papers before me—medical instructions, follow-up appointments, warning signs to watch for, emergency contacts. So many details to remember, so many things that could go wrong."Are you sure they're ready?" I asked for what must have been the fifth time that morning. Though Alexander and Ethan had made remarkable progress in the six weeks since their birth, they still seemed so small, so fragile."They've met all our criteria for discharge—consistent weight gain, stable temperature, successful feeding, no apnea episodes for over a week. They're ready, Mia. And so are you."I glanced over at my sons, nestled in their identical car seats. Alexande
Mia's POVI sat in the rocking chair, holding Alexander against my chest. He was doing remarkably well as already gaining weight and breathing with minimal assistance. His tiny fingers had wrapped around my pinky with surprising strength, and I couldn't help the smile that spread across my face."Look at you, little fighter," I whispered, gently stroking his cheek with my finger. "So strong already."Nurse Maria approached with Ethan, carefully transferring him from his isolette to my other arm. Though still smaller than his brother, Ethan had made significant progress. The doctors had reduced his ventilator settings yesterday, a positive sign his lungs were developing well."There we go," Maria said softly. "Mama's got both her boys now."It's a magical feeling. Both my sons nestled against me, their synchronized breathing creating a rhythm that seemed to match my heartbeat. Alexander squirmed slightly, his mouth making little movements that the nurses said were early attempts at suc
Mia's POVA week had passed since the twins were born, and my body was slowly healing. Today had been a good day. I'd spent the morning in the NICU with Alexander and Ethan. Both boys were showing improvement—Alexander had been taken off the ventilator yesterday, now breathing with just a little oxygen support. Ethan was still on the ventilator, but the doctors said his lungs were getting stronger every day. I'd been able to hold Alexander for the first time, his tiny body nestled against my chest during our first skin-to-skin contact. The feelings that washed over me were indescribable.Kyle's absence lingered. He hadn't called. I'd tried reaching him twice more, but each time I only got his private nurse, who assured me he was "resting" or "in physical therapy.""It's okay," I said, more to myself than to my mother. "He's recovering too."I was so lost in these thoughts that I almost didn't hear the knock at my door."Come in," I called, expecting Mom or Scarlett with the afternoon
Mia's POVI was finally strong enough to be wheeled to the NICU. The actual sight of my sons—not through a screen—overwhelmed me completely. They were impossibly small. Baby A seemed more active, his little fists waving. Baby B was quieter, more still."Can I touch them?" I asked the nurse."Yes, through the ports. But hygiene is crucial."I reached through the isolette opening for Baby A. His skin was warm, softer than anything I'd ever felt. When I touched his palm, his fingers curled around mine."Hi, baby," I whispered. "I'm your mama."The tears came then, pouring out."Careful," the nurse reminded gently. "We can't let any fluids inside the isolette. Premature babies have extremely compromised immune systems."I nodded, wiping my face with my other hand before reaching for Baby B. He was equally tiny, equally perfect."Have you thought about names?" the nurse asked."Not
Mia's POV"Mia?" The voice was far away. Familiar but distorted.I tried to respond, but my throat was sandpaper. Where was I? What happened?"Mia, sweetie. Can you hear me?" Closer now. Mom's voice. But different. Strained.Slowly, I forced my eyes open. The fluorescent lights above were too bright. I blinked rapidly, tears forming as my vision adjusted."Oh, thank God." That was Scarlett. "She's awake."The room came into focus gradually. Hospital room. Machines everywhere. Tubes running from my arms. A catheter. The smell of antiseptic was overwhelming."What..." My voice came out as a rasp. "What happened?""Shhh." Mom's cool hand on my forehead. "Don't try to talk yet.""Kyle," I managed to croak. "Where's Kyle?"Mom and Scarlett exchanged a glance."Mia, honey, you need to stay calm," Mom said."My babies." Panic rose in my chest. "The twins. Where are they?""They're fine," Scarlett said quickly. "Both of them. Healthy and perfect.""How long have I been...""Three days," Mom s
Kyle's POVPain. My eyelids felt like lead weights, but I forced them open anyway.Hospital room. Stark white. The antiseptic smell burned my nostrils. A heart monitor beeped steadily beside my bed, its rhythm matching the throbbing in my chest. I tried to move, but tubes and wires restrained me. My throat was sandpaper dry when I swallowed."Mr. Branson?" A voice. Female. Sharp. "Sir, can you hear me?""Mia," I croaked. God, my voice sounded like gravel. "Where is she? Is she—""Please don't try to sit up, sir." The nurse—young, efficient-looking—pressed her hand gently on my shoulder. "You've had major surgery.""Answer me.""I'll get the doctor immediately."A doctor bustled in. Older man, silver at his temples. Professional mask in place. "Mr. Branson, I'm Dr. Harrison. You've been through extensive surgery. The bullet—""I don't care about the bullet. I want to know what happen to my wife"Dr. Harrison exchanged a look with the nurses. My stomach dropped. No."Your wife..." He pa
Mia's POVPain unlike anything I'd ever known tore through my body, a white-hot blade slicing from my spine to my abdomen. The contractions were relentless now, coming one after another without respite, each one stronger than the last. I could feel myself slipping, the edges of my consciousness growing dim."Her blood pressure is dropping again—80/40," a nurse called out, her voice tight with tension. "Heart rate 135.""She's hemorrhaging," Dr. Levine's voice cut through the haze. "Looks like a partial placental abruption. We need to get these babies out now."A mask was placed over my face, the rush of oxygen cool against my skin. The room swam before my eyes, faces blurring into indistinct shapes as blood loss pulled me closer to unconsciousness."Type and cross for four units of packed cells, two units of fresh frozen plasma, and one unit of platelets," Dr. Levine ordered. "And get me an OR. We're doing an emergency C-section."My body felt foreign to me now—heavy and light simulta
Kyle's POVPain. Unimaginable pain.My consciousness came in waves, each one bringing a fresh torrent of agony. The bullet had torn through me like fire, leaving devastation in its wake. I could hear voices around me, urgent and clinical, but they seemed to be coming from underwater, distorted and distant."BP dropping again!""More blood, now!""We're losing him!"I felt myself slipping. The pain began to recede, replaced by a strange weightlessness that should have alarmed me but instead felt oddly peaceful. Was this what dying felt like?The operating room faded around me. The harsh lights, the metallic clink of instruments, the desperate commands of the surgical team. All of it dissolved into a soft darkness.And then, unexpectedly, light.I was small again. Six years old, terrified, huddled in the corner of a damp warehouse. The ropes had cut into my wrists, leaving them raw and bleeding. I could still feel the ache of hunger, the desperate thirst that had made my tongue stick to
Mia's POV"KYLE!" My scream echoed through the hospital corridor as they wheeled him away, his blood leaving a horrifying trail on the white floor. The medical team moved with terrifying urgency, their faces grim."BP critical at 70/30!" "He's tachycardic, pulse 140!" "Blood loss approximately two liters!" "Move, people! We're losing him!"I lunged forward, desperate to reach him, my hands outstretched toward his motionless form. His face had turned an ashen gray, lips tinged blue, eyelids still. So still. Not like Kyle at all."Ma'am, STOP!" A nurse blocked my path as they rushed Kyle through swinging doors marked AUTHORIZED PERSONNEL ONLY. "You can't go in there.""He's dying!" I sobbed, my voice breaking. "He took that bullet for me!""If you want him to live, you need to let the surgical team work," she said firmly, gripping my shoulders. "And you—" her eyes dropped to my blood-spattered belly, "—need immedia