With Geo on her heels, Carolina walked into her mother’s hospital room. Mrs. Hilden was sitting upright in the bed. Her head turned to the door when she heard it open. She smiled when she saw her daughter.  Carolina half walked, half ran to her mother’s bedside. She hugged her tight and her mother felt Carolina’s love. “Oh, my dear. I’m so sorry I scared you.” “It’s alright. You’re better now.” Mrs.Hilden noticed Geo standing behind Carolina. “Geo, thank you so much for helping Carolina.” “Mrs. Hilden. No worries.” “Will you excuse me and my daughter?” “Of course.” He touched C

Once inside, he rested his hand possessive over her thigh. She was going to protest, but she didn't. Her nerves were bad, and his touch, however foreign, still calmed her nerves. “Are you nervous?” He asked, already knowing the question.  She looked beautiful, but she was extremely nervous “Yes. I've never met anyone’s parents before” “Ever?” “Ever.” “Wow” “Don't be so surprised.” “I can’t help it. I know if you had been mine, my parents would have met you right away.” She found herself warming to that statement. 

After everyone had their fill of dinner, they all dispersed to their respective spaces in the manor.  Silk chose to stand outside on the terrace overlooking the lush garden. The lights were on, and it made it look surreal.  Carolina had walked out on the terrace to get some fresh air. She noticed Silk there. She seemed like she was in deep thought, and Carolina did not want to disturb her.  “I’m so sorry. I thought no one was around… I will leave-” “No! Please. Don’t leave. Stay! I was just standing here, alone.” “Why?” “To give those two men their space, of course.” She smiled at her. “I love Aunt Cora, but Aunt Cora or any of Eddy's family doesn't care for m

3 weeks later   Time had flown by. Carolina and Geo fell into a comfortable routine. Geo would wake her up at five in the morning by making sweet love to her. That had become the best part of her mornings. Then, the two would shower together, or at least try to. They couldn't’ keep their hands off of one another.  After their shower, Carolina would sit on the corner of the bed wearing a robe, or sometimes nothing at all and watch as he got dressed for the day, in his expensive suit. He would kiss her thoroughly until she felt herself wanting him one more time before he left. He would depart before they could start round two. It was perfect. Carolina felt like she was on top of the world. They knew one another intimately now, not just in bed but out of it as well. 

Carolina had been studying for an exam when her phone rang. She was able to glance at the clock on her phone. It was 2 P.M. She had been studying since ten A.M. and needed to take a break. It had all started to run together. She got up from the sitting position in front of the unlit fireplace in the living room and went into the kitchen to get a glass of water. A soon as she filled up her cup, there was a knock on the door.  She walked over to the door and opened it.  Her breath was taken away. It was her mother.  She looked so much better than what she had seen her look like in the last year. Her hair had grown back thicker and darker. Her complexion was no longer pale and waxy, but golden and glowing. She looked healthy. Mrs. Hilden smiled at Carolina.