Alice’s POV.
I quickly dressed and made my way downstairs to start breakfast.
“Morning, sweetie,” my mother greeted me as I entered the kitchen.
“Good morning, Mom,” I replied, giving her a quick hug. “How’s Dad?”
“He’s still sleeping. His temperature is still pretty high, but I think having you here helps,” she said.
I nodded and joined her in preparing breakfast. We made pancakes, and eggs, just like Dad loved. As I cooked, I couldn’t help but think about Liam and how he was doing back home.
I know that after I tried calling him several times last night, and after he ignored them, he sent a message, which was actually meant to suit my worries but I can’t just help this gnawing feeling in my stomach, as it refused to go away.
As soon as breakfast was ready, I dished some into a plate and took a tray up to my Dad’s room. He was awake, looking a bit better but still weak.
“Good morning, Dad,” I greeted, setting the tray down.
“Morning, Alice,” he replied, his voice raspy. “You didn’t have to do this, you know.”
“I wanted to,” I said, helping him sit up and arranging the pillows behind him. “I missed doing things for you.”
As he started eating, I sat down beside him. “So, how’s everything going at home?” he asked, a concerned look in his eyes.
“It’s okay,” I said, trying to sound convincing. “Elizabeth’s been helping out a lot.”
” So, you were able to get through to Liam yesterday?,” He asked, wrapping a pancake around some eggs. I froze, he knew that..
” No dad.. But he sent a message ,” I quickly added. ” And you believe his message?,” He chewed on the pancake and egg.
” Why won’t I dad?. Liam has changed, he isn’t as cold as before, infact he treats me life a princess now,” I blushed hard at the mention of ‘Princess’.
” I noticed that already Alice. I’m not talking about him,” He said and immediately I got the hint of where he was heading.
” What if Elizabeth sent that message,” He drank from his cup of tea. A smile curved up on my lips.
” I’m sure Liam did, there’s no way Elizabeth won’t be able to set her hand on Liam’s phone,” I reassured.
Dad let out a deep sigh. “I don’t trust her, Alice. She’s trouble.”
“Dad, she’s changed. She’s been really helpful,” I insisted.
He shook his head. “People like Elizabeth don’t change. Be careful.”
I sighed, not wanting to argue. “Just give her a chance, Dad. She really wants to make things right.”
He didn’t respond, but instead, he focused on his breakfast. I decided to drop the subject and just be there for him.
_____
After breakfast, I spent the morning cleaning and organizing the house with Mom. It felt good to help out and keep my mind occupied. We dusted, vacuumed, and rearranged furniture, all while chatting about everything and anything.
” It’s so good to have you home,” Mom said as we took a break in the living room. “I’ve missed our talks.”
“Me too, Mom,” I replied, smiling. “How’s everything with you and Dad?”
She sighed. “It’s been hard, but we’re managing. He’s been so stubborn about his health.”
“Sounds like Dad,” I said with a laugh. “You know, Liam’s been really busy with work. Sometimes I worry he’s taking on too much.”
“That’s what men do,” Mom said, shaking her head. “They think they have to carry the world on their shoulders.”
We shared a laugh, and it felt good to have this moment of normalcy. Just then, Mom’s phone rang.
“It’s Janet,” she said, answering the call. “Hi, Janet! Yes, Alice is here. You’re coming over?.”
As she chatted with her friend, my thoughts wandered to Elizabeth and Liam again. I slowly pulled out my phone and tried calling him again, but there was still no answer. Is he ignoring me?.
Elizabeth’s POV
I had been putting my plan into action all day, every opportunity I found to be alone with Liam, was a goal for me.
Right now I’m wearing my most revealing clothes, and immediately made my way toward his room. I’m going to make his eyes glued to my body that would start craving me.
After last night, he has been very cold toward me and easily irritated by my sight but I know he’s pretending. He is trying to keep his composure, but I could see it was getting harder. My actions were getting to him.
I twisted the hinges of his door and made my way in. “Liam, do you need anything?” I asked, leaning over his desk.
“No, Elizabeth,” he replied curtly, not looking up from his work.
I pouted. “You’re always so serious. You should relax a bit.”
He clenched his jaw. “I’m fine, thank you.”
I smiled to myself, enjoying the effect I was having on him. I knew it was only a matter of time before he gave in.
” I made lunch, you want some?” I suggested. I subtly leaned closer, letting my dress slip slightly to reveal more skin, my thighs were in full display. I could see the conflict in his eyes as he tried to maintain control.
He shut his eyes close and then angrily banged his hand on the desk, I flinched immediately. ” Get out!,” He yelled.
I composed myself quickly. ” I’m sorry if I got you angry, Liam,” I whispered, ” The thing is, I’ve always admired how strong and determined you are.” I trailed my fingers down his body seductively.
He downed the document he held on the table and stood up abruptly. “Enough, Elizabeth. I’ve had enough of you.”
I looked up at him innocently, my eyes meeting his. “But Liam, don’t you feel anything for me?”
He shook his head, clearly frustrated. “No, Elizabeth, I’m married. And I would never think of you in such a manner, you understand?.”
But as he turned to walk away, I acted quickly. “Liam, wait,” I said, stepping in front of him and pressing my body against his. “Just one kiss.”
Before he could react, I kissed him. For a moment, he didn’t respond, but then he pushed me away roughly. “Elizabeth, Get out!”. He ordered.
I swallowed hard. ” I shouldn’t have done that, I don’t know what has gotten over me. I’m sorry,” I bit my lips hard and ran out of his room, slamming the door shut behind me.
I stopped right at my room’s door, I saw the look in his eyes. I’m getting to him.
Alice’s POV
“Mom, I’m really worried about Liam,” I said, pacing the kitchen. “He hasn’t answered any of my calls.”
“Maybe he’s just busy,” she suggested, trying to calm me down. “You know how work can get.”
“I know, but I can’t shake this feeling that something’s wrong,” I said, wringing my hands.
“Trust your instincts, Alice,” Mom said. “If you feel something’s off, maybe you should go back home.”
” You really think I should mom?,” I asked. ” Do whatever your heart tells you, listen to your heart, it won’t lie to you,” She smiled.
” i..,” The words caught up on my throat, I stood there, deliberating. “I’m going home.” I decided.
____
I checked up on dad and he was doing much more better. I packed my things and said goodbyes to my parents.
“Take care, Alice,” Dad said, holding my hand. “Be careful.”
“I will, Dad,” I said, hugging him tightly. “I love you.”
“I love you too, sweetheart,” he replied, his voice choked with emotion. He was starting to make me feel guilty for leaving.
_______
I pulled into the driveway, my heart was racing. I took a deep breath and opened the front door. The house was quiet, but I could hear faint noises coming from upstairs. Bracing myself for what I might find, I slowly made my way up the stairs.
As I reached the top, I noticed the noise coming from Liam’s room. I made my way there, and as I drew closer, the noises grew louder.
I hesitated for a moment before pushing open his door open. But he wasn’t there, and surprisingly everywhere was dead silent now.
The beating of my heart quickened. I noticed the bathroom door being slightly opened and slowly dragged my feet there.
What I saw made my blood run cold.