Xavier’s brow furrowed in confusion. “What do you mean?”
I pointed to the photo. “The blue eyes, the resemblance to Elizabeth… and her behavior at the door. She seemed nervous, like she was checking to see if you were home.”
“Wait, wait, Sarah, hold on.” He interrupted me, still confused as he rushed over to my side. “At the door? What do you mean, who came to the door?”
Oh. I really didn’t mention that.
I mentally facepalmed myself and took a deep breath. “A woman stopped by earlier,” I said, and went on to explain her every behavior, all the while Xavier’s expression transformed from confusion to surprise. “She came? I think this is my only chance to find her.”
I nodded. “She came to see you, but when she saw me, she seemed disappointed and used a fake story about a blind date.”
Xavier pulled out his phone. “I’ll call Keith. We need to track her down.”
As Xavier dialed Keith’s number, the kids’ arguing continued in the background, oblivious to the bombshell that had just dropped. If they heard their mother stopped by, well… chaos would erupt. The girls’ bickering would instantly cease, replaced by a flurry of questions and excitement. We needed to keep this quiet for now.
Xavier’s eyes met mine, sharing the same concern. He mouthed, “Keep them occupied,” as he stepped away to speak with Keith.
I nodded, but a thought struck me. I quickly grabbed Xavier’s hand, stopping him. “Xavier, what if she comes back tomorrow.” I asked, concern creeping in.
His expression turned grim. “She might not, that’s why I have to find her first,” he replied and strode to a corner.
I turned my attention to the girls and clapped, calling their attention. “Okay, okay, let’s settle this math drama once and for all. Hayden, apologize and make a pinky swear you won’t do that again… ever.”
Hayden hesitated, twisting her lips. “Fine.” She forced the word out of her mouth and turned to Harper. “Sorry.”
“Then hand me your homework; let me see why you did that,” I said, and she handed her note over to me. I scanned it, pretending to focus on the math problems.
Meanwhile, Xavier’s hushed conversation with Keith grew more intense. His eyes locked onto mine, and I knew he was sharing the news.
A few minutes later, he returned, his eyes filled with relief, and I could guess there was a breakthrough.
“Keith thinks he’s found a pattern in Nicole’s movements. A possible lead.”
My hands instinctively grasped Xavier’s arm, holding tight. “What kind of lead?”
Xavier’s voice was filled with renewed purpose. “A hospital in Los Angeles. Keith believes Nicole has been admitted under an alias. Keith’s contact confirmed a Jane Clinton matching Nicole’s description, with similar physical characteristics.”
My eyes narrowed upon hearing the fake name Nicole used for her cover. “Jane Clinton…” I said, my expression thoughtful. “Clinton? that’s your last name.”
Xavier’s eyes locked onto mine, his expression mirroring my surprise. “Yes, it is. Which means Nicole might be trying to send me a message, or… she’s in deeper than we thought.”
“Using your last name?” I said, skeptical. “That’s either desperation or a cry for your attention.”
Because that could be the possible reason I could think of. “So what’s the plan?” I asked, my voice laced with intrigue.
Xavier’s jaw clenched. “I’ll leave for LA tonight to find out if Keith’s lead is genuine.”
Tonight. The word hung in the air, filled with uncertainty. But the sooner we find her, the sooner we will be at peace because we needed answers from her.
—
NICOLE’S POV
As I walked away from the duplex, the warm sun on my skin provided little comfort. My chest tightened, and I couldn’t shake off the fatigue creeping in. I slowed my pace and leaned against a wall nearby, taking deep breaths to calm my racing heart.
“Damn it. Not now,” I breathed out, my vision slightly blurring.
I couldn’t afford to get weak. Not when I was so close.
I remained leaned against the wall, collecting my thoughts. Xavier’s face flashed in my mind; I really wanted to see him one last time before I faced my Maker. As for the kids, I think I will never be able to face them before I go, or else I might shatter into a thousand pieces. Looking into their eyes would unravel the fragile threads of my resolve. I couldn’t bear to see the innocence and love in their gaze, knowing I’d soon leave them behind. Elizabeth’s bright smile, Harper’s mischievous grin, and Hayden’s gentle nature and sly smile-every memory would crack my heart wider.
Had I made a mistake coming here?
No. I had to know.
Know if Xavier still cared for me and also say my last goodbye, but it seems I will never get that chance.
My vision completely blurred for a moment, and I forced myself to focus. Just a few hours’ ride back to Los Angeles to face my fate.
With newfound resolve, I pushed off from the wall and continued walking. Los Angeles beckoned, and I had to get back before the nurses discovered my brief escape.
******
I stepped into the hospital room, exhausted from the long bus ride. The sterile environment greeted me, a harsh reminder of my reality. I settled into bed as the familiar soft beeps of machines and the antiseptic scent enveloped me.
I hated this room, but I had no other choice but to be here.
I sighed and slumped my back against the headrest, but as I lay there, Xavier’s face lingered in my mind. One last time, I wanted to see his eyes, soft with compassion and understanding. To know he’d take care of our girls, that they’d grow up loved and cherished. And I also wanted to tell him how sorry I am for abandoning him. If I had known I’d end up like this, I wouldn’t have left him.
Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes, but I held them back. I had to be strong, for myself and for Xavier… Who am I kidding anyway? He had probably moved on, and after reading my letter, I doubt he even tried finding me. Or maybe he might. Urgh, my thoughts are so messed up.
Suddenly, the door creaked open, jolting me out of my thoughts, and a nurse entered with medication.
“Ms. Clinton, where have you been? You shouldn’t be leaving without clearance,” she frowned, placing the tray on the table.
“Just needed some fresh air,” I forced a weak smile.
The nurse’s eyes narrowed. “You know the rules. Your condition-”
“I know,” I interrupted, saving her from lecturing me. “I’ll be more careful.”
She checked my IV line and monitored the machines surrounding me. “Your vital signs are unstable. What were you thinking, leaving the hospital without permission?”
I sighed, avoiding eye contact. “I said I needed some fresh air.”
The nurse’s expression softened slightly, but her tone remained firm. “I understand, but your health is our priority. You can’t just leave without telling anyone.”
I nodded, feeling a twinge of guilt. “It won’t happen again.”
As she administered the medication, I noticed a subtle change in her demeanor. Her eyes flickered to the chart, then back to me, with a hint of curiosity.
“Ms. Clinton, may I ask… do you have any family or friends who should be notified about your condition?”
My heart skipped a beat. Had Xavier found me already?
“No,” I replied quickly, trying to sound convincing, but I felt I was failing in the act.
The nurse’s gaze scanned my face, her eyes searching for any sign of deception. After a moment, she nodded and made a note on my chart.
“Alright, Ms. Clinton. Just rest now. The doctor will check on you soon. But first, let me check your vital signs again.”
As she checked my vitals, I gazed out the window, my thoughts drifting to Xavier and the kids again. Did they suspect anything? I would prefer the kids forget me totally because I would die soon anyway; it would be easier for them to move on with their lives. But Xavier… I’d love to see him and explain my condition. My mind would only be at ease when I finally see him again.
“Your temperature’s up. We’ll need to adjust your medication.” The nurse’s voice broke my reverie, and I nodded, numbness spreading through me.
I just have to accept the inevitable. I wish it wouldn’t be delayed. Death will come find me, and I’ll leave with a gnawing feeling of regret.