Alethea
I know I said I never wanted to see Asher again, not even in my dreams, but as I look into the eyes of my son, I realize something I can’t escape-a mini Asher is staring right back at me.
“Mummy,” his small voice calls out, soft and filled with concern.
I stretch my arms, pulling him into my embrace. The moment his tiny body nestles against mine, the ache in my chest eases just a little.
“Mummy, you’re crying,” he says, his words more of a statement than a question, but I can see the worry in his innocent eyes.
I force a smile, brushing a stray tear from my cheek. “I’m fine now that I’ve seen your handsome face.” I’m being sincere, despite everything, this boy has me wrapped around his little finger.
“That’s so cheesy,” he says with a mischievous grin, pinching my cheek.
His words catch me off guard, and I burst out laughing-a real, genuine laugh I haven’t felt in what seems like ages. Hearing him say that feels like a light breaking through the dark cloud over me.
“You’re growing up so fast,” stroking his soft hair. “You even know how to call your mum cheesy now?”
He giggles, and I kiss his forehead. For a moment, all the pain fades away. Right now, it’s just me and my little boy. And I know that I’ll never let anyone take him from me.
I know the day will come when Declan asks me who his father is. The thought is in my mind, but I push it aside. When the time is right, I’ll have the answer that I know protects him and spares his innocence.
“Mum, dinner is ready. I want you to feed me,” he says with a pout, his eyes sparkling with mischief.
“Feed a big boy like you?” I tease, bringing my hand to his chubby cheeks and giving them a playful pinch.
He grins, his laughter filling the room. My heart tightens at the sight. The way his face lights up, the slight twitch in his smile-it’s just like Asher’s.
Will I ever be able to forget and move on from Asher? The thought is painful, but I remind myself of my strength. I’ve grown past the timid, unsure girl I used to be. I am stronger now, and I’ll heal. I have to.
Still, I’m not ready to face Selena. But I can’t say no to my charming little prince.
“Wait here, my love,” heading into the bathroom.
I splash cold water on my face, against my puffy, tear-streaked skin. As I glance at my reflection, I see the red, swollen eyes of someone who has cried far too much. I take a deep breath, dabbing my face with a towel.
When I return to my room, Declan is waiting patiently, his small hands clasped in front of him.
“Okay, let’s go,” reaching for his hand. His little fingers wrap around mine, and together, we walk out the door.
I stop in my tracks when I see Amelia sitting at the dining table, waiting for me.
Selena is there too, but her eyes can’t seem to meet mine. I swallow hard, feeling the weight of everything between us, and slowly make my way to my seat.
Amelia glances up at me, her face softening into a gentle smile. She reaches for my hand and squeezes it lightly.
Though she says nothing, her presence speaks volumes.
Without much more to say, I notice I’m hungry. I hadn’t eaten last night, distracted by the thoughts of a dinner date with Xavier, which never happened.
The idea of him feels distant now. His growl echoes in my mind, and I realize the attraction I once felt for him has evaporated in an instant.
Xavier hasn’t called to check on me. Maybe he doesn’t care, and honestly, I don’t think I care anymore either. I’ve been betrayed by so many people, and now it feels like I’m just going through the motions.
We all eat in comfortable silence. I’m grateful no one tries to fill the space with unnecessary words, allowing me the peace I desperately need right now. It’s just the quiet sound of utensils against plates.
I glance at Selena, seated across from me. She’s barely touched her food, and I can sense the hesitation in her. She’s waiting for me to say something, but I’m not ready.
I focus back on my plate, pushing the food around as the silence stretches on.
Amelia, sensing the tension, leans back in her chair, her hand still resting gently on mine. And it brings me some comfort. It’s strange how someone who has only been in my life for a short time can feel like a constant while others who have been here longer seem like strangers.
Finally, Selena breaks the silence. “Ally…” Her voice is soft and hesitant as if she’s unsure of how to proceed. My heart tightens, and I brace myself.
But she doesn’t speak again. She just looks at me, her eyes full of regret and concern. I can’t look at her for too long. I know I need answers, but part of me isn’t ready to hear them.
I push my chair back and stand up abruptly, needing space. “I’m going to rest,” I mutter, not waiting for a response. I know they both understand.
I return to my room, hoping to be left alone. But Amelia isn’t having any of it. She’s right here, sitting on my bed, casually filing her nails as if it’s the most interesting thing in the world.
“You know you’ll have to face her and ask her everything,” Amelia says, with a calm voice. She doesn’t even look up from her nails.
I roll my eyes, knowing exactly who she means-Selena.
“I’m not happy with the fact that she hid the truth from you,” Amelia continues, “but you need to hear her side of the story. She says she was trying to protect you.”
I bite my lip, uncertain. Amelia pauses for a moment before continuing. “If I’m not wrong, she said that ever since you were born, you’ve had enemies who didn’t want you to live. Don’t you think you should ask her about it?”
I know Amelia is right. I need answers. I need closure, no matter how hard it might be.
“I don’t want to lose you, Ally,” Amelia’s voice is tight with emotion. “It will break me. You’re like the sister I never had. It will hurt even more if you don’t try to get closure from Selena, after everything you’ve been through.”
I sit in silence for a while, thinking deeply. Amelia is right. I can’t keep running from this. I need to face Selena, no matter how difficult it might be.
“Thank you, Amy,” I say quietly, my voice thick with emotion.
“Tell me why I’m friends with you?” she says, grinning at me, and we both laugh at the same time. It’s become our little joke, our slogan of sorts, and it makes me smile.
She pulls me into a hug, and for a moment, I just let myself lean into her. I know she cares, and I’m so grateful for her.
“I’m glad I have you,” I whisper, squeezing her tightly.
So I slowly rise from the bed, turning back to Amelia; she gives me an encouraging nod; with that, I take a deep breath and step out of my room.
I make my way toward Selena’s study. Just as I reach the door, I hear her voice rising from inside, sharp and angry. It sounds like she’s on a phone call, and even though I can’t make out all the words, the tone is unmistakable. What catches my attention, though, is the mention of my name-‘ Ally.’
My heart hammers in my chest, the sudden rush of panic making my breath catch. I freeze for a moment, unsure whether I should stay or leave. Her tone, the intensity in her voice, sends a cold shiver down my spine. What is she saying about me? What’s going on?
I stand there, my hand hovering over the door handle, every nerve on edge.