ã€ŠDiary of Fragile Heart (Spin of Loving You Too Long)ã€‹


 Chap 1

    Dear Diary,

    I don¡¯t know how long I can endure all of this¡­

    All the feelings that shouldn¡¯t have been there from the beginning¡­

    Yet, I always force them to exist¡­

    I know that everything happens for a reason¡­

    But I don¡¯t have a reason to love him¡­

    I just feel it¡¯s right, and he is the right person for me to love¡­N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

    Dear Diary,

    No one knows the depths of the heart¡­

    Like me, who can¡¯t guess what¡¯s in his heart, how he feels about me¡­

    But one thing I know¡­

    In my eyes, there is only him¡­

    In my heart, his name is written¡­

    Even in every prayer I utter, I always hope he bes my man¡­

    Yet You has spoken, that what I like may not be good for me, and what I don¡¯t like might be right for me¡­

    So now I decide to surrender¡­

    Because reaching him seems impossible¡­

    So I let my heart find sce elsewhere¡­

    Because I can¡¯t wait anymore.

    Because I¡¯m not that patient¡­

    I will find happiness above his happiness¡­ always¡­ forever¡­

    Let this feeling be stored in my heart, not to be forgotten, but just a reminder that at some point,

    I loved him deeply¡­

    And let the other side of my heart be open to receive the love that You have chosen for me¡­

    ***

    via looked at the mirror in front of her. The eye bags looked very dark, indicating that she wasn¡¯t getting enough rest.

    She¡¯s tired, that¡¯s a fact. All day-and even for the past few days-she has been busy going back and forth between the house, the caf¨¦ and the police station toplete the report on the fire that broke out at her caf¨¦.

    And that¡¯s not all. Last night, via stayed upte to calcte the amount of losses she suffered. Also, she calcted thepensation she had to pay to the owner of the building next to her caf¨¦ and also the hospital costs for several employees and customers who fortunately only received minor injuries, not causing fatalities.

    via wanted to wail, but she quickly recovered her thoughts. ¡®Remember, Via. There is always a blessing in every disaster.¡¯ she muttered to herself.

    Her thoughts were interrupted when she heard a knock on her bedroom door. ¡°Enter.¡± She said in a higher tone without taking her attention from the mirror. The door opened, and the figure of a beautiful woman twelve years older than her appeared and stepped closer with a ss of cold juice in her hand.

    ¡°Tired?¡± The woman asked as she put the juice on the dressing table. via looked into the beautiful woman¡¯s eyes in the mirror and nodded her head.

    The woman¡¯s hand reached out and stroked via¡¯s jet-ck hair and smiled reassuringly, making via close her eyes and feel thefort that the woman gave her.

    ¡°Everything will be fine.¡± The woman said again in a calming tone as she hugged via¡¯s shoulder gently. via couldn¡¯t help but bring her head closer to the woman¡¯s stomach and hugged her waist tightly. Without her wanting it, the tears she had been holding back for the past few days just fell.

    No words offort. Just a stroke that gently stroked via¡¯s head, shoulders and back.

    via is not a crybaby. She is a girl who has been used to keeping everything to herself since she was young. But ever since she got to know the woman she was now hugging-a woman who was none other than her stepmother-via felt she had someone toin to andin about.

    She is Mrs. ire Hampton Quirino, her stepmother, her father¡¯s second wife, who is also the aunt of via¡¯s best friend, Abigail Hampton. The woman she chose to be her new mother. The woman she believed not only loved his father but also her.

    Need to know how much time has passed. via finished crying in her mother¡¯s arms until she felt relieved.

    ¡°Take a shower, then we¡¯ll have dinner together. Your daddy is already downstairs.¡± Mrs. Quirino said that via answered with a nod.

    Once again, Mrs. Quirino stroked via¡¯s hair and kissed the top of her head gently before finally leaving the room. via didn¡¯t take her eyes off her stepmother until the figure disappeared behind the door.

    After all the sorrow and loneliness she felt during the thirteen years of his life, she finally met a woman who filled the role of mother who not only loved his father but also loved her like her own biological child.

    via smiled. Her memories returned to the time when she and her best friend-Abigail-did many things-including silly things-to melt the woman¡¯s hard heart so that the woman could ept her widower father ¨C who also had a huge age difference ¨C as her husband, and herself as the woman¡¯s child.

    Now, ten years have passed. via is grateful that ire is her mother. She never felt what people said about her cruel stepmother. Even when her mother began to get pregnant with via¡¯s brother, people started gossiping again and said that via would be put aside and eventually forgotten, which never came true. In fact, she is happy to have ire as her stepmother, and she is sure she will feel that way forever.

    via patted her cheeks, took a deep breath and got up from her seat. Everyone certainly knows that she¡¯s not doing well right now, but that doesn¡¯t mean she has to drag on being sad, either.

    At least for the sake of the people she loves for her mental well-being, too, she must be strong.

    Fifteen minutester, via, who felt much fresher, came down to the dining room.

    Her first brother, Ignazio, who would soon be nine years old, walked from the living room to the dining room. At a rtively young age, he has a handsome and charming face. His gaze was always soft and calming. via is sure that when she grows up, there will be lots of women chasing him.

    Meanwhile, her second sister, Francisca. The little girl, who is now five years old, is having a hard time helping her mother and household assistant to move food from the kitchen to the table. Just like the charming Ignazio, at a very young age, Francisca also looks lovely with long brownish hair, white skin and a face that is a mix between her mother and father.

 Chap 2

    Abigail ced several photos of buildings right in front of via. ¡°Those are some of the locations suggested by my friends.¡± Said her friend, now her cousin, while sipping her cold juice. Currently, they are sitting rxed in one of the shops in the campus area. ¡°I prefer this location.¡± She pointed at a two-story shophouse that had just been renovated. ¡°Compared to other shophouses, the rental costs are indeed higher. But everything is appropriate because the building has just been renovated.¡± She said, exining.

    via examined the photos that Abigail gave her one by one before making a final decision. It¡¯s not that she doesn¡¯t believe in Abigail¡¯s choice, but this is a matter between them, so they must reach a final agreement together.

    Abigail and via have worked together to manage the cafe for thest five years. Even though they initially started the cafe with funds from their parents, their hard work gradually paid off. They became owners and managers of their cafe, which has expanded from one cafe to three cafes with different offerings.

    Korean, Japanese and Western. via and Abigail established three concepts in each cafe with contemporary models. Of course, their target market is young people who like to hang out and culinary lovers.

    One of their cafes that burned downst time was a Korean food cafe-one of their cafes with the highest level of visitors and guaranteed reciprocal ie.

    via took a deep breath. Her final choice is ultimately the same as Abigail¡¯s. Abigail¡¯s instincts regarding business so far have rarely failed, so this time, via will follow suit.

    ¡°When can we check the location?¡± via asked as she returned the photos to her friend.

    ¡°We can survey the field as soon as possible. I¡¯ll contact the owner first.¡± She said as she grabbed her cell phone and made a call while, at the same time, via felt her head throbbing wildly. She had not slept enough for the past few days, and his concentration was split between lectures and cafes. This caused his body condition to decline.

    Currently, via should have started working again at her father¡¯spany after submitting her resignation a year ago because she had to focus on writing her thesis. However, instead of returning to work, she focused more on taking care of her cafe andpleting her master¡¯s degree.

    People might think that via is chasing titles. But that¡¯s not the fact. What happened was that she wanted to finish college because via felt she was pressed for time and mainly because via was afraid she would be toozy to study.

    You know, when you feelfortable with your job and satisfied with your sry, some people don¡¯t even want to continue studying and prefer to work. Meanwhile, via thought she couldn¡¯t work, study and develop her cafe simultaneously. His tiny brain will not be able to carry all that burden. Moreover, after starting her career, her interests tended to be more in the culinary field than construction. She prefers flexible time rather than being stuck with office working hours. Even though her father often grumbled about it.

    Abigail had sat back down. ¡°We can go there this afternoon. Don¡¯t you have any other sses?¡± via shook her head. ¡°Are you okay?¡± she asked worriedly. ¡°Your face is pale.¡± Abigail touched via¡¯s forehead with the back of her hand. ¡°But you don¡¯t have a fever.¡±

    via brushed her friend¡¯s hand away with a smile. ¡°I¡¯m okay.¡± The answer was calming. ¡°Just ack of sleep.¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t I tell you that you shouldn¡¯t be too tired? Don¡¯t overthink about it. The loss that the cafe is experiencing won¡¯t make our cash run minus Via.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, I know. But it can¡¯t be helped. Every time I close my eyes, I imagine cafe problems.¡± She answered with an amused chuckle that made Abigail shake her head.

    ¡°Want to rest first in the apartment?¡± via¡¯s nod answered her offer. The apartment in question is the apartment belonging to Abigail¡¯s uncle, which Abigail now lives in because the owner is not there. And that ce is the second mostfortable ce after her parents¡¯ house.

    They left in Abigail¡¯s car. The throbbing in her head didn¡¯t subside; instead, it got worse every minute. via should have asked Abigail to stop her car at a pharmacy or minimarket to buy headache medicine. But before she said it, they had already arrived at the basement of Abigail¡¯s apartment.

    They walked in silence towards Abigail¡¯s apartment, which was on the fifteenth floor towards the apartment where Abigail had lived for the past two years. Four years earlier, the owner rented the apartment to someone else before Abigail finally used it. And since Abigail lived there, via also spent more time there. via is reluctant to admit it, but she likes spending time there to relieve her longing for the apartment owner who chose to continue hisparative medical study program in Germany.

    The owner of the apartment is dwin-the younger brother of Abigail¡¯s father and also the older twin of via¡¯s stepmother, ire.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin is a man who has always been via¡¯s idol. Even though until now no one has ever known, because she kept all those feelings tightly to herself.

    dwin Hampton. A handsome man with a cheerful smile who always brightens via¡¯s heart when she sees him, even though the man himself never knows.

    Hmmm¡­ dwin. How is her step-uncle?

    It had been five years since her uncle had left America, and for two years, they had not seen each other even though there was a big family event. Did he miss her? Because honestly, via herself missed him.

    She misses him even though she never says it.

    via wanted to close her eyes, hoping the figure she missed could stop by for a moment in her dreams and rece the nightmare that had been haunting him for the past two weeks.

 Chap 3

    Abigail pressed the password for her apartment, and a ¡®click¡¯ sound was heard as a sign that the door was open. The two of them entered and were greeted by the hot air in the room because the AC had not been turned on. Abigail stepped towards the bar table to the right of the door and turned on the air conditioner to the appropriate temperature.

    ¡°Any aspirin? Or some other headache medication?¡± Asked via, who had reached for the medicine box but couldn¡¯t find what she was looking for.

    ¡°Nothing, I forgot to buy it,¡± Abigail answered as she put the AC remote back into its original ce. ¡°Hasn¡¯t the dizziness gone yet?¡± She asked worriedly, to which via answered with a nod.

    ¡°Okay, you wait here. I¡¯ll go down to the minimarket downstairs and buy you headache medicine.¡± Abigail looked for her wallet in her bag and walked out again, while via, who couldn¡¯t stand the pain in her head, chose to lie down on the sofa.

    She curled up on the sofa, hugging a pillow. It feelsfortable. While waiting for Abigail to arrive, via tried to close her eyes, and within minutes she fell asleep.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    Abigail counted the numbers printed at the top of the elevator door impatiently. When the door opened, she was surprised by the presence of a figure she had not seen for a long time.

    ¡°Hi, Moana.¡± Greet the tall, handsome man with his distinctive grin. ¡°Long time no see.¡± He continued as Abigail just froze in ce.

    ¡°Oh My God!¡± Uncle!¡± She eximed as she threw herself into dwin¡¯s arms. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me that Uncle wasing home?¡± She asked, surprised and excited.

    ¡°To be a surprise, of course.¡± He continued casually. He stepped out of the elevator with a superrge backpack on his back. Abigail hugged the man¡¯s arm tightly.

    ¡°How long?¡± She asked with one eyebrow raised.

    ¡°I just came back, and you¡¯ve kicked me out again?¡± The man answered in a fake, offended tone.

    ¡°Yes, it¡¯s not like that. It¡¯s just that your arrival is like a ghost thates without being picked up and goes home without being sent.¡± Abigailined with pouting lips. They walked hand in hand towards the apartment, but after pressing the password, Abigail suddenly remembered something.

    ¡°Oh, God!¡± She screamed when the unit door opened. Due to dwin¡¯s unexpected presence, Abigail needed to remember her main goal of buying via¡¯s needs. ¡°Uncle, I forgot that I have to buy something. I¡¯ll go downstairs first. Just a moment.¡± She said, then ran away, leaving dwin in his apartment.

    dwin sneered, shaking his head while watching Abigail run after the elevator. After his nephew disappeared, he entered the unit, took off his shoes and walked towards his usual room without realizing the figure lying on the sofa.

    He put his backpack on the nightstand near his bed and went to the bathroom to clean himself. His long journey from Germany to Kansas had left his bodypletely exhausted. His body felt sticky with sweat. Not to mention jeg and hunger.

    He could hold back his hunger for a moment, but he couldn¡¯t resist the stickiness that stuck to his body. He needed a warm shower.

    via woke up because of the rustling sounds she heard. Her head was still throbbing, and her vision was blurry. It looks like the anemia is recurring.

    ¡°Abby,¡± she called softly when the rustling sound came again-hoping her best friend would show up with the medicine she needed.

    However, while waiting, via did not hear her friend¡¯s footsteps approaching. via got up and sat on the sofa, massaging her head. The pain became more and more intense, and her vision became increasingly unfocused. asionally, she shook her head and blinked to relieve her dizziness.

    ¡°Abby, where are you?¡± Call her again. But there was still no sign of Abigail walking towards her. She tried to stand up by propping he hands on the back of the chair, but what she saw shocked her. Her knees suddenly felt weak.

    That man. The man she had remembered, the man she missed so much that she wanted to be present in her dreams, was now standing in front of her in an authentic form.

    He looks handsome and fresh with wet hair. He was wearing a white short-sleeved t-shirt and knee-length sweatpants with his hand holding a small towel, which he uses to dry his hair. He looked handsome and didn¡¯t seem to have aged at all, even though five years had passed since theyst saw each other.

    via shook her head, still not epting that this was reality. But her actions only made her feel even more dizzy.

    By God, this must be just a dream. She was still asleep, and the man before her wasn¡¯t real. But the pain in her head made her realize that this was real.

    ¡°Via¡­?¡± Called the man in a worried tone.

    No. dwin¡¯s is not real. via¡¯s mind shouted. But even so, her lips lifted and a faint smile she could feel appeared on her face.

    God, why are you testing me in this way? She asked himself.

    ¡°Via, are you okay?¡± The voice asked again in a worried tone. via tried to focus her gaze again; even if this was real, she didn¡¯t want to appear weak in front of this man.

    No. via had to look strong. But no matter how hard she tried, what happened was that her vision blurred, and somehow, everything suddenly became pitch ck.

    dwin was surprised. He was surprised because when he came out of the bathroom, dwin realized that he was not alone in his apartment. What shocked him even more was via¡¯s condition, which looked pale and weak.

    ¡°Via!¡± dwin shouted as he stepped very quickly to hold via¡¯s body, which almost copsed to the floor. Just as he managed to support the girl¡¯s body, the door opened, and Abigail appeared. She also shouted in surprise because they saw dwin and via¡¯s strange position.

    ¡°What did Uncle do to via?¡± She asked in an usatory tone that made dwin look at her confused.

 Chap 4

    ¡°I didn¡¯t do anything. via was standing earlier but suddenly copsed.¡± dwin answered as he lifted via¡¯s tiny body and took her into Abigail¡¯s room, which Abigail had opened previously. Heid the weak body down and quickly went to his room to get his medical equipment.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

    Abigail rubbed via¡¯s forehead, which was starting to sweat coldly. She unbuttoned the top two buttons of her shirt to make the girl morefortable and not suffocating when dwin returned with his medical equipment and started checking.

    ¡°He¡¯s exhausted.¡± He muttered, but it sounded clear to Abigail¡¯s ears. dwin looked for the IV drip he always carried in his bag. He was looking for a ce to change it before attaching the tube and needle to via¡¯s arm. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her? Did something happen?¡± He asked without taking his eyes off via¡¯s pale face while controlling the drip of the IV fluid. Then, inject something into the IV tube.

    ¡°Who did that questione from? Doctor dwin, Uncle dwin, or a man named dwin?¡± Abigail asked teasingly.

    dwin looked up. His gaze turned sharp. ¡°From one human being to another human being on humanitarian grounds.¡± The answer was curt.

    Abigail pouted. ¡°Ah, Uncle, your answer disappoints me.¡± The answer is honest.

    Abigail covered via¡¯s body with a nket up to her chest before leaving the room to let her rest. dwin followed him from behind.

    ¡°A disaster has just hit our cafe. That¡¯s why Via is exhausted. She¡¯s taking on all the problems alone.¡± She answered when they were in the kitchen area. ¡°Drink?¡± Abigail offered, to which she shook her head.

    ¡°Hungry,¡± dwin answered while sitting at the bar table.

    ¡°Soon. I ordered food online earlier. Be patient.¡± Abigail answered casually.

    He poured the syrup into his ss and added sugar before steeping it in hot water. Just as Abigail was about to put in the ice cubes, the apartment bell rang. ¡°On time,¡± she muttered to dwin. ¡°Our food has arrived. This time, I will treat you;ter, it will be your turn.¡± She answered casually.

    dwin winked. ¡°Anytime, Moana.¡± He answered as he walked towards the door. A man wearing a jacket and helmet with a restaurant courier logo was standing, carrying two bags of food and drinks from a restaurant dwin didn¡¯t know.

    ¡°Ms. Abigail¡¯s apartment?¡± Asked the motorbike taxi driver, to which dwin nodded. ¡°Five packages of chicken, two burgers and three cs.¡± The man handed the package to dwin. ¡°Don¡¯t forget the value.¡± Then, the motorcycle taxi driver politely left.

    ¡°Three people but ordered up to five chickens, aren¡¯t you wrong?¡± dwin put the parcel on the table, which Abigail immediately opened.

    ¡°This is Via¡¯s favorite food. Who knows, maybe she might have an appetite. She¡¯s had trouble eating for the past few days. She¡¯s already quite thin; if she continues not eating, she could be even thinner.¡± Abigailined worriedly. The girl had yet to answer dwin¡¯s previous question.

    ¡°So what happened to the cafe?¡± dwin started to shove the burger into his mouth. And the taste of chicken made his appetite increase.

    ¡°One of the cafe branches experienced a fire. There were no casualties. And the losses weren¡¯t that big. We can still handle it. It¡¯s just that, by going back and forth to the police station to make a report, the shop owner¡¯s demands and also thinking about the fate of her employees made Via don¡¯t get enough rest.

    ¡°Not to mention, she still doesn¡¯t know what caused the fire. Whether it was a pure ident or a deliberate factor, the police are looking into it. Uncle knows it¡¯s an alleged insurance game. And that¡¯s what makes Via¡¯s mind drained. Uncle knows what she¡¯s like.¡±

    dwin was silent. via does have a personality that is inversely proportional to Abigail, and therefore, they bothplement each other.

    If Abigail is a typical optimistic person, then via tends to be a pessimistic person. If Abigail always thinks about the best possibility, via thinks more about the worst side. If Abigail is someone who doesn¡¯t care about people¡¯s opinions, then via is someone who cares about what other people think about her.

    Sometimes, it isn¡¯t easy, but there are some positive things about it. via is a very caring person and cares for others. Easy to help and love without discrimination. She¡¯s friendly, she¡¯s tough, and what¡¯s more, she¡¯s also beautiful.

    Yes, via is beautiful. His father¡¯s Italian blood was powerful. Her face was a female version of her father. via has bright and beautiful brown eyes. And if Antony¡¯s body size is big, like a giant child, via is the opposite version. Her body is petite, even smaller than Abigail¡¯s.

    For American beauty standards, it can¡¯t be small. It¡¯s just that for mttoes, who are usually tall, 160cm is considered short. Compared to Abigail, who has a body of 175cm. And again, if Abigail is a brave girl who tends to be shameless, via is a shy girl who tends to have low self-esteem.

    And via¡¯s shy nature made dwin even more fond of teasing her.

    But that was before when the girl was still a teenager. Meanwhile, now, via has be an adult girl. Apart from her age and mindset, her maturity was visible from her body shape when dwin examined her.

    But is via still shy now? dwin didn¡¯t know. Theyst saw each other almost five years ago, and that¡¯s a short time to change someone¡¯s character, right?

    dwin had quenched his hunger by eating two chicken pieces and two burgers. Abigail just looked at him with eleven eyebrows raised, a mocking smile on her gaunt face. ¡°Greedy.¡± She muttered, only to be answered by dwin¡¯sughter. The girl cleaned up the leftovers and washed the dishes she used. ¡°Go to sleep, uncle. So that when Via wakes up, she won¡¯t be surprised again.¡±

    ¡°What does it mean?¡±

    ¡°I mean, it could be that the reason Via fainted earlier was because she was shocked to see an undead walking in front of her. Just look at your appearance.¡± She said mockingly, looking at dwin¡¯s appearance from top to bottom. ¡°Not neat at all. And eye bags.¡± Abigail drew a line under her eyes. ¡°More like a panda that doesn¡¯t sleep during the winter.¡± She taunted, which made dwinugh even louder.

    ¡°It seems you were right, Moana.¡± He said while looking at his appearance in the mirror near the entrance. ¡°I¡¯d better sleep and get rid of the jeg first. Wake me up when it¡¯s time for dinner.¡± He ordered as he walked towards his room.

 Chap 5

    After dwin left, Abigail sat on a bar stool. She took a deep breath and exhaled slowly as if trying to release the heavy burden she had been carrying without realizing it.

    What did his uncle do this time? How long will the man stay? Why did that mane back without any notice at all?

    Abigail nced at the two bedroom doors, which were closed alternately. She was sad for her friend. She was the only person who knew how much her step-cousin and best friend fell in love with her uncle.

    Yes, Abigail knows via loves dwin even though she discovered it identally.

    She knew why her friend chose to leave Kansas and study in California. It was none other than the girl¡¯s attempt to forget her uncle, who suddenly decided to continue earning his doctoral degree in Germany.

    Heartbroken teenage via. How could it not be the man she loved decided to leave after rejecting her love? A love that she hasn¡¯t even had the chance to express directly.

    shback

    That was the day Antony¡¯s family celebrated Ignazio¡¯s third birthday, as well as a thanksgiving for ire¡¯s pregnancy, which was seven months old.

    Abigail, via, and their friend Haisley, who was on holiday in Kansas during their college years with Gilbert, Steven, Loretta and Nathaniel-a figure whose existence was shocking-chose to sit together in the gazebo to enjoy food. dwin arrivedte at that time. He came with fellow doctors who worked at the same hospital as him and joined them. Freddie and Phoebe.

    ¡°Can I join?¡± Greet Freddie in a friendly manner. Abigail and via knew him because the doctor often came to their house to y. Meanwhile, Phoebe, this is the first time they have met.

    ¡°Please, Doc,¡± Abigail answered. The almost entire pavilion was now full.

    ¡°This is Doctor Phoebe. She¡¯s new to our ward.¡± dwin said as an introduction. ¡°These are my nieces. Abigail, via. And their friends.¡± Then, they introduced themselves to each other.

    Abigail watched Phoebe and dwin take turns. Judging from her movements, she knew that the female doctor liked her uncle.

    Regarding age range, Abigail, via and Haisley were the younger people among the ten. So when those people talked about business and things appropriate for their age, the three young girls didn¡¯t understand. But there was one thing that Abigail understood from the gathering of people there. The smell of love and jealousy wafts in the air.

    Abigail could see how Nathan didn¡¯t take his eyes off Haisley, and neither did Steven. And every time Steven looked at Haisley or was nice to her, Nathan¡¯s face would suddenly turn cold.

    Meanwhile Gilbert. The man Abigail likes also clearly likes via, even though the face he shows looks t. Both she and Gilbert knew that the person via adored was dwin.

    Meanwhile, dwin, whether he knew or chose to pretend not to know, preferred to pay attention to Phoebe, who was sitting beside him.

    Abigail didn¡¯t lose her mind. Because she knows via won¡¯t dare to express her feelings, she will try to help her.

    ¡°Hey, Uncle.¡± Point Abigail to Nathan, dwin and Freddie. ¡°May I ask you something?¡± She asked, to which the three answered with nods. ¡°But please answer honestly.¡± Abigail continued again, to which the three gave a nod. ¡°Okay, here¡¯s the question. So, I¡¯m currently eighteen years old and going on neen. Do you think that¡¯s an adult or a child?¡± Abigail looked at Freddie first.

    ¡°Obviously, still young. Not yet an adult.¡± Freddie answered honestly.

    ¡°Same,¡± Nathan answered

    ¡°Depends,¡± dwin answered.

    ¡°Depends on what?¡± Abigail asked, confused.

    ¡°Depends on what kind of adult you mean. Physical or mindset?¡±

    ¡°Both of them,¡± Abigail answered again.

    ¡°Yes, everyone has a different character. Some are mature in mind but have yet to be in age. And some are the opposite.¡±

    Abigail¡¯s brow furrowed. ¡°Okay. Now assess the three of us. Me, via, and Haisley. What does our uncle think?¡± She challenged.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know Haisley. As for you, you are far from an adult. You are still a child. And Via, she is already an adult in her thinking.¡± dwin answered honestly.

    ¡°Okay. Next question,¡± Abigail said. ¡°For example, Haisley, Via, I like men the same age as the uncles here. Will you ept us?¡±

    ¡°Like and love may have different definitions for us boys and those of you who are still young,¡± Freddie answered.

    ¡°It means?¡±

    ¡°There is like just like. There is something that leads to obsession. There is love that is love. And there is love that is based on obsession. So which like and love do you mean?¡±

    Abigail frowned. ¡°Mm¡­ a kind of like where our heart beats faster than usual when we see that person. Then we wish we could keep seeing him. Waiting for his message; who knows when it wille in? Or beating just by getting a greeting from him?¡±

    ¡°Are you annoyed if he is with another woman?¡± Freddie asked, and then Abigail nodded. ¡°Are you worried that he didn¡¯t send you a message? But did you have the courage to ask him how he was doing first?¡± Abigail nodded again. ¡°Did you cry when he left?¡± Again, Abigail nodded. ¡°Then, if another man approaches you, will you ept that man?¡± This time, Abigail shook her head. ¡°Even though he is more handsome or richer than that person?¡± Abigail nodded. ¡°Okay, fix, it¡¯s love. Even though I don¡¯t know how long it willst.¡± Freddie said with an amused smile on his face. ¡°But considering that you don¡¯t turn to men who are more handsome or maybe richer, it means you sincerely love his ugliness.¡± Laughter could be heard echoing in the pavilion.

    ¡°So?¡± Abigail asked impatiently.

    ¡°Yeah, if that happened to me, I wouldn¡¯t mind. Twelve years apart, it¡¯s not that bad. Besides, that¡¯s enough age to live together or get married.¡±Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯m okay. I¡¯m only two and eight, only ten years apart.¡± Nathan answered casually.

    ¡°How about uncle?¡± he asked dwin.

    ¡°For me, No!¡± The answer is short.

    ¡°Why?¡±

    ¡°The answer is clear. It feels like marrying my niece. I prefer women who are not too far apart in age. At least our mindsets are bnced.

    ¡°A decade¡¯s difference has more or less an influence on a rtionship. Characteristics, hobbies and ways of learning will be different. In a rtionship, the main foundation ismunication.

    ¡°We can¡¯t give in and be childish to bnce ourselves with a younger partner. Likewise, you can¡¯t pretend to be mature to bnce us, older men.

    ¡°And otherplicated problems will arise due to one factor. Age. Even though those who are the same age don¡¯t necessarily have any conflicts. But in terms ofmunication, they feel morefortable.¡± The answer is long.

    Abigail nodded in understanding what her uncle said made a lot of sense. Although on the other hand, she was pretty heartbroken to hear that.

    Abigail looked at Haisley, who was smiling blushingly, looking satisfied with the answer from Nathan, the man she adored.

    Meanwhile, via seemed smiling, trying to look as strong as usual. Her friend knew that what dwin said was an indirect rejection of her existence, of her love. The girl was sad, and it could be seen from her eyes. But Abigail didn¡¯t want to prolong it.

    Decade. That was the word dwin said earlier as a benchmark. Walls built to keep away from via¡¯s love. And since then, via seems to have kept her distance from dwin. And when dwin said he would continue his PhD in Germany. The girl chose to pursue her schrship at UC Berkeley as herst attempt to forget her love.

    shback Off

 Chap 6

    via blinked and realized that she was no longer in the living room. She tried to get up from the bed and noticed something strange with her right hand. When she turned, she could see an IV needle attached there.

    What happened? via tried to remember. Earlier, she was lying on the sofa, dreaming of meeting dwin.

    dwin? via furrowed her brow. Yes, even though it seemed real, via knew it was just a dream. But what about the IV in her hand? Did Abigail call a doctor for her?

    via uncovered herself and slowly got out of bed. The marble floor beneath her felt cold on the soles of her feet. Although her body felt fresher than before, and her head no longer ached, she still felt weak.

    via turned off the IV and removed the needle slowly. Her hand felt a pinch as the ster and needle came off. She opened the door and saw Abigail sitting at the bar table, busy with her tablet.

    ¡°Awake already?¡± she asked with a worried expression. via just nodded. ¡°Feeling better?¡± she asked again, offering a ss of water to via.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± via replied and drank the warm water until it was finished.

    ¡°Sorry, the convenience store was unexpectedly crowded earlier,¡± Abigail said again. She took a te and handed a food box towards her. ¡°Eat, it was reheated a bit.¡± Abigail opened the chicken package and ced it on the te, pouring sauce for dipping.

    ¡°Thanks,¡± via said, then took a big bite of the chicken and put it in her mouth. The spicy and savory taste of the sauce instantly revived her appetite. ¡°What about our appointment with the shop owner?¡± via asked between bites.

    ¡°It¡¯s canceled. We can go tomorrow morning,¡± Abigail replied casually. Her eyes still focused on her tablet.

    ¡°What¡¯s up? Any news?¡± via inquired.

    Abigail handed her tablet, showing beautifulndscape photos. ¡°There¡¯s a photography offer for a jacket product. Some locations in the west and central areas,¡± she said, showing several locations and product photos.

    ¡°Great. How about the contract?¡±

    ¡°The offer is good. The amodation is also good. It¡¯s just the timing that¡¯s not ideal.¡±

    ¡°Why? Aren¡¯t you working on any projects right now?¡±

    ¡°No, but we should focus on the cafe first.¡±

    ¡°Let it be, I¡¯ll take care of the cafe. Besides, we¡¯ll see the location tomorrow, and you¡¯ve already agreed on the price, so it¡¯s just a matter of tomorrow.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, but still¡­¡±

    ¡°Never mind, no ¡®buts.¡¯ I can handle everything. You don¡¯t need to worry,¡± via reassured. She took her te and dirty ss to the sink.

    ¡°Why are you up? Didn¡¯t you ask to be woken up during dinner?¡± Abigail asked the figure standing behind her.

    ¡°Enough already. Sleeping too long can ruin your eyes.¡± The voice made via¡¯s body stiffen momentarily. ¡°Are you feeling better?¡± the voice asked her. via still stood frozen in ce, her mind reluctant to believe that the voice was real.

    ¡°Via, you okay?¡± Abigail¡¯s voice sounded concerned. via turned around and saw both of them standing so close to her. The strong hand touched her forehead with its back.

    ¡°Her body temperature is okay. Are you still dizzy?¡± The man asked with an investigative gaze. via answered with a shake of her head. ¡°Feeling weak?¡± via nodded. ¡°Make her some honey tea to raise her blood sugar.¡± The man ordered and walked away, leaving via still stunned.

    This is not a dream, right? via wondered in her heart. She really woke up, and indeed, the man stood in front of her, touching her and checking her condition.

    ¡°Don¡¯t daydream, or you might get possessed,¡± teased Abigail nearby. The soft whisper made via¡¯s face feel hot. via nced at her friend, who responded with a meaningful grin.

    ¡°Uncle, when did he arrive?¡± she asked after managing to steady her heartbeat.

    ¡°Hended early in the morning, waited for the baggage, then came straight here,¡± the man replied casually while turning on the TV with the remote already in his hand.

    ¡°Does Mom know that Uncle is back?¡± via asked again, to which the man responded with a shake of his head.

    ¡°Later, if he¡¯s had enough rest, then he can report. As if you don¡¯t know what your mom is like. Her nagging is more deafening than a police siren.¡± dwin scoffed with a mocking tone, met by via¡¯s small smile.

    In her heart, via was grateful that the man focused more on the TV screen, allowing her to gaze at the man she hadn¡¯t seen in a long time. Abigail nudged her and handed her a warm cup of honey tea with a mischievous glint. via epted the cup and mumbled a thank you before taking a sip.

    ¡°Did we get any souvenirs?¡± Abigail asked casually as she sat next to her uncle.

    ¡°No. It¡¯s a waste for me to give you souvenirs. Just throwing away money,¡± dwin replied expressionlessly.

    via continued to smile. In reality, almost five years had passed, and nothing had changed about her dwin.

    Her dwin? Since when did her uncle be her dwin? How could she dere ownership of her uncle when he himself had never considered her as a woman all this time?

    via¡¯s phone rang loudly, even though it was in her handbag. Abigail, who was sitting not far from where via¡¯s bag was, immediately reached into via¡¯s bag and checked the caller.

    ¡°Eijaz,¡± Abigail handed the phone to via. via took it and walked away to the area where clothes were drying.

    ¡°Yeah?¡±

    ¡°Where are you?¡±

    ¡°At Abigail¡¯s apartment. Where are you?¡±

    ¡°Just got off work. Should I pick you up? We can have dinner outside together.¡± The man offered in his usual gentle tone.

    ¡°I just ate. Where do you want to eat? Let me apany you.¡±

    ¡°Ohh¡­ you¡¯ve eaten. Well, it¡¯s okay then. Are you okay? You sound a bit unwell.¡±

    ¡°A little under the weather. I just woke up. Still feeling weak,¡± she honestly replied.

    ¡°Oh, okay then. Rest some more. Can I bring you something?¡±

    ¡°No need. Don¡¯t bother. You rest too. No need to force yourself toe here. I¡¯ll go home with Abbyter.¡±

    ¡°Is that so? Well, be careful on the way.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, you too.¡± via replied in her usual t tone. Then the call ended.

    via returned to the living room where Abigail and dwin were still sitting in their original ces.

    ¡°Is Eijazing here?¡± Abigail asked, to which via shook her head.

    ¡°No. I told him to go home,¡± she replied softly as she put her phone back into her bag. She slung her small bag over her shoulder and adjusted her slightly messy hair.

    ¡°Where are you going? You said Eijaz isn¡¯ting,¡± Abigail asked, puzzled.

    ¡°I¡¯m going home. Resting,¡± she answered after her appearance looked neat. ¡°Uncle doesn¡¯t need to worry. I won¡¯t tell Mom that you¡¯re back.¡± She said with a meaningful smile. ¡°As long as the payment is right.¡± She added briefly. Then her phone rang again. ¡°My taxi is here. Going home now, see you.¡± She said goodbye as she left.

    dwin stared at Abigail, his expression full of questions. ¡°What?¡± Abigail asked, raising both eyebrows.

    ¡°Who is Eijaz?¡± he inquired.

    ¡°Eijaz? He¡¯s via¡¯s boyfriend,¡± Abigail replied tly.

    ¡°Boyfriend? via has a boyfriend?¡± dwin asked incredulously.

    ¡°Hello, Uncle. via is a normal woman. Of course, she has a boyfriend. What, do you expect her to be single forever?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that. I just feel unsure.¡±

    ¡°Unsure about what? What¡¯s wrong with via? She¡¯s beautiful, smart, has her own business, and is wealthy to boot. On top of that, she¡¯s a faithful woman. What¡¯scking in her? Luckily, via is willing to ept Eijaz. Out there, many men are better than Eijaz-handsome, well-off, everything. It¡¯s a pity that via chose Eijaz.¡±

    ¡°If you don¡¯t like Eijaz, why don¡¯t you stop her?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t exaggerate. It¡¯s via¡¯s business whom she falls in love with. She¡¯s the one who will marry and live in the rtionship. I just give advice. If she epts, that¡¯s great. If not, it¡¯s fine too. Besides, Eijaz is Granny and Granpa¡¯s choice. So, his family background is clear.¡±

    ¡°So, they were arranged? Why did she agree?¡±

    Abigail shrugged. ¡°Rather than waiting for something uncertain, it¡¯s better to ept what¡¯s in front of you. Instead of waiting for a love response, it¡¯s better to ept someone who clearly loves us. Many people say that ¡®love is there because we get used to it.''¡±

    ¡°What do you mean, Uncle doesn¡¯t understand.¡±

    Instead of answering dwin¡¯s question, Abigail just shrugged with a disdainful expression. He rose from his seat and went into his room, leaving his uncle engrossed in his thoughts.

    Abigail knew her uncle wasn¡¯t foolish. What was happening was that he was trying to fool himself by continuously avoiding and rejecting the feelings he had. It was clear that her uncle also had feelings for via. However, for reasons unknown to Abigail, he chose to avoid the reality of his emotions.

 Chap 7

    Dear Diary

    Long time no see

    My greeting for you that I copied from someone who always greets anyone he knows, whether it¡¯s someone he loves or just a friend¡­

    Long time no see

    The first sentence he uttered with a smile that made my heart beat uncontrobly¡­

    The sentence that made me understand what admiration is, since I was 13 years old¡­

    And when was that?

    Ten years ago?

    I never thought that the owner of that sentence could be seen by me again now, after five years of not meeting¡­

    Yes, not with me, because with his core family, he always meets.

    It¡¯s just me who always avoids every time I find out about his whereabouts¡­

    Am I wrong, Diary?

    Ten years of harboring feelings that initially I thought were just admiration for his handsomeness, intelligence, and humor¡­

    He, whom I initially admired when I was just a naive little girl about what love is, only considered him as an elder brother figure that I never had.

    But these ten passing years have not changed the speed of my heartbeat when he looks at me, when I gaze at him.

    Until my friend made me realize that this is love¡­

    Am I in love with him, Diary?

    If the restlessness when I can¡¯t meet him, not hearing from him, can be called love. Then yes, I think I love him¡­

    If the unwillingness every time he gets close to a woman and smiles warmly at them is love. Then yes, I think I love him¡­

    If every time I miss him, I cry and feel a tightness in my chest. Then yes, I think I love him¡­

    But from the beginning, I knew I wasn¡¯t worthy.

    Didn¡¯t he say that a girl my age would be better as his niece?

    I can¡¯t force him to see me as a woman. But I can¡¯t stop myself from seeing him as a man I adore and desire.

    Dear Diary¡­

    If only I could turn back time to ten years ago¡­ Is it possible if I ask my God to close my eyes so I can¡¯t see his smile, and deafen my ears from his greetings?

    Because it turns out, after ten years, the small feeling has grown so big that I¡¯m afraid there¡¯s no room in my heart to insert another person who might love me and whom I might love someday.

    If I could ask my God, would He grant it?

    I want Him to touch that person¡¯s heart for just a moment, so he looks in my direction and realizes that all this time I¡¯ve been waiting for him, missing him, loving him?

    Oh, Owner of Hearts, forgive me for being too selfish. Loving someone I shouldn¡¯t love.

    Not because I¡¯m unworthy, because he is very worthy of love. But because I know, for him, I am not the person who deserves it, and maybe never will be.

    Oh, Owner of Hearts, if You do not allow him to realize my existence, then allow me to erase his presence from my heart. Because truly, my heart can no longer wait¡­

    Dear Diary¡­

    Always be a reminder of this unrequited love. Be my witness to the happiness I will achieve someday. Be the memory that will remind me that at some point, I once loved.

    Loving him, the one who says the phrase ¡°Long time no see.¡±

    ****

    via noticed a foreign car in her driveway. It wasn¡¯t actually a foreign car, but dwin¡¯s car.

    So, her uncle had decided to inform via¡¯s parents of his return. That meant the man was rested enough and ready to be teased by via¡¯s mother and siblings. Knowing this, via just smiled quietly to herself.

    Carrying her siblings¡¯ shopping items to the yroom, via then chose to hide in her father¡¯s office. She had two reasons for doing so. The first reason was dwin, and the second reason was that she genuinely wanted to finish her work quickly.

    via was majoring in administration at college. However, thanks to her uncle Altezza, a skilled architect, she learned how to create building designs and useputer applications widely used by talented architects today.

    via had already measured the shop they were going to rent, and now she was nning its interior design before deciding on the workers who would execute it.

    Her work took time, so she only came out when she needed a drink and then returned to hide behind that wide teak door.

    dwin, who had been at via¡¯s parents¡¯ house for quite some time, was now spending time with his two little nephews. But amidst his enjoyment, he wondered where via was.

    Since returning from picking up her siblings, she had been hiding in her father¡¯s office and had not emerged again. Whether she was working or spending her time reading her favorite romance novels, dwin couldn¡¯t tell.

    It wasn¡¯t until the evening that dwin saw the girle out, and even then, it was only for a few seconds. She still seemed to be wearing the same clothes that dwin had glimpsed when she ced the groceries. Whether this was just his feeling or not, dwin felt like via was avoiding him.

    And that was indeed the truth. via was intentionally avoiding the man. Even though yesterday she acted friendly and seemed casual, the reality was different. The feelings she had harbored for years made it impossible for her to stay close to dwin. She didn¡¯t know how long she could continue hiding all these emotions. She was afraid that dwin would notice, even though she had tried very hard to forget him all this time.

    Back when she was a teenager, if she expressed her feelings, dwin might have called what she felt a teenage crush. But now? One thing was clear; these feelings were not suitable for via to express at the moment.

    via remained in her father¡¯s office until thete afternoon. Not busy finishing her work, but spending time lost in thought. Reflecting on the past she had passed with various activities and various excuses to avoid and forget the man.

    Yes, via had spent her teenage years until now with many lies. God knows how many reasons she had created to avoid family gatherings where there would always be discussions about dwin.

    Countless hours wasted just sitting in silence, staring at the figure of the man she missed through his social media.

    Her fingers always caressed the phone screen, and her heart always uttered the man¡¯s name. She spent her nights daydreaming about being his girlfriend. However, she always hoped that her feelings would be eroded away someday. She hoped that time would make her forget about the man.

    But in reality, none of that ever happened. The longing she tried to trim always grew thick each time. Especially when she visited her stepmother¡¯s mother¡¯s house. Memories of dwin, conversations about the man, made via feel even closer to him. As if the man never left. As if the man was always there with them.

    via couldn¡¯t keep avoiding or asking everyone to change the topic of conversation. But staying there and listening to their conversations about dwin was also unbearable for via. Fortunately, she had Abigail, who was always sensitive to her situation. Her friend always had a reason to make via escape from difort.

    If only Abigail were a man, via was sure she would fall in love with Abigail.

    A knock on the door made via snap out of her reverie. She looked up and saw her stepmother opening the door and addressing her. ¡°It¡¯s already toote, finish your work for now.¡±

    via nodded awkwardly, grabbed the mouse she had been ignoring, and acted as if she were working. ¡°Yes, Mom. Just a little more. I¡¯ll save my work now.¡± via replied nervously. She really saved the file she was working on and then followed her mother.

    via left her office and saw her father, siblings, and her crush sitting in the living room, watching TV and chatting casually. She approached her father and kissed his forehead as a habit.

    ¡°How¡¯s everything? Is it all done?¡± her father inquired.

    ¡°Fifty percent done, Dad,¡± via replied candidly, and her father nodded. ¡°I¡¯m going to take a shower first.¡± She excused herself, her father responding with a nod. She tried her best not to nce at dwin, fearing she wouldn¡¯t be able to hide her admiration for him.

    Trying not to run, via walked quickly to her room. Instead of heading to the bathroom to freshen up, she sat on her bed, rubbed her chest, and took a slow breath.

    Oh my, just a fleeting nce, and her heart was pounding so fast. What about dinnerter? via couldn¡¯t keep bowing her head just to avoid eye contact with her uncle, right?Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    via took another deep breath and exhaled slowly. ¡®Whatever happens, happens,¡¯ she whispered, reassuring herself before getting up and heading to the bathroom.

    Done with her duties, via came downstairs and saw her father, uncle, and her two siblings back in front of the TV. via walked to the kitchen, approaching her mother who was preparing dinner.

    ¡°Mama, let me handle it. You¡¯d better sit down. It¡¯s not fair for you to get tired, considering the baby might get tired too,¡± via reached for the food her mother was holding and asked her to sit at the dining table.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. I¡¯m just pregnant, not sick,¡± her mother politely declined, but via shook her head and insisted her mother sit quietly. Her mother was always enthusiastic whenever her twin sister returned, and via worried she might get exhausted, especially being pregnant at the age of thirty-five, which falls into the vulnerable category.

    After setting the table, her mother called everyone to sit. Antony Quirino took his ce at the head of the table, with his wife ire sitting beside him. via sat to ire¡¯s right.

    On Antony¡¯s left, dwin now sat, along with Ignazio and then Francisca, whose status as the youngest would soon be reced.

    ¡°Brother, are you moving to this city?¡± ire asked, looking at her twin sister in curiosity. via could see from the corner of her eye as dwin nodded in response. ¡°Which hospital?¡± dwin mentioned the name of one of the renowned hospitals in their city, and it made via look up and gaze at her uncle in disbelief.

    Was this just a coincidence? How could her uncle work at a hospital located quite close to the location of the new cafe via rented?

    Of course, it was a coincidence. It couldn¡¯t have been nned. Because if that were the case, the fire that urred in her cafe might have been intentional. via strongly rejected that idea.

    ¡°It seems fate won¡¯t run away, huh?¡± ire said enthusiastically, making via tense instantly. ¡°Later, when you officially start working, don¡¯t forget to invite your friends to visit Via¡¯s cafe.¡±

    ¡°Do I get amission for that?¡± dwin asked mischievously, ncing at via.

    ¡°Sure, yes, right, honey?¡± ire nudged via, who responded with her small smile.

    via¡¯s silence during the remaining dinner time wasn¡¯t unusual for her family. They understood her character, so they didn¡¯t force her to be part of the conversation. Especially with the current issue at the cafe, they didn¡¯t want to burden via even more.

    After finishing washing the dishes, via excused herself again and hid in her room. Once again, using work as an excuse. No one objected, and via was grateful for that understanding.

    As via left, dwin looked at his younger sister with a worried expression. ¡°Is via okay? She seems to be working too hard.¡±

    ire only smiled sadly but answered with a nod. It¡¯s not that she wasn¡¯t aware of her stepdaughter¡¯s feelings or disregarding her daughter¡¯s hardships. via was the type of girl who didn¡¯t want to inconvenience others and disliked having her affairs meddled with by others. So, as a mother, ire just tried to understand her daughter¡¯s wishes because if via really wanted help, she wouldn¡¯t hesitate to ask for it.

    ¡°She¡¯s okay, Brother. If she can¡¯t handle it, she¡¯ll ask for help.¡± ire tried to reassure. dwin didn¡¯tment much. Even though he felt anxious, he knew he couldn¡¯t do much to help.

    ¡°Is it true she¡¯s been arranged for marriage?¡± The question made ire raise an eyebrow in surprise. ¡°Abby said Grandpa and Granny arranged her with someone.¡± He added with a more assertive tone.

    ire lifted the corner of her mouth. ¡°Not arranged, just¡­ casually asked them to get to know each other. If they happen to click, great. If not, they won¡¯t force it.¡±

    ¡°It still sounds forceful.¡± dwinmented curtly. ¡°As if via can¡¯t find her future husband herself. Besides, via is still young, she has plenty of time.¡±

    ¡°Not forceful, Brother. via herself once told me she wanted to get married at a young age. But how can she get married young if she¡¯s too focused on work and school?¡± ire defended herself. ¡°Besides, Eijaz is a good person. His character is unquestionable. He¡¯s polite, friendly, and caring. He¡¯spatible with via. Right, Honey?¡± ire looked at her husband. Antony nodded in agreement. ¡°What about you? Getting old but stillfortable being alone. No interest in getting married or having kids like me?¡±

    dwin grinned. It¡¯s not that he didn¡¯t want to get married or have kids. It¡¯s just¡­ ¡°I haven¡¯t found the right one yet.¡± He answered shortly.

    ¡°That¡¯s why you shouldn¡¯t keep hanging out with books all the time.¡± ire responded again.

    ¡°Honey, please mind yournguage.¡± Antony reprimanded, ncing at Ignazio and Francisca, who were also there. Even though both were engrossed in their respective toys.

    ¡°Sorry..¡± ire whispered with her cheeky grin.

 Chap 8

    via sat silently in the car driven by her private chauffeur. This morning, she had an appointment with Abigail at their new caf¨¦ to discuss the furniture they would buy before her friend got busy with her photography schedule.

    It had been several days since the dinner event with dwin. As via knew from their previous conversation, her uncle had started working actively at a renowned hospital not far from the new caf¨¦. This meant that soon, after the caf¨¦ officially opened, she might meet her uncle again and even his colleagues.

    But long before that happened, via had toe up with a reason to avoid the party her step-grandmother was nning for her uncle. It would be a celebration for dwin¡¯s return and his eptance at one of the prestigious hospitals in their city.

    It¡¯s not that via disliked her step-grandmother or felt ufortable in her stepmother¡¯s family. On the contrary, she felt veryfortable. Even though she was ire¡¯s stepdaughter, ire¡¯s family always treated her well, especially because via had a rtionship with them long before her father married ire.

    However, what made her ufortable was her step-grandmother always discussing dwin and his potential suitors. Despite via having no romantic involvement with dwin and keeping her feelings a secret, she couldn¡¯t help but feel jealous.

    via wanted to shout loudly, ¡°Choose me, Grandma. Make me your granddaughter-inw!¡± every time the topic came up. But she knew she couldn¡¯t do that. It was impossible, especially when everyone, particrly her step-grandmother, knew all about her ws.

    via massaged her temples while blinking her eyes. Lately, after the fire incident, she had frequently experienced headaches. When it happened, her vision would blur.

    She couldn¡¯t tell her parents about her condition. They would undoubtedly insist-not just ask-she undergo a thorough examination at the hospital, something via disliked. Spending time going back and forth to the hospital, receiving injections, and various examinations was already enough for her. Now, she didn¡¯t want to do it anymore. Even the antiseptic smell often made her nauseous, although she should be used to it by now.

    via heard her phone ring, reaching into her bag and seeing her aunt¡¯s number on the screen.

    ¡°Hello, Auntie,¡± via greeted warmly.

    ¡°Hello. Via, are you busy?¡± Aunt Adaline replied in a friendly tone.

    ¡°No, Auntie. I¡¯m on my way to the caf¨¦. What¡¯s up?¡± via asked.

    ¡°First of all, Auntie apologizes for bothering you. And only if you have time,¡± Adaline started hesitantly. ¡°It¡¯s about Happy Home,¡± she mentioned the name of the orphanage their family sponsored.

    ¡°Why with the orphanage?¡±

    ¡°You know I¡¯m due to give birth soon. Your uncle wants me to take a temporary break from managing the orphanage until the baby is old enough to be moved around. But I¡¯m unsure whom to entrust the foundation¡¯s affairs to.

    ¡°Mrs. Mary is still my trust, but she¡¯s not ready to take over my position. So, if you have time, I want you to temporarily take charge of the foundation.

    ¡°I¡¯m not underestimating your current busyness. I know you¡¯re busy with the caf¨¦ and studies. But I¡¯m confused about who to trust. You know I don¡¯t have many acquaintances.

    ¡°Your mom is also pregnant, and Altezza says your dad won¡¯t allow her to be busy with the Foundation. Joanna hasn¡¯t returned from Italy yet. So, the only choice I have right now is you,¡± Adaline replied with a sense of guilt.

    ¡°I can do it, Auntie,¡± via answered casually. ¡°Besides, the caf¨¦ and school matters aren¡¯t that hectic. I still have plenty of free time on weekends.¡± And via stated the truth. Soon, the caf¨¦ affairs would be settled, and she wouldn¡¯t have any other engagements to distract her from dwin.

    ¡°But what about Eijaz? Will he agree? I mean, won¡¯t he mind if your weekends are monopolized by foundation matters?¡± Adaline asked, still feeling uncertain.

    via fell silent. She didn¡¯t remember Eijaz at all, the man her grandfather and grandmother had chosen for her. Moreover, her busyness had no connection to Eijaz because they hadn¡¯t established any rtionship.

    via smiled and shook her head. ¡°It¡¯s okay, Auntie. Besides, my rtionship with Eijaz isn¡¯t that far yet to restrict each other¡¯s movements.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure you¡¯re okay?¡± Adaline repeated her question, and via tried to reassure her aunt. ¡°Thank you, dear. I promise, until your uncle deres the baby safe to be moved around, I¡¯ll take back the foundation¡¯s affairs.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Auntie. Don¡¯t worry. Besides, I¡¯m already used to going there. So, it¡¯sfortable. Just think of it as practice for having a child,¡± via replied, although there was a slight pang in her heart at the mention of the word ¡®child.¡¯ And it seemed her aunt noticed it.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    ¡°Don¡¯t give up before trying, dear. God is the Ultimate Grantor. Even if we consider it impossible, if He says it¡¯s possible, then it will be possible. Doctors are only human. They don¡¯t have full control over human life. They are just tools to assist humans in healing.

    ¡°While the Ultimate Healer, the Giver of Life, remains the Almighty,¡± Adaline encouraged via with her optimistic tone. Their close age difference made Adaline feel more like an older sister than an aunt.

    via responded to her aunt¡¯s enthusiasm with a nod. A smile appeared on her face, though it didn¡¯t quite reach her eyes.

    Deep in her heart, via continued to pray for a miracle someday. However, if her prayers weren¡¯t answered, via wouldn¡¯t be disappointed because she had already steeled her heart from an early age.

    ¡°I¡¯ll try to visit the orphanage this Friday and talk to Mrs. Mary, Auntie. Don¡¯t worry. If I need help, I¡¯ll bring Abigail there,¡± she said, met with her aunt¡¯s chuckle. After a bit of small talk, the phone call ended.

    ***

    On Friday afternoon, via had gathered all the reports about the ¡®Happy Home¡¯ orphanage managed by her aunt. After finishing her evening routine, via chose to sit at her study desk, sipping her hot chocte while scrolling the mouse in her left hand.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ routine check-ups for the kids.¡± via mumbled. Alright, hopefully, with this list of activities, she could stop thinking about someone who had been bothering her mindtely.

    After memorizing all the routine activities of the orphanage and noting them in her phone calendar, via decided to go downstairs and get ready for dinner.

    ¡°Adaline said you agreed to manage the orphanage. Is that true?¡± Antony Quirino¡¯s voice opened their dinner conversation.

    ¡°Yes, Dad. Auntie said Uncle Altezza didn¡¯t give her permission to manage the Foundation until their baby is old enough.¡±

    ¡°I understand. But you have to remember your condition. You shouldn¡¯t tire yourself out too much,¡± her father reminded. via just nodded.

    ¡°Dad, don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ve prepared everything. I also had my check-up yesterday, and everything is fine,¡± she reassured, her father nodding.

    ¡°If you need help, contact me,¡± her father instructed gently.

    ¡°Iya, Dad,¡± Via replied with a smile. Sometimes, she found her father¡¯s possessive attitude amusing. But she knew he did it out of love.

    On Saturday morning, via was ready in a light pink skirt and a sky-blue casual shirt, soft colors she always liked. Her private driver was waiting, warming up the car. The forty-five-year-old man had be her bodyguard and driver whenever via needed him.

    ¡°Ready, Miss?¡± he asked when via finished putting on her shoes.

    ¡°Ready. Have you had breakfast?¡± via asked. The stocky man nodded. ¡°Alright then, let¡¯s go.¡± Tobby, the driver, opened the front passenger door, as usual. via always refused if he tried to open the back door because she felt sitting on the driver¡¯s side would bring them closer.

    As the car drove, they talked about light topics, from Tobby¡¯s family to the cafe via managed. They even discussed gossip and news on TV. Instead of being ufortable, via liked it because it made them closer, and she felt like she had a friend to talk to.

    The car arrived at the gate of ¡®Happy Home.¡¯ As Tobby had driven via and her family there multiple times, he knew where to park for the orphanage staff.

    via was ready with her rtivelyrge backpack. Although Tobby offered to carry it, via politely declined. via entered the orphanage¡¯s secretariat area, where a woman approximately the same age as Mr. Iwan greeted her with a friendly smile. ¡°Miss, you¡¯ve arrived,¡± she weed.

    via kissed the woman¡¯s hand, as was her usual custom. To her, women like Mrs. Mary deserved respect. Besides her high social spirit, the woman had sacrificed a lot for the progress of the orphanage and the development of the children.

    Little did via know about Mrs. Mary; the middle-aged woman no longer had a family as all her family members-husband and child-had died in an ident. Without any interest in remarriage, she chose to dedicate herself to the orphanage.

    ¡°Today¡¯s schedule includes health check-ups for the children, right, Mrs.?¡± via asked as she ced her bag on the table.

    ¡°Yes, Miss. But I just received a notification that Dr. Freddie can¡¯t make it. His daughter suddenly fell ill,¡± Mrs. Mary exined, making via pause. ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Miss, Dr. Freddie has asked his colleague to rece him. He said it¡¯s his college friend.¡±

    via knew who Dr. Freddie was. He was a general practitioner who had been working with the Quirino family for quite a while and was now her father¡¯s personal doctor. Despite being rtively young, Dr. Freddie was a promising doctor. As for his college friend, via briefly imagined a name but quickly erased it from her mind.

    No. She rejected it in her heart. It couldn¡¯t be ¡®him,¡¯ right?

    ¡°Good morning¡­¡± A knock shattered the silence in via¡¯s mind. via turned, and her greatest fear materialized before her. What she had rejected in her thoughts now stood in front of her. Neat and handsome, with his characteristic sweet smile. ¡°I¡¯m dwin, Dr. Freddie asked me to rece him today,¡± he greeted as he entered further.

    ¡°Ah, Dr. dwin, right? Pleasee in. I¡¯m Mrs. Mary, the caretaker of the foundation.¡± Mrs. Mary extended her hand to greet dwin. dwin responded with a handshake, maintaining his smile. ¡°This is Miss via. She¡¯s here as a substitute foundation manager,¡± she continued.

    dwin smiled. ¡°Hi, Princess,¡± he greeted, waving his hand and winking mischievously.

    Mrs. Teti raised her eyebrows, surprised by the attitude and the address of the man in front of her towards the owner¡¯s daughter. ¡°Does the doctor know Miss via?¡± she asked curiously.

    ¡°It just so happens, ma¡¯am. She¡¯s my niece,¡± dwin replied.

    ¡°Niece?¡± Mrs. Teti asked in disbelief. Given dwin¡¯s apparent age in his thirties and via herself in her twenties, it was unlikely that people would believe they were uncle and niece.

    ¡°The story is long, ma¡¯am,¡± dwin said casually. ¡°So, when shall we start the examination?¡± dwin redirected the conversation. After that, they busied themselves with examining the children.

 Chap 9

    Dear Diary

    Dear Diary,

    I want to vent again, after holding it in for some time. May I?

    Where should I begin thisint?

    I just want to know, until when will these trials keeping to me? After days of trying to avoid them, why do we have to meet again?

    It feels like I¡¯m running in circles. When I think I¡¯ve gone far enough, in the next step, I¡¯m back to the starting point of my journey.

    Is this fate? I can¡¯t say it¡¯s fate. Not after the cruel fate separated me from him.

    Not after the cruel fate gave me a¡­

    I don¡¯t even want to say it because I don¡¯t want to remember it.

    Dear Diary,

    I promised that I wouldn¡¯t wait anymore. But seeing him again makes my determination waver. I¡¯m entranced by his smile, and I fall in love because of hisughter.

    I¡¯m trapped again, falling into his charm.

    I don¡¯t deserve to hope for him. It feels like, to fall in love with him, I don¡¯t deserve it.

    Maybe in the past, I dreamed of having him. Loving him for the rest of the life that God gave me. But after that incident, I feel that my right to love him has vanished.

    My chance to be with him is gone. Not just for him, but for anyone God destined for me in the future. I feel unworthy.

    Dear Diary,

    Let me tell you about the prayers I offer every night to Him about him.

    I hope he finds happiness, even though I know his happiness is not with me.

    I hope he finds the best match from Him, even though I know his soulmate is not me.

    No, I don¡¯t know who his soulmate is, but I hope it¡¯s not me.

    I hope he has righteous descendants, even though he won¡¯t get them from my womb. Because I know my abilities, I know my chances.

    Dear Diary,

    In my prayers, I always wish the best for him. May God grant all those wishes. And in return, I also hope for happiness for myself.

    Even though my happiness is not attained with him.

    ***

    ¡°Why is Uncle here?¡± dwin turned to look at his niece. Her beautiful face looked mncholic, her cheeks reddened by the hot sun. They were sitting on a bench in the courtyard of the orphanage, right under the tall mango tree.

    ¡°Why indeed? Is Uncle not allowed to be here?¡± via turned, looking back at dwin with her golden-brown eyes and shaking her head.

    ¡°Not like that. It¡¯s just that I heard today Grandma is organizing a wee party for Uncle at home,¡± replied via in her calm tone. dwin noticed the movement of the girl¡¯s skirt as she shifted back and forth.

    ¡°So, if Grandma is throwing a party, I¡¯m not allowed to be here?¡± dwin asked, raising an eyebrow.

    ¡°Not like that,¡± via replied with a tone of resignation. dwin liked hearing the girl in front of him whining. It felt like seeing via ten years ago when she was still a teenager. ¡°I mean, the party is for your wee. Uncle is the main star; how can the star not be present at his own event?¡±

    dwin shrugged casually, leaning back against the wooden chair. ¡°I¡¯m just fulfilling my duty as a doctor. Mom must understand that,¡± dwin replied casually. He tilted his head, choosing to look at the clear sky above. ¡°What about you? Why are you here? Don¡¯t you want to be a disobedient granddaughter for not helping your grandma?¡±

    via gasped, looking at dwin with an unbelieving gaze. ¡°How can Uncle talk like that? I¡¯m here to substitute Aunt Adaline. Mom and Dad have given their permission.¡±

    ¡°Ohh¡­ I thought you were here because you were trying to avoid me,¡± dwin said, looking at his niece¡¯s pale face from the corner of his eye.

    ¡°Why would you say that?!¡± The girl asked, stuttering. She dared not look at dwin.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, my feelings tell me that you¡¯ve been trying to avoid me,¡± he replied casually. In fact, dwin thought that via had been avoiding him all this time, even though she was trying to do it carefully.

    And why did dwine to such conclusions? It¡¯s because, all this time, via had never been willing to do video calls with him. Even when all her family gathered, she didn¡¯t join them when they visited dwin in Germany. And when dwin returned to America, she never showed up at all.

    During thest dinner at her house, she chose to lock herself in her father¡¯s study rather than apany her siblings in their usual y. There always seemed to be some excuse via made to avoid being in the same room with him. Initially, in the early years of dwin¡¯s relocation, he thought via¡¯s absence among her family was due to her busy schedule with schrships and college. But as time went on, dwin couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that she was intentionally avoiding him.

    Even today.

    via wasn¡¯t azy girl. She always helped if her family needed her, like the event her mother organized for his wee this time. But in reality, she chose not to be there, citing the need to go to the foundation, although dwin knew Mrs. Mary was more than capable of handling such activities.

    But it wasn¡¯t just that which made dwin think. Another reason was, why did he feel annoyed?

    Yes. He was annoyed. Very annoyed.

    Annoyed because via kept distancing herself from him. But he himself didn¡¯t know why.

    When he decided to continue his studies in Germany, everything he did was to avoid that girl. Because, honestly, he felt an inappropriate feeling towards his step-niece who was still a teenager at that time.

    He always felt longing when he saw her. He even felt reluctant when, at one point, a friend of her friend visited and openly showed interest in via.

    Jealousy? Of course, dwin knew that feeling. He was an adult man, so he couldn¡¯t pretend not to know that feeling. But he felt it was inappropriate for him to have such feelings for via. Although his lips said that being involved with a girl as young as via felt like being with his own niece, his heart said otherwise.

    The reason he often contacted his twin brother¡¯s family was via.

    He wanted to see her face every time he did a video call with his brother¡¯s family. Or at least hear her voice. But his hopes were never fulfilled. Because somehow, her radar seemed so strong. Because she was never there or pretended not to be there whenever dwin contacted ire.

    Not only that. Every time there was a celebration in his family where everyone was required to gather, and dwin tried to contact his family, she never appeared on the screen. There was always some excuse, whether it was a genuine busy schedule or one that was fabricated.

    And when dwin chose to spend his holidays by returning to America, she also never showed up whenever he was around.

    Five years.

    It took five years for dwin to finally see her, and that too in his own apartment. It was truly a miracle. When dwin searched the ce he thought via would be, she wasn¡¯t there. But suddenly, he could see her in a ce he thought she would never visit.

    dwin is furious. Extremely furious. It was he who initially chose to distance himself from the girl to rid himself of feelings he thought were inappropriate. But now, why was it that when the girl chose to avoid him, he found himself disliking it? He was angry. But he was confused about whom to be angry with.

    He was the one who decided to put an end to this madness from the beginning. Who wouldn¡¯t know that via liked him? From the way she looked at him, the attention she gave him-dwin knew that the girl had feelings for him. However, dwin always rejected her.

    For God¡¯s sake, via was his niece¡¯s close friend, Abigail. And she had now be the step-niece of his twin brother¡¯s wife, ire. dwin had seen her grow since she wore a white and blue uniform. Was it right for him to have any other feelings? He could be used of being a pedophile.

    And when he heard from Abigail that via had a boyfriend, dwin was truly shocked. It felt like something gripped his chest and pulled it so tight. He should be happy, shouldn¡¯t he? At least he knew that her feelings for him were no longer there. But why did he feel reluctant?

    dwin turned to the beautiful girl in a blue headscarf beside him-via. How should this uncle behave?

    ¡°Uncle, are you going to continue the examination now?¡± via¡¯s question interrupted his thoughts. Reluctantly, dwin straightened his posture, following the veiled girl to the examination area.

    At exactly three in the afternoon, they decided to stop the examination. There were still about a third of the orphanage children that dwin hadn¡¯t examined. But for efficiency, they decided to continue the examination the next day.

    via was still organizing all the files she had studied, which she had received from Mrs. Mary. The foundation nned to add some new rooms and implement them in the near future. At around four o¡¯clock, via was about to leave the foundation. However, when she went to the parking lot, she didn¡¯t find her driver or her car there. Instead, it was dwin sitting in the car with a book in front of him.

    Seeing via¡¯s presence, dwin rolled down the car window. ¡°I asked Tobby to go home.¡± His uncle¡¯s statement answered her unspoken question.

    ¡°But why?¡± via asked, puzzled.

    ¡°Why what? You want to go to Grandma¡¯s house, right? So why not go with me?¡± His uncle¡¯s suggestion.

    ¡°But, I¡­¡± via looked at her clothes. That was just one of the reasons she had to refuse to go with dwin and go to her grandmother¡¯s house towards the end of the event. It used to be like that, but now? via herself had no other reason at the moment.

    ¡°I can drop you home first to change and then to Grandma¡¯s house. Or another alternative, I can take you to your familiar boutique because I just returned here, so I don¡¯t know where to buy clothes there, and then we can go straight to Grandma¡¯s house.¡±

    via was confused. Whatever choice she made, it all ended up with her being alone with dwin in the car. ¡°Maybe just the boutique,¡± she answered resignedly. dwin nodded, smiling.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin parked his car in the parking lot of a well-known mall and immediately looked for the nearest boutique. While via chose her clothes, dwin did the same. via got a simple dress in light turquoise, gradually shading into pink. When it came time to pay, dwin intervened, and the man also handed three paper bags with the boutique¡¯s logo to via. ¡°Birthday gifts from me,¡± he said, responding to via¡¯s confusion.

    ¡°But it¡¯s not my birthday, Uncle?¡± via asked, puzzled.

    ¡°Just consider them as gifts that I missed before.¡± He replied tly. ¡°Just take them, while I¡¯m feeling generous.¡± The man then left via, who was still in a state of bewilderment, without saying a word.

    via followed his steps afterward. ¡°Uncle, this is too much,¡± via replied again. She didn¡¯t see each piece of clothing her uncle chose, but she knew there was more than one garment in each paper bag.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯ve missed a few of your birthdays. Add to that the congrattions for entering university and the graduation gift. Well, consider it an umtion of gifts for all your achievements.¡± Once again, dwin answered with his casual tone.

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t I be the one giving you a gift?¡± via replied. dwin¡¯s steps halted.

    ¡°A gift? For me?¡±

    ¡°Yes, a wee back gift.¡± via replied as dwin resumed his steps.

    ¡°Not now, save everything until there¡¯s a lot umted, just like the gifts I gave you.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not as wealthy as you, Uncle. I can buy your gift now.¡± via offered. But dwin shook his head.

    They had returned to the parking lot. dwin helped via put the paper bags in the back of the car. Then the car drove to dwin¡¯s parents¡¯ house.

    dwin¡¯s Mother often pesters dwin about marriage matters. Considering dwin¡¯s age, now reaching thirty-five, and his twin brother¡¯s wife who is about to give birth to their third child, his mother is bing increasingly eager to match dwin with the daughters of her friends. And dwin knows that it will happen again today. So, he is reluctant to attend the event his mother is organizing.

    dwin nced at via. What if¡­

    Quickly, dwin shook his head. What would people say if dwin said that he wanted his own niece to be his wife? Surely everyone would criticize him.

    via is twelve years younger than him. A significant age difference, of course. Moreover, she is the stepdaughter of his twin brother. Even if he doesn¡¯t care about what people think, what about his family?

    His mother loves via as much as she loves Abigail. But would she ept dwin¡¯s idea, which even ording to dwin himself is a crazy idea? And what about Antony, via¡¯s father? Would he be willing to have a son-inw who is more suitable to be the girl¡¯s uncle?

    dwin is in a dilemma. But he cannot deny his feelings.

    As for via, does she still have the same feelings for him? What about the man named Eijaz? dwin doesn¡¯t want to disturb their rtionship if their rtionship is already serious.

    They have arrived at dwin¡¯s family home. dwin chose not to park his car inside the house. On purpose, so he could leave more easily if he wanted to. Several cars were neatly parked in the house¡¯s yard and the outside. There was a car that dwin recognized. His forehead furrowed, did dwin invite him to this event? Because, as far as dwin knows, he hasn¡¯t even contacted him.

 Chap 10

    via gazed at the two-story house with a long sigh. The luxurious house that had been her second home for eleven years once again made her feel ufortable. For the past five years, the ce always made via nervous.

    Carrying a paper bag with clothes she had intentionally chosen for this asion, via walked in following dwin. Instead of using the front door, they opted to enter through the side door that led directly to the kitchen. The housemaid who already knew her greeted her warmly.

    ¡°Is Mom already here?¡± via asked, ncing towards the interior of the house.

    ¡°Yes, Miss. Mrs. ire is in front of the house with Mr. Antony,¡± replied the housemaid, acknowledged by via with a nod.

    ¡°And Abigail?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s upstairs. Getting ready, she said.¡± via nodded again and chose to walk up the stairs to her friend¡¯s room. The room they always shared when they gathered there.

    via knocked on the door as a form of courtesy. She never wanted to open the door directly, fearing that her friend might not be decently dressed.

    ¡°Come in!¡± ordered the room¡¯s owner. via peeked for a moment and smiled. ¡°Guess who.¡± Abigail teased and returned to her makeup.

    ¡°Mind if I take a quick shower? I feel a bit stinky,¡± via said, cing her bag on the bed.

    ¡°Not going home first?¡± Abigail asked, looking at via¡¯s slightly dirty appearance due to her activities at the foundation.

    ¡°Uncle kicked Tobby out of the orphanage,¡± via said briefly, instantly receiving a sharp look from Abigail.

    Uncle dwin?¡± Abigail asked in disbelief. via nodded. ¡°Why did he kick Tobby out?¡±

    via shrugged. ¡°Dr. Freddie suddenly couldn¡¯te to the orphanage because his child is sick. Somehow, uncle dwin became his recement.¡±

    Abigail squinted her eyes. via knew her friend was having a monologue in her mind, contemting what scenario might be happening between them. Abigail was like that-despite her fierce appearance, she was the mncholic type, immersed in the melodramas she created.

    ¡°Alright, no need to think too much. I¡¯ll take a shower. Wait for me, don¡¯t go down first,¡± she requested, and her friend nodded.

    via wasn¡¯t someone who liked to spend a long time in the bathroom. It only took her five minutes to clean herself, another five minutes to apply body lotion, and five more minutes to fix her hair and makeup. So fifteen minutester, they were already on the ground floor, heading towards where the event was being held.

    ¡°Lho, did youe together?¡± Mrs. Julie Hampton, Abigail¡¯s grandmother and also via¡¯s step-grandmother, asked as she saw her two granddaughtersing down the stairs.

    ¡°No, grandma. I took a shower upstairs,¡± via replied, kissing the elderly woman¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the leading man?¡± Abigail asked as she grabbed some food from the table.

    ¡°He¡¯s here, chatting with his acquaintance,¡± Julie nodded toward the living room, where dwin was talking to a woman. They couldn¡¯t see clearly as they were in a side view. ¡°What do you think?¡± their grandmother asked them. via looked at Abigail, puzzled.

    ¡°Think about what, grandma?¡± Abigail asked casually, aware of her grandmother¡¯s intention to seek their judgment on their uncle¡¯s potential ¡®match.¡¯

    ¡°What do you think about them as a couple? I heard they¡¯ve known each other for a long time.¡±

    via and Abigail nced at the person simultaneously. After getting a clear look at the woman who happened to turn her head, they exchanged nces again.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that¡­¡± Abigail hesitated.

    ¡°She¡¯s also a doctor. My friend¡¯s daughter,¡± Julie replied enthusiastically. ¡°I think they look good together. Their ages are not too far apart.¡± Julie eximed with a radiant face. via smiled, responding to Julie¡¯s words with a nod. ¡°Well, if you want to eat, go ahead.¡± Julie said, then walked away, leaving the two of them.

    via chose to walk to the kitchen, with Abigail trailing behind. ¡°I never expected that via already found her match,¡± her friend said suddenly.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± via furrowed her brow.

    ¡°Yeah, that Dr. Phoebe Madsen. She¡¯s definitely a toughpetitor. It¡¯s been years, and she¡¯s still faithfully pursuing Uncle dwin.¡± Abigail grinned mischievously. ¡°Don¡¯t let her beat you. As long as the wedding ceremony hasn¡¯t taken ce, you still have a chance to be with Uncle dwin.¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about? Be careful with your words; people might get the wrong idea,¡± via cautioned.

    ¡°Wrong idea how? Isn¡¯t it a fact?¡± Abigail sat on one of the barstools, and via sat beside her.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± via warned again.

    ¡°Okay, I apologize. I won¡¯t bring it up again.¡± Abigail replied with a guilty expression. ¡°But, Via, I genuinely support your rtionship with Uncle dwin. I¡¯m at the forefront of supporters for both of you.¡± Abigail said with a sweet smile.

    ¡°Abby!¡± via reprimanded her friend and cousin.

    ¡°What, love?¡± Abigail teased. She gently stroked via¡¯s head in a maternal manner. ¡°My dear, what do you want? Shall I feed you? Aaa¡­¡± Abigail offered food to via. via squinted but still opened her mouth, and they bothughed together.

    ¡°Wow, you two are really close.¡± The voice of a woman behind them made Abigail and via turn around. dwin and Phoebe were walking towards them. ¡°It¡¯s so nice to see a friendship like yours,¡± the woman said warmly.

    via smiled, but Abigail didn¡¯t. ¡°We¡¯re not just friends, but also family,¡± she replied tly. ¡°Long time no see. Thest time we met was when I attended your wedding.¡± She added with a sharp dig. via looked at Abigail; she had no idea that the woman next to her uncle was already married. ¡°But why are you here alone? Where¡¯s your husband?¡±

    ¡°Ah, um¡­¡± Phoebe seemed flustered.

    ¡°Abby, get me a drink, please,¡± dwin requested, more to break the awkwardness.

    ¡°Spoiled, just asking for a drink. Before long, you¡¯ll want to be spoon-fed,¡± Abigail grumbled, but despite herints, she got up from her seat and walked towards the kitchen.

    dwin sat beside via, taking Abigail¡¯s ce, and Phoebe automatically sat on via¡¯s left side, making via feel sandwiched between the couple. via was about to get up from her seat, intending to follow Abigail, but dwin held her hand. via nced at dwin and saw him subtly shaking his head. As a result, via could only straighten her back and stay in her ce.

    ¡°I heard you¡¯re working as a model now?¡± Phoebe started the conversation as Abigail ced a ss in front of dwin.

    ¡°Yes, something like that,¡± Abigail replied casually.

    Since the only remaining barstool was next to Phoebe, Abigail chose to stand across the table, facing via. ¡°Auntie, where are you working at the hospital now?¡±

    Phoebe mentioned the name of a prestigious hospital. ¡°But I¡¯ve also opened my own obstetrics clinic,¡± she replied with a slightly proud tone.

    ¡°Oh, so you specialize in obstetrics?¡± Abigail asked again, and the woman nodded.

    ¡°You¡­¡± Phoebe frowned, looking at via.

    ¡°via, Auntie,¡± via said with a smile on her face.

    ¡°Yes, sorry. I forgot. Well, it¡¯s been a long time since we met. How are you? Working already?¡± Phoebe shook her head, trying to regainposure.

    via shook her head. ¡°I¡¯m still a frencer, Auntie,¡± she replied, still smiling.

    ¡°Ohh¡­¡± Phoebe responded with a mocking smile that didn¡¯t escape Abigail¡¯s notice.

    ¡°Don¡¯t underestimate yourself, Via.¡± Abigail waved her hand in front of via. ¡°via tends to downy herself, Auntie. Even though her cover looks like a teenager, she¡¯s actually a sessful businesswoman.¡± Abigail said with pride. She didn¡¯t want her best friend to be mocked by someone like Phoebe.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Phoebe looked at Abigail and then at via.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    ¡°Oh, Auntie forgot? When we first met five years ago? We met at via¡¯s younger sister¡¯s birthday celebration.¡± Abigail reminded her. Whether Phoebe didn¡¯t realize who via really was or the woman thought via was just a ¡®good friend¡¯ to Abigail, like Haisley, who was at the event earlier. ¡°via is the stepdaughter of Uncle dwin¡¯s twin sister. She is the eldest daughter of Antony Quirino, the owner of Coskun Company. Auntie knows Coskun Company, right?¡± Abigail stared at Phoebe. The woman looked unbelievably shocked. In Abigail¡¯s heart, she smiled triumphantly. ¡®You lost big time,¡¯ she thought. ¡°And her family has been a donor to several charitable foundations and hospitals.¡± She continued with the intention of mocking the woman.

    ¡°Is that true?¡± The woman uttered with a pale face.

    ¡°Yes.¡± Abigail replied with the same tone as Phoebe¡¯s earlier statement.

    ¡°You?!¡± The exmation made all four people there turn to the owner of the voice. ire with her bulging belly was waving her hand. ¡°Come here, let¡¯s start the eating ceremony.¡± All four nodded. Abigail took via, leaving the two adults behind to follow them.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on with you today, Abby? You¡¯re acting strange.¡± via questioned with a soft whisper.

 Chap 11

    ¡°I¡¯m not acting strange. Medusa is too arrogant. I can¡¯t stand her having a rtionship with Uncle dwin, especially when she openly insults you. Who does she think she is?¡±

    ¡°But it didn¡¯t have to be so confrontational, right?¡±

    Abigail just shrugged. They were now in the living room where a long bench filled with plenty of food was served, and dinner began after a few words from the party organizers.

    via was still at dwin¡¯s residence, helping the household assistants clean up the leftovers of the guests while some men continued the drinking session in the backyard.

    ¡°Are you staying overnight?¡± Abigail asked, carrying a dirty te in her hands.

    ¡°No, I¡¯ll be heading home,¡± via replied, cing the te on the bar table, which wouldter be washed by the assistants.

    ¡°Why? I was nning to stay here and not go back to the apartment.¡±

    ¡°There¡¯s still work I need to finish,¡± via said casually.

    ¡°Work or¡­¡± Abigail paused her statement.

    ¡°Abby, stop teasing me.¡±

    Abigail chuckled. ¡°It¡¯s your fault for always avoiding when ¡®he¡¯ is around.¡± Abigail said, winking in the direction of dwin, who was walking in front of them.

    ¡°You clearly know the reason.¡±

    ¡°Where is the old via? Didn¡¯t you say you wanted to fight?¡±

    ¡°That via is gone since five years ago,¡± via replied with a mncholic tone.

    ¡°Oh,e on, Via. What¡¯s wrong with fighting again?¡± Abigail whined. She couldn¡¯t just let two people she loved be like this.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± via stopped her activity. She looked at Abigail, who also looked at via with her sharp gaze. ¡°You know that everything has changed since five years ago. I¡¯m not the old via anymore. There¡¯s nothing left for me to be proud of in front of him. I don¡¯t deserve to chase after him. He¡¯s more deserving for someone else.¡± via smiled sadly again.

    ¡°Via¡­¡±

    ¡°Abby, let it go,¡± she pleaded. Abigail raised both her hands parallel to her head, a sign that she surrendered. via and her stubbornness were not something Abigail could argue with.

    A few momentster, via packed her belongings and prepared to leave.

    ¡°How are you getting home?¡± Abigail, who was ying with her phone, now focused on via.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Do you want to take me home?¡± via coaxed with a yful tone.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. I¡¯m tired. So, it¡¯s better for you to stay here.¡± Abigail continued to persuade her, causing via to pout yfully. She knew that her parents had left some time ago, leaving her behind, thinking that via would stay at dwin¡¯s residence.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± she whined again.

    ¡°Just ask Uncle to take you. He¡¯ll surely do it.¡± Abigail still didn¡¯t want to give in. The girl eveny down, turning her back to via.

    ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case,¡± via answered resignedly. Abigail smiled and turned around, thinking that she had won and via chose to stay. However, her assumption was wrong. The girl continued to walk away from the room.

    ¡°Hey, Via. Where are you going?¡± Abigail shouted.

    ¡°Home, taking a taxi,¡± she replied without turning around, making Abigail fume. Quickly, Abigail grabbed her jacket from the wardrobe and car keys from her bag. She chased after her, intending to take via home, but her steps halted at the bottom of the stairs.

    ¡°dwin, please take Phoebe home,¡± Mrs. Julie¡¯s voice was heard calling dwin. ¡°Honey, where are you going?¡± The question now shifted to via.

    ¡°Home, Grandma.¡±

    ¡°Why are you going home? I thought you were staying here.¡±

    ¡°No, Grandma. I have work that I need to finish. I left the files at home, so I want to go back.¡± via exined again.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    ¡°How are you getting home? Your parents have already left, thinking you¡¯d stay here.¡± Mrs. Julie informed.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go home using an online taxi, Grandma,¡± she replied again and kissed her grandmother¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Are you going home with someone?¡± dwin, who was now holding Phoebe, asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Do you want to take me home?¡± via cajoled yfully.

    ¡°No need. I¡¯m tired. So it¡¯s better if you just stay here.¡± Abigail persisted, making via pout. She knew that her parents had left some time ago, leaving her behind because they thought via would stay at dwin¡¯s residence.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± she whined again.

    ¡°Just ask Uncle to take you. He¡¯ll surely do it.¡± Abigail still didn¡¯t want to give in. The girl eveny down, turning her back to via.

    ¡°Well, if that¡¯s the case,¡± via answered resignedly. Abigail smiled and turned around, thinking that she had won and via chose to stay. However, her assumption was wrong. The girl continued to walk away from the room.

    ¡°Hey, Via. Where are you going?¡± Abigail shouted.

    ¡°Home, taking a taxi,¡± she replied without turning around, making Abigail fume. Quickly, Abigail grabbed her jacket from the wardrobe and car keys from her bag. She chased after her, intending to take via home, but her steps halted at the bottom of the stairs.

    ¡°dwin, please take Phoebe home,¡± Mrs. Julie¡¯s voice was heard calling dwin. ¡°Honey, where are you going?¡± The question now shifted to via.

    ¡°Home, Grandma.¡±

    ¡°Why are you going home? I thought you were staying here.¡±

    ¡°No, Grandma. I have work that I need to finish. I left the files at home, so I want to go back.¡± via exined again.

    ¡°How are you getting home? Your parents have already left, thinking you¡¯d stay here.¡± Mrs. Julie informed.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go home using an online taxi, Grandma,¡± she replied again and kissed her grandmother¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Are you going home with someone?¡± dwin, who was now holding Phoebe, asked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Do you want to take me home?¡± via cajoled yfully.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to. I¡¯m tired. So, it¡¯s better for you to stay here.¡± Abigail tried to persuade her, making via pout yfully. She knew that both of her parents had left some time ago, assuming via would stay at dwin¡¯s residence.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± she whined again.

    ¡°Just ask Uncle to take you. He¡¯ll surely agree.¡± Abigail was determined not to give in. The girl eveny down, turning her back to via.

    ¡°Fine then,¡± via surrendered. Abigail smiled, thinking she had won, and via chose to stay. But her assumption was wrong. via continued to stride out of the room.

    ¡°Hey, Via. Where are you going?¡± Abigail shouted.

    ¡°Home, taking a taxi,¡± she replied without turning, leaving Abigail fuming. Quickly, Abigail grabbed her jacket from the closet and car keys from her bag. She chased after via, intending to take her home, but her steps halted at the staircase.

    ¡°dwin, please take Phoebe home,¡± Mrs. Julie¡¯s voice called dwin. ¡°Oh, dear. Where are you going?¡± The question now shifted to via.

    ¡°Home, Grandma.¡±

    ¡°Why go home? I thought you were staying here.¡±

    ¡°No, Grandma. There¡¯s work I have to do. I left the files at home. So, I¡¯ll just go home.¡± via exined again.

    ¡°How are you going home? Your mom and dad have already gone. They thought you were staying here,¡± Mrs. Julie informed.

    ¡°I¡¯m going home using an online taxi, Grandma,¡± she replied and kissed her grandma¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Come home with me,¡± dwin answered from the other side of the room.

    ¡°No need, Uncle. Besides, I¡¯ve already ordered a taxi through the app.¡± She politely declined. She then walked towards the door, but dwin stopped her.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take you.¡± It was amand, not an offer. ¡°Besides, it¡¯s not safe to take a taxi at night.¡± dwin continued, holding via¡¯s arm and leading her to the front door.

    Phoebe, who was waiting for dwin, suddenly lost her smile when she saw dwin leading via. ¡°via?¡± she asked, looking at dwin and via alternately. via, feeling uneasy, immediately released her uncle¡¯s hand.

    ¡°Uncle, just take Aunt Phoebe. I¡¯ll take a taxi.¡±

    ¡°No, you can¡¯t. Besides, your things are still in my car. And I also need to talk to your dad. So now, get into the car. Just cancel your order.¡± He ordered again.

    via hesitated. She nced at Phoebe, who looked at her disapprovingly. But to avoid causing more trouble, via finally opened the back door of the car and sat there, intentionally giving dwin and Phoebe a chance to get closer.

    For a moment, via felt the sharp gaze dwin cast her way, but she ignored it, and in return, she got a smile from Phoebe.

    Throughout the journey, via chose to y with her phone, letting Phoebe monopolize the conversation. via didn¡¯t pay attention to dwin¡¯s expression, but he sounded like he was responding minimally.

    ¡°After the contract with the current hospital is over, I¡¯ll also move to the hospital where you work. Then we¡¯ll see each other more often,¡± the woman said enthusiastically, touching dwin¡¯s arm affectionately. Instantly, via shifted her gaze to avoid feeling jealous.

    When Phoebe decided to move to the hospital where dwin was working, via decided to change the hospital where she usually went for routine check-ups to avoid that man.

 Chap 12

    The car stopped in front of a two-story luxurious house. A middle-aged couple who had been sitting on wooden chairs stood up as Phoebe opened the iron gate. dwin, following Phoebe, entered the front yard and greeted them while kissing the back of their hands as a gesture of courtesy.

    ¡°Doctor dwin,¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother greeted. dwin nodded politely. ¡°Darling, this is Doctor dwin, Julie¡¯s son.¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother informed her husband with enthusiasm that dwin found a bit excessive.

    ¡°Does Dr. dwin also work at the same hospital as Phoebe?¡± Phoebe¡¯s father asked, and dwin shook his head in response.

    ¡°Phoebe will move to the hospital where dwin works after finishing her current contract, Pi,¡± Phoebe exined with her sweet smile. dwin felt a sense of difort when the woman beside him spoke. He knew Phoebe was making her move, and he was aware of it because he was an adult, not an inexperienced young boy.

    ¡°Come inside. I¡¯ve prepared some snacks,¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother offered while opening the door wide. However, dwin shook his head; he didn¡¯t want to give any false hope to the three people standing in front of him. As much as possible, he had to maintain a distance from them.

    ¡°Maybe next time. Today, I have to leave,¡± dwin politely declined.

    ¡°Why in such a hurry? It¡¯s still daytime,¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother tried to detain him. Phoebe herself aggressively held onto his arm. dwin tried to gently lower her hand.

    ¡°I have to go to my sister¡¯s house and take my niece. Excuse me,¡± he excused himself politely and nodded courteously.

    dwin got back into the car and saw via still engrossed in her phone. ¡°Via, move to the front,¡± he requested quietly. via looked up.

    ¡°Uncle, just go ahead. I¡¯ll move to the front in fifty meters,¡± via replied quietly.

    ¡°Why does it have to be in the front?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s awkward;ter, Auntie Phoebe¡¯s parents will see,¡± she replied, giving her reasons. dwin furrowed his brow. What did via mean?

    ¡°I¡¯m not a chauffeur, Via. Come on, move quickly now; why wait for me to advance first.¡± dwin didn¡¯t want to be argued with. He wouldn¡¯t start the car engine if via hadn¡¯t moved yet. via looked hesitant but then got out and followed her uncle¡¯s request.

    ¡°Later, if Aunt Phoebe¡¯s family starts thinking negatively, uncle should exin that I am his niece,¡± she said just before fastening her seatbelt.

    ¡°Why should I bother exining? Are they census takers?¡± dwin replied casually while starting the car engine.

    Meanwhile, on Phoebe¡¯s porch,

    ¡°Who is that? Why didn¡¯t you bothe home together?¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother asked, looking at Phoebe with confusion. Meanwhile, her husband had already walked into the house, and she wasn¡¯t sure when.

    Before leaving Julie Hampton¡¯s residence, Phoebe deliberately contacted her mother and informed her that dwin was apanying her home, hoping that dwin would stop by and chat at their house so she could advance her approach. However, somehow, dwin ended up forcing via to join them, even though the girl had clearly refused to be escorted. Phoebe was irritated, both with dwin and via. Moreover, throughout the journey, he tantly ignored her.

    ¡°He is ire¡¯s stepson, dwin¡¯s younger sister,¡± Phoebe answered curtly as she walked into the house.

    ¡°Julie¡¯s step-granddaughter?¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother asked, to which Phoebe nodded. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with your mind? How could you let them be together? Remember, they¡¯re not blood-rted. If there¡¯s any connection between them, how?¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother asked in panic.

    ¡°That¡¯s impossible,¡± Phoebe said skeptically. ¡°Whether dwin or his mother, they¡¯re the kind of people who care about others¡¯ opinions. So it¡¯s impossible for dwin to date his own step-niece.¡± Phoebe was confident. ¡°Besides, can¡¯t Mom see how much Julie likes me? My chance to get dwin is very significant.¡± She replied confidently, but her heart felt uneasy, especially after the way dwin kept ncing at via throughout the journey.

    ¡°Are you sure?¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother asked again. Phoebe nodded firmly. ¡°Anyway, I don¡¯t care. However you do it, you must be able to get dwin. I don¡¯t want to be embarrassed again for the second time.¡± Phoebe¡¯s mother looked at her daughter sharply.

    ¡°Yes, I know. Mom, just rx. This time, we will seed.¡± Phoebe replied, equally sharp. ¡°Enough, I¡¯m tired and want to rest.¡± Phoebe then walked towards her room, with no intention of checking other rooms to show her concern.

    In dwin¡¯s car,

    ¡°What time are you leaving for the orphanage tomorrow?¡± dwin started the conversation.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know, maybe I¡¯ll leave early in the morning,¡± via replied tly. Her eyes felt so heavy. She was truly exhausted and incredibly sleepy. She kept rubbing her eyes, but the drowsiness didn¡¯t seem to go away and even intensified.

    ¡°Are you sleepy? Just sleep; I¡¯ll wake you up when we get home,¡± dwin suggested. via turned to him and shook her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Besides, we¡¯ll arrive shortly.¡± via declined.

    dwin nced at via from the side mirror. The girl opened a third of the window and stretched out her hand, as if trying to catch some air. There was something different about via. dwin couldn¡¯t deny that five years is not a short time to change someone, especially the transformation from a teenager to an adult. However, he didn¡¯t expect the change in via to be this drastic.

    dwin knew via much like he knew Abigail, though not as intimately as he knew Abigail. Abigail, in these five years, didn¡¯t change much. Physically, yes. She matured and looked more sophisticated. In terms of thinking, Abigail was already mature beyond her years since she was a teenager, even though via was far more mature than Abigail. But regarding character, behavior, not much had changed.

    Abigail still liked to speak candidly and be yful. She wasn¡¯t arrogant, even though professionally, she really maintained her image. But when with family, she was still the same old Abigail.

    Meanwhile, via?

    Too much had changed in these five years. Physically, she grew into a more mature woman. She looked very beautiful with her subtle makeup. Her long hair looked so lovely and tempting to touch. But it wasn¡¯t just that. The via he knew, even though not as talkative as Abigail, was a girl who smiled a lot and enjoyedughter. But now? It seemed very difficult to see herugh. Even to get a smile from her, the girl seemed very reserved.

    Was it just his perception, or did she really be quieter? And even seemed to keep her distance from him?

    dwin looked at via again. The girl now had her eyes closed, seemingly really asleep. And that was also one of the differences dwin could see. Because in the past, the via he knew was an energetic girl. But now?

    Should dwin contact ire personally to discuss via¡¯s issues? But if ire asks why he wants to know, what should he say? dwin wrestled with his own thoughts. And fifteen minutester, he had arrived at his twin sister¡¯s residence.

    The security opened the gate for him. dwin entered and chose to park in front of the main door. He unbuckled his seatbelt and via¡¯s belt slowly, not wanting to wake her up. Very carefully and almost soundlessly, dwin opened the driver¡¯s door, walked around, opened the passenger door in the same manner, and tried to carry via as gently as possible so she wouldn¡¯t wake up.

    He pushed the front door with his hip and walked in. The sound of the television in the living room was still audible, indicating that the homeowners were still awake.

    ¡°dwin? Is via asleep?¡± ire¡¯s greeting weed him. His heavily pregnant twin sister looked at dwin with a bowl of food in her hands. The fact that his sister became more voracious during pregnancy always made dwin shake his head.

    dwin walked towards the stairs that would lead him to via¡¯s room. Yes, he knew theyout of this house, including via¡¯s and his siblings¡¯ rooms, but he had never entered via¡¯s room before.

    ire, seeing him enter with via, followed him, helping him open via¡¯s bedroom door and lifting the bedspread. dwinid her down gently, then stepped back and left when ire arranged the nket for her daughter and adjusted the room temperature.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    dwin descended and returned to the car, carrying via¡¯s shopping bags and cing them on the sofa. ¡°Did you escort via home, bro?¡± This time the question came from his fifteen years older brother-inw. Somehow, whenever Antony called him ¡®Bro,¡¯ he felt like his brother-inw was teasing him.

    ¡°Yeah. Why did you guyse home without saying anything? Aren¡¯t you worried if via takes a taxi and ends up with an unlucky, nasty driver?¡± dwin scolded. He acted as if he were via¡¯s father, not Antony¡¯s brother-inw.

    ¡°If you talk, be careful with your words,¡± ire scolded, returning to the ground floor.

    ¡°I¡¯m not talking carelessly, just feeling annoyed. The fact is that crime is rampant nowadays. It can happen anytime, anywhere, to anyone, as long as there¡¯s an opportunity,¡± dwin replied, still in a curt tone.

    ¡°Yes, we apologize. I asked to leave early because I thought via would stay over since Abigail was there,¡± ire replied with a guilty expression that made dwin stop any lecture that was about toe out of his mouth.

    ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll head home now.¡± dwin said, tousling ire¡¯s hair as he usually did before bowing down and briefly rubbing his sister¡¯s stomach. ¡°Uncle is going home, sweetheart. Say hi to your siblings for me.¡± He said right in front of ire¡¯s belly. He straightened up, kissed the side of ire¡¯s head, and headed home.

 Chap 13

    dwin had already parked his car in the orphanage parking lot. He looked for via¡¯s known car but didn¡¯t find it.

    Was via noting? Was the girl avoiding him again? He wondered to himself.

    dwin increasingly realized that avoiding him was now via¡¯s specialty. This conclusion was not made without reason because it became clearer day by day that via was deliberately avoiding him, especially yesterday. via refused to be in the same car with him, refused to be in the same room with him. And dwin was sure that if he had picked her up at her house, she would have refused his offer to go together with various excuses.

    dwin tapped his fingers on the steering wheel. His heart felt conflicted. On one hand, dwin was clearly unwilling if via avoided him. But on the other hand, he felt that he didn¡¯t need to go through the trouble of finding ways to avoid the girl as he had been trying to do.

    For ten minutes, dwin wrestled with his own thoughts until he finally decided to get out of the car and walk towards Mrs. Mary¡¯s office. He would ask the orphanage manager the reason behind via¡¯s absence this morning.

    But dwin was surprised when he opened the door. He saw the girl he thought didn¡¯t show up sitting on the sofa, having a serious conversation with Mrs. Mary and a man he didn¡¯t know.

    ¡°Oh, Dr. Hampton. Just arrived?¡± Mrs. Mary greeted warmly. dwin ced his doctor¡¯s bag on an empty sofa and walked closer. ¡°Let me introduce you; this is Dr. Eijaz Dominic.¡± Mrs. Mary smiled at the man who now stood weing dwin. dwin furrowed his brow, feeling like he knew that name.

    The tall, brown-skinned, handsome man smiled warmly and extended his hand towards dwin. ¡°Eijaz. I heard you¡¯re via¡¯s uncle?¡±

    ¡°dwin.¡± dwin replied, shaking the man¡¯s hand. ¡°Yes, by chance, I am via¡¯s uncle,¡± he answered, trying to smile politely.

    ¡°Dr. Dominic is also one of the volunteers at the orphanage. He also knows Dr. Freddie,¡± Mrs. Mary exined.

    ¡°Sorry, I couldn¡¯t help yesterday,¡± Eijaz apologized, feeling guilty. dwin responded with a smile.

    ¡°Now that there are two doctors here, it seems the examinations will be quicker.¡± Mrs. Mary said enthusiastically. She looked at dwin and Eijaz alternately. ¡°Are the doctors ready?¡± she asked, and they both nodded. They followed Mrs. Mary to the examination room for the children.

    Everyone gathered again in the hall during lunchtime, including via and Eijaz, who were now busy arranging the children to sit properly.

    Seeing their familiarity made dwin feel an ufortable sensation in his heart. Especially when Mrs. Mary said, ¡°They make such a harmonious couple, don¡¯t they, Doctors?¡± It made the difort even more pronounced.

    dwin also recalled Abigail¡¯s remarks about via and Eijaz being set up. Initially, he was angry and wanted to oppose the n. However, now, after seeing their interaction firsthand, dwin felt that there was no sign of coercion between them. Instead, what he saw was Eijaz and via appearing to admire each other, which disturbed dwin even more.

    A few hourster, dwin ced his jacket on the bar chair. He walked to the pantry and grabbed a cold drink from the refrigerator. As expected by Mrs. Mary, with his presence and Eijaz¡¯s, their work to examine the children waspleted more quickly.

    On one hand, dwin felt grateful for that. But one point for his gratitude, two other points made him constantly curse in his heart. The first point, of course, was rted to via always being close to Eijaz, and the second point was because he didn¡¯t have more time to pay attention to via.

    ¡°Uncle just got home?¡± Abigail¡¯s voice startled him, and he almost choked on his drink.

    ¡°You startled me!¡± he eximed, patting his chest, which was almost tight.

    ¡°What¡¯s so startling? It¡¯s Uncle¡¯s fault for daydreaming,¡± Abigail grumbled, nudging her uncle and casually opening the refrigerator.

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you moved yet?¡± dwin asked curiously. Abigail, who was taking out ingredients, didn¡¯t pay attention. ¡°Abby?¡± her uncle asked again.

    Abigail sighed. She ced the food on the table. ¡°Why should I move? Besides, you¡¯re rarely at the apartment. When you¡¯re not around, I tidy up the ce, and I also make sure everything stays intact here,¡± sheined irritably.

    ¡°I need privacy,¡± dwin replied tly. Abigail raised an eyebrow and looked at her uncle incredulously. ¡°Why?¡± dwin looked at his niece challengingly.

    Abigail shook her head and began to chop onions in front of her. ¡°I just don¡¯t believe you¡¯ve turned into a naughty man. I thought you¡¯d remain a monk like you¡¯ve always been,¡± she scoffed.Original content from N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± dwin looked at his niece confusedly.

    ¡°Earlier, you said you need privacy. Are you nning to live with a woman here? Who? Do I know her?¡± Abigail stuck the tip of the knife into the cutting board and looked at her uncle cynically.

    ¡°Oh God, Abby. Your thoughts.¡± He sharply eximed.

    Abigail shrugged again. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with my thoughts? We¡¯re both adults, right? If it¡¯s not that, what kind of privacy do you mean? You also only use the apartment as a ce to sleep, just like me. So, what kind of privacy are you talking about if not bringing a woman here?

    ¡°If you onlye home from work, eat, and sleep, I don¡¯t disturb your privacy, do I? In fact, we can help each other. If it¡¯s not you cooking for me, I¡¯ll cook for you. You keep me from bringing men here, and I keep you from bringing women here. Win-win, right?¡±

    ¡°You can rent another apartment. Your money is even enough to buy a unit here. Why do you want to live with me? Or if not, you can go back to your parents¡¯ house. There are many empty rooms there.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to go back.¡±

    ¡°Why? Still often argue with your father?¡± dwin asked again, still curious.

    ¡°Something like that. Until now, Dad still doesn¡¯t agree with my choice of bing a model. Not to mention Grandma who always pressures me to get married soon. It makes me ufortable.¡± The girl in front of him began to heat the pan and pour oil onto it.

    ¡°Well, if there¡¯s already a candidate, why not hurry it up?¡± his uncle asked again.

    Abigail turned and smiled slyly at her uncle. ¡°I don¡¯t want to surpass you, Uncle,¡± she said mockingly. ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll suffer from being the only old bachelor in Grandma¡¯s family.¡± The girl then poured the onions into the pan, apanied by the sizzling sound of oil. ¡°Besides, I still want to be a single bridesmaid. Moreover, I¡¯m not ready to be tied to anyone,¡± she replied while stirring her dish, creating an enticing aroma.

    dwin felt like he was about to drool if Abigail¡¯s next sentence didn¡¯te out.

    ¡°But maybe if via is married, I might change my mind.¡± And that one sentence made dwin¡¯s stomach feel nauseous instantly.

 Chap 14

    They had just finished their routine event at the orphanage, and Eijaz was driving while via sat casually beside the steering wheel. Eijaz intended to invite her to dinner, and via agreed.

    via looked at the man beside her, Eijaz Dominic, also known as Dr. Eijaz. A tall man with tan skin and thick, shiny ck hair, he had a handsome face. His smile was always warm, and his voice was calming. His demeanor was nurturing, and his attention?

    via had known him for five years. Let¡¯s skip the details of their first meeting. The next day, she was reintroduced to him, revealing that he was the son of her father¡¯s acquaintance, a businessman who chose to be a doctor instead of continuing the family business.

    Eijaz was extremely, even excessively, polite. He always spoke politely but didn¡¯t hesitate to be sharp if via made a mistake. Everyone assumed they were a couple, but in reality, only via and Eijaz knew the truth.

    Eijaz had expressed his feelings to via about his liking and love for her. via tried to open her heart to him. However, until now, all she had for him was respect, awe, and affection for a brother via never had.

    shback

    Dinner was enjoyable until via felt an unusual atmosphere afterward. Eijaz¡¯s gaze towards her seemed so intense. He looked at her with a hesitant but trusting look.

    ¡°Via,¡± he uttered softly. via still looked at him tly. Not that she couldn¡¯t guess what he was going to say, but she didn¡¯t want to feel conceited, so she chose to listen.

    ¡°Hmm?¡±

    ¡°Once again, I want you to know. I like you. Are you really not willing to give me a chance?¡± Eijaz asked with a hopeful expression.

    via looked at the man in front of her with a confident gaze. ¡°You¡¯re the one who knows my situation best. Are you sure you still want to ept me?¡± She asked in return. She saw the man nodding. ¡°What about your family? What about your parents? I don¡¯t want to hurt them.¡±

    ¡°Via, I ept you as you are. I love you no matter what your condition is. I know, the only reason you reject me is because of him. Right?¡± He asked with a disappointed expression.

    ¡°You know that, and I don¡¯t want that to hurt you.¡± via always gave the same reason. Because, in fact, that was the only reason she had for rejecting Eijaz.

    ¡°I won¡¯t be hurt. But I still hope you¡¯re willing to give me a chance. Or even, I will give you a chance to fight for your feelings with him.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t fight for him. That¡¯s because I know we can¡¯t be together. So, I don¡¯t have any expectations for him. But you? You still have a story you can pursue. I don¡¯t want someday, after we¡¯re together, you feel regret and end up hurting my feelings because of my condition.¡±

    The man reached for both of her hands and held them tightly. ¡°I can¡¯t promise what the future will be like. Even I¡¯m not sure how long God will give us in this world. But one thing I can promise you. My feelings for you are genuine. At least, consider that.¡± via looked at him teary-eyed.

    ¡°Give me a chance, Via. I will help you open your heart to ept me. Or at least, try to suggest to your mind that there is love for me in your heart. Respond to my statements every time I say I Love You. Even though I know it¡¯s just a word. But who knows, someday it will be real.¡± He pleaded again.

    via had no more reasons. In the end, she could only nod. And from that day on, Eijaz vowed that they would embrace this arranged marriage.

    shback Off

    And now six months have passed. Although they never exchanged rings, both families already considered them officially engaged.

    ¡°Are you unsure, Via?¡± the man asked. His gaze wasn¡¯t usatory, nor did it carry anger. However, via knew there was a hint of sadness in his face.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ask that, Dominic,¡± she pleaded softly.

    ¡°I know. I¡¯m sorry,¡± he said again. ¡°I just feel¡­¡± The man trailed off. ¡°Forget it. Forgive me. How¡¯s the cafe?¡± Eijaz redirected the conversation.

    ¡°Everything¡¯s good. It¡¯ll be ready to reopen next week. I¡¯ll let you know the exact date. I hope you cane for a visit.¡±

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ll be there. I don¡¯t want to miss your historic day,¡± he said, affectionately patting via¡¯s head. ¡°How are you feeling? Still dizzy?¡±

    ¡°For the past few days, no more,¡± she honestly replied. Despite having a rough patch, her condition had improvedtely.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ignore it if you feel anything, okay?¡± he gently requested. via nodded. The man gave her a warm kiss on the top of her head just before the traffic light turned green.

    ¡®Oh God, why don¡¯t You open my heart to a man as good as him? Because truly, this feeling isfortable when I¡¯m with him. But I myself don¡¯t know if thisfort is a form of love,¡¯ via whispered in her heart. She looked at the man beside her, still focused on driving, asionally holding her hand.

    A week has passed.

    Today, via was cleaning up with Abigail, preparing to open their cafe. The seven employees were ready with their respective tasks. ¡°Finally, may it start from the opening event until forever, without any significant problems in our business,¡± Abigail said when they felt satisfied with their work.

    They were now standing together with the seven employees in the area between the kitchen and the cashier, which were positioned side by side. Unlike on TV, where there¡¯s a ribbon-cutting ceremony and other events during a store opening, they simply stood together in a circle, praying with loud words from each person and affirmed by the others.

    ¡°May our cafe be a hit.¡±

    ¡°May there be no more issues with our cafe.¡±

    ¡°May Ms. Via and Ms. Abigail raise our sries.¡±

    ¡°May I find a rich customer soulmate like in romantic movies.¡±

    And other prayers that they affirmed to each other, interspersed with a few smiles andughter. Then, they joined their hands, cheered, and pped afterward.

    ¡°Get ready, our time is only five minutes away from opening,¡± Abigail pped her hands, and the employees returned to their respective positions.

    Two chefs entered the kitchen area, one cashier walked behind the counter with a set ofputers and invoice machines. The remaining four stood ready in the front of the store.

    They were the seven employees who had worked together in the previous cafe that caught fire. Employees who had be like family to Abigail and via. Polite and respectful, yet familiar at the same time.

    After that, Abigail and via went up to the third floor of the shop. This floor had been designed as an office, storage room, and two three-by-three-meter rooms for employees, along with a three-by-four-meter room for either Abigail or via¡¯s special room. All these spaces were separated by partitions with wallpaper-covered walls, making them lookfortable.

    At least Abigail and via made itfortable, so they, along with their employees, could feel at home there. Sometimes, via herself liked staying in the shop if she felt toozy to go home.

    via¡¯s own workspace was mostly made of dark ss with a balcony facing the front area of the shop, allowing her to see the shop¡¯s parking area through specially made iron trellises by the shop owner.

    via sat behind her desk, turning on the square screen showing the entire cafe area. They had installed CCTV in all areas of the shop, not because they didn¡¯t trust their employees, but more as a precaution in case a customer caused trouble, or if there were losses, CCTV could serve as evidence.

    The entire area, from the first to the third floor, each had four CCTV cameras, not including the ones in the kitchen and storage areas. Meanwhile, two CCTV cameras were installed in the parking area, and two more were ced by the back door leading to the goods receiving area. So, in total, there were 19 CCTV cameras in their cafe.

    Expensive? Definitely. Just purchasing one camera required a considerable amount, multiplied by neen, it was indeed a substantial investment. However, for the sake of security and mutualfort, via and Abigail didn¡¯t mind.

    After all, all the expenses were calcted. They only hoped that their cafe would run sessfully as they envisioned.

    ¡°How¡¯s your college going? Easy?¡± Abigail asked.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    ¡°So far, so good. How about your job? Any fantastic photo shoots?¡± via looked at her friend, and suddenly her friend¡¯s face turned red. ¡°Why? Is there something?¡± via asked suspiciously.

    ¡°Um¡­ well¡­¡± Abigail hesitated.

    ¡°What is it, Abby, just speak.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Via.¡±

    via frowned in confusion. ¡°Sorry for what? Did you do something wrong to me?¡±

 Chap 15

    ¡°Well, you could say yes. You could also say no. I¡¯m not sure how to put it. It¡¯s about Gilbert.¡±

    Gilbert? via still furrowed her brow at Abigail. ¡°Why with Gilbert?¡±

    ¡°He¡¯s here.¡±

    This time via was stunned. ¡°Gilbert? Here? With Haisley?¡±

    ¡°Ugh¡­ Why bring up Haisley. Haisley is definitely in Ennd with Nathan.¡±

    ¡°And then?¡±

    ¡°Gilbert is here. Turns out, he¡¯s a photographer now,¡± Abigail answered with an annoyed sigh.

    ¡°Really?¡± via smiled, seeing her friend¡¯s annoyed expression.

    Gilbert was the brother-inw of their friend, Haisley. He was the guy who had once confessed to liking via. It wasn¡¯t a love triangle, but Abigail considered it as such. Meanwhile, via saw it as a strange form of love. Abigail, despite not wanting to admit it, clearly liked Gilbert. While Gilbert imed to like via, via didn¡¯t reciprocate his feelings because, even though she didn¡¯t have another man she liked, she couldn¡¯t ept Gilbert due to their differences in beliefs. At the same time, via was already quite fond of dwin, although she didn¡¯t know his feelings toward her.

    ¡°So, are you two working together now?¡± via asked again. Abigail nodded weakly.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know that my agency coborated with Gilbert. When I was offered to be a model for Chayton Fashion, I thought it was okay. Considering their products are highly popr in Asia, and now they¡¯re starting to make waves in the American market. Who would refuse a good product and fantastic advertising pay?¡±

    ¡°At first, I thought this wasn¡¯t the same Chayton we knew. But it turns out I was wrong because this is the same Chayton I¡¯m familiar with.¡±

    ¡°So, Gilbert is now involved in the fashion world, huh?¡± via tried to understand Abigail¡¯s sometimes overly long and convoluted statements. Her friend nodded. ¡°But you said earlier that he¡¯s a photographer?¡±

    ¡°Yeah, that too. So, it turns out I also just found out that G likes to get directly involved in photo shoots. Initially, I thought ¡®directly involved¡¯ meant supervising. But it turns out I was wrong. ording to him, ¡®directly involved¡¯ means he bes the photographer.¡± Abigail snorted in annoyance. But via smiled broadly. ¡°Are you teasing me?¡± she asked with a sarcastic tone. via continued to smile widely.

    ¡°I just want to return the ammunition to you, Abby,¡± via replied casually.

    ¡°Ammunition?¡± Abigail looked back at her with a furrowed brow.

    ¡°Chase him, defend him. Because love isn¡¯t sitting still and watching. It¡¯s moving and fighting. If he¡¯s passive, you be active. If he¡¯s not flirty, you be flirty.¡± via looked at her friend, and Abigail stared back at her with her mouth open. via truly outsmarted her.

    FLASHBACK

    A few years ago.

    Haisley, Abigail, and via were sitting in the cafeteria enjoying their lunch.

    ¡°So, you got a schrship?¡± Abigail looked at via. via nodded. She had received a schrship eptance notification from one of the renowned universities in California and had her parents¡¯ permission to attend school there. ¡°What about you, H? Are you going to Ennd?¡± Abigail looked at Haisley, who turned to her with a sad expression.

    ¡°Not sure,¡± he answered sadly.

    ¡°What do you mean? Didn¡¯t you already join the program? Yesterday you said you applied for a schrship there.¡±

    ¡°Yes, everything is done. Just waiting for the results. But now I¡¯m having doubts. What if I go there, what about my future in pediatrics? What if Nathan doesn¡¯t like my presence?¡±

    ¡°Oh God. You guys are the same.¡± Abigail stared sharply at her friend, who had be her cousin. via, feeling her name was mentioned, raised her head from her lunch.

    ¡°Why bring up my name?¡± she asked displeased.

    ¡°Yes, you and H are absolutely no different. Listen to me. Let me predict your love fate.¡± Abigail looked at Haisley and via alternately. ¡°Let me ask you. Throughout your journey to get the schrship, how was it? It required effort, right?¡± via and Haisley nodded. ¡°You studied and studied and studied. Joined this course. Took private lessons. h, h, h. Then you got the results of your efforts, right?¡± Once again, via and Haisley nodded. ¡°Now¡­¡± Abigail mmed the table, surprising Haisley and via. Even their bowls and sses vibrated quite strongly. ¡°You already know the basic principle, that to get something, you need to make an effort,¡± she said passionately. ¡°You like Nathan,¡± her finger pointed at Haisley. ¡°You¡¯re into Uncle dwin.¡± The finger then shifted to via. ¡°So, you both fight to get them in various ways.

    ¡°But don¡¯t try to be illogical. Cunning is allowed, but don¡¯t be greedy. Chase him, defend him. Because love isn¡¯t sitting still and watching. It¡¯s moving and fighting. If he¡¯s passive, you be active. If he¡¯s not flirty, you be flirty. Well, a little bit of teasing is okay. Just consider it a taste test before buying.¡± Abigail replied and then went back to sipping her milkshake. It seemed like her throat was drying up from talking too much.

    shback Off

    Abigail looked at via and then muttered softly. ¡°Damn!¡± she whispered. How could her best friend and cousin really turn the tables on her?

    Even Abigail herself forgot that she had once said that to her friend. But upon reconsideration, her words had sweet results for their friend, Haisley. Because the girl sessfully won her crush. Now, it was only Abigail and via who needed to fight with Abigail¡¯s ¡®ammunition.¡¯

    *****

    Dear Diary,

    I found myself conversing again with my dear friend, reminiscing about an old memory that we had almost forgotten. About Love, Struggle, and Prayer. It shook me a bit at first, making me reconsider. Can I? Should I?

    Can I fight, disregard all the negative thoughts in my mind? But I am afraid alone. What if the struggle doesn¡¯t end beautifully? Not for me, but for him?

    Should I fight? Considering that the future at stake is not just mine. But also his?

    Dear Diary,

    I waver. He has a bright future. Even though I don¡¯t know to whom his heart belongs, I know that there are many women who want to anchor their hearts to him. And honestly, I am one of them.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

    But if I recall the word ¡®deserving¡¯. Then I am not one of them. I am not ¡®deserving¡¯ for him. Because I have too many things to consider as well. Not for my own good, but for his.

    I don¡¯t want to be blind because of love. Closing my eyes and refusing to see the pain of people around me because of my future selfishness. And I also don¡¯t want to deafen myself from the bad talk of others towards us in the future. It¡¯s okay if those malicious stares and harsh words are directed at me. But if it¡¯s all aimed at him, I can¡¯t handle it. Because my love is there to protect him.

    Dear Diary,

    I don¡¯t want to be an ungrateful person. It¡¯s just that often I hope if I am not me now. That via was not born as via.

    I wish I could be someone else who could freely love him, pursue him, and show all these feelings to him.

    But if I don¡¯t be via, then I won¡¯t have what I have now. My parents, my siblings, my rtives, my friends. Those whom I love and who love me. And maybe, if I were someone else, I might not even know him. Am I not grateful?

    So I think it¡¯s better to hold onto a pebble than to hold onto sand. Because the tighter I grip the pebble, it stays in my hand. While the more I grip the sand, the more it slips away from my hand.

    I release one precious thing and hold onto another. Not because I don¡¯t love him, but because I love him too much.

    He will find his happiness, and I will find mine. There is no struggle in my love story. I can only offer prayers for him.

 Chap 16

    The hospital has its distinctive smell; that¡¯s what¡¯s on dwin¡¯s mind. And those smells have lingered long enough in his head. In the early days of his practice, all those scents made him feel dizzy, but now, because he¡¯s ustomed to them, all those smells have be ordinary.

    The hospital¡¯s dedicated phone rings. There¡¯s a special message. dwin reads the message and immediately leaves his desk. The teakwood door with a natural brown color,beled ¡®Director,¡¯ is in front of him. He knocks twice until he gets permission to enter. He opens it and sees several fellow doctors with morning schedules like his gathered inside the room.

    ¡°Doctor Hampton, pleasee in.¡± The heavy and friendly voice of Doctor Hamid wees him. ¡°Well, now that it seems everyone on morning duty is here, let me introduce. Doctors, all of you, staff members as well. As discussed earlier, we¡¯ll have a new doctor in this hospital. So let me introduce to all of you. This is our new obstetrician, Dr. Phoebe Madsen, and the neurosurgeon, Dr. Eijaz Dominic.¡±

    dwin looks towards Phoebe, whom he already knows, and nods slightly. Then his gaze shifts to the male doctor whom he also met a few weeks ago, Doctor Eijaz Dominic. The man who is now the boyfriend or fianc¨¦ of his niece, via.

    What kind of game is God ying with him right now? Why are these two people in front of him at this moment?

    dwin snaps out of his reverie when a colleague gently nudges his arm. Just as Phoebe extends her hand for a polite introduction. Some doctors seem to smile, thinking dwin is captivated by Phoebe¡¯s beauty. They¡¯re mistaken. His fascination is more due to the presence of the handsome man in front of him.

    After small talk, ten minutester, dwin is back behind his desk, ready to work. He begins visiting the patients in the rooms under his supervision. After that, he proceeds to examine patients who have registered at the internal medicine clinic.

    At noon, a soft knock is heard from outside. dwin looks at Jonas, the male nurse who serves as his assistant. Treatment is paused during the break, so they shouldn¡¯t have any patients right now. Jonas shrugs, indicating that he also doesn¡¯t know who¡¯s at the door.

    ¡°Come in,¡± dwinmands gently. The door opens, revealing Phoebe¡¯s face.

    ¡°Hi,¡± she greets with a broad smile.

    dwin furrows his brow, surprised by the presence of the obstetrician whose area is quite far from his. ¡°Yes, Dr. Madsen?¡± dwin asks with his formal tone and demeanor.

    Phoebe seems to furrow her brow, her face suddenly pouting in a yful manner. ¡°Come on, dwin, does it have to be that formal?¡± she asks in a childish manner. ¡°We¡¯ve known each other for quite a while, in case you¡¯ve forgotten,¡± she says, emphasizing the word ¡®known,¡¯ as if she wants to assert her identity to the world.

    ¡°Sorry, Doctor. But we are still in the hospital area,¡± dwin gently retorts. He tries to maintain a professional attitude. Regardless of the long acquaintance, dwin doesn¡¯t want rumors circting about any other rtionships among fellow doctors. He wants to keep a distance as much as possible. ¡°Can I help you?¡± dwin asks again with a firm tone.

    dwin knows that Phoebe is currently trying to get closer to him. Not because she¡¯s overly confident, but considering Phoebe¡¯s track record and her mother¡¯s actions since her return to America, dwin knows that the woman in front of him is targeting him as a potential partner. Therefore, dwin wants to make it clear that he has no interest in her by being as professional as possible both outside and inside the workce.

    They are old friends, studied at the same campus. But their initial meeting was because Freddie introduced them. Because his friend admired Phoebe back then and wanted to get closer to her. And that¡¯s the extent of their rtionship. dwin doesn¡¯t want any unclear rumors circting in the hospital.

    Phoebe is still pouting in frustration, but dwin ignores it. ¡°I want to invite you to lunch. Since I¡¯m new here and you¡¯re the only one I know, I thought we could have lunch together?¡± she suggests.

    A woman who is ¡®easygoing¡¯ shouldn¡¯t have difficulty making friends, right? Because no matter how new the environment they enter, they automatically blend in easily. So again, dwin knows that it¡¯s just an excuse.

    ¡°Sorry, Doctor. I can¡¯t. I already have lunch ns with someone else,¡± dwin responds tly. It¡¯s not entirely a lie, and it¡¯s not just an excuse to avoid. He does have lunch ns with someone else, and it¡¯s not with Phoebe.

    The sound of a knock is heard again, and the still-open door reveals their guest. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯mte,¡± a woman¡¯s voice greets them. Jonas looks at the guest with his mouth agape.

    ¡°A-Abigail?¡± he asks, surprised.

    Abigail looks at the nurse in uniform and then smiles. ¡°Do you know me?¡± she asks politely. The young man nods his head.

    ¡°I-I¡¯m Jonas. We went to the same high school.¡± He replies, extending his hand. ¡°You might not recognize me, but I know you and your close friend, via.¡±

    Abigail epts the man¡¯s handshake. ¡°Hi, Jonas. Sorry if I don¡¯t remember you. My brain is a bit slow when ites to recalling names,¡± she says candidly. Jonas nods. Yes, Abigail is a cheerful person, but she also has difficulty remembering people¡¯s names, except for certain individuals with whom she has frequent encounters.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, I understand. Congrattions, by the way. I often see your face in some advertisements,¡± he says sincerely. Abigail responds with an equally sincere smile. ¡°How¡¯s via?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s well, very healthy,¡± Abigail answers, still with her smile. ¡°Oh, hello, Dr. Madsen.¡± Abigail shifts her attention to the others in the room, waving as a greeting.

    ¡°Oh, hi, Abigail,¡± Phoebe greets with a forced smile. ¡°So, you have ns with Abigail?¡± Phoebe looks at dwin. He nods. dwin stands up and takes off his doctor¡¯s coat, hanging it on a hook before putting it in the locker. ¡°Where are you guys having lunch? Can I join?¡± Phoebe looks at dwin with pleading eyes. dwin is about to speak, intending to refuse. However, Abigail interrupts.

    ¡°Why not?¡± that¡¯s Abigail¡¯s response. dwin gives his niece a sharp look, but Abigail just produces a cheerful smile. She ignores dwin and turns to Jonas. ¡°What about you, do you have lunch ns?¡± She asks Jonas, who shakes his head. ¡°Good. The four of us can go. The ce isn¡¯t too far. Come on.¡± She invites them again, and without waiting for anyone¡¯s approval, she walks out of dwin¡¯s room. Let¡¯s see the show, she murmurs to herself.

    They were already in themercial area where via and Abigail¡¯s cafe was located, using Abigail¡¯s car with dwin as the driver. Currently, they were in line to enter the cafe¡¯s parking area. Since it was lunchtime, and their cafe was a popr spot, the parking lot was automatically full.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t that Dr. Dominic?¡± Jonas asks as he sees a man getting out of an SUV and heading towards the cafe they were also heading to.

    ¡°Where?¡± Abigail, sitting in the driver¡¯s seat, tries to look in the direction pointed by Jonas. ¡°Do you know Eijaz?¡± She asks Jonas, who responds with a nod.

    ¡°He¡¯s a new doctor at the hospital. Just joined at the same time as Dr. Madsen.¡± Jonas nces at Dr. Phoebe, and Phoebe nods.

    ¡°Ohh, I see. The world is small, huh? Or should I rephrase that? Kansas isn¡¯t as vast as I thought.¡± Abigail chuckles. ¡°I know you, you know me and via. You work with Uncle, you know Eijaz, who turns out to be via¡¯s fianc¨¦.¡± Abigail casually states with joy in her voice.

    Jonas and Phoebe are both stunned. Abigail can see their faces through the rearview mirror, and a smile still lingers on her face. Meanwhile, beside her, Abigail can see her uncle¡¯s fingers turning white as he grips the steering wheel tightly.

    ¡°Is that true?¡± Jonas asks to confirm. Abigail nods. Jonas smiles happily. ¡°I really didn¡¯t see thating. But Dr. Dominic and via do make a great couple. Both beautiful and handsome. Plus, they¡¯re both friendly. Both quiet and shy too. I hope Dr. Dominic can make via happy.¡± Jonas sincerely prays, which only makes dwin grit his teeth and grip the steering wheel even tighter.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    ¡°Amen,¡± Abigail replies just as sincerely. Although in her heart, the girl hopes that the person sitting next to her is the one who will bring happiness to her friend and cousin.

    ¡°What¡¯s good about both being quiet,¡±ments dwin, who has now sessfully parked his car.

 Chap 17

    ¡°In a rtionship, you shouldplement each other. If one is passive, the other should be active.¡± He says before getting out of the car with an annoyed expression, followed by Phoebe.

    Jonas, who was waiting for Abigail to exit, seems to muster the courage to ask. ¡°Abby, is something wrong?¡± Jonas looks at Abigail, puzzled. Abigail looks back at him with a warm smile.

    ¡°ording to you?¡± Abigail asks back. ¡°Okay, I feel like there¡¯s no need to be too formal.¡± Abigail continues casually. Seeing Jonas¡¯s indifferent expression, it seems he doesn¡¯t mind either. ¡°I know we can¡¯t be considered close, but I¡¯ll need your help in the future. Considering you seem to be able to assess situations quickly, like just now. Will you help me?¡± Abigail looks at him hopefully.

    The idea actually came out spontaneously, and Abigail wasn¡¯t expecting a hundred percent ¡®yes¡¯ from Jonas. After all, they just met, and they¡¯re not too ¡®close¡¯ to each other.

    Jonas furrows his brow. ¡°As long as you don¡¯t ask for any weird prescription, I¡¯m okay with it.¡± He replies casually.

    Abigail smiles broadly. ¡°Of course not.¡± She waves her slender hand. ¡°What kind of prescription would I need anyway? I don¡¯t need weight loss pills, and I don¡¯t need any stamina boosters either.¡± Sheughs before following the two adults in front of her.

    dwin scans the nearly full first-floor area but doesn¡¯t see Eijaz or via. Where are they?

    ¡°Eijaz is on the third floor,¡± Abigail answers tly next to him. ¡°Eijaz is a special guest, so he gets special treatment, Uncle. There¡¯s no way Eijaz is asked to queue on the first or second floor.¡± Abigail says again. ¡°Come on, follow me.¡± Abigail invites Jonas, who trails behind her towards the stairs. Unwillingly, dwin follows his niece, followed by Phoebe behind him.

    As the stairs lead to the third floor, the sounds ofughter from a man and a woman can be heard. Somehow, dwin feels his chest pounding. His ears warm, not because of the hot weather, but because of the melodiousughter of via, a sound he rarely hears.

    Abigail takes off her shoes and ces them on the shoe rack next to the staircase before walking forward, followed by Jonas. ¡°Via¡­ I brought an old friend here.¡± She greets loudly.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    dwin looks around, searching for via. However, all he sees are closed doors, which seem to lead to various rooms. via appears from the back of the stairs wearing a ck apron on her chest. One hand holds a te, and the other holds a spat.

    ¡°Who?¡± She asks Abigail. Then her eyes look surprised when she sees the people behind Abigail. ¡°Oh, Hi Uncle, Doctor.¡± She greets dwin and Phoebe warmly. ¡°And this¡­¡± She looks at Jonas with a furrowed brow at first, then her expression changes to bright. Surprised and happy at the same time. ¡°You¡¯re Jonas, right?¡± She asks hesitantly. This time, Abigail stares at via, confused.

    ¡°Your familiarity seems ¡®intense,¡¯ not just casual acquaintanceship,¡± Abigail asks, puzzled.

    via looks at Abigail with confusion. ¡°Don¡¯t you really know Jonas well?¡± via questions. Abigail shakes her head. ¡°He used to be the head of the Red Cross Youth in our school, Abby. How could you forget? He helped you when you fainted during the ceremony.¡± via reminds her.

    via puts her spat on the te and then reaches out her hand to Jonas.

    ¡°How are you? Did you really be a nurse?¡± She says with admiration that she doesn¡¯t hide. The man smiles shyly, rubbing the back of his neck. Meanwhile, dwin is quite surprised because it seems the ¡®intensity¡¯ Abigail mentioned has reached the context of sharing future dreams. He feels annoyed by that fact.

    ¡°Yeah. And it¡¯s all thanks to you. And you too, sessful with the cafe you always dreamed of.¡± Jonas answers modestly.

    ¡°Oh,e on. It¡¯s just because you¡¯re smart. And yes, finally, I also have a caf¨¦, and all of this is thanks to Abigail too.¡± via responds again with her warm smile. Making the other three people just stare in amazement at via, who, for some reason, smiles and blushes so much in less than five minutes.

    dwin¡¯s chest is pounding even harder. If only he could nail via¡¯s face so she could keep showing that radiant and smiling face forever. ¡°Well, why are you still standing here? Are you all ready for lunch? Abby, did you order food for the kids?¡± via asks again.

    Abigail ps her forehead lightly, forgetting that one fact. ¡°Wait here, I¡¯ll go down first.¡± Then, with all her agility, Abigail puts on her shoes and goes back downstairs.

    ¡°Come here. My friend is inside too.¡± via guides the three people brought by Abigail to enter the other side of the door, which is the kitchen and also the outdoor area on the third floor transformed into afortable space with synthetic grass and decorative nt pots on the floor and a roof covered with transparent canopies. So, they can feel the warmth of the sun.

    ¡°Doctor Hampton, Doctor Madsen?¡± Eijaz, holding a bowl and walking from the kitchen towards the table on a mat, looks at the guests with surprise.

    Phoebe, who has been silent since entering the cafe, greets Eijaz in response. ¡°Hi, Doctor Dominic. Abigail invited us for lunch here, and we didn¡¯t expect to find you too.¡±

    Eijaz smiles. His sweet face looks even more charming when he smiles gently like that. ¡°Well, our date is ruined then,¡± he says teasingly towards via.

    ¡°Oh,e on.¡± via, who is now heading to the pantry, appears shy. Again, dwin wants to frame that face. Unfortunately, the blush on via¡¯s face is not because of him. ¡°Come, have a seat. Abigail will be here soon with the food.¡± She says friendly.

    ¡°I know Doctor Hampton and Doctor Madsen. How about you?¡± He asks Jonas. ¡°Sorry, I¡¯m new to the hospital.¡± He adds after seeing Jonas¡¯s uniform.

    ¡°Just call me Jonas, Doc. I happen to be Dr. Hampton¡¯s assistant. I already know about you. New doctors are always a subject of gossip among colleagues.¡± Jonas answers honestly. ¡°And it turns out we were high school buddies with Abigail and via.¡± He adds with his friendly smile.

    ¡°Wow, an old acquaintance. Can you spill some secrets about via when she was in school?¡± Eijaz looks at Jonas with meaningful winks. ¡°Later, if we have free time, we can hang out and chat handsome at the cafeteria, okay?¡± Eijaz offers just as via arrives with a tray of food.

    ¡°If you want to ask about Via, ask me, Doc, not Jonas.¡± Abigail interjects, who has returned from downstairs carrying a tray of food, followed by one of their employees carrying another tray in one hand and a set of stoves in the other.

    ¡°I¡¯ll think about itter. Because if I ask you, I might go broke because I always need bribes.¡± Eijaz politely declines. Abigail squints, while viaughs again, and again it makes dwin feel hot with jealousy.

    dwin remains silent throughout lunch, as does Phoebe. Only Abigail and Eijaz talk a lot, while via and Jonas only respond asionally.

    Abigail secretly observes how her uncle reacts every time viaughs or when her friend responds to Eijaz¡¯s conversation. Or even when Eijaz unintentionally engages in physical contact with via.

    She also observes how Phoebe looks at via with a disapproving gaze. Her eyes emit such sharp and piercing expressions, although when someone talks to her, her expression returns to a friendly mode.

    Abigail knows the feelings of the four people in front of her. She¡¯s not blind. She knows how Eijaz genuinely loves via but is willing to let her go if she chooses dwin.

    She also knows how dwin is jealous but cannot express his jealousy to via due to his unspoken love.

    Then she is aware of how Phoebe harbors an obsession with dwin, willing to do anything as long as dwin bes hers.

    And above all, she knows how deeply via loves dwin but doesn¡¯t believe in herself to make a move, and at the same time, values Eijaz and tries to open her heart to him just to forget about someone else she believes she can¡¯t reach.

    So, after all the conclusions she captures, herst gaze falls on Jonas. The only man in the room not involved in the love quadrangle, and the only man who doesn¡¯t have feelings for via, whom Abigail can ask for help.

    Yes. Jonas will be Abigail¡¯s eyes, ears, and mouth. If necessary, Abigail will make him not only a shield but also a weapon to carry out her n.

 Chap 18

    via was copying the records into theputer when Abigail entered with her beaming smile. Earlier, after lunch, Abigail had returned the favor by driving dwin, Phoebe, and Jonas to the hospital, citing responsibility as the reason. However, Eijaz had generously invited the three guests to return to the hospital with him.

    ¡°Why are you back? I thought you were heading home,¡± via asked, and Abigail responded with a shrug before sitting on the long sofa across from via. ¡°Don¡¯t you have other work?¡±

    ¡°None. I¡¯m free. Just finished reloading my ammo,¡± Abigail replied casually, choosing to focus on the CCTV.

    ¡°Gilbert?¡± via asked again. The mention of ¡®ammo¡¯ indirectly reminded her of their previous conversation about Gilbert, who was a photographer working with Abigail.

    Abigail paused for a moment before turning to look at via with a puzzled expression. ¡°Why bring up Gilbert?¡±

    ¡°You mentioned reloading ammo. Automatically, my mind goes back to Gilbert,¡± via answered nonchntly, continuing to input data into herputer.

    ¡°Ignore Gilbert. Toss that guy into the sea,¡± Abigail said again with a sarcastic tone.

    via smiled. ¡°Alright, alright. I¡¯ll tell him to throw himself into the open sea if he ever meets you.¡± via joked. ¡°So, what ammo are you talking about?¡± she asked, curious once again.

    Abigail turned to her friend. She had a n in her mind, but of course, it wasn¡¯t a secret if she revealed it to via.

    ¡°There is something. Something that definitely concerns my future, your future, and our future. Just pray that everything goes smoothly for me,¡± she requested sincerely.

    via smiled again. They were friends and now considered each other as cousins. Of course, via would always pray for her happiness, even without Abigail asking.

    ¡°How about the reports from the two restaurant branches that you took earlier?¡± via finally chose to shift the conversation. She knew that if Abigail had a secret, she would keep it until she was ready to share it.

    Abigail opened her sizable handbag and handed over two differently colored folders containing the financial reports to via. Yes, their tasks for their cafe were divided. via was assigned to handle financial matters and bookkeeping, while Abigail took on the fieldwork, monitoring the cafe, collecting reports, and handling any issues between employees and customers, although the third point rarely urred. In terms of roles, via acted as the administrator, while Abigail yed the role of public rtions.

    ¡°What about social media advertising and promotions?¡± via asked again.

    ¡°Smooth. Theunch of the new menu is ready to be circted this weekend. Currently in the editing process,¡± Abigail replied casually.

    Yes, another task for Abigail. As a social media influencer and model, her job allowed her to promote their cafe on her social media tforms. She also became the icon of their cafe. Whether she liked it or not, it had to be acknowledged that she yed a crucial role in attracting customers to their cafe, although via was mostly the brain behind many aspects.

    A few hourster, Tobby¡¯s driven car entered Antony¡¯s parking area. Actually, via herself owned a private house that she bought with the earnings from her business over thest five years. Initially, she bought a piece ofnd at the suggestion of her uncle, Altezza, who worked as an architect. Her uncle said that investments in real estate, especiallynd and houses, would be more valuable over time. So, when via saw and for sale announcement, she consulted her uncle for advice on pricing and location. When her uncle personally inspected the area, negotiated the price, they ended up with via purchasing the one-hectarend.

    If you¡¯re wondering where via got her money, it came from her father. Not by asking, but since the third grade, when she was only nine years old, via had been diligently saving. While her mom¡¯s wealth came from inheritance, business, and her intelligence in investments, via started by saving the monthly allowance her father sent through her grandmother and the pocket money she received from her uncles, all of which she managed with the help of her grandmother.

    Then, when via got to know ire, she started learning about business by making simple local cakes that she could sell at the school canteen. No one knew about this except her family and Abigail. And when her father found out, despite initially forbidding her due to concerns about via getting tired and neglecting her schoolwork, he eventually gave in after being promised that she could handle it.

    Academically, via may not be as brilliant as Abigail or Haisley. Among them, via ranked third, with Abigail at the top. Nevertheless, her grades were not disappointing, and she managed to secure a schrship when applying to one of the prestigious universities in California.

    Back to the issue of the house. After via decided to buy thend, she continued to save, even though at that time, she had enough money to build a modest home. However, via and Abigail had ns to start their business. A year after they graduated, and after via was dered able to move freely following an ident, she and Abigail started their culinary business, which is now thriving. The capital they invested returned even in their first year of operation.

    All thanks to the support of their parents and Abigail, who chose to continue her career in the modeling world, expanding their market share.

    A year ago, before via decided to pursue her Master¡¯s degree, she had another discussion with her uncle and eventually created the design for a modern two-story house that is now afortable residence. The spacious backyard became her private garden, surrounded by high stone walls epassing all of via¡¯s property. As for the interior design, via herself arranged it ording to her passion.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    Her uncle had actually offered via a position in his architecturalpany. However, via¡¯s father didn¡¯t allow it. He wanted via to eventually take over his position at Coskun Company. Whether working with her uncle or her father, it was the same for via. After all, both were in the construction industry.

    via got out of her car and recognized another vehicle. She entered from the back yard as usual and noticed the area was empty, so the car¡¯s owner and her mother were probably inside.

    She headed straight to the kitchen, where she found her mother, who was in her third trimester of pregnancy, standing with her big belly alongside her grandmother, Julie Hampton.

    ¡°Just got back, dear?¡± ire Hampton, now ire Quirino after marrying via¡¯s father, Antony Quirino, greeted her. via nodded, approached, and hugged her stepmother before kissing both of the woman¡¯s cheeks, then turning to her step-grandmother.

    ¡°When did Grandma arrive?¡± She asked politely. Her father¡¯s house and her grandmother¡¯s house weren¡¯t too far apart. It only took about five minutes by car to get there. That¡¯s why they referred to themselves as neighbors. However, because via¡¯s parents had chosen to live in Manhattan before, her grandmother rarely visited.

    Now that her parents had returned to Kansas, her grandmother visited more often, and that was one of the reasons why via preferred to stay in her own house rather than her father¡¯s. She only stayed there if her mother, father, and younger siblings were present.

    ¡°Not long ago, dear. Were you at the cafe?¡± Her grandmother asked, and via nodded. ¡°With Abigail?¡± via nodded again. ¡°That child. dwin keepsining to me, asking him to convince her toe back home and not stay in the apartment all the time. But she always has reasons.¡±

    ¡°Why does it matter if Abigail stays in the apartment? As long as dwin doesn¡¯t live there, Abigail helps him manage the ce.¡± ire said, puzzled.

    ¡°The problem is, dwin says he¡¯s ufortable. They¡¯re both adults now, maybe he¡¯s reluctant to bring his girlfriend home if Abigail is there. But your nephew is just stubborn.¡± Her grandmother grumbled, and via responded with a smile. ¡°dwin too, until now he hasn¡¯t introduced his girlfriend to me.¡± Her grandmother continued to grumble, and via, who was sipping her drink, froze.

    ¡°Well, maybe he doesn¡¯t have one yet,¡± ire replied, trying to calm the situation.

 Chap 19

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, when does he n to stay single? Will he wait until he¡¯s forty? Your child is almost three. Howe he doesn¡¯t have one yet? It¡¯s fine if he has a child right after marriage, but what if he doesn¡¯t? What if he ends up like your elder brother, having a child after five years of marriage? I might be called by God earlier.¡± Julie Hampton responded, still annoyed.

    ¡°Don¡¯t talk like that. Mom herself told me that fate is already arranged. Why is Mom being pessimistic now? dwin might be waiting for the right time to introduce his girlfriend to us.¡±

    ¡°Yeah, if there¡¯s one. What if there isn¡¯t?¡± Her mother continued to frown. ¡°Yesterday, I tried to set him up with one of my friend¡¯s daughters, but his reaction was t.¡±

    ¡°Who did you try to match dwin with?¡± ire asked, but via secretly listened.

    ¡°Phoebe. I tried to match him with Phoebe.¡±

    Julie¡¯s words made the two women of different generations in front of her fall silent. ¡°Isn¡¯t Phoebe a widow? And she already has a child? She¡¯s a divorced widow, not a widowed one. Is Mom really trying to set her up with dwin?¡± ire looked at her mother with disbelief.

    Julie just shrugged. ¡°Then what else can I do? He doesn¡¯t want to be set up with a single woman, and he can¡¯t bring his own candidate. So I introduce him to an avable woman. Besides, Phoebe already has a child, indicating that her womb is fertile. So if they get married, dwin will quickly have a child.¡±

    ¡°Mom¡­¡± ire pleaded.

    ¡°Enough, stop discussing dwin. What¡¯s certain is that I won¡¯t be contradicted. If dwin still doesn¡¯t bring his girlfriend in front of me, whether he likes it or not, he has to ept my choice. Besides, Phoebe, even though she¡¯s a single mother, still looks beautiful. She takes care of herself. Moreover, her profession as a doctor is not disgraceful when I introduce her to family or friends.¡± Julie spoke again.

    via could only smile awkwardly hearing her grandmother¡¯s narration. Yes, her grandmother was right. All the points about Phoebe were indeed correct. Beautiful, well-maintained, a doctor, and able to give offspring. Compared to via, even if she rebelled, she was nothingpared to Phoebe Madsen.

    ¡°Mama, why are you talking like that?¡± ire looked at her mother with difort.

    ire realized that her mother¡¯s words were a subtle jab indirectly aimed at via, and she didn¡¯t want her stepdaughter to be offended by Julie¡¯s words. Unbeknownst to her mother, ire knew that via secretly liked dwin, and Julie Hampton also knew that. So, she subtly ridiculed via¡¯s inadequacy just to ensure that via didn¡¯t have higher expectations for her son. Both of them also knew that dwin had the same feelings for via, but they couldn¡¯t express their feelings due to various reasons.

    ire could only pray that God would pave the way for the love between the two people she cared about. ¡°Where are Zio and Francisca?¡± via shifted the focus away from her stepmother.

    ¡°They¡¯re in their room,¡± ire replied. via just nodded and gave a faint smile before heading towards her younger siblings.

    via went upstairs, ced her bag in her room, and then left it to go to her younger brother¡¯s room. At least, ying with her younger siblings could provide her with some entertainment. And soon, in less than a month, they would have a new ymate in the form of their unborn sibling.

    ¡°Hello, little prince, what are you doing?¡± via asked after knocking on her brother¡¯s room door.

    ¡°Via.¡± Ignazio looked up from his tablet and smiled at via. The sses perched on his nose only added to his charm. Ignazio inherited his mother¡¯s intelligence. Although their father was also smart, given ire and dwin¡¯s history of participating in eleration programs, it was clear that ire¡¯s intelligence genes were more dominant in Ignazio.

    ¡°I¡¯m learning the chords of a new song. Want to sing?¡± It wasn¡¯t a question but a request, judging by the pleading expression on Ignazio¡¯s face.

    ¡°Singing? I want to too.¡± via was surprised when she saw her younger sister, who had been reading a book while lying on the carpet and obstructed by the high bed, suddenly appear from the other side of Ignazio¡¯s room. Apparently, Francisca had been reading the book since earlier. ¡°I want to be the one to sing.¡± The little girl requested, and Ignazio immediately shook his head. ¡°Ah, Zio¡­¡± Franciscained in frustration.

    ¡°Later, you can sing children¡¯s songs. Via and I will sing adult songs first.¡± Ignazio reasoned, although he actually refused because of Francisca¡¯s shrill and unpleasant voice.

    ¡°Eww.¡± Francisca whined again.

    ¡°Let¡¯s do it this way. We¡¯ll shoot a video. I¡¯ll be the musician, Via will sing, and you¡¯ll be the camera girl. Okay?¡± Ignazio offered with a mischievous smile. Ignazio seemed to have absorbed a lot of energy from Uncle Altezza and Uncle Gian. His mischievous nature was different from their father¡¯s calm demeanor.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

    ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll be the camera girl.¡± Francisca formed the letter ¡®O¡¯ by joining her index finger and thumb.

    Ignazio took out an acoustic guitar from his bag. The boy had been learning to y music from Erhan since he was six years old. Amazingly, their father supported him, and now his ying was very skilled, even though Ignazio didn¡¯t take any official music courses. He preferred to learn from streaming videos.

    ¡°What song do you want me to sing?¡± via, who was already sitting on Ignazio¡¯s bed, asked, watching her brother tuning the notes.

    ¡°That one, the song you sang that time.¡± Ignazio then plucked a note, and via smiled.

    Francisca set up the tablet with the camera aimed at Ignazio and via. Ignazio started ying the intro, and via began to sing, while Francisca ran and chose to sit on via¡¯sp.

    I once fell so in love with you

    I fell so deep with all my heart

    I thought no matter what I do

    I will give anything for you

    Don¡¯t ever miss me anymore

    You gave up on us when you closed that door

    I wish you all the best

    Thought you were myst

    Just please can you let me pretend.. to forget

    ~Mahen ¨C Pretend to forget~

    The sound of apuse made the three people who had their backs to the door turn around simultaneously. Antony stood at the doorway, smiling at his three beloved children. ¡°Should I be your producer? How could I not realize that your voice is that good?¡± Antony said with a feigned look of surprise.

    via, feeling embarrassed, felt her face heat up. Meanwhile, Ignazio casually turned off the video on his tablet. Without via knowing, the boy actually had a social media ount with many followers. Just wait and see, when this video is uploaded, there will be a lot of thumbs up he¡¯ll receive.

 Chap 20

    dwin stood frozen. Suddenly, Phoebe and her mother were standing in front of his room with a little girl who looked to be around four or five years old, just as dwin had returned from the Emergency Room.

    ¡°Darling, this is Uncle dwin,¡± dwin heard the voice of Phoebe¡¯s mother, Penelope Madsen. The pretty little girl with curly ck hair standing beside her extended her hand, politely introducing herself to dwin.

    ¡°Sorry, dwin. My mom came here for Gisel¡¯s immunization, and she kept asking about you. She said she wanted to greet you out of courtesy, even though I¡¯ve forbidden her and told her I would ask the staff if I didn¡¯t bring her here,¡± Phoebe said with a guilty expression that dwin knew was just an act.

    ¡°How are you, Mrs. Madsen?¡± dwin politely greeted the woman, who was of the same age as his own mother.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be so formal, just call me Penny. Phoebe¡¯s friends usually call me that,¡± the woman said with a coaxing tone.

    dwin frowned inwardly. Back when he was still a student, before knowing who her mother was, let alone being called ¡®Penny,¡¯ even just addressing her as ¡®Madam¡¯ would make her face sour.

    dwin didn¡¯t pay attention to the woman¡¯s charm. He just gave a thin smile in response. ¡°Dr. dwin, do you have lunch ns? If not, how about having lunch together? Is it alright if I call you by your name directly? After all, you and Phoebe are friends,¡± Penelope suggested again.

    dwin fell silent. He indeed had no lunch appointment, but he also didn¡¯t want to have lunch with Phoebe and her mother. He was quickly thinking of an excuse before Jonas intervened.

    ¡°Doctor, Abigail contacted me. She asked if the Doctor has left yet,¡± Jonas suddenly emerged from the room, looking surprised when he saw Phoebe and her mother. ¡°Oh, there¡¯s Doctor Madsen.¡± He greeted politely. Phoebe just gave a thin smile.

    dwin looked at his assistant. He didn¡¯t actually have any ns with Abigail, especially since she was on a photo shoot out of town. But that was fine; it could be used as an excuse to avoid the lunch invitation.

    ¡°I apologize, Mrs. Madsen. I have an appointment with my niece. Please understand, she can be a bit spoiled,¡± dwin politely declined with a sweet smile.

    Without waiting for Phoebe and her mother¡¯s response, dwin returned to his room and looked at Jonas with a questioning gaze. However, his assistant just shrugged with a yful smile, deepening the furrow on dwin¡¯s forehead.

    ¡°I¡¯m just helping, Doctor. I saw you were ufortable with Doctor Madsen and her mother, so I tried to be a good mediator,¡± Jonas said without a hint of guilt. Besides, dwin was secretly grateful for his assistant¡¯s actions, even though he couldn¡¯t admit it yet. ¡°Or am I wrong? If, in fact, the Doctor wants to have lunch with them?¡± Jonas asked back, afraid he might have misjudged the situation. But Jonas¡¯ actions weren¡¯t out of solidarity as fellow men, nor were they a form of loyalty from a subordinate to a superior. It was more about fulfilling a friend¡¯s request, a request that had been directly aimed at him to look out for dwin. Jonas remembered that request from his friend some time ago.

    shback:

    ¡°I really need your help.¡± Abigail stared at Jonas with her sharp gaze. They were in a cafe not far from Jonas¡¯s ce. Jonas looked back at his old friend with confusion. ¡°It¡¯s about via,¡± Abigail continued.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    Once again, Jonas furrowed his brow. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her? Is she okay? Does it have anything to do with Dr. Dominic? But I don¡¯t know Dr. Dominic.¡± That was all Jonas could think of at the moment. If he connected his rtionship with via to his status as a nurse working in the same hospital as the man he thought was her fianc¨¦, it would surely be about that engagement itself.

    ¡°Do you want me to spy on Dr. Dominic, something like that?¡± he finally asked.

    Abigail waved her hands in front of her face. ¡°Not that. It¡¯s about via, but it has nothing to do with Eijaz. Besides, why are you even thinking in that direction?¡±

    Jonas shrugged. ¡°Well, what else can I think? I work in the same hospital, and you say this has something to do with via. If I connect the dots, it means it¡¯s my business, via, and Dr. Dominic.¡±

    ¡°You said you want me to be your eyes and ears. So, you want me to spy on Dr. Dominic?¡± Jonas concluded with doubt in his voice when he saw Abigail¡¯s sharp gaze.

    ¡°You¡¯re right about connecting the dots. It¡¯s just the wrong person. Besides, why would I ask you to keep an eye on Eijaz? Even without my supervision, Eijaz won¡¯t cheat. He¡¯s head over heels in love with via. What I want you to watch is Phoebe,¡± Abigail said sharply.

    ¡°Dr. Madsen? What¡¯s going on with her?¡± Once again, Jonas looked at her with raised eyebrows.

    ¡°I want you to keep an eye on her. Keep that flirtatious girl away from my uncle.¡±

    ¡°Dokter dwin?¡± Jonas asked. Abigail nodded. ¡°But why?¡±

    ¡°What kind of story do you want, short story or novel?¡± Abigail asked Jonas, making him even more confused. ¡°I mean, do you want the short version or the long version?¡±

    ¡°Come on, Abigail. Just ask straightforwardly, thenguage is tooplicated.¡±

    ¡°You too, if asked like that, you act like you don¡¯t understand. So, which version do you want?¡±

    ¡°Whatever. I have time to listen to you,¡± Jonas replied.

    ¡°I¡¯ll give you the Korean drama version. So, the story is that my uncle and via are in love with each other.¡± Abigail exined. Jonas, who was sipping his orange juice, almost choked when he heard Abigail¡¯s words.

    ¡°But you¡¯re cousins. Automatically¡­¡± Abigail raised her hand, interrupting Jonas before he could say more.

    ¡°Hold your questions. I haven¡¯t finished storytelling,¡± she gently ordered. Jonas reluctantly closed his mouth. ¡°So, Uncle and via are in love. via has been in love with my uncle since junior high school. As for dwin, I don¡¯t know when he fell in love with via. Because I didn¡¯t pay much attention, but it seems like it¡¯s been a long time too.¡± Abigail paused for a moment. ¡°The problem here is the social norms. You know how judgmental the righteousizens can be. via feels she¡¯s not worthy to fall in love with her stepbrother. Simrly, Uncle feels he¡¯s not worthy to fall in love with via, who is, by the way, his niece. And especially because there¡¯s an age gap of almost thirteen years. So, you can say my uncle feels a bit too old for it.¡±

    ¡°How do you know that your uncle has such thoughts? It could be just your own conclusions,¡± Jonas interjected when he saw Abigail sipping her drink.

    ¡°It¡¯s not me drawing conclusions. It¡¯s my uncle who spoke inly. ording to him, having a rtionship with a woman twelve years younger is like dating his own niece. That means me. And via heard it directly. So, she automatically felt hopeless. Plus, one or two incidents made via really give up on my uncle,¡± Abigail replied honestly.

    ¡°So, you want to switch your role from being a friend to being Cindere¡¯s fairy godmother, huh?¡± Jonas asked sharply.

    ¡°Well, you could say that. Or you can say I want to be a matchmaker. Call me a love broker if you want, up to you. The main thing is, I want Via and my uncle to stop acting masochistic and make them express their feelings to each other. ¡®Happiness is pursued,¡¯ bro,¡± Abigail said casually before taking a big spoonful of food. Abigail and her eating style were anything but graceful.

    Jonas massaged his temples. He didn¡¯t know Abigail that well. He also didn¡¯t know via personally. But Jonas knew that via was a kind and sincere girl. She had also been the one who helped Jonas all this time.

    Yes, Jonas was one of the orphans living in the foundation that via¡¯s family supported. Although initially afraid that via would mock him at school after finding out about his background as an orphan, it turned out to be just Jonas¡¯s fear. In reality, the girl did not look down on him. Even when they met some time ago, she introduced him as the ¡®Red Cross Chairman,¡¯ not as an ¡®Orphan.¡¯

    And yes, through via, Jonas could continue his high school education at the nursing school and also received a schrship to study nursing. So now, when Abigail asked for his help for via, as long as it was on the right path, Jonas would help her wholeheartedly.

    ¡°So, what do you want me to do?¡±

    ¡°Not much. Just keep an eye on Phoebe¡¯s movements. If she tries to get close to my uncle at the hospital, handle it and keep them apart or not give them a chance to be close. I¡¯ll be your shield. If she persists, contact me.¡± Abigail requested again. Jonas simply nodded.

    ¡°And Dr. Dominic?¡± Jonas asked again.

    Ignore Eijaz. But if somehow Eijaz can be used as bait to make Uncle jealous, go ahead. Because actually, Eijaz also wants via to fight for his love, even though he himself is in love with via,¡± Abigail continued. And once again, Jonas nodded. ¡°Thanks, Joe.¡± Abigail said it genuinely.

    ¡°I¡¯m doing this for Via,¡± Jonas replied honestly. Abigail just nodded.

    shback Off

 Chap 21

    ¡°Doc?¡± Jonas looked at Dr. dwin. The man twelve years his senior looked at him and shook his head. ¡°Thought so. If yes, I could help the doctor call Dr. Phoebe again.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t be silly. Well, order food online then. I¡¯ll treat you. Consider it my thank you.¡± He handed his phone to Jonas. ¡°Pay using the bnce.¡±

    Later that evening when dwin was about to leave, he saw his sister in the hospital area, guided by her husband. dwin approached and greeted them.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± dwin asked, curious.

    Instead of answering, ire turned the question back. ¡°dwin, are you going home?¡±

    ¡°Yes. What about you? Is it starting to feel?¡± dwin asked, ncing at his sister¡¯s belly.

    ¡°Yes, I had false contractions earlier. Antony was being excessive, insisting wee here even though I told him it was just a false rm. Come on, I¡¯ve given birth twice, I know when my baby will reallye out.¡± ire looked at her husband annoyed. Antony just smiled awkwardly.Copyright N?v/el/Dra/ma.Org.

    ¡°I¡¯m just being cautious, dear,¡± Antony replied.

    ¡°And then?¡± dwin asked again. They finally walked side by side towards the parking area.

    ¡°We decided not to go through with the examination; she asked to go home,¡± Antony answered, ncing at his wife.

    ¡°Why not just do it here?¡± dwin asked his sister.

    ¡°She doesn¡¯t want to. Besides, my regr obstetrician doesn¡¯t work here. Here, just seeing the doctor¡¯s namete already makes the contractions disappear,¡± ire grumbled again.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her?¡± dwin, who didn¡¯t understand ire¡¯s emotions, finally chose to look at his sister-inw.

    Antony shrugged. The answer to dwin¡¯s question came instantly when the figure of the obstetrician passed by them. ¡°Don¡¯t you like Phoebe?¡± he asked directly.

    ¡°If I don¡¯t, so what?¡± ire replied curtly. dwin raised both eyebrows. His sister was indeed a lot like Abigail. Or maybe Abigail copied ire¡¯s behavior? Both of them, when they don¡¯t like something, always make it clear.

    ¡°Well, it¡¯s okay. I was just asking,¡± dwin replied again. They separated as they entered their respective cars.

    dwin actually wanted to know the reason why his sister openly disliked Phoebe. However, he restrained that question. There would be another time when he could ask ire.

    Just before he started the car, his phone rang. ire¡¯s name appeared on the square screen. ¡°Yes?¡± he answered quickly.

    ¡°Do you have ns?¡± ire asked again.

    ¡°No. Why?¡±

    ¡°Antony and I are going to via and Abby¡¯s caf¨¦. We¡¯re going to have dinner there, in case you intend to join us.¡±

    ¡°You want to treat me?¡± dwin teased with a smile on his face.

    ¡°You¡¯re already rich, do you still need treats from an unemployed person like me?¡± ire asked mockingly.

    ¡°But your husband is much richer than I am. He¡¯s the one helping to pay my sry all this time,¡± dwin replied, knowing that Antony and his family were donors to the hospital where he worked.

    ire rolled her eyes without dwin knowing. She nced at her husband before answering her twin brother¡¯s enthusiastic remark. ¡°Okay. Luckily, my husband is not stingy,¡± she replied tly, which was answered by dwin¡¯s enthusiastic response. ¡°But do you know which caf¨¦ we¡¯re going to?¡±

    ¡°The one near here? Which caf¨¦ are you nning to go to?¡± As far as dwin knew, the caf¨¦ owned by Abigail and via that he visited some time ago, wasn¡¯t it? The modern-style caf¨¦ with Korean food?

    ire mentioned the address of a different caf¨¦. ¡°The kids want to eat Japanese food. They¡¯re already there. You can join us there.¡± Then the call was ended, and dwin received a message from ire containing the location map he should go to.

    With a furrowed brow, dwin started the engine and began to drive following the GPS directions.

    The caf¨¦ he visited now was still a three-story shop, just like the Korean food caf¨¦ he visited earlier. If the previous Korean food caf¨¦ had a long building shape, this Japanese food caf¨¦ had a wide shape with a strong Japanese decoration. Imitation cherry blossom trees adorned the front door, surrounded by wood fencing. The dining area also consisted of small square tables typical of Japanese restaurants he had visited before, while on the left and right sides, there were tables attached to the walls intended for those who wanted to eat alone or as a couple, sitting side by side.

    The atmosphere isfortable. Even near the staircase, there is a rectangr touch screen with the inscription ¡°Order Songs Here.¡±

    ¡°Kon¡¯nichiwa, Good afternoon. Wee to Qina Cafe,¡± greeted a female waiter wearing a Japanese schoolgirl-style uniform with her distinctive sailor uniform. ¡°Have you reserved a table, sir? Or is it your first time here?¡± She asked politely.

    ¡°Did a pregnant woman with her husbande here earlier?¡± dwin asked in return. The waitress seemed to furrow her brow. ¡°A heavily pregnant woman in a knee-length peach maternity dress, with her husband.¡±

    ¡°Oh, Mrs. Quirino?¡± The waitress finally remembered. dwin nodded. ¡°Let me take you there,¡± she replied politely, leading dwin into the interior of the cafe. Behind a wooden partition adorned with a panorama of mountains, dwin saw two square tables that had beenbined. ire and Antony were already seated. Antony was even massaging his wife¡¯s swollen feet without any sense of embarrassment or shame.

    ¡°So fast,¡± ire eximed and waved her hand. dwin nodded to the waitress and muttered his thanks before finally taking off his shoes and ascending to the elevated sitting area.

    ¡°Where are the kids? You said they were already here.¡± dwin looked around the specially designed indoor children¡¯s y area, which was about five meters away from their seating area.

    ¡°Francisca is in the bathroom, apanied by Ignazio,¡± Antony answered on behalf. dwin nodded. He looked through the menu book in front of him.

    ¡°Oh, Uncle is here too?¡± The question came from a very familiar figure. Who else but Abigail. ¡°Who invited him?¡± she asked curiously, ncing at ire and Antony alternately.

    ¡°I did,¡± ire answered loudly. ¡°We happened to meet at the hospital earlier.¡± The pregnant woman adjusted her sitting position to cross-legged.

    ¡°Ohh.. Have you already chosen the menu?¡± Abigail inquired, looking at her uncle and aunt. ¡°Where are Zio and Francis?¡± Abigail looked around, searching for her younger cousin, who appeared shortly afterward. ¡°Do you already know what you want to eat?¡± she asked the two kids.

    ¡°I want matcha,¡± replied Francisca.

    ¡°That¡¯s forter. Let¡¯s start with the main course,¡± Abigail reminded. Then, the five-year-old girl looked at the menu and pointed to the food she wanted. The same went for Ignazio, Antony, and dwin. ¡°Aunty, what about you?¡± Abigail looked at her aunt.

    ¡°I already ordered directly from Via. She said my order is being prepared.¡± ire replied casually, making dwin look up and nce at his sister with a puzzled expression.

    ¡°Okay, be patient. I¡¯ll prepare their special dishes first.¡± Then, Abigail left the five of them heading towards what dwin assumed was the kitchen.

 Chap 22

    Tamagoyaki-Rolled omelet. Beef teriyaki. Miso soup. via is preparing ingredients and seasonings to make the three dishes her mother desires. Simultaneously, Abigail enters with an order note in her hand.

    They cook dishes with most of the main ingredients already avable, so it doesn¡¯t take long for them to finish and serve. Abigail ces some of the cooked food on a tray and takes it out of the kitchen. Shortly afterward, she returns and ces more food on the tray. This time, via follows her with a tray containing food in her hands.

    She pauses when she sees the figure at the table with her family. via swallows, trying to steady her heartbeat before continuing her steps.

    ¡°Mom¡¯s order!¡± via hears her stepmother p her hands and cheer as via ces the steaming dishes in front of her.

    ¡°Finish it, Ma. Don¡¯t leave anything.¡± via instructs politely. Without being asked, her mother eagerly nods and starts reaching for the spoon.

    ire sips her soup and happily murmurs, ¡°Mmm¡­ Delicious.¡± She takes another sip. Ignazio looks at his mother and is about to use his spoon to try the soup in front of him, but ire quickly taps her spoon against Ignazio¡¯s. ¡°No, dear. This is especially for Mama. Don¡¯t ask.¡± Shemands. Ignazio pouts, looking at his mom. via, Abigail, and Antonyugh together. dwin just stares at via.

    ¡°Mama, just a tiny taste, pleeeaaase.¡± Ignazio pleads with a cute, pleading face.

    ¡°No, dear. Just ask your sister if you want.¡± ire replies, once again sipping her soup yfully to tease Ignazio.

    ¡°Mama, ugh, Mama doesn¡¯t love me.¡± Ignazio pouts again. ¡°Just be careful, if I have delicious food, I won¡¯t share it with you.¡± He then spoons arge tempura into his mouth.

    ¡°Zio, just ask your sister to make it for you.¡± His father suggests subtly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want a new one, Papa. I want to taste Mama¡¯s.¡± His younger brother insists. This scene is something they¡¯re used to seeing. For some reason, Ignazio always wants to try the food his mother is eating and always refuses to order the same dish. Strangely, ire also always refuses to share her food unless Ignazio does something for her first.

    ¡°Do you want some?¡± ire asks. Ignazio nods. ¡°Give Mama a kiss first.¡± ire taps her index finger on her right cheek. Ignazio stopped kissing his mom when he entered elementary school. His reason was that he had grown up and felt it was no longer appropriate to kiss his mom.

    ¡°Mama, ugh¡­¡± he whines.

    ¡°Kiss me, or else don¡¯t want it.¡± ire sips her soup again, ncing at Ignazio. Ignazio gives in. He finally rises from his seat and quickly kisses his mom¡¯s cheek. ¡°What¡¯s that? It tastes like nothing.¡± ire looks at Ignazio. Ignazio pouts. His chubby fingers hold ire¡¯s jaw, and his red lips peck her right cheek.

    ¡°Enough.¡± He says sarcastically.

    ¡°Why is Mama so biased?¡± ire continues. She turns her head to the right and taps her left cheek with her left index finger. Ignazio pouts. He adjusts his sses before kissing his mom¡¯s left cheek. ¡°Good.¡± ire praises happily, ignoring Ignazio¡¯s sulking face. She slides her bowl, giving permission for Ignazio to try her food.

    Meanwhile, Francisca seems unaware of the war between her mother and her older brother. She is engrossed in her meal. After enjoying the drama between the mother and son, they resume their meal.

    A few hourster, via sits quietly on the balcony of her house. Her private residence, not her parents¡¯. After having a meal together at the cafe, she finally decided to go home, and Abigail agreed to drive her. Considering that via¡¯s house is located far from the city center and on a high teau, Abigail is afraid that via might opt for an online taxi if she goes home alone.

    ¡°If people passing by see you like this, sitting alone under the shady tree. It feels a bit spooky, you know?¡± Abigailments as she enters via¡¯s room, carrying two mugs of hot chocte.

    via smiles at her, understanding the reason behind her friend¡¯sment. Because right now, she is wearing a white knee-length short-sleeved nightdress, with her long ck hair cascading down to her waist.

    In her own home, via feels free to wear anything. She has on a knee-length short-sleeved nightdress with a square neckline, revealing a bit of her graceful neck. Her freshly washed hair is left to air-dry, and her skin looks fair and healthy.

    Abigail ces via¡¯s mug on the round rattan table with a clear ss top. Afterward, she chooses to sit on the egg-shaped rattan swing, adorned with soft square red pillows, her favorite spot in via¡¯s room. Meanwhile, via sits on a long rattan chair, also painted white, with soft cushions that provide support for her seat and back. via sits with her knees hugged, allowing them to sink into the nightdress she¡¯s wearing.

    ¡°If only I knew it would turn out like this, I would probably have negotiated to split thend in half. We could be neighbors,¡± she says while sipping her drink. They both gaze at the expanse of the city settlements in the distance. The twinkling lights resemble starbursts in their eyes. Only asionally, the noisy sounds of passing vehicles disturb the peace around via¡¯s residence. The distance between via¡¯s house and the neighbor¡¯s is nearly thirty meters.

    ¡°You wouldn¡¯t fit living in a ce like this,¡± via responds. ¡°Too far from the city. Less flexible. If Mama says so, this area is more suitable for retirees.¡± via reaches for her mug and inhales the scent of the chocte she likes.

    ¡°Auntie is right. But once in a while, it¡¯s nice too. Comfortable, serene, no one bothering you,¡± Abigail replies again. Abigail suddenly sighs. ¡°I see the way he looks at you, Via.¡± Abigail¡¯s words make via grip her mug tightly. ¡°Are you sure you want to give up?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    via remains silent for a moment before turning to Abigail. She pulls up her nightdress, revealing her calf and left thigh to Abigail without saying much, and Abigail understands the intention of her friend¡¯s action. However, Abigail doesn¡¯t give up easily.

    ¡°He¡¯s a doctor. He will understand your condition. You can fight together. Especially what happened to you, it¡¯s because you want to be with him.¡± Abigail looks at her friend with a mncholic gaze. She knows this is a topic via avoids. But she also wants her friend and uncle to fight together.

    ¡°He¡¯s not at fault, he doesn¡¯t know anything. This is all fate that I have to ept. And not being with him, that¡¯s my choice. I don¡¯t want him to be with me out of guilt because it¡¯s not his fault. And even if Uncle has the same feelings as what I feel for him, what about Grandma?¡± via chooses to stand. She leans her back against the balcony railing, folds her arms across her chest, and smiles at Abigail. ¡°I don¡¯t care about people¡¯s opinions, Abby. Seriously, I don¡¯t. But what about Grandma? She really wants grandchildren, and she knows my condition.¡±

    Abigail also stands. She ces both hands on the balcony railing and gazes into the distance. ¡°Don¡¯t be too pessimistic, Via. Doctors are only human. They can only guess.¡±

 Chap 23

    via turns around and stands side by side with her friend in the same position. ¡°Yes, doctors are only human. And Grandma is also human. But she¡¯s a mother who loves her son so much. She does love me as her granddaughter, but she may not ept me as a daughter-inw.¡± via smiles at her friend again. ¡°Do you forget what happened ten years ago?¡± via reminds her friend of the memory when they overheard a conversation between Grandma and her mother.

    shback

    ¡°I don¡¯t mind you being close to via. Because she¡¯s a good girl. But think again, ire. How can you decide to be involved with a widower who is fifteen years older than you?¡± The loud voice echoed loudly to the front door where via and Abigail, who had just intended to greet, suddenly fell silent. The two girls in blue and white uniforms looked at each other and chose to listen in silence.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Antony, Ma? He¡¯s a good man, stable. Handsome too.¡± dwin¡¯s voice was heard defending his sister¡¯s choice.

    Life is not just about good looks and a stable life. Do you forget that he could even abandon his own child? If he could be so heartless to leave his daughter, maybe that¡¯s the reason for the divorce as well. And Mama doesn¡¯t want her child to suffer because of a selfish man like that.¡± Julie Hampton continued with fiery tone. ¡°Moreover, you act as if there are no other men out there. You¡¯re beautiful. There are many men out there who like you. If you can¡¯t choose, let me find one for you. A bachelor who is ready for marriage and has a career.¡±

    ¡°Ma¡­ don¡¯t have such narrow-minded thoughts. What¡¯s wrong with Antony being a widower and having a child? He has realized his mistakes and is redeeming all his past mistakes. Moreover, he and his ex-wife divorced not because of Antony¡¯s fault. But it¡¯s on his ex-wife.¡± ire tried to defend.

    ¡°Oh, that¡¯s just a one-sided excuse. Of course, he will defend himself. Where would he want to be med? Besides, you are my only daughter. I don¡¯t want neighbors, Mama¡¯s friends, and colleagues of yourte father to talk about you. Can you imagine a virgin marrying a widower who already has a child? His child is the same age as your own niece. Where should I put my face, ire?¡± Once again, Mrs. Julie spoke with a high-pitched voice.

    shback off

    Abigail looked at via while via chose to ignore her friend¡¯s gaze. ¡°But grandmother has changed her mind now. In the end, she epted your father. And now she has also arranged for Uncle to marry a widow with children. Even though Uncle is also a bachelor. Uncle¡¯s position now is the same as Aunty ire¡¯s position before.¡±

    via just smiled sadly and sat back down on the soft cushion. ¡°Not the same, Abby. When Grandma agreed to Papa, it was because Grandma knew that Papa was fertile. Mama was healthy. And Papa clearly seemed to love me and Mama.

    ¡°Papa can prove that age is not a problem. But for me and Uncle¡¯s case? I¡¯m at the bottom of her dream daughter-inw list.¡± via lowered her head, looked at her left hand and tried to clench it tightly. Until now, that hand still couldn¡¯t grip tightly. Abigail finally sat next to via. She was pulling her best friend¡¯s head towards her shoulder and stroking her long hair slowly.

    ¡°Really, Abby. If I could go back five years ago. I could find another way. And now I will confidently fight to win Uncle¡¯s heart. But the past cannot be repeated. No matter how hard I try.¡± Abigail could feel her friend¡¯s tears soaking through the thin t-shirt she was wearing. ¡°By God, my feelings for Uncle have not even diminished at all. But what can I do?

    ¡°I¡¯m even hesitant to fight for everything. I really want to be selfish and do what I want to do. I don¡¯t care what people say. I want to be happy. But I can¡¯t.

    ¡°I¡¯m scared. What if one day, Uncle finally gives up on me? I won¡¯t be able to face that, Abby.¡± Abigail felt via¡¯s fingers grip her shirt tighter. Abigail also hugged her best friend tightly. She cried with her, too.

    ¡®Oh my God, how strong and fragile via is at the same time. Why do you treat my friend like this? I know You love Your creatures so much. I know that You will not test her beyond her abilities. I know that this is a test of her faith and patience. But God, when will she get the fruits of her patience and sadness?

    ¡®Can I ask You to hasten her happiness? So she can shed tears of joy? The hard times are enough. Let her be happy even if Uncle is not happy. Open her heart to another man who loves her no less sincerely.¡¯ Abigail prayed silently.

    Abigail is a witness to the sorrow that via has felt for the past eleven years. She is via¡¯s only friend. Although the girl is friendly to everyone, via is a closed-off person. When Abigail first met her, she even thought via was just a rich and arrogant girl, considering her family name. But when her aunt reminded her that via might act that way because she had no friends, Abigail tried to get closer to her.

    And indeed, via is someone who is difficult to get along with, not because she is arrogant, but because of her low self-esteem. After getting to know her, Abigail finally learned the reason behind her low self-esteem. via is a child of divorce. Her parents separated even before she learned to walk. Since then, she has lived with her grandparents while her father chose to work in a different city.

    via never knew the reason for her parents¡¯ separation. She received love from her grandparents and uncles, who were her father¡¯s cousins. However, her father kept his distance from her. Eventually, via learned that her parents¡¯ separation was because her mother had an affair due to her father¡¯s cold behavior. And her father kept his distance from via because he always remembered the pain inflicted by her mother whenever he saw via¡¯s face.

    Imagine, via was more like an orphan at that time. Fortunately, she chose to be shy rather than rebellious to seek her father¡¯s attention. Her father¡¯s marriage to Aunt Abigail, despite initially causing conflicts in Abigail¡¯s family, especially from her grandmother, eventually ended happily. ire loved via as if she were her own daughter. Antony tried to get to know his daughter again through Abigail and ire. And now, the only man via loves has be the toughest test in her life.

    The love between via and dwin is not forbidden love. There is no blood rtion between them. The problem lies in via¡¯s low self-esteem and her uncle¡¯s reluctance. Abigail has to find a way, just like she did before when she bridged the gap between via, ire, and Antony. This time, she must bridge the rtionship between via and dwin. Should she tell her uncle about what happened five years ago?N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    dwin doesn¡¯t know what happened five years ago. Because of his cowardice, he chose to leave rather than fight for his feelings, not knowing what he left behind.

 Chap 24

    Abigail POV

    Hi, I¡¯m Abigail. Full name is Abigail Hampton. I¡¯m a friend and also a cousin of via and the niece of the man she loves, dwin Hampton.

    I¡¯m not the busiest person in the world, and I¡¯m not the mostid-back either. But one thing¡¯s for sure, I¡¯m someone who likes to bother myself with other people¡¯s lives, especially when ites to their love affairs.

    Ten years ago, I yed a role in the love story of via¡¯s dad and my aunt. And now, I want to y a role again. Not just want, but I have to take part in the love story of my best friend and also my uncle. Even though I¡¯m still figuring out how to make my intentions work.

    I just got back from a photo shoot. Honestly, even though I¡¯m a model and get paid quite fantastically, I still don¡¯t have my own house. Unlike via, who already has her dream home, I prefer to wait for my future husband to provide me with one. Considering I haven¡¯t nned on getting married yet, and the man I love won¡¯t get approval due to religious differences. So, yeah¡­ My vision of a happy ending story is getting farther away.

    Okay, let¡¯s skip the marriage issue. Back to the living situation. I live in four ces at once. If not at Uncle¡¯s apartment, I stay at the Cafe shop, or at via¡¯s house. But the only ce I can acknowledge as my home is where my dad, mom, grandma, and my sibling are. Yes, my dad¡¯s house, which is also neighbors with via¡¯s dad¡¯s house.

    I¡¯m about to park my car. But when I see a sedan parked in the side yard, I abandon my n and choose to leave my car outside the gate without blocking the entrance. If it¡¯s not my mom¡¯s guest, it must be Grandma¡¯s guest. Because I don¡¯t have friends visiting me. And my dad¡¯s colleagues won¡¯t visit in the daytime like this.

    I choose to enter through the garage door that leads straight to the kitchen. No one is in the kitchen. My sibling hasn¡¯te back from school. There¡¯s only the housemaid preparing lunch there.

    ¡°Who¡¯s the guest?¡± I ask my grandma¡¯s housemaid who has been working since I was a child. The woman¡¯s age might be the same as my grandma¡¯s. Or maybe even older. But because she¡¯s always active, her old body still looks lively.

    ¡°Grandma¡¯s guest,¡± the middle-aged woman replies with her soft voice. Usually, I¡¯m not too curious about my grandma¡¯s guests. But for some reason, this time, I feel like peeking.

    There¡¯s arge oval mirror intentionally installed by my dad on the living room wall. If guests think the mirror is ced there so they can check themselves, then they are wrong. Because the mirror is there to monitor the guests themselves.

    I look at the reflection in the mirror and am quite surprised to see a woman the same age as my grandma, with embroidered eyebrows and chili-red lips, talking seriously to my grandma. I know that woman. She¡¯s my toughpetitor. I mean, she¡¯s my rival as a matchmaker.

    I decide to sit leaning against therge cab that separates the living room and the family room, intending to eavesdrop. If only I had the ¡®extendable ears¡¯ like the Weasley twins. That would make it easier.

    Yes, if only Harry Potter existed in the real world. I might willingly go to Ennd, head to tform 9?, and go to Hogwarts. Hahaha, yeah. I¡¯m one of the fans of that legendary novel and film.

    Okay, back to eavesdropping. I try to sharpen my ears to listen in on their conversation again.

    ¡°Yes, now it¡¯s easier because they both work at the same hospital,¡± I hear the voice of Mrs. Lipstick, aka Penelope Madsen, Phoebe Madsen¡¯s mother, sounding happy. ¡°Well, destiny won¡¯t run away, right?

    ¡°dwin went all the way to Germany. Phoebe has had a failed marriage before. And look, now they both meet again in this city and work at the same ce.¡± She continues, still with a cheerful tone.N?velDrama.Org is the owner.

    Honestly, I snort. Irritated? Disgusted? Yeah, that¡¯s what I feel right now. The old woman shamelessly promotes her daughter. Surely, she¡¯ll soon list all the otherpatibilities between her daughter and my uncle.

    ¡°Yes. I¡¯m also trying to persuade dwin to get close to Dr. Phoebe,¡± I hear my grandma¡¯s voice.

    ¡°It¡¯s not too difficult to bring them together. They were in the same campus before. They¡¯ve known each other for quite a long time. Well, at least they know each other well enough. So it shouldn¡¯t be too difficult to sow the seeds of love between them.¡± Again, Mrs. Lipstick expresses her opinion.

    ¡®Like my uncle is some kind of guy. If he really had something going on with that flirt, he would¡¯ve swept her off her feet since college.¡¯ I whisper to myself.

    ¡°But, I¡¯m a bit confused, actually. Are you sure that Dr. dwin is really not close to anyone? Because I¡¯ve tried to invite him for a meal together, but he always refuses.¡± I hear Mrs. Lipstick sigh sadly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure he doesn¡¯t have a girlfriend. dwin has yet to get close to anyone. On the contrary. I want to know, will Dr. Phoebe¡¯s ex-husband cause any problems in the future?¡± My grandma seems a bit hesitant. Now I¡¯m curious about the real reason behind Phoebe¡¯s divorce from her ex-husband.

    ¡°I assure you that your fears will nevere true. Gisel¡¯s father won¡¯t dare do anything funny again. If he does, we¡¯ll report him to the police. You know yourself the reason Phoebe divorced him was because of the violence she experienced. That man also never fulfilled his duties as a husband. Even now, he doesn¡¯t fulfill his duties as a father to cover the child support.¡± Once again, Mrs. Lipstick sighs. I don¡¯t know why, but I feel skeptical.

    ¡°How about this? Let¡¯s arrange a dinner at one ce. I¡¯ll take dwin, and you¡¯ll bring Phoebe. We¡¯ll adjust the ce and time ording to the kids¡¯ work schedules,¡± suggests my grandma, immediately met with enthusiastic approval from her friend.

    Whatever. It seems like I have toe up with a n now. Okay, let¡¯s get things moving. I choose to exit the house through the same door I entered earlier and head towards my car. I put on my headset and call someone on my phone. ¡°Where are you?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m on my way. Let¡¯s have lunch together.¡± I press the gas pedal harder. I don¡¯t want to get stuck in traffic because lunchtime is approaching.

    Thest patient leaves. I enter my uncle¡¯s office. Actually, I wanted to use the restroom first, and fortunately, each doctor¡¯s practice room at the hospital where my uncle works has a private toilet. In the room, there¡¯s Jonas, via¡¯s friend who has be my spy, and, of course, my uncle. They are working on something, and I don¡¯t want to disturb them.

    When I¡¯m about to leave the restroom, I hear a woman¡¯s voice. ¡°Let¡¯s have lunch together, shall we?¡± An inviting tone with a hint of sulking. It seems like I¡¯m starting to recognize that spoiled style. Who else but the daughter of Mrs. Lipstick, the flirty widow doctor, Phoebe Madsen.

 Chap 25

    ¡°Sorry, Doctor. I already have ns,¡± I hear my uncle¡¯s voice, formal and seemingly cold. Even my hair stands on end listening to it. I shudder myself; it feels like a horror movie hearing my usually friendly and sweet uncle suddenly act like this.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°ns? Lunch ns? With whom?¡± The voice sounds¡­ What should I call it? Defensive? Possessive? Ah, maybe possessive.

    ¡®Come on, Doc. Isn¡¯t she perceptive enough? It¡¯s clear that Uncle is declining.¡¯

    ¡°I have ns with Abigail.¡± Oh, my uncle is being honest. I silently apud him.

    ¡°Don¡¯t joke. Thest time you said you had ns with Abigail, you ended up going out alone with your assistant here.¡± There¡¯s a hint of disdain in her voice. Or is it a snort? Eww, it turns out that the elegant Doctor Phoebe, ording to Mrs. Lipstick, can also be less refined.

    ¡°I thought you weren¡¯t the type of person who likes to eavesdrop, Doctor.¡± This time, I hear Jonas¡¯s voice. It seems like his friend is really doing his role well in protecting my uncle. Should I wrap him up a chocte as a gift?

    ¡°I-I wasn¡¯t eavesdropping. It just sounded like that because we were still there,¡± he stammers nervously. ¡°And I¡¯m sure you¡¯re lying too right now. You¡¯re intentionally avoiding me, dwin?¡±

    ¡°Why would I avoid you, Doctor.¡± Oh, my uncle is indeed very professional, I have tomend him. But if I praise him, he might get a big head. Okay. It seems like it¡¯s time for my acting talent to shine.

    I open the door knob quite loudly, hoping the three people in there would notice my presence. I pretend to be surprised to see Phoebe. ¡°Oh, hi, Doctor Phoebe.¡± I greet her, trying to be as friendly as possible. Even though deep down, I want to puke in front of that woman who thinks she¡¯s so beautiful.

    ¡°Y-you?¡± she asks with a surprised expression. What? Does she think I¡¯m a ghost? Or does she think this restroom door is Doraemon¡¯s ¡®anywhere door¡¯?

    ¡°Yes, what¡¯s wrong with me?¡± I search for my phone and check my reflection. My face is still fine. ¡°Ah, Doctor, you scared me. I thought I had a giant pimple on my face.¡± I say with horror. ¡°Uncle, I¡¯m hungry. Still long?¡± I look at my uncle. He raises his hand briefly towards me, instructing Jonas, and then gets up to remove his apron.

    ¡°Are you guys going to have lunch?¡± My attention shifts back to Doctor Flirt, who I thought had disappeared from there.

    ¡°Yes, Aunty.¡± I answer briefly. I can guess that she wants to volunteer to join us.

    ¡°Can I join? I don¡¯t have a lunchpanion.¡± She asks with hope. See, Abigail is great, right? I nce at Jonas. He also looks at me.

    ¡°How about having lunch with me, Doc. I also don¡¯t have a lunchpanion.¡± He invites gently. Phoebe looks at Jonas with a disdainful gaze. Oh my God. Look at her face. I want to snort in disgust.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go.¡± My uncle invites. I follow him.

    ¡°Sorry, Aunty. Maybe another time. Today I need to have a one-on-one talk with Uncle.¡± I act as polite as I can, even though I¡¯d love to act all snobby like a modern-day homewrecker, then walk away. I hear footsteps behind me. No need to turn around to see whose feet they are.

    We were already in a restaurant not far from the hospital. We even walked there.

    We had lunch in silence. After being full, I put down my spoon and fork and stared at my uncle seriously. ¡°What?¡± he asked, curious. ¡°You suddenly contacted me. What¡¯s the matter?¡± he asked again.

    Well, it¡¯s not really urgent, to be honest. I can talk to my uncle in his apartmentter. It¡¯s just that our meeting cycles are irregr. Because sometimes when I¡¯m at his apartment, he¡¯s not there. And vice versa.

    Okay. Let me choose my words carefully. ¡°Does Uncle like Doctor Phoebe?¡± I asked him point-nk. My mouth feels itchy when I mention that woman¡¯s name.

    ¡°What¡¯s with Phoebe?¡± My uncle asked, curious.

    ¡°I know Uncle isn¡¯t stupid. Uncle must be aware that Grandma is trying to set you up with her.¡± I replied tly. My uncle shrugged with an unreadable expression. ¡°So, does Uncle like her or not?¡± I asked again, pressing him.

    ¡°Do I have to answer that?¡± He asked again. This is the difficulty ofmunicating with dwin Hampton; he often raises my blood pressure. I grumble to myself.

    ¡°Okay, change the question. How does Uncle feel about Via?¡± I see him tense up when I mention my best friend¡¯s name. ¡°Don¡¯t ask me, ¡®what¡¯s with via¡¯.¡± I say irritably. ¡°Uncle¡¯s answer will determine the decision I make.¡± My uncle remains silent. ¡°Phoebe¡¯s mom and grandma are nning to invite you both for dinner. Everything will be done as if it¡¯s an unintentional meeting. If Uncle does like that woman and is willing to continue Grandma¡¯s n, then I¡¯ll give up. But if Uncle has another choice, I will help Uncle.¡± I answer honestly.

    My uncle seemed to be deep in thought. But once again, only silence lingered between us.

    ¡°What¡¯s Uncle¡¯s opinion about Dr. Eijaz?¡± I see my uncle furrowing his brow. ¡°He¡¯s a handsome man. Both of his parents own a travelpany. His position as a neurosurgeon is also worth considering. ording to Jonas, he¡¯s a good guy.¡± I answer without waiting for hisment. ¡°And as Uncle knows, he truly loves via. He always wishes the best for via. And he would do anything for via¡¯s happiness.¡± I continue, making my uncle¡¯s gaze sharp.

    I feel like it¡¯s a look that says ¡®Shut your mouth!¡¯ or maybe ¡®Are you trying topare your uncle with another man?!¡¯ or perhaps that cynical look is just my imagination.

    ¡°What are you trying to say, actually?¡± I can hear the dislike in his tone.

    I shrug. ¡°I¡¯m not trying topare Dr. Eijaz and Uncle. I¡¯m not a fool. I know that Uncle also has feelings for via.

    ¡°I just want to know how much Uncle¡¯s feelings are for via. How much Uncle desires to have via. How strong Uncle¡¯s struggle is to get her.¡± I see my uncle¡¯s eyes staring at me in disbelief. His eyes widen, and his mouth opens. I know he wants to object but refrains from doing so. ¡°Does Uncle think I don¡¯t know that the reason Uncle went to Germany five years ago was one of Uncle¡¯s efforts to distance himself from via? Both Uncle and Dr. Eijaz see via in the same way.¡± It seems like my voice is too loud, and people start to notice me. I choose to ignore them.

    ¡°Please reconsider. If Uncle does want to fight for via, I¡¯m willing to help Uncle. In any way.¡± I answer sincerely. ¡°But if Uncle prefers to be with that woman, I won¡¯t stand in Uncle¡¯s way.¡± I continue resignedly. I look at my uncle intently, trying to read his thoughts.

    Okay. I¡¯m not a mind reader. I¡¯m not a fortune teller. I¡¯m not a psychologist. I just rely on my feelings as a woman. As a friend and as a niece, that my uncle also loves my best friend.

    My uncle puts down his spoon. ¡°My lunch break is over.¡± His words truly make me want to pull his hair and m his head onto the table. I see my uncle stand up and prepare to pay at the cashier. I follow him and continue to follow him back to the hospital in silence.

    We arrive at the hospital parking lot. He waits for me to get into the car. But I choose to stand beside him.

    ¡°I¡¯m still waiting for Uncle¡¯s answer,¡± I whisper. ¡°And let me tell you one thing. via needs expressions. She needs reassurance, and she just needs to be fought for. That¡¯s all she needs right now.¡± Then after that, I get into the car, hoping my uncle stumbles on something, and his head hits so hard that he can finally think clearly.

 Chap 26

    I knocked on the white square package in my hand before taking out the filtered object and cing it in my mouth. ¡°I thought Dr. dwin doesn¡¯t smoke.¡± The mocking voice beside me made me turn. Freddie looked at me with his questioning gaze.

    I¡¯m not an active smoker, but asionally, I smoke when stressed or when gathering with friends where cigarettes serve as one of our bonding tools. You know, a cigarette and the conversations of men. And right now, stress is my reason for smoking.

    ¡°How¡¯s Robby doing?¡± I asked casually.

    ¡°He¡¯s fine. How about the foundation? Enjoyable, working with the kids?¡± he replied.

    I nodded. Yes, recing Freddie to check on the kids at the foundation back then made me grateful for the blessings I have now. Aplete family, the love of my family, a sessful and well-paying career. It¡¯s vastly different from their situations.

    But forget about that. I invited Freddie to meet not because of those issues. And it seems Freddie understands my position. He smiled and patted my shoulder.

    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± he asked attentively.

    I inhaled the menthol taste from my cigarette, releasing the toxic gas through my mouth and nose before turning to my friend.

    ¡°What¡¯s it like being married?¡± I asked tly. I¡¯ve asked this question before when my friend had just be a newlywed. But back then, it was just a casual question, and his response was more like a post-marriage joke. Now, my question requires a serious answer.

    ¡°Not easy,¡± he answered softly. ¡°But it can¡¯t be said to be difficult either,¡± he added, raising an eyebrow. ¡°Certainly, there¡¯s regret in it, especially because we married for love.¡± He continued, a smile appearing on his face. I could see how happy my friend was. ¡°Joy, sadness,plexity. It¡¯s all part of married life,¡± he said seriously. Freddie reached out his hand, and I ced the cigarette pack in it. See, cigarettes unite men. ¡°It¡¯s no longer just between me and her,¡± he continued, lighting the cigarette with a lighter and taking a drag, trying to savor the menthol taste in his mouth.

    ¡°At first, between me and her, there was only passionate love. Then the trials of marriage began. There were children, which made me divide my love between my wife and my own flesh and blood. Then there were issues with parents, issues with inws, issues with neighbors, and other problems that came one after another.

    ¡°That¡¯s where theplexity of marriage lies. When there¡¯s a problem,promises will emerge. Don¡¯t call them problems; call them tests,¡± he continued, inhaling cigarette smoke once again. ¡°Why? Are you ready for marriage?¡± Freddie turned his body towards me.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know,¡± I answered unsure. Whether I liked it or not, I had to admit that I also wanted to enjoy married life. I wanted to experience being pampered by a wife, having children, and sharing love. But until now, I¡¯m still not sure,¡± I replied honestly.

    ¡°What¡¯s the problem? Do you have a potential partner?¡±

    I stared at Freddie, and he returned the gaze. Freddie is my only friend, the only person I trust. He¡¯s a wise man, and that¡¯s why I always seek his advice. He¡¯s also the person who knows about my feelings for my step-niece. He was one of the people who opposed my departure to Germany five years ago, along with Abigail and ire.

    ¡°My mother is trying to arrange a marriage with Phoebe,¡± I said straightforwardly. For a moment, he looked at me with an unbelieving gaze, then smiled faintly. Back in the early days of college, Freddie used to like Phoebe. However, he abruptly stopped pursuing her after receiving unpleasant treatment from Phoebe¡¯s mother. And of course, he also stopped liking Phoebe after finding out more about her.

    ¡°And then? Do you agree?¡± I snorted. He knew that I had no feelings for Phoebe whatsoever. Phoebe is indeed beautiful and intelligent, but she¡¯s not my type. Especially after I found out about her¡­ Well, let¡¯s not discuss Phoebe.

    ¡°You know who I like,¡± I replied tly.

    ¡°So? You¡¯re both adults now. So?¡± He looked at me intently.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°I¡¯m confused,¡± I whispered.

    ¡°Why? Afraid of public opinion?¡± he asked again, with an using tone in his voice. ¡°Or afraid your love will be hindered by approval? It seems your sister-inw won¡¯t mind.¡± He replied.

    ¡°Not that. Many things upy my mind,¡± I answered honestly. ¡°Yes, initially, I tried to avoid her because of our status and the significant age gap. ire married Antony when she was already mature. That¡¯s why they suit each other. But her?¡±

    ¡°At that time, she was still too young. I didn¡¯t want to restrict her youth. I thought giving time for both of us was the right thing to do. To convince herself whether the feelings she had were truly love or just admiration. And to convince myself whether this was indeed love or just the affection of an uncle towards his niece.

    ¡°And it turned out that being far from her tortured me. I missed her smile. I missed her affection. I even started imagining her as an adult woman. Often, I felt the urge toe back here and forget about my studies. Then I convinced my heart again. I had to give her time. And I had to convince myself that I deserved her.

    ¡°I returned with an unbearable longing. And when I came back, I saw everything had changed,¡± I replied softly.

    ¡°Changed?¡± Freddie looked at me puzzled.

    ¡°She seemed different,¡± I honestly answered. ¡°It¡¯s not about her appearance, but her attitude. I didn¡¯t see that sparkle in her eyes anymore. She hid everything from me. She looked mncholic. And I realized that for the past five years, she had been avoiding me.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t notice it initially. Why she never greeted me during video calls. Before, when I was away on duty and made video calls, she was always there, with her shy face.

    ¡°She never joined her family to visit me. The reason was always the same, campus matters that couldn¡¯t be left behind. And every time I came home during my breaks, she was never there. There was always a fabricated excuse.

    ¡°At first, I didn¡¯t find it strange. But now I realize. She deliberately avoided me.¡± I lit another cigarette and took a drag.

    ¡°Another shocking thing is, I found out that she¡¯s already arranged to be married to someone else. Do you know how I feel? I¡¯m angry. I¡¯m jealous,¡± I said cynically. ¡°I thought for five years she was waiting for me. That she truly loved me, not just admired me.

    ¡°I even intended to talk to her father on her behalf, asking them to cancel the arranged marriage. Then I saw how they interacted. No signs of coercion, they seemed close. And once again, I felt jealous.¡±

    ¡°I want to be angry. I want to scream in front of her so that she looks at me. But she never looks at me with the same gaze.¡±

    Noments from Freddie, just silence.

    ¡°Then Mom tried to arrange a marriage for me with Phoebe. I know Mom wants me to marry soon and have children. But my hope to get married has faded. The desire is gone,¡± I replied wearily. I¡¯m truly resigned to the situation, but marrying Phoebe is not an option either. There¡¯s no feeling in my heart for her. Not even a hint of admiration.

    I looked at Freddie, waiting for hisment.

    ¡°Do you really love her?¡± he finally asked.

 Chap 27

    I just looked at him silently. Could he deduce my feelings after everything I¡¯ve said?

    ¡°Do you forget what you said to her before?¡± Freddie looked at me sharply. I furrowed my brow, trying to remember and guess Freddie¡¯s question. ¡°I hope you remember thest birthday party of Ignazio we attended before you decided to go to Germany.¡± He reminded, and I furrowed my brow even deeper. It happened almost six years ago.

    ¡°Abigail asked us. Me, you, and a guy who imed to be 28 at that time. About our opinion on having rtionships with girls his age. And you clearly said NO.¡±

    I remembered my words back then.

    ¡°The answer is clear. It feels like marrying your own niece. I prefer girls who are not much younger. At least, their mindset won¡¯t be too conflicting. A decade of difference has a lot of impact. From personality, hobbies, and learning styles, they will surely be different.

    While in a rtionship, the main foundation ismunication. We can¡¯tpromise and act immature just to bnce ourselves with a younger partner. Conversely, you can¡¯t pretend to be mature just to match us. Older men.

    And otherplicated issues will arise because of one factor. Age. Even though those of the same age may not necessarily be conflict-free. But in terms ofmunication, it feels morefortable.¡±

    ¡°Damn!¡± I cursed harshly, looking at Freddie who smirked in my direction. ¡°I really uttered a harsh sentence.¡± I was aware of that. ¡°Not intending to defend myself. But my intention back then was to make them realize that it wasn¡¯t the time for them to deal with love affairs like that.

    ¡°I mean, they were still teenagers. Even if they wanted to experience falling in love, I hoped they¡¯d fall in love with someone their own age. I thought their feelings were just puppy love at that time.¡± And indeed, I thought so back then.

    ¡°Maybe that was what you meant. But at that moment, I clearly saw with my own eyes the change in via¡¯s expression. She was heartbroken because of your words. For her, whose love was beginning to grow at that time, it was like an indirect rejection. And your words hit hard.¡± Freddie looked at me with an expression I couldn¡¯t quite decipher. I stared back at him in confusion. ¡°I don¡¯t know exactly when you realized that she liked you. But for sure, since then, I believe she gave up on you.

    ¡°Maybe that¡¯s why she didn¡¯t apany you to the airport and avoided you with various excuses for the past five years. Because she knew that her feelings for you would never be reciprocated. That her love-which you thought was just puppy love at the time-would not have the ending she hoped for. And she tried to erase it all.

    ¡°Perhaps the man she¡¯s arranged to be married to is someone she feels can rece you. And I think he¡¯s a reasonable guy. So it¡¯s not his fault. Because clearly, all of this is because of you.¡±

    ¡°Oh God..¡± my chest felt tight. Could it be that what Freddie said was what via felt? So all of this started because of my mistake? I avoided her to give her time without realizing that I had previously rejected her with my words?

    And now what? Should I just let her go? Is it true that she no longer has feelings for me when I feel that what I have for her is the love of a man for a woman?

    I ran my hands through my hair in frustration. Angry at myself and my foolishness. My chest felt painful. It even felt like crying andmenting my stupidity. But no tears came out.

    ¡°What should I do know?¡± I looked at Freddie, silently pleading for him to help me.

    ¡°What do you want right now?¡± He countered.

    ¡°I want her,¡± I honestly replied.

    ¡°In that case, fight for her. After all, it¡¯s just an engagement,¡± he replied casually. Fight? Wasn¡¯t that the word Abigail used? ¡°Why? Are you not confident in yourself?¡± His question shifted my focus.

    I shook my head quickly. ¡°Not that. I just remembered what Abigail said.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°What did she say?¡±

    ¡°via needs expressions. She just needs to be fought for,¡± I repeated Abigail¡¯s words.

    ¡°Then do it. Express your feelings to her. She¡¯s not a mind reader. And yes, women always want to be fought for even if they say no excessively. Abigail must have said that for a reason.¡± Freddie patted my shoulder. I took it as his support.

    The journey to the apartment felt slow tonight. Even though my car speed wasn¡¯t considered slow. I entered my apartment. Quiet. Has Abigail already gone to sleep? I had asked her to wait before.

    I walked towards her room. I knocked on the door, and there was no response. I opened the door and saw her bed empty. Where is she?

    I chose to go to my room and freshen up, hoping that after my routine activities, Abigail would be in the living room waiting for me.

    Sure enough, after I finished, she was sitting casually on the sofa with dinner on herp. I sat beside her, and she didn¡¯t even look at me. I took a deep breath and looked at her, searching for the right words to convey my intentions to her.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± I said softly.

    ¡°She still loves Uncle. Hasn¡¯t changed at all. She¡¯s just not confident in herself. And she¡¯s not sure if she¡¯ll have Grandma¡¯s approval,¡± Abigail replied in a t tone without shifting her gaze from the screen in front of her, continuing to feed herself.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t said anything.¡± I said in disbelief. Has my niece turned into a mind reader?

    ¡°I know that Uncle also loves via. I¡¯ve been observing everything without Uncle realizing it,¡± she finally ced her food on the table and looked at me sharply. ¡°She also loves Uncle. Hasn¡¯t changed in these five years. If she no longer loves Uncle, I wouldn¡¯t do all this.

    ¡°But I want you both to be happy because you deserve happiness. She deserves to be happy. And I know her happiness is with Uncle.¡± I saw optimism in Abigail¡¯s eyes. ¡°I encouraged her to fight for Uncle five years ago. Even after Uncle¡¯s rejection back then.

    ¡°She wanted to fight at first, until she decided to give up. And now, I¡¯m going to encourage Uncle to fight for her. If Uncle really loves her.¡± She said with uncertainty in her tone at the end of the sentence.

    I was stuck on the words ¡®decided to give up¡¯. Didn¡¯t Abigail say that via wanted to fight? Then why did she decide to give up?

    ¡°I can¡¯t tell Uncle about it,¡± Abigail suddenly answered. It seemed like I unintentionally voiced my question. ¡°One day Uncle will know her story. Let via tell everything to Uncleter if she wants.¡± She continued. ¡°So?¡± Abigail asked for my response again.

    ¡°I will fight for her,¡± I finally answered.

    Abigail smiled widely. Her eyes gleamed brightly. She left her food aside and hugged me enthusiastically. She mumbled excessive thanks and promised to help me get via back.

 Chap 28

    Antony¡¯s house was bustling that evening. ire had returned from the hospital, carrying a baby boy in her arms. Ignazio¡¯s new ymate. That¡¯s what her younger brother said when he found out that their mother had given birth to a baby boy for them.

    ire¡¯s family, consisting of Abigail, her older sister, and all their children, gathered. Antony¡¯s parents, who intentionally came from Manhattan, along with Altezza and Adaline, who chose to reside in Kansas, arrived with the twins Falisha and Geremia. They ended up causing a disturbance in Ignazio¡¯s room, who, in fact, didn¡¯t like his territory being disturbed.

    dwin? Of course, ire¡¯s twin came. Surprisingly, he came with Phoebe, Penelope, and Julie.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± A soft voice in his head made him look up. The handsome Altezza with his characteristic stubble bowed to via and looked at her anxiously. via smiled and nodded. ¡°Is she dwin¡¯s future wife?¡± He asked again, looking towards the beautiful woman sitting gracefully between Penelope and Julie, engaged in conversation with the other women. Meanwhile, on the other side, the men seemed to have their own gathering.

    ¡°Maybe, Uncle. I don¡¯t know,¡± he answered honestly. ¡°Aunty herself, when is she going to give birth?¡± via asked in return.

    ¡°Probably within the next three weeks. Falisha doesn¡¯t want a baby sister. She says she wants to be Uncle¡¯s most beautiful child.¡± Altezza smiled to himself, recalling his eldest daughter¡¯s wish to be the most beautiful woman after her mother. ¡°Luckily, the ultrasound results said our child is a boy. Otherwise, I don¡¯t know how furious she would be.¡±

    ¡°It won¡¯t happen, Uncle. After the baby is born, I¡¯m sure she¡¯ll adore him,¡± he replied sincerely.

    ¡°Ah, Uncle can¡¯t handle having another daughter like Fali. Fali is enough.¡± Then theyughed simultaneously, unaware of someone observing them.

    ¡°Yoo-hoo, the superstar is back¡­¡± Abigail came in from the front door with her usual ir. Altezza and via looked at each other. ¡°Why aren¡¯t you weing me??¡± She said with a pout. She looked at via and Altezza alternately.

    ¡°You never change, do you?¡± Altezza stretched out his arms and hugged Abigail tightly, kissing the top of her head affectionately. For Altezza, Abigail was like his own niece. Her cheerfulness was just like his daughter Falisha.

    ¡°Where are Fali and Geremia, Uncle?¡±

    ¡°Upstairs, in Ignazio¡¯s room.¡± Without waiting for amand, Abigail went upstairs. She intended to tease the pair of twins who often screamed. via followed her from behind.

    ¡°Thought you were going to check on the new baby,¡± he said as they walked behind Abigail.

    ¡°Later, when it¡¯s quiet. So I can have a monopoly.¡± She replied casually.

    They walked towards Ignazio¡¯s room, preparing to settle the usually urring World War when those kids gathered. But their assumptions were wrong. Instead of amotion, Ignazio seemed deserted because it turned out the kids were having a serious conversation in their typical childish manner.

    ¡°Oh, why is it quiet? No World War?¡± Abigail, who opened the door, looked at two boys sitting on the bed holding a guitar and a book, while two girls were sitting on the carpet with tablets in front of them.

    ¡°What war?¡± Falisha replied to Abigail. ¡°We¡¯re grown up now. We¡¯re older siblings. So, ording to Mom, we¡¯re not allowed to fight anymore.¡± Falisha¡¯s statement was nodded in agreement by her twin brother, Akara. Abigail pouted, disappointed not to get a free show.

    ¡°Princess, let¡¯s try a new song.¡± Ignazio strummed his guitar. Akara stood on the bed, rolled up the book he was holding, and began to sing. Shortly after, the nine-year-old boy jumped down to the floor and approached via. His eyes sparkled as he sang the lyrics:

    Have you ever wondered

    What shape water takes without a container?

    Have you ever imagined

    What form love might take?

    His voice was as melodious as his mother¡¯s, Gisna. via knew because she often heard her aunty singing and even dueting with a top singer at her parents¡¯ wedding ten years ago.

    Colorful hair, like cotton candy

    Cute and adorable, though not too tall

    Chubby cheeks and fair skin

    Sweet smile, bunny teeth

    Making me realize

    That¡¯s the shape of love

    Yes, it¡¯s you

    (Et Song)

    Then, yfully, Geremia winked one eye at via. Involuntarily, via burst intoughter. Oh my, this kid is clearly going to be a yboy when he grows up, all thanks to his Uncle Erhan¡¯s influence.

    The call for dinner echoed. Abigail and via invited the kids to join them downstairs. Since it wasn¡¯t a formal event, there wasn¡¯t a special dining table for the guests, as everyone who came was family. Except for two people you know who.

    The kids eagerly grabbed their food and headed towards the family room, where Altezza and Gisna were already seated, feeding each other. via and Abigail had taken their tes and were getting ready to get food, along with dwin, followed by Phoebe who also wanted to get some food. No words were exchanged between them, only the clinking sound of utensils as they served the dishes onto their tes.

    via and Abigail chose to eat with the kids in the family room. The four kids were already sitting on the floor with a carpet underneath and had ced their food on a ss table. Abigail nudged Ignazio with her foot, asking him to move. Meanwhile, Falisha kindly made space for via by patting the square pillow beside her.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°I misses Uncle Gian and Auntie Joanna,¡± she sighed as via settledfortably. They didn¡¯t know that dwin was also eating in the family room, sitting right on the sofa behind via.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know you already have a suitor,¡± Adaline¡¯s voice diverted the attention of the kids. They followed Adaline¡¯s gaze, except for via and Abigail. They knew who Gisna was talking to, as the only family member of her mother known to Gisna was dwin. Considering they had been in the same high school for a short period, although not for long because ire and dwin participated in an eleration program that caused them to separate again.

    ¡°Then we just have to wait for the invitation,¡± Altezza responded to his wife¡¯s words.

    ¡°What are you guys talking about?¡±

    ¡°Just pray.¡±

    Both of their answers came simultaneously. From the tone of their voices, it was clear who was more enthusiastic here.

    via could smell a rather strong women¡¯s perfume behind her. Being someone who didn¡¯t like any kind of perfume, she immediately swallowed hard. Everyone in her family knew about it, including dwin. That¡¯s why no one wore perfume when close to via. Except for baby perfume.

    Usually, she could still restrain herself from adult perfumes for the sake of courtesy. But for some reason, this time it felt so nauseating. Perhaps it was because of her physically unwell condition, so smelling such a strong scent had an excessive effect.

    via got up from her seat and half ran to the farthest bathroom, unwilling to make any sound. As she hadn¡¯t eaten anything yet, all she could vomit was water. Her stomach ached, and her head throbbed. ¡°Are you okay?¡± a voice greeted her as she just opened the door.

 Chap 29

    ¡°Uncle? Why are you here?¡± she asked, surprised.

    ¡°I thought your habit of feeling sick after smelling perfume was gone. You seemed fine yesterday when you shared a car with Phoebe.¡± dwin said again. via just smiled and walked away from dwin towards the kitchen.

    ¡°I¡¯m just not feeling well, Uncle. It¡¯s not the perfume¡¯s fault,¡± she gracefully deflected. She did feel unwell due tock of sleep, not because of excessive work. It was a result of constantly thinking about her conversation with Abigail earlier,bined with the tension of waiting for her mother¡¯s delivery.

    dwin stood in front of her and ced the back of his hand on via¡¯s forehead. via widened her eyes, surprised by her uncle¡¯s impulsive gesture. ¡°Uncle?¡± She looked up at him.

    ¡°You¡¯re a bit warm,¡± he said casually. ¡°What do you feel? Headache? Nausea?¡± via tried to gently push away her uncle¡¯s hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, Uncle. Just caught a bit of a chill. Drinking warm sweet tea and getting some rest will be enough.¡± via grabbed a ss, intending to make sweet tea.

    ¡°I¡¯m worried about you,¡± he said softly. Then, after a long pause, he added, ¡°I have no connection with¡­¡± His statement left via momentarily stunned. Her chest felt tight for no apparent reason. Why did her uncle say that? What did he mean by his words?

    ¡°Don¡¯t worry, Uncle. I¡¯m okay,¡± via finally said. She tried to calm her racing heart andpose her facial expression before turning to face her uncle, who had been behind her all this time. ¡°And whether you have a connection with Dr. Madsen or not, that¡¯s not my concern,¡± she replied with a smile on her face.

    ¡°Of course, it concerns you, Via.¡± dwin looked at her with a touch of sadness. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to misunderstand.¡±

    via stirred her sweet tea, trying to disguise her now trembling hands. ¡°Uncle, I didn¡¯t misunderstand. And there¡¯s nothing for me to misunderstand. You¡¯re just peculiar.¡± via chuckled softly. She turned around, facing away from dwin. She ced the spoon in the sink and set the ss on the table. Her small hands gripped the ss, hoping the warmth of the water would somehow spread through her body, which suddenly felt chilly.

    via could sense her uncle approaching. She closed her eyes. Not envisioning anything beyond reason, just wanting to center herself and feel her uncle¡¯s presence.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    Her uncle¡¯s warmth enveloped her. Then, unexpectedly, dwin stood right behind her. So close, covering via¡¯s petite body with his. His chest felt against her back, hisrge hands on both sides of via¡¯s hands, cupping the back of her hand that still faithfully held the ss. His chin rested on her right shoulder. via tensed momentarily as dwin¡¯s breath brushed against her neck.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to misunderstand and think I have a rtionship with Phoebe,¡± he whispered in via¡¯s ear. ¡°Because I want you to know that I want to be in a rtionship with you,¡± he continued.

    via was startled. She turned to the right just as her uncle turned to the left. Their faces were so close; their noses were barely an inch apart. via could smell the aroma of opor in his breath. This was the closest distance she had ever been with dwin in their eleven years of knowing each other. ¡°Wh-what do you mean, Uncle?¡± she asked, stuttering.

    dwin released via¡¯s grip on the ss. He joined both of via¡¯s small hands and still cradled them with hisrge, warm hands. ¡°I don¡¯t want to lie about my feelings anymore. I don¡¯t want to avoid it anymore. I like you. Even more than that, I love you, via Quirino,¡± he whispered in via¡¯s ear with a tone full of conviction.

    via fell silent. Her eyes stared at dwin¡¯s hands covering hers. The warmth from her uncle¡¯s body seemed to flow into hers. Her chest throbbed wildly; her breathing became rapid. She felt hot, cold, and trembling all at once. Her eyes welled up, and tears streamed down her slowly reddening cheeks. Was this a dream? Oh God, could her dream be this beautiful? via covered her face with both hands, her body shaking from the sobs she tried to hold back.

    dwin also crouched behind the girl. He gently turned via around and embraced her in his broad chest. ¡°Don¡¯t cry,¡± he softly pleaded. dwin gently stroked via¡¯s head. ¡°Please, don¡¯t cry,¡± he whispered softly. His hands didn¡¯t let go, embracing and caressing via¡¯s back.

    ¡°dwin?¡± Phoebe¡¯s voice made dwin look up. ¡°What are you two doing?¡± she asked, looking at dwin and via, who were still in dwin¡¯s embrace, with a puzzled expression.

    ¡°Via!¡± Another voice sounded nearby and seemed panicked. Without hesitation, Abigail crouched down beside via, knowing that the one currently rubbing her back was Abigail. via threw herself onto Abigail. Abigail almost stumbled. Fortunately, her hand managed to hold theirbined weight by supporting it on the floor. ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Via?¡±

    ¡°My head hurts,¡± she whispered between her hands still covering her entire face.

    ¡°Let¡¯s go to the room, okay?¡± Abigail suggested, met with via¡¯s nod. Abigail guided via to stand, signaling to her uncle to step back. dwin understood and allowed Abigail to lead via upstairs without attracting too much attention.

    ¡°What happen with via?¡± Phoebe asked again.

    ¡°You heard her just now, right? Her head hurts,¡± dwin replied tly.

    ¡°Tsk, being so spoiled just because of a headache.¡± Phoebe mocked.

    dwin didn¡¯t respond; he chose to make another warm sweet tea for via. dwin walked back to the family room, intending to bring via¡¯s te, but then Altezza asked, ¡°Where¡¯s via?¡± The question slipped naturally from Altezza.

    ¡°Upstairs, with Abigail. She said she¡¯s not feeling well,¡± he answered. Altezza, seeing the ss and te in dwin¡¯s hands, only responded with a vague nod. ¡°I¡¯ll go upstairs first,¡± he said and received another nod from Altezza.

    Phoebe still followed him from behind, making dwin annoyed. Eventually, he stopped and turned half of his body, staring at the woman coldly. ¡°Where are you going?¡± he asked, with a furrowed brow.

    ¡°I want to check on via. She¡¯s not feeling well, right?¡± she replied with a curt tone. It was just an excuse because Phoebe didn¡¯t want to be far from dwin and wanted to limit the space between dwin and via.

    dwin was about to answer, but ire, who appeared out of nowhere, suddenly stood in front of them. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but the rule in this house is that the second floor is only for family.¡± She said with a warm smile. dwin always feared when his sister behaved like this, but this time he was grateful to avoid a confrontation and chose to proceed upstairs.

    ¡°I just want to make sure that via is okay,¡± Phoebe reasoned.

    ¡°No need to worry. Via is not in bad condition. Even if she needs medical attention, there¡¯s dwin who can help.¡± ire embraced Phoebe¡¯s shoulder, despite being no less tall than her. She guided Phoebe back to where their mother was. ¡°It¡¯s fortunate to have a doctor as a sibling. If you¡¯re sick, you don¡¯t need to spend money on medical bills.¡± ire gently squeezed Phoebe¡¯s upper arm and put on her artificially friendly smile.

 Chap 30

    ¡°What happened?¡± Abigail sat via down on the bed. The girl still looked shocked. Her body was still trembling, and her sobbing continued. Her face was wet, tears streaming down.

    ¡°I-I just had a dream,¡± she answered between sobs.

    ¡°A dream?¡± Abigail furrowed her brow. ¡°You sleepwalked?¡± she asked in surprise. via smiled faintly and nodded.

    ¡°It seems I fell asleep in the kitchen earlier. I dreamt Uncle came. In my dream, he said he loved me.¡± The tears that had momentarily stopped now rolled down again.

    via covered her face again with both hands, crying softly. Now it was Abigail¡¯s turn tofort her by embracing her petite frame.

    Abigail leaned via¡¯s head against her chest, gently stroking her friend¡¯s arms. She rested her chin on the top of via¡¯s head.

    ¡°That wasn¡¯t a dream,¡± Abigail said softly. ¡°You weren¡¯t dreaming, Via. It was all Uncle¡¯s words.¡± She spoke with confidence, even though Abigail wasn¡¯t there to hear it. via shook her head vigorously in the embrace of Abigail¡¯s arms. ¡°Trust me, Via. It was really real, not a dream.¡±

    ¡°But why? Why did Uncle have to say such things? Why now? Why did he have to do it when I can¡¯t give him anything? When I¡¯m not sure if I still deserve his love?¡± She asked with a soft and sad voice.

    ¡°Via¡­¡± The voice made via straighten her back.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± via quickly wiped away the remaining tears and looked at her uncle. ¡°What is Uncle doing here?¡± She asked in surprise. dwin ced via¡¯s ss and te on the nightstand next to her bed.

    ¡°You need to eat,¡± he instructed softly. via stared at the te without appetite.

    ¡°Yes, Uncle. I¡¯ll eatter,¡± she replied softly. However, she reached for the sweet tea and drank it until only half remained.

    Abigail shifted her position, making room for dwin to sit with them on the bed. Instead of sitting on the bed, dwin chose to kneel on the thick carpet next to via¡¯s bed. Hisrge hands tried to reach for via¡¯s hands.

    ¡°Via¡­ I know I was wrong. I apologize for my words five years ago. I never intended to reject you in any way.

    ¡°I was wrong to use education as an excuse to avoid you. But I did all that not because I didn¡¯t like you. It was because I restrained myself and sorted out my feelings. I wanted to ensure my true feelings for you.

    ¡°What I said on Ignazio¡¯s birthday when Abigail asked about how it feels if someone my age dates a teenager like you, it¡¯s not entirely true but also not entirely false. I just wanted you to enjoy your teenage years like any other teenager. Socialize and experience love stories as it should be.

    ¡°I was too cowardly then, rejecting my feelings just for pride and fear of other people¡¯s assumptions. Even though our rtionship is not tied by blood, you are still my niece and the same age as Abigail.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to be used of being a pedophile. I don¡¯t want people to say bad things about the rtionship between uncle and nephew. But more than that, I want to ensure that our feelings are truly feelings of mutual love.

    ¡°I want you to be sure that your feelings for me are truly love, not just admiration from a nephew towards his uncle. And I also want to convince myself that the feeling I have for you is the love of a man for a woman, not just the love of an uncle for a nephew.¡±

    via looked at dwin closely. She tried to see the sincerity in dwin¡¯s eyes and absorb every sentence the man said. Abigail was only a silent witness between them, letting her uncle express all his thoughts and allowing her best friend to digest everything her uncle said and try to understand even though Abigail could already guess what answer woulde out of her friend¡¯s mouthter.

    ¡°Five years was a hard time for me to live alone. Because it turns out I miss you all the time. Not the kind of longing I have for Abigail. I never miss her at all.¡± He said jokingly at the end of the sentence, making Abigail poke dwin¡¯s shoulder. via smiled. ¡°I miss you. It feels like a dry throat that misses water. But I never see you. Not via video call, not even during your family¡¯s visit to my ce. And you¡¯re also never there every time Ie home.¡± The answer was sad.

    ¡°At that time, I was still too proud to ask where you were. I never tried hard to meet you because I feared my intention to return to Germany would falter. And I was also afraid I wouldn¡¯t give you enough time to enjoy your youth.

    ¡°Meanwhile, one of the reasons I avoided you was so that you could organize your feelings. Even though, at that time, I was sure that the feelings I had for you were feelings of love from a man towards a woman. But after I came back, it turned out that I still couldn¡¯t express my feelings.¡±

    ¡°Why? Because Uncle is still holding on to the idea that your rtionship is not worth it?¡± This time, Abigail spoke. dwin didn¡¯t take his attention away from via when he answered his nephew¡¯s question.

    ¡°Because of Eijaz.¡± He said softly.

    ¡°Eijaz?¡± via frowned in confusion.

    ¡°I heard you talking very sweetly to him the first day I returned.¡± dwin lowered his head, looking at their two sped hands. ¡°To be honest, I was jealous at that time. I thought that you had gotten your true heart¡¯s desire.

    ¡°Then, when I found out about your arranged marriage, I thought the rtionship was forced. Initially, I even wanted to go to Antony and ask him to cancel the engagement. But seeing the interaction between you and Eijaz, I felt defeated. You seemedfortable with him.¡±

    ¡°If Uncle feels that via isfortable with Eijaz, why is Uncle doing all this now? Does Uncle intend to shake his feelings for Eijaz?¡± Once again, Abigail asked on behalf of via. dwin squeezed via¡¯s fingers harder, seeking the girl¡¯s attention.

    ¡°Because I¡¯m tired of facing all these feelings alone. I¡¯m tired of holding everything back. I want you to know all the feelings I¡¯ve been hiding. I want you to know that all this time, I have also loved you. Very, very much. I just hope that it¡¯s not toote for all of this.

    ¡°I just hope you¡¯re still willing to give me a chance. That you still ept me and still have love for me.¡±

    ¡°What if via refuses?¡± Abigail raised her eyebrows.

    ¡°I will fight until via makes a choice,¡± he replied, still staring sharply at via. He wanted via to be sure that his feelings were sincere. His gaze changed, showing a hint of disappointment when he saw via shaking her head slowly. The girl even released dwin¡¯s hand from her grip. Abigail was sure her friend would say no.

    ¡°Sorry, Uncle. But Uncle is right; I am with Eijaz now. And Uncle is also right. My feelings for Uncle are just admiration from a niece to her uncle,¡± she said with a bitter tone.

    ¡°Via!¡± Abigail looked at her friend with irritation. In contrast, dwin smiled.

    ¡°I knew you would say something like that. But I won¡¯t give up just because of the words you just uttered. Didn¡¯t I say I wouldn¡¯t give up until you made a choice? The choice I want you to make is not about me or Eijaz. But I want you to choose who will stand beside you at the wedding.¡± dwin replied confidently.

    via was surprised, but Abigail looked at her uncle with an admiring smile. ¡°I will only give up after you decide to get married. But until that happens, you don¡¯t belong to anyone,¡± she asserted firmly.

    ¡°Uncle¡­?¡±Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Abigail will be a witness that I won¡¯t give up easily.¡± dwin looked at his niece, and Abigail nodded in support. ¡°All this time, unknowingly, you have disrupted my life. And now it¡¯s my turn to do that to you. Even if that feeling has disappeared in your heart, I will make it surface again.

    ¡°I will make you fall in love with me again. Until you finally surrender and are willing to ept me.¡±

 Chap 31

    via was confused. The emotions in her chest were now mixed. Joy, happiness, touched, sadness, doubt, and fear came all at once. Once again, via was unsure of herself. Not because of her feelings of love, as it was clear that those feelings still existed without dwin having to try hard to bring them out.

    Other thoughts that came in session made her afraid. Rejection, sharp gazes, the feeling of being isted. All of that now haunted via¡¯s mind. Especially the fear of not being able to fulfill the desires of her closest people. The fear that she couldn¡¯t make dwin happy in the end.

    ¡°I can¡¯t, Uncle.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t promise that I will always bring you happiness because life is not always about happiness andughter. I also know that my choice in the future won¡¯t be easily epted by others. But I won¡¯t give up. It¡¯s not others who will create my happiness; I myself will create it,¡± replied dwin confidently. But once again, via shook her head.

    ¡°It¡¯s not that easy, Uncle. I can¡¯t be with you. It¡¯s better to cancel all the intentions and ns in Uncle¡¯s mind. I can¡¯t be with you anytime. I¡¯ve promised to love Eijaz,¡± she said. via was not lying at all. She had indeed promised herself that she would try to open her heart to Eijaz. And she couldn¡¯t ept dwin because she didn¡¯t want to ruin the future of the man she loved.

    ¡°I¡¯m tired,¡± she softly dismissed. ¡°I want to sleep.¡± via looked at her uncle and cousin alternately. Abigail nodded in understanding. She knew exactly what her friend and cousin wanted. via needed time to be alone; she needed time to think. Abigail pulled dwin to stand up, inviting him to leave via¡¯s room and giving the girl some time.

    dwin understood his niece¡¯s intention. He followed Abigail out, leaving via behind. Hadn¡¯t he already agreed to do everything Abigail¡¯s way?

    shback:

    ¡°Are you sure, Uncle?¡± Abigail asked shortly after dwin stated that he would fight for his rtionship with via. ¡°It won¡¯t be easy to influence via because, despite her gentle nature, she is a person with strong principles. And she has made a decision to give up on her feelings for Uncle. And that happened five years ago.¡±

    dwin could only look at his niece with a furrowed brow and great curiosity. He wanted Abigail to exin why via eventually decided to give up. But he got no answer. His niece remained silent even though dwin had given her enough time.

    ¡°If Uncle is indeed sure of his feelings and is determined to fight for via and never give up, I will help Uncle. With two conditions.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    ¡°What?¡±

    ¡°Uncle must not give up halfway. Because if Uncle decides to give up, via will be shattered. For the first condition, I will give Uncle time to think. Meanwhile, for the second condition, Uncle must follow all my words. Follow all the lines I create. Because here, only I know what¡¯s in via¡¯s heart and mind.¡±

    dwin looked at her, searching for certainty in Abigail¡¯s expression. He finally decided to nod his head.

    ¡°Start by expressing Uncle¡¯s true feelings. Don¡¯t give up just because of one rejection sentence. Because I assure you, via has many sentences as reasons for her rejection.¡±

    shback Off:

    ¡°Start by expressing Uncle¡¯s true feelings.¡±

    That¡¯s what Abigail said, and indeed, as she predicted, via rejected him, mumbling reasons that seemed well-crafted in her mind.

    They descended to the first floor. Apparently, without them realizing it, people had started to leave. Adaline and Altezza were nowhere to be seen. His siblings were not there either. Only the homeowners, Antony and ire, remained. Antony¡¯s parents, Sir Arthur and Mrs. Brianna Quirino. Julie Hampton, Penelope, and Phoebe were there.

    ¡°You took so long,¡± his mother said with an annoyed expression towards dwin. ¡°Phoebe is dizzy, tired, and wants to go home.¡±

    ¡°Why not ask Antony¡¯s driver to take her?¡± Abigail asked, her eyes ncing sharply at Phoebe without hiding it.

    ¡°It¡¯s alreadyte. How can we ask Antony¡¯s driver to take Phoebe? The driver also needs to rest,¡± Julie replied again.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t Uncle need rest? Oh, I forgot. Recently, Uncle has changed professions to be a personal driver,¡± Abigail sarcastically teased. ¡°Come on, Uncle, I¡¯m also tired. Let¡¯s drop them off so we can go home quickly.¡± Abigail pulled dwin¡¯s arm, bidding farewell to via¡¯s grandparents before waving her hand to Antony.

    ¡°You¡¯reing home too? Weren¡¯t you nning to stay here?¡± ire asked when it was Abigail¡¯s turn to hug her.

    ¡°Not tonight. Tomorrow, I have a photo shoot scheduled. My assistant will pick me up at the apartment.¡± She replied. ¡°After the shoot tomorrow, I¡¯lle here again. I didn¡¯t have a chance to meet the baby earlier.¡±

    ire nodded, and afterward, Abigail walked to the backyard where dwin¡¯s car was parked. Everyone must have thought that Abigail would go home driving her own car, but they were wrong. Abigail was already leaning casually by the driver¡¯s side door, waiting for her uncle, aunt, and the two pampered guests invited by her grandmother who wanted to make dwin her personal driver.

    ¡°Why haven¡¯t you gone home yet?¡± Julie Hampton asked in confusion.

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯m waiting for Uncle.¡± Abigail replied casually. dwin pressed the automatic key button, and without many words, Abigail entered the front passenger seat, clearly not giving Phoebe a chance to get close to her uncle.

    Abigail could see the sulking faces of the mother and daughter when their intentions didn¡¯t go smoothly. Phoebe¡¯s mother gave in, and finally, they sat side by side. Nonchntly, dwin started his car and left Antony¡¯s house. The car moved in silence. Abigail chose to turn on the radio at a low volume, even though she actually wanted to turn the volume up to the maximum. Five minutester, they had arrived in front of Abigail¡¯s family home because their house and Antony¡¯s family house were in the same housingplex. Julie Hampton then got off after chatting briefly with Phoebe¡¯s mother. Then, dwin drove his car towards Phoebe¡¯s residence.

    The song ¡°Sedang Sayang-sayangnya¡± by Mawar De Jongh yed as dwin drove his car. Abigail, who didn¡¯t want to start a conversation, nced at Phoebe through the side mirror when the woman spoke.

    ¡°The song is sad, huh?¡± Abigail raised an eyebrow. ¡°Being left when you¡¯re in love.¡±

    She continued as if answering Abigail¡¯s silent question. ¡°Why, Aunty? Personal experience?¡± Abigail asked casually. The woman frowned in surprise. ¡°Sorry if it¡¯s impolite. I¡¯m just curious, because Auntymented earlier. Well, consider it as sharing experiences. So, did Aunty ever get left by a guy when you were in love?¡±

    Phoebe snorted. There was arrogance in her demeanor. ¡°My daughter is not the type to be left but to leave.¡± That was Phoebe¡¯s response.

    ¡°Yeah, like that. How about you, Aunty? Any personal experiences?¡± Abigail had now turned half her body to look at the middle-aged woman behind her. ¡°Aunty Phoebe is amazing. The female version of Don Juan or Casanova.¡±

    ¡°Well, of course. A girl should have self-respect. Girls should be chased, not chasing. If the guy is not worth it, why bother chasing him?¡± Continued Penelope with the Red Lipstick. Abigail smiled mockingly at her words.

    ¡°Is that so, Aunty¡¯s Mom? Abigail should learn from Aunty¡¯s Mom¡¯s way. Don¡¯t you think so, Uncle?¡± Abigail turned to her uncle. Her uncle just nced at her silently. ¡°So, Aunty Phoebe was the one who left her husband back then, right?¡± Abigail baited her again.

    ¡°Well, yes. My son should not be left behind.¡± Abigail saw Phoebe gripping her mother¡¯s arm, asking her mother to stop talking silently. ¡°Let me tell you this. If a guy is no longer reliable, leave him.¡±

    ¡°Even when you¡¯re in love, Grandma?¡±

    ¡°Well, yes. Life is realistic. I¡¯ve lived longer than you guys. I¡¯ve tasted the ups and downs of life. Life is not just about love and affection. Everything has to be realistic. Going to the local shop, getting pampered at the salon, wanting to eat well and fulfilling the lifestyle, it¡¯s not about love and affection. Do you understand what I mean?¡± Penelope answered passionately.

    Abigail nodded. ¡°Yes, Aunty¡¯s Mom is right. I work hard so I can pamper myself at the salon, so I can go clubbing. You never know, in ces like that, there are many wealthy people. Who knows, maybe I can find one. Right, Aunty¡¯s Mom?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s it. You¡¯re smart.¡± Penelope praised Abigail. Abigail nced at Phoebe through the mirror. The woman stared back at her with a sharp and hostile gaze. Abigail just smirked mockingly.

    dwin, who had been listening, finally understood the conversation between Abigail and the middle-aged woman.

 Chap 32

    Abigail ced her bag on the bar table and walked towards the pantry, opening the fridge and drinking cold water straight from her bottle. ¡°Let me know if Grandma invites Uncle for lunch or takes him out. Anywhere and anytime. I¡¯ll be like a leech sticking to Uncle,¡± she dered loudly as she walked towards her room. ¡°Good night, Uncle. Have a nice dream,¡± she added with a smile before closing the door.

    dwin didn¡¯t respond to Abigail¡¯s statement. The man strolled into his room and opted for a warm shower, changing into fresh clothes afterward. He theny on his bed and opened a video uploaded by Ignazio on his YouTube ount. Didn¡¯t via know that her eldest brother often posted videos of their daily activities?

    dwin opened thetest video titled ¡°Rasa Cinta¡± (The Essence of Love) that Ignazio had uploaded. In the video, Abigail and via were standing at the doorway. Ignazio yed the guitar, and Akara sang a verse of a song with her melodious voice. Lastly, the beautiful Francisca and her cousin Falisha ended the video with a funny closing remark typical of children.

    The video was unedited and had been uploaded about four hours ago. It had garnered a lot of views, thumbs up, and numerousments.

    ¡°Oh my God, is that really Abigail? Introduce us, please¡­¡±

    ¡°Wow, does this family have some special genes? How can their descendants be this talented?¡±

    And there were otherments requesting Abigail or via to be their partners or urging Francisca and Falisha to grow up quickly. Some women alsomented, asking Ignazio and Geremia to be their boyfriends.

    dwin smiled to himself. Nowadays, kids had their own quirky ways of expressing their feelings.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    dwin knew that his nieces had a YouTube ount. It had been just a year since they started ying around with social media ounts. There wasn¡¯t any specific content on it; the kids used ¡°Diary Ignazio Family¡± as the title for their stories. The videos mainly featured their family activities, with many showcasing Ignazio ying his favorite musical instrument, the guitar.

    A few months ago, Ignazio began uploading cover songs, ying them with Adaline or with via as the singer. yfully, the boy even uploaded funny videos of Francisca, Falisha, or Abigail singing loudly.

    Watching the videos made by his nieces was, in fact, one of dwin¡¯s remedies for missing via. via was a reserved girl, even on her own social media ount; she rarely posted personal photos, unless someone else was in the picture.

    dwin opened the chat application on his phone and searched for via¡¯s name.

    **Me:**

    How are you doing now?

    Feeling better?

    Via:

    I¡¯m better now, Uncle.

    Uncle hasn¡¯t slept yet?

    Me:

    Just arrived at the apartment.

    Via¡­

    Via:

    Yes, Uncle?

    Me:

    Love you.

    Always.

    Silence. No response.

    Me:

    I know you¡¯re still unsure.

    But I won¡¯t give up.

    I hope you¡¯ll give me a chance.

    Don¡¯t you feel sorry for me?

    I¡¯m an old bachelor, you know.

    Again, just silence. Two clear blue checkmarks indicated that dwin¡¯s message had been read by via, but there was no response from her. Whether she intended to reply or deliberately ignored it, he couldn¡¯t tell.

    Me:

    Wait for me.

    If you really don¡¯t want to respond to my messages,

    I¡¯ll chase after you in your dreams.

    Love you.

    dwin ced his phone on the nightstand. Meanwhile, elsewhere, via could only stare nkly at her phone. This was the longest message her uncle had ever sent her.

    via couldn¡¯t believe it. What was happening with her uncle? Just when she intended to put an end to everything, he reappeared and expressed something that Via had buried in her thoughts. via couldn¡¯t sleep the whole night, contemting the various options she would face if she chose to ept or reject her uncle¡¯s confession.

    In the morning, after closing her eyes for about two hours, via decided to return to her routine. ¡°Good morning,¡± a warm greeting from a man that left via stunned.

    ¡°Uncle¡­!¡± Her two younger siblings shouted simultaneously. What was her uncle doing here so early in the morning? via wondered in silence.

    ¡°Brother, why are you here so early for once?¡± ire asked, having finished hanging her baby¡¯s clothes.

    ¡°I asked to be dropped off here. His car was left herest night. His assistant was supposed to pick it up, but it didn¡¯t happen,¡± dwin replied, whether it was indeed the fact or if there was another reason.

    ¡°And where¡¯s Abigail?¡± ire asked since her chatty niece wasn¡¯t heard.

    ¡°She¡¯s already gone to the location. I¡¯m hungry, mind if I join for breakfast?¡± he said and took a seat without waiting for permission.

    via, who had finished her toast, was now moving the hot bread onto arge te while the house assistant brought bread and jam. ¡°What toppings would Zio and Francis like?¡± via asked as she ced the bread on the table.

    ¡°I want sunny-side-up eggs.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ll go with sausages.¡±

    ¡°I want both, sausage and sunny-side-up eggs,¡± dwin requested without being asked. via just nodded and returned to the kitchen. Shortly after, she came back with two tes, each containing semi-cooked sunny-side-up eggs and sausages.

    via, who usually sat on the left side of Antony, now found herself sitting next to Ignazio because dwin had taken her usual seat.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you have breakfast at Mom¡¯s ce? Mom would be happy if you ate there,¡± ire suddenly asked.

    ¡°Lazy,¡± replied dwin, taking a big bite of his toast. via ate in silence, not intending toment on anything.

    ¡°Tired of being asked about when you¡¯re getting married, huh?¡± ire teased again.

    ¡°You already know the answer. Don¡¯t bother asking.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m just curious. Mom brought it up again yesterday. Why don¡¯t you just say yes to her request? Isn¡¯t it nice to have a wife, someone who pays attention to you?¡±

    ¡°Someone to apany you in bed,¡± added Antony. ¡°Marriage is enjoyable, brother. Every night feels warm.¡± Antony¡¯s whisper made dwin choke on his food.

    ¡°Are you mocking me?¡± dwin red at Antony.

    ¡°Not mocking, just stating the actual facts. Altezza and Gian even regret not getting married sooner. What age are you nning to get married? Or are you just not desirable?¡± Antony¡¯s question made dwin choke on his food again. His brother-inw was exceptional; he could insult someone without any expression.

    ¡°Who said I¡¯m not desirable? Being single and choosing to remain unmarried are different, Antony,¡± dwin defended himself.

 Chap 33

    ¡°Is that so?¡± ire chimed in. ¡°If this is the case, honestly, I¡¯m ashamed to admit you as my older brother. You¡¯re thirty-five years old and still single? Antony already has via at your age now.¡±

    ¡°I thought only Mom¡¯s mouth always spat out harsh words. Turns out yours is just as sharp,¡± dwin red at ire. ¡°Listen to me. I choose to remain single because I want to, not because I¡¯m not sought after by women. I don¡¯t want to bebeled as a yboy like your ex-boyfriend who liked to bring women here and there but nevermitted to a rtionship, let alone marriage.¡± dwin¡¯s sharp retort was directed at Antony.

    This time, Antony choked on his food. ire gently patted her husband¡¯s back. It was evident that dwin¡¯s usation was aimed at Antony and his past before marrying ire.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid of karma. What if there¡¯s a guy who ys with my niece or my child in the future? It¡¯s one thing if it¡¯s just a broken heart. But what if she ends up traumatized and refuses to know guys anymore?¡± dwin challenged, causing ire to smirk.

    ¡°Well, if you can actually get a woman, introduce her to Mom quickly. Don¡¯t let Mom really force you to take Phoebe to the civil registry office,¡± Antonyughed, while dwin cursed under his breath.

    ¡°Can¡¯t you, just for a day, not mention her name? It¡¯s giving me a headache.¡± dwinined irritably.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t want a headache, quickly bring your potential future wife,¡± ire said again.

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m in the process. I¡¯m starting to approach,¡± dwin replied casually.

    ire widened her eyes, looking at her brother with an incredulous expression. ¡°Are you seriously making a move? On who?¡±

    dwin shrugged. ¡°Someone. I¡¯ll let you know if there are any new developments. For now, it¡¯s enough for that woman to know that I¡¯m making an effort to win her over. So she knows that my words aren¡¯t just empty talk.¡± He answered seriously. His gaze was directed at via, who had been silent without anyments throughout the conversation.

    ire stared at her brother, and so did Antony. Whether dwin realized it or not, the attention of the girl¡¯s parents he was pursuing was on him. ire looked at Antony, who could only give a slow nod.

    Yes, besides ire, Antony also knew the feelings of the two lovebirds, although neither of them dared to admit it. via¡¯s arranged marriage with Eijaz was Antony¡¯s idea, but he never forced his eldest daughter to ept it if she didn¡¯t want to.

    Antony just wanted the best for via. ording to him, Eijaz was the right man because he was always there to support his daughter, even during the darkest times in her life, albeit all starting from an ident.

    Antony could also see how much Eijaz loved via. via seemedfortable around him, even though her feelings for him were not as profound as Eijaz¡¯s love for her. It didn¡¯t evene close to via¡¯s feelings for dwin.

    However, like most parents, Antony always hoped for via¡¯s happiness with whomever she chose. Even though he knew that if his daughter chose dwin, she would have to fight longer for her happiness.

    The challenge in their rtionship wasn¡¯t Antony, ire, or public opinion. Their biggest challenge was dwin¡¯s mother, who was also Antony¡¯s mother-inw and via¡¯s step-grandmother.

    That woman was the one via and dwin had to contend with. And going against her was certainly not an easy task. They had to hold each other¡¯s hands. They had to support each other. If one of them gave up, they would return to square one. Antony knew his daughter well. Although she was a fighter, she would surrender if the stakes were the happiness of someone she loved.

    Antony gazed at via, who still kept her head down, focusing on her te. His daughter had indeed be quietertely. However, during family gatherings like this, she was usually more talkative. Antony knew the reason for her current silence ¨C it was dwin Hampton.

    ¡°dwin Hampton,

    ¡°I won¡¯t be driving you to school. Tobby is at the market, taking the kitchen staff shopping. So, Uncle dwin will drop you off.¡± Antony spoke without seeking the owner of the car¡¯s permission. ¡°via too, just let Uncle drive you.¡± Antony nced at ire, seemingly seeking her approval, and saw his wife nodding. Meanwhile, via just looked at her father and uncle with clear surprise in her eyes.

    ¡°B-but,¡± via interjected.

    ¡°Alright. We¡¯re going to the hospital anyway. Our destination is the same.¡± dwin quickly interrupted before via could refuse or offer another option.

    ¡°I¡¯m not going to the Korean cafe, Uncle. I have an appointment elsewhere.¡± She politely declined, and dwin tried to contain his smile, as he had anticipated his niece¡¯s response.N?velDrama.Org owns this text.

    ¡°That¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll still take you. My schedule is rxed today.¡± dwin replied, finishing his ss of water.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Instead of taking a taxi driven by someone else, which can be dangerous, considering crimes are everywhere nowadays. You never know if there¡¯s a taxi driver kidnapping passengers under the pretext of getting lost, taking them to a toll road iming a wrong turn. Do you want to be a victim?¡± dwin looked at via with a sharp gaze, while via shivered in horror at her uncle¡¯s words. Reluctantly, she nodded in agreement.

    dwin smiled sweetly-so sweetly that it made via feel weak in the knees, unable to stand.

    ¡°I¡¯m done, all finished. Come on, Uncle.¡± Ignazio had indeed finished his meal, maybe even a few minutes ago. However, the young boy seemed to intentionally let the adults finish their conversation.

    dwin nodded again, rising from his seat and inviting Francisca to join him. ¡°I¡¯ll grab my bag first,¡± via said quietly, leaving the dining table.

    ¡°Don¡¯t rush, dear. Don¡¯t run,¡± ire shouted. via, who had almost run, abandoned her intention and opted to walk quickly.

    ¡°Where are you going now?¡± dwin asked after dropping off Ignazio and Francisca at their school. The question confused via because she hadn¡¯t nned to visit any cafe today and was actually heading home. But she couldn¡¯t tell dwin, let alone invite him there.

    ¡°Just take me to the Korean cafe. Uncle wants to go to the hospital, right?¡±

    ¡°But didn¡¯t you say earlier that you had to go somewhere else?¡±

    ¡°Uh¡­ that¡­ um¡­¡± via stammered.

    ¡°If you don¡¯t have any ns, would you apany me shopping?¡± via looked at her uncle in confusion. ¡°I¡¯m off today. I was nning to stock up my apartment¡¯s fridge. Do you want to join me in shopping?¡± he persuaded.

    via was torn between agreeing or refusing. On one hand, she wanted to follow her uncle wherever he went. On the other hand, she wanted to maintain some distance. But it seemed that dwin didn¡¯t need any answer from her. Without via saying anything, he had already made the decision for the two of them.

 Chap 34

    dwin parked his car behind therge supermarket building. He courteously opened the passenger door, allowing via to get out before locking it. Hisrge hand reached for via¡¯s hand, deliberately intertwining their fingers. via resisted and attempted to free herself from her uncle¡¯s grip, but dwin instead stared back at her and tightened his hold.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    dwin walked ahead of via as she tried to maintain a distance between them. The girl continuously lowered her head, prompting dwin to intentionally halt his steps just to make her head bump into his back or the side of his arm.

    ¡°Are you really ashamed to walk with me?¡± dwin asked, with a condescending tone, for who knows how many times. via looked up and shook her head. ¡°Why? Am I ugly? Am I too old for you?¡± he asked again. via shook her head once more. ¡°Then why do you keep avoiding me?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s not like that, Uncle,¡± via replied softly. ¡°It¡¯s just that¡­¡±

    ¡°Just that what?¡± dwin stared sharply at via. ¡°Okay. I forced you toe here when you didn¡¯t want to go with me. I know you¡¯re embarrassed because I¡¯m too old to take you out.¡± dwin then released their intertwined fingers. ¡°I won¡¯t force you anymore. You can go home or wherever you want. I won¡¯t stop you.¡± dwin continued his steps with his brusque tone, ignoring via, who now stood silent, gazing at her uncle¡¯s retreating back.

    via knew that dwin was currently angry with her, and she didn¡¯t like that. She didn¡¯t want to upset dwin, and the thought of being left alone by him made her feel lost. Her hand, which had been tightly held by dwin, now felt cold and empty, and once again, via didn¡¯t like that.

    via lifted her head and searched for her uncle, who was now far from her sight. ¡°Uncle!¡± she called out with a slightly louder voice. dwin didn¡¯t turn at all. Whether he heard her call or chose to pretend not to, via didn¡¯t know. What was certain now was that via was half-running to catch up with her uncle, reaching for his elbow. ¡°Uncle, don¡¯t be angry,¡± she pleaded softly.

    dwin nced briefly, his face still showing a t expression. He ignored via¡¯s pleading face and continued walking slowly. ¡°Who¡¯s angry?¡± dwin said curtly. ¡°I¡¯m not angry. I just have self-awareness because I know you¡¯re embarrassed to go out with me. It¡¯s okay; you don¡¯t have to force yourself. Just go home or wherever you want. Didn¡¯t you prefer taking a taxi over going with me earlier?¡± He continued, putting some items into the shopping cart he was pushing.

    ¡°I¡¯m not embarrassed, Uncle,¡± the girl said with a trembling voice. ¡°I¡¯m not embarrassed to go with you. You¡¯re not too old for me. I just¡­¡± via bit her lip, hesitating.

    ¡°Just what?¡± dwin inquired.

    ¡°I just feel confused.¡±

    ¡°Confused? Confused about what?¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t exin it. Basically, I¡¯m not embarrassed, and you¡¯re not too old for me, Uncle,¡± via said, sounding like a whimper in dwin¡¯s ears.

    ¡°Are you really not embarrassed?¡± dwin asked, lowering his gaze to observe via¡¯s expression closely. via answered her uncle¡¯s question with a nod. ¡°Really, I¡¯m not too old for you?¡± via nodded again. ¡°So, you really like me?¡± via nodded once more. And¡­

    ¡°Huh?¡± she eximed when she realized. ¡°What did Uncle just ask?¡± she asked, her eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

    dwin shrugged with a mocking smile. ¡°No instant rey, Sweetheart,¡± he replied casually.

    Whether the man realized or not that his endearing term a few seconds ago instantly made via¡¯s cheeks blush, dwin extended his hand toward via, palm facing upward. via gazed at therge hand with confusion.

    ¡°If you¡¯re not embarrassed to walk with me,e here and hold my hand,¡± dwin coaxed with his sweet smile, once again making via¡¯s heart beat incredibly fast.

    ¡°But, um¡­¡± via stammered nervously.

    Again, dwin chose to continue walking, pushing the shopping cart away from via. Aware that her uncle was sulking, via chased after him and grabbed dwin¡¯s right hand with her left. dwin smiled triumphantly. That¡¯s how he melted via ¨C by making her feel guilty. It might be cunning, but what can you do? Everything is fair in love and war.

    They walked through aisle after aisle, putting in the items they needed, having small debates about things considered too expensive or unnecessary. dwin thoroughly enjoyed the time he spent with via ¨C thepanionship he knew he had wasted during their five years apart.

    ¡°Wanna go to the bookstore?¡± dwin offered after they finished shopping.

    ¡°Where to?¡± via asked again.

    ¡°Doesn¡¯t matter. If possible, let¡¯s go to a ce with good food too.¡± via seemed to think for a moment before nodding and mentioning the name of one of her favorite bookstores.

    A whileter, they arrived at via¡¯s chosen bookstore. via headed straight to the fiction section, while dwin walked towards the non-fiction books.

    ¡°Looking for fairy tales?¡± someone greeted via as she was inspecting a colorful children¡¯s storybook.

    via looked up and saw a handsome young man in a hoodie and jeans smiling at her. This didn¡¯t escape the watchful eye of dwin, who stood not far from where via was now standing, only separated by two bookshelves that didn¡¯t even reach the man¡¯s shoulders.

    ¡°No, just browsing a bit,¡± via answered honestly, refocusing on the books on the shelf.

    ¡°I¡¯m Kenzie.¡± The man extended his hand, inviting via to introduce herself. via stared at him hesitantly for a few seconds before reciprocating the handshake.

    ¡°via,¡± she replied tly.

    ¡°School? College? Or working?¡± the young man asked again, seeming very interested in via.

    ¡°College,¡± via whispered. She continued to walk and look at other books, and the man still followed closely behind.

    ¡°Oh, by the way, if I may ask, what¡¯s your major and where? I¡¯m in the Architecture department,¡± he mentioned his campus.

    ¡°Interior Design,¡± via answered again, mentioning her campus.

    ¡°Wow, we¡¯re in the same campus then. But why have I never seen you before? I¡¯m in my sixth semester now, interning at Quirino Construction. What semester are you in?¡±

    ¡°Second semester, Graduate Program,¡± via¡¯s soft answer left the young man in front of her wide-eyed.

    ¡°S-Senior?¡± he stuttered. via just smiled. ¡°Sorry,¡± the man said, embarrassed. ¡°You look so young. I thought you were still in high school.¡± He awkwardly rubbed his neck. His face suddenly turned red, and he looked funny in via¡¯s eyes. via almostughed but tried to hold it back, not wanting to embarrass him further.

    ¡°Ahem.¡± dwin¡¯s cough made both of them turn simultaneously. Unbeknownst to them, dwin had apparently been standing behind via for who knows how long. ¡°Got the book?¡± he asked in a cold tone, ncing at the young man in front of them. via swallowed nervously. She felt anxious and scared at the same time.

    ¡°N-not yet,¡± she stammered.

    ¡°If you¡¯re not looking for anything, we might as well go home. I¡¯m hungry,¡± dwin said again, reaching for via¡¯s hand.

    via frowned and looked at her uncle in confusion while dwin responded to via¡¯s question with a meaningful smile.

    ¡°Still looking for something?¡± dwin asked again, and via quickly shook her head. ¡°Well then, let¡¯s go now. I¡¯m really hungry. You wouldn¡¯t want me to eat you here, would you?¡± he teased, causing via to widen her eyes and nce at the young man standing beside her with an embarrassed expression.

    dwin gently grabbed via¡¯s hand and pulled her towards the cashier after giving a threatening look to the young man who had talked to via earlier.

    dwin was furious. Just keeping a few steps away from via, his girl was already engaged in a conversation with a stranger. dwin clearly didn¡¯t like that, especially when via appeared to smile warmly at the young man, igniting a heat in his chest. He didn¡¯t like it when other guys looked at his via with such adoring eyes.

    dwin knew via was beautiful. Very beautiful. Even when she smiled, her eyes looked incredibly gentle, always melting dwin¡¯s heart. Oh God, if only there was Doraemon¡¯s shrinking shlight, dwin would happily borrow it. He would shrink via and carry her in his pocket. He would return her to normal size only when they were alone. Yes, not a bad idea at all.

    After having lunch together, via thought dwin would drive her back home. However, her assumption was wrong. dwin steered his car in the opposite direction of her house, and via didn¡¯t ask where they were going because she didn¡¯t want to worsen her uncle¡¯s mood.

    Since they left the bookstore, and even during lunch, her uncle seemed to go on a silent strike. Notpletely silent, but the man who usually had a lot to talk about suddenly became mute, making via a bit ufortable.

    They arrived at dwin¡¯s apartment basement. Still without much conversation, dwin unloaded all their shopping bags and only allowed via to carry the paper bag containing the books he had purchased.

    In silence, they went up to the floor where dwin lived. dwin entered the apartment after entering the password, kicked off his shoes with his feet, and walked toward the pantry. via ced her uncle¡¯s shoes on the rack before following him inside.

    ¡°Is Uncle angry with me?¡± she askedter. dwin didn¡¯t give an answer. He seemed engrossed in arranging his purchases, sorting out what goes into the fridge, freezer, and what belongs in the pantry. via wanted to help but, afraid of making a mistake, she ended up just standing beside the bar table. ¡°Uncle¡­¡± she whispered again, but dwin remained silent.

    via felt a pain in her chest. Being ignored like that by dwin felt ufortable. Her eyes welled up, and via knew that her tears were threatening to spill. She didn¡¯t want dwin to see her cry. via chose to withdraw.

    ¡°I¡¯m going home, Uncle,¡± she murmured, then grabbed her bag.

    ¡°Don¡¯t you care about my feelings?¡± The cold-toned question from dwin managed to stop via in her tracks. The girl looked up and gazed at her uncle with a puzzled and nervous expression, while he returned her look with a mncholic one. ¡°I¡¯m feeling jealous,¡± he answered. ¡°Why should I see you being approached by so many guys?¡±

    via¡¯s forehead wrinkled in confusion. ¡°Wh-what do you mean, Uncle?¡±

 Chap 35

    ¡°The guy at the bookstore. Why can you smile at him like that? Even without your smile, he¡¯s already interested in you. But you captivate him with your beautiful smile.¡± dwin expressed it with a hint of annoyance he didn¡¯t try to hide.

    dwin was jealous? Of a stranger who introduced himself? via didn¡¯t even share her phone number. But dwin reacted this way?

    ¡°And that number eighteen.¡± He continued. via furrowed her brow even more.

    ¡°Eighteen?¡±

    ¡°Yeah. The skinny guy and his chubby friend.¡± Her uncle reminded via of the two men who greeted her in the restaurant, who happened to be her former schoolmates having lunch in the same ce they did earlier. But why the number eighteen? via wondered silently.

    ¡°In my eyes, they look like the numbers one and eight,¡± dwin replied, causing via to bite her lip to hold backughter. Her uncle had returned to his sarcastic and mischievous self. Just the same old dwin that via had known. via¡¯s friend did indeed have one with a slim build, while the other had a fuller figure but was slightly shorter than the slender one.

    ¡°How could you shake hands with them in front of me, giving him your phone number without asking for my permission? You even seemed to forget my presence there. Do you like him? Charmed by his baby face and round sses? Is it because he looks like Daniel Radcliffe, your and Abigail¡¯s beloved Harry Potter?¡± he asked with a fiery tone.

    From numbers one and eight to Daniel Radcliffe, a fantastic leap ofparisons. via held back her smile again.

    ¡°He¡¯s my high school friend, Uncle,¡± via answered honestly.

    ¡°I know. He can¡¯t be your boyfriend. But still, I don¡¯t like it. If he sends you a message or even calls you and invites you out, that means I have one morepetitor. I haven¡¯t been able to get rid of Eijaz, and now there¡¯s this fake Potter,¡± he continued with an animated tone.

    ¡°Uncle, his name is Brian,¡± via corrected. dwin, instead, red at her angrily. ¡°And he¡¯s already married,¡± via added, with a teasing smile on her face.

    dwin¡¯s eyes widened instantly. ¡°H-he¡¯s already married?¡± dwin stammered, uncertain about via¡¯s words. via nodded.

    ¡°We were high school friends, and his wife is Abigail¡¯s friend. He got married when I was in my sixth semester of college,¡± she honestly exined.

    dwin shrugged, a gesture via knew meant he was feeling awkward after venting his unclear frustration. ¡°Fine. At least mypetition has decreased by one. But still, there¡¯s this number eight who didn¡¯t blink when he saw you,¡± he continued sulking.

    via walked closer to her uncle. ¡°Uncle¡­¡± she called softly. ¡°So, you¡¯ve been angry with me all this time because of them?¡± A somewhat foolish question. via was aware that the cause of her uncle¡¯s strange behavior was those two men. She asked more to reassure herself that what she thought was correct.

    ¡°I¡¯m not angry, via Quirino. Em-pha-size that. I¡¯m jealous. You know? Jeal-Ous!¡± dwin replied, emphasizing each syble.

    ¡°But Uncle shouldn¡¯t be jealous. It¡¯s not reasonable,¡± via responded. dwin was stunned to hear that.

    ¡°Yes. You¡¯re right,¡± dwin continued his almost finished task. ¡°Not because of jealousy. But because of its unreasonableness. I have no right to be jealous because you¡¯re not mine to be jealous of. Who am I? Just an old bachelor begging for love from his own niece,¡± he replied again, with a pitiful tone.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡±

    ¡°Yes. Yes. Yes. I know. You prefer Eijaz, handsome and younger than me. It¡¯s okay, I¡¯m aware of myself. I won¡¯t force you to ept my love. I won¡¯t burden you anymore,¡± dwin closed the refrigerator and turned around. via was still frozen in her ce. Her slender fingers gripped the strap of her shoulder bag, turning pale. ¡°You don¡¯t have to look at me with pity, Via. I¡¯m self-aware. I won¡¯t openly express my feelings for you anymore. I don¡¯t want to burden you.¡±

    Instead of answering, via shed a tear, surprising dwin.

    ¡°Why? Did he say something wrong? Did he hurt the girl?¡±N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Vi-Via. What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± dwin approached and hugged his niece with concern. Embracing her small shoulders, he gently rubbed her back. via held onto the edges of dwin¡¯s shirt, squeezing them while sobbing softly.

    ¡°Why? Why did Uncle do this to me?¡± asked the girl in his embrace.

    dwin tried to pull away from via, attempting to see her face. However, via hugged him tightly and buried her face in dwin¡¯s chest.

    ¡°Why is Uncle being mean to me?¡± she sobbed softly. ¡°I¡¯ve tried to forget Uncle. Stay away from Uncle. Uncle said he didn¡¯t want a rtionship with kids like me. But why has Uncle changed now?

    ¡°Why is Uncle being mean?¡± The girl¡¯s consecutive questions, apanied by her trembling sobs, left dwin speechless. In response, he hugged via tightly, resting his chin on top of her head.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± he whispered. ¡°I know I¡¯ve been selfish. I know I¡¯ve been cruel to you. But I¡¯ve given up. I¡¯m tired.¡±

    ¡°I can¡¯t pretend anymore that I don¡¯t have any feelings for you. I can¡¯t hold back the jealousy anymore.

    ¡°I love you. Not just now, but since a long time ago,¡± he said, causing via to freeze. via released her embrace, moving back so she could see dwin more clearly. ¡°Forgive me if my words back then hurt you. But honestly, I didn¡¯t want you to misinterpret your feelings towards me.

    ¡°Admiration and love have a thin line between them. And I wanted you to realize first what I mean to you in your heart. But I was wrong. I should have just epted the feelings we both had.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯ve fallen in love. I feel like a criminal for loving someone like you.¡±

    ¡°But Mom and Dad also had a significant age gap. Even more than us.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know. But they were adults back then. While you? You¡¯re justing of age. I don¡¯t want to tie you down while your friends are still out there, free. I don¡¯t want you to regret someday for choosing wrong and not being able to enjoy your youth as you should.

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll leave me someday because you realize what you feel for me is just admiration, not love. Negative thoughts, indeed. But I can¡¯t dismiss all those thoughts.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m not like that.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I know. I realize it. I realize your determination. And I apologize for that. For underestimating your feelings.¡± dwin embraced via again, holding her petite body tightly. ¡°I hope your rtionship with Eijaz isn¡¯t serious.

    ¡°Even though I love you, I don¡¯t want to snatch you away from another man. I want you toe to me willingly. ept all my feelings,¡± he whispered. His confidence disappeared when Eijaz¡¯s name surfaced.

    ¡°I¡­¡± via nervously squeezed dwin¡¯s clothing. ¡°I don¡¯t have anything going on with Eijaz,¡± she said softly against dwin¡¯s chest.

    ¡°But you¡¯re arranged to be married. And you seem very¡­patible,¡± dwin said reluctantly.

    via pulled her face away from dwin. ¡°Is Uncle jealous?¡± she asked with a mischievous smile. dwin turned his face away, a blush spreading across his face and ears.

    via shook her head. ¡°I am indeed arranged with Eijaz, but there¡¯s nothing between us. We¡¯re good friends, that¡¯s all. Eijaz is a good friend who has always been there for me when I needed him. But that¡¯s it, nothing more.¡±

    ¡°So, you don¡¯t have any feelings for him?¡± dwin asked again, curious. via shook her head wearily. ¡°Then, for the past five years, was I right in suspecting that you¡¯ve been trying to avoid me?¡± dwin inquired again, wanting to know the truth.

    via lifted her head again, silently gazing at the man and choosing not to provide any answer. ¡°So, it¡¯s true? My suspicion all this time is correct,¡± dwin answered his own question. ¡°But why?¡± dwin pleaded.

    ¡°I¡¯m scared.¡±

    ¡°Scared? Scared of what?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid my feelings will waver again if I see Uncle.¡±

    ¡°But why? Do you hate me that much?¡±

    via shook her head quickly. ¡°N-no, it¡¯s not like that. I just¡­¡± The sound of a password being pressed and the door opening diverted their attention to an intruder.

    ¡°Oops¡­ are you two having a drama scene here?¡± Abigail looked at via and dwin with a mischievous smile. Aware of their current embrace, via tried to distance herself from dwin, but he maintained his hold on her waist.

    ¡°Sorry, we¡¯re not having a drama here. But from now on, via and I are officially dating.¡± The announcement suddenly made via and Abigail both stare at the only man in the room with wide-eyed astonishment.

 Chap 36

    ¡°Should we celebrate it?¡± Abigail finally broke the silence.

    ¡°N-no!¡± via quickly responded. ¡°There¡¯s nothing to celebrate. What Uncle said is a lie. We have no connection whatsoever.¡± via then released dwin¡¯s hand from her waist.

    ¡°But, Via?¡± dwin looked at via, puzzled. They had already expressed their feelings for each other, and via had stated that she had no rtionship with Eijaz. So why was she still refusing?

    ¡°I-I have to go. I have things to do on campus,¡± via said nervously.

    Abigail and dwin both knew that via was lying. It was clear she was avoiding dwin.

    ¡°I¡¯ll drive you,¡± dwin said, searching for his car keys, but via shook her head vigorously.

    ¡°No need, Uncle. I can go on my own,¡± via declined softly.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Be careful on the road,¡± dwin and Abigail said simultaneously. dwin looked angrily at Abigail because his niece was hindering his efforts, but Abigail ignored his gaze.

    via smiled at her friends, silently expressing gratitude, then put on her t shoes, bid farewell, and left the apartment.

    ¡°Why did you let her go alone?¡± dwin asked abruptly. Clearly, he felt both frustrated and angry at the same time. He wanted to resolve everything with via, but Abigail was intentionally thwarting his efforts.

    ¡°For now, let her be alone, Uncle. She needs time,¡± Abigail said casually as she walked to the fridge and took cold water.

    ¡°What more time? Before you came, she already said she had no rtionship with Eijaz. We¡¯ve both admitted our feelings. But she still refuses when I mention that we are officially dating now. I need an exnation for her rejection this time,¡± dwin became emotional again. His impatience was evident. He continued to stare at Abigail, who remained calm when he wanted to explode.

    ¡°Is that so?¡± Abigail seemed surprised, but dwin knew it was just an act. ¡°Your progress has been fast too. But Uncle promised me that he would follow my way. Uncle must not pressure via. Period,¡± Abigail concluded without giving dwin a chance to negotiate.

    ¡°But¡­¡±

    ¡°Uncle!¡± Abigail looked at her uncle sharply, demanding his full attention. ¡°via is acting like that for a reason.¡±

    ¡°Well then, exin! What¡¯s the reason for rejecting Uncle now when our feelings are mutual? Or is it just a made-up excuse?¡± dwin stared at Abigail suspiciously.

    Abigail ignored him. ¡°We¡¯re having dinner at Grandma¡¯s house.¡± Abigail stated firmly, with no intention of answering her uncle¡¯s questions. dwin looked at his niece in confusion, but Abigail seemed reluctant to be contradicted.

    Fine, dwin would y along. After all, he had agreed to it earlier.

    ¡°It¡¯s unusual for you toe without via,¡± his fathermented as Abigail entered his parents¡¯ house through the kitchen door, as she usually did. ¡°You and her are like Siamese twins. Always together wherever you go,¡± he continued in a mocking tone.

    ¡°via has work. Why, Dad, jealous because I prefer to spend time with her rather than with you?¡± Abigail looked at her father with a mischievous gleam in her eyes.

    ¡°Should have adopted her back then. Then you wouldn¡¯t have turned into a naughty child. You, just a moment without via, start acting strange.¡± His father replied cynically. ¡°See, she leaves you to go to college, and you immediately start acting up and be a model.¡± It was no secret that her father strongly opposed Abigail and the world of modeling.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already said this is just a phase. I¡¯ll stop when I¡¯m no longer in demand. Or when I get married, then I¡¯ll focus on my family.¡±

    ¡°Yes, but when?¡± Now his mother asked. ¡°Until now, you haven¡¯t introduced any man to us.¡±

    ¡°Well, I¡¯m still looking, Ma. I¡¯ll make sure, after via gets married, I¡¯ll get married too,¡± she concluded.

    ¡°Then how long are you going to wait? via¡¯s rtionship with Eijaz hasn¡¯t made any progress. Do you want to wait for me to die before getting married?¡± Julie Hampton interjected. dwin sensed a sarcastic tone in his mother¡¯s voice, but he didn¡¯t know the reason.

    ¡°Well, Grandma, just pray for via to get married soon. That way, I can also meet my match soon.¡±

    ¡°But I¡¯m also curious about via and Eijaz. They¡¯ve known each other for quite a while and seem to like each other, but why is there no sign of marriage from either of them? Who¡¯s not ready to get married? via or Eijaz?¡±

    ¡°Maybe it¡¯s her family,¡± Julie Hampton interjected. Abigail let her grandmother speak as this was her intention in bringing dwin. She wanted to make dwin aware of Julie Hampton¡¯s views on via.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with her family?¡± dwin asked afterward, as there was no response from anyone at the dining table after his mother spoke. ¡°Do they not like via?¡± There was a hopeful tone in dwin¡¯s voice.

    ¡®Isn¡¯t that good? If Eijaz¡¯s family doesn¡¯t like via, it means dwin doesn¡¯t have to confront Eijaz¡¯s parents.¡¯ dwin thought, feeling pleased.

    ¡°Which parents would willingly allow their son to marry a girl like via,¡± Julie Hampton replied calmly but made dwin instantly furrow his brow in confusion.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    Abigail¡¯s parents looked at dwin, Abigail, and Julie Hampton in turn.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know?¡± Julie Hampton stared at dwin with a deep furrow in her brow. dwin reciprocated with an equally puzzled look. ¡°Your uncle truly doesn¡¯t know?¡± Julie looked at Abigail, who answered his question by pursing her lips and shaking her head. ¡°How is that possible? It¡¯s been five years already.¡± Julie looked at dwin in disbelief.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with via?¡± dwin now looked at the people around the table in turn. ¡°via is beautiful, she¡¯s kind. And shees from a respected and decent family.¡± dwin¡¯sment was straightforward. ¡°What do Eijaz¡¯s parents have that makes him reject via? Are they richer than Antony?¡± He asked, curious and with an uncontroble anger.

    ¡°Well, all of that is true. via has it all. Beautiful face, good character, and a respectable family. But that¡¯s not enough to make her the dreamed-of daughter-inw, dwin. A woman should be able to provide offspring.¡± His mother¡¯s response stung dwin. His heart felt like it was being squeezed by an invisible hand. dwin looked at Abigail, his niece seemed to be clenching her fists and staring sharply at her grandmother.

    ¡°via is not barren, Grandma,¡± she uttered with a low growl. ¡°Her uterus is intact.¡±

    ¡°Yes. You are right. But the chances of her having children are small. And as parents, Eijaz¡¯s parents must consider that. It¡¯s better to avoid something uncertain than to regret itter,¡± Julie continued, seemingly unaware of the chilling atmosphere around her.

    ¡°How can you speak like that, Grandma? via is also your granddaughter,¡± Abigail retorted.

    ¡°Yes. via is also my granddaughter. But I¡¯m talking about facts, Abby. If I were in Eijaz¡¯s parents¡¯ position, I would also reconsider making her my daughter-inw. I expect my son to have offspring, and she can¡¯t guarantee that.¡±

    ¡°Do you know that your words are harsh?¡± Abigail¡¯s tone escted. Her father looked at Abigail sharply. Solidarity with a friend might not be an issue, but being disrespectful to elders was clearly something her parents could no longer tolerate.

    ¡°I¡¯m just stating facts, Abby. If dwin were to ask via to be his wife, I would be in the forefront to refuse. Even though your uncle¡¯s age is not young anymore, marrying someone like via is clearly not an option.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not defying God¡¯s will. But I¡¯m just thinking realistically. She¡¯s your friend, she¡¯s also my granddaughter, but still¡­¡±

    ¡°Is it because she¡¯s your step-granddaughter, that you¡¯re acting like this?¡± Abigail looked at her grandmother in disbelief. She knew this response woulde from her grandmother, but she didn¡¯t expect to feel such sadness for her friend. ¡°What if the roles were reversed? What if it happened to me? Would you say the same thing? That I¡¯m not a woman worthy of marriage?¡±

    ¡°Abigail!¡± Her father began to speak up.

 Chap 37

    ¡°I¡¯m just asking for Grandma¡¯s opinion, Dad. Is that wrong?¡±

    ¡°You can love via, but it doesn¡¯t mean you can be disrespectful to your grandmother.¡±

    ¡°I just want Grandma not to look down on via.¡± Abigail replied again.

    ¡°Abigail¡­¡± Julie Hampton looked at her granddaughter with a puzzled look. Why was Abigail reacting like this? Why were they discussing via?

    ¡°What really happened with via? What¡¯s with five years ago? Can someone exin?¡± dwin looked at his sister, brother-inw, mother, and also his niece.

    ¡°Grandma just exined everything to Uncle a moment ago. No matter how much Uncle loves via, your rtionship will never get her approval. via is a wed woman. The likelihood of her giving offspring to Uncle is very small. That¡¯s the reason why via rejected Uncle.¡± Abigail¡¯s answer left the other three stunned.

    ¡°What does this mean, Abigail?¡± Julie Hampton looked at her granddaughter and then at her son. ¡°What do you mean by saying that your uncle loves via?¡± Her gaze was so piercing. Clearly, Mrs. Julie felt stabbed in the back. How could her son love someone he had avoided as a potential daughter-inw for so long?

    ¡°Yes, Grandma. Uncle loves via, and it¡¯s mutual. But Grandma, you don¡¯t need to worry. via is a self-aware person. She knows that she¡¯s not the kind of person suitable for your perfect son.

    ¡°She even chose to step back and hurt herself rather than moving forward to pursue her happiness and hurt you. Do you think she doesn¡¯t know how you perceive her? You¡¯ve been belittling her without realizing it.¡± Abigail finished her drink, then stood up. ¡°Dinner was good. I mean, my purpose has been achieved. Please, Uncle, discuss this with Grandma. If Uncle gets Grandma¡¯s approval, I¡¯ll help Uncle convince via. But if Uncle still doesn¡¯t get Grandma¡¯s approval, I¡¯ll be the first to separate you two.¡± Abigail bid farewell to her parents and grandmother before leaving the house.

    She needed some time alone. She needed to calm her anger towards her grandmother. That¡¯s what she needed right now.

    Looking down on her friend? That wasn¡¯t the only reason Abigail disliked her grandmother¡¯s actions. But ssifying a woman who can¡¯t have children as ¡®wed¡¯ is what Abigail hates. After all, her self-worth as a woman is also tarnished.

    Meanwhile, at Antony¡¯s house.

    The dinner atmosphere seemed quite normal. via continued to engage in the conversation with everyone. She had to act normal even though she was currently hurt.

    After returning from the apartment this afternoon, via was again attacked by a headache. She went to Eijaz¡¯s ce to get herself checked. And the man asked her to undergo a CT scan because he was always anxious whenever viained of a headache. Fortunately, the results showed that she was fine.

    Eijaz asked her to sit and wait for him, intending to take her home together or maybe hang out at a cafe if via¡¯s condition improved. via didn¡¯t refuse; she agreed to Eijaz¡¯s request and chose to wait in the hospital garden area.

    ¡°Visiting your fianc¨¦?¡± Greeted a woman with a friendly tone. via, who was looking at her phone, looked up and saw Phoebe leaning casually with her hands folded in front of her chest.

    ¡°Doctor Phoebe,¡± she greeted warmly. ¡°Yes, I¡¯m waiting for Dr. Eijaz.¡± She replied honestly.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    Phoebe nodded. ¡°How about your rtionship with Eijaz? What¡¯s the n for the future? When are you getting married?¡± Her gaze seemed to pierce via. via furrowed her brow, confused by Phoebe¡¯s question, which showed no hint of friendliness.

    ¡°We don¡¯t have any ns for that yet,¡± via replied honestly. ¡°Why do you ask?¡±

    Phoebe sat beside via, her posture upright and stiff. She faced via, her gaze still piercing. There was a hidden anger and hatred that via herself didn¡¯t understand the cause of. It seemed like Phoebe had removed her friendly mask and was being herself now. ¡°Because I find you boring. You pretend to be innocent, trying to attract the attention of both dwin and Eijaz at the same time. Are you really that greedy?¡± she asked sharply.

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± via¡¯s forehead wrinkled in confusion.

    ¡°Don¡¯t pretend to be innocent in front of me, via. I know you love dwin. But at the same time, you¡¯re still with Eijaz. Can¡¯t you choose between them? You already have Eijaz, so let dwin be with me.¡±

    ¡°Doctor?¡±

    ¡°Besides, dwin¡¯s mother has already agreed if dwin marries me. Your grandmother clearly likes me, and I have more potential to be their daughter-inw than you. Of course, I¡¯m healthy and normal. Moreover, I¡¯m an outsider, having no family rtionship with you. If dwin marries me, there won¡¯t be any unpleasant rumors about our marriage.

    ¡°Marrying a widow with one child is more eptable to society than marrying your own niece. Don¡¯t you think so?¡± Phoebe¡¯s statement left via stunned. It wasn¡¯t about the fact that her grandmother liked Phoebe as a potential daughter-inw. It wasn¡¯t about the fact that Phoebe was a widow with a child, as everyone was aware of that.

    But the words ¡®healthy and normal¡¯ caught via¡¯s attention. Why did the woman in front of her say such a thing?

    ¡°What do you mean, Doctor?¡± via asked after shaking off her stunned feeling.

    ¡°Meaning? Can¡¯t you grasp my meaning yet? I thought you were smart, considering I heard you got a schrship to one of the prestigious universities. But your intelligence doesn¡¯t seem to make you understand my straightforward statement,¡± Phoebe said with a mocking tone.

    ¡°I¡¯m asking you to stay away from dwin. It¡¯s clear that you¡¯re not worthy of being his wife. Do you intend to burden dwin for the rest of his life?¡± via¡¯s forehead wrinkled even deeper.

    ¡°You¡¯re just a wretched woman, via. I¡¯m sorry if I went off track. I¡¯m a doctor, and I¡¯ve seen your medical records. Since you became Eijaz¡¯s patient, I could ess your medical records through the data he has.¡± via widened her eyes. ¡°Oh, I didn¡¯t steal it. It was just an idental glimpse of your data in his office. No, more precisely, when Eijaz wasn¡¯t in his office. Yes, I deliberately sought information about you, considering you regrly check yourself with him.

    ¡°I thought your visits all this time were that of an engaged person. But it turns out I was wrong because, in fact, you visited him as a patient.

    ¡°I thought dwin didn¡¯t know about this. Given that youe every time dwin is off duty. And, yes, when Eijaz is not there, I met his recement and managed to see your medical records.

    ¡°The ident five years ago not only injured your brain and bones but also damaged your uterus, right?¡± Phoebe¡¯s words made via pale. ¡°I guess dwin doesn¡¯t know this yet because if he knew, he would dly turn away. Isn¡¯t that right?¡± Her sarcastic tone was thick, but via could only stand there in shock.

    ¡°dwin is a good son. He loves his mother very much. But I think he will be disobedient if he forces himself to be with you. So, instead of adding sin by creating a war between mother and son, it¡¯s better for you to step back from the beginning.¡± Phoebe whispered coldly. Then her face turned into a smile when the sound of footsteps approached. ¡°Doctor Eijaz,¡± she greeted warmly. via, who was in a position with her back to the man, tried to neutralize her feelings and facial expression.

    ¡°Dokter Phoebe,¡± Eijaz greeted again.

    ¡°I¡¯m apanying via, I thought you might take a while. It¡¯s better not to keep her waiting too long. You didn¡¯t see that the single guys around the hospital are always ncing in her direction,¡± she teased.

    via didn¡¯t know how Eijaz responded to the woman¡¯s words as she had left before him.

    ¡°Are you okay?¡± Eijaz asked, concerned, as he sat in the spot where Phoebe had been sitting. via tried to put on a smile and nodded her head.

 Chap 38

    ¡°It seems like our hangout n has to be canceled,¡± via whispered. ¡°Can you take me home?¡± she asked softly.

    Eijaz looked at via¡¯s pale face and assumed that she was still experiencing a headache. He just nodded in response, then guided via to walk towards the parking lot.

    ¡°Do you want to drop by somewhere first?¡± via offered when they were getting close to Antony¡¯s house. Eijaz shook his head, politely declining. He felt that via needed rest at the moment. If he visited, he would disturb the girl¡¯s resting time.

    ¡°Get some rest. Take your medicine and don¡¯t stress too much,¡± he said gently, stroking the top of via¡¯s head. via smiled, feeling more grateful because of Eijaz¡¯s understanding in rejecting her offer. After thanking him, via got out of the car.

    Entering through the side door, via found her stepmother breastfeeding her baby brother. via approached, sat beside her mother, and yfully poked the tiny baby¡¯s chubby cheeks.

    ¡°Mom, if I poke the baby like this, will it really be dimples?¡± via asked, making ire look at her with amusement.

    ¡°Come on, how old are you? That question is more suitable for Francisca,¡± ire replied with a teasing tone, making via smile.

    ¡°Okay, then I¡¯ll change the question. How does it feel to be pregnant, give birth, and breastfeed?¡± She asked, pretending to be enthusiastic. But ire realized there was something in her daughter¡¯s question. Although via smiled, the smile didn¡¯t reach her eyes. Even her gaze wasden with pain.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you?¡± ire asked in return.

    ¡°Why would there be something wrong with me? I¡¯m fine,¡± via smiled again.

    ire stopped breastfeeding and asked her household assistant toe closer, instructing the middle-aged woman toy the youngest one in the crib. ¡°I know there¡¯s something; you don¡¯t need to lie. Tell me, what¡¯s bothering you right now?¡± ire demanded, her gaze sharp and full of directed concern on via.

    via looked at her stepmother¡¯s hand, which now held her hand tightly. Her stepmother¡¯s hand was slightlyrger than via¡¯s, considering her mother¡¯s stature was also taller. And the warmth of that hand wasforting. Instead of answering her stepmother¡¯s question, via shed a tear.

    ire lifted via¡¯s face by raising the girl¡¯s chin. ¡°I¡¯m sorry. I know I¡¯ve been neglecting youtely. I¡¯ve been too focused on taking care of Meizar that I forgot you also needed me,¡± ire said with sadness.

    ¡°I can understand that. Forgive me if I ended up burdening you. But I¡­¡± the girl couldn¡¯t say more. She threw herself into her stepmother¡¯s embrace and cried there. ire remained silent, choosing to let her daughter cry until she felt satisfied. During that time, she only stroked the head and back of her stepdaughter with affection.

    ¡°Does this have anything to do with dwin?¡± ire asked when via finally stopped crying, though there were still traces of sorrow.

    via shook her head. ¡°It has nothing to do with Uncle, Mom,¡± she said weakly.

    ¡°Don¡¯t lie. I know, even though I¡¯ve been neglectful, I asionally pay attention to you two. Why? Did dwin hurt you? Did he say something that made you sad?¡± she asked, curious, and once again, via shook her head.

    ¡°He¡¯s not at fault. I¡¯m the one at fault here,¡± she said again, tears falling without permission.

    ¡°What¡¯s your mistake? Tell me,¡± ire insisted.

    via looked directly into her mother¡¯s golden eyes. ¡°I¡¯m wrong because I dared to love Uncle. Even though I¡¯m not worthy to love him,¡± she replied honestly.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with loving someone? What¡¯s wrong with loving dwin? He has no blood rtion to you. And why do you feel unworthy for dwin? Who does he think he is?

    ¡°He¡¯s not the President or a Sultan. He¡¯s not a crown prince in a kingdom. He¡¯s just dwin Hampton. A regr man who happens to be thirty-five years old and happens to love his niece. So what makes you both unworthy?¡± via was surprised to hear her mother¡¯s statement. ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know that dwin loves you too? We share the same womb. We suckled at the same mother. Our bond is much deeper than anyone else can imagine.

    ¡°dwin has never loved anyone the way he loves you,¡± ire wiped away the tears on her daughter¡¯s face. ¡°What makes you feel unworthy for him?

    ¡°To be honest, I regret his cowardly behavior in leaving you five years ago. But I also can¡¯t force him to stay here. I have to consider your father¡¯s feelings. He¡¯s not someone who would easily ept your rtionship with dwin if, at that time, dwin chose to confess his feelings for you. And I also know that dwin deliberately chose to leave to give you time to sort out your feelings.

    ¡°He didn¡¯t want to give you false hope. He suffered with his choice as well. It¡¯s not that I support him more because he¡¯s my blood brother. But I also consider you, your father.

    ¡°I know your feelings for him were deep when you chose to keep the events of five years ago a secret. I know you didn¡¯t want him to worry there. But the remaining time you had, the time when you chose to avoid him, that also hurt him.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Now he realizes his true feelings for you. And your feelings for him are still strong. Your father and I have given you our blessing, even though we never said it out loud. So, what else are you waiting for?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not worthy of Uncle. I¡­¡±

    ¡°Do you think dwin is that shallow? Do you think his mind is that superficial? He¡¯s a doctor; he will understand your condition. You just need to fight together. You are there for him, and he is there for you. Don¡¯t care about what others say.

    ¡°Those who don¡¯t like you will try to bring you down and hurt you intentionally. Whether subtly or harshly. But if you support each other, everything will be like a storm that shakes before the rainbowes. It feels painful but will find beauty in the end.

    ¡°Believe me, dwin won¡¯t give up because he has decided not to give up. The fact you kept hidden from him is just a tiny issue in your lives.¡±

    ¡°But what about Grandma? She¡­¡± via was once again overwhelmed with worry. ¡°What if I cause a rift between Grandma and Uncle?¡±

 Chap 39

    ¡°That will only happen temporarily. Your grandmother is not that wicked, even though it may seem like it now.

    ¡°As a mother, she just wants the best for her child. Someday, you will understand that feeling. Because that¡¯s what I feel for you, for Ignazio, Francisca, and Meizar right now. I know you are the best for dwin, and vice versa. There is no greater happiness andfort than living with someone who loves us and whom we love.¡±

    ¡°I am confident that even though your grandmother opposes your rtionship now, eventually, she will soften. You must believe that God is the ultimate changer of hearts. God Almighty is in control of His creatures. Doctors may give any prognosis, but it is God who determines our fate.

    ¡°If God wishes for something else, then what He wills shall happen.¡± ire embraced her daughter again, who was once more immersed in tears. Unbeknownst to via, her father observed her silently.

    ire looked at her husband, seeing the man who had been with her for ten years wiping the corners of his eyes. She knew her husband was saddened by their daughter¡¯s condition, but he tried not to show his emotions. He didn¡¯t want via to feel pitied.

    This was the fate that their daughter had to ept and live with. Antony wanted his daughter to be stronger despite all her challenges. Although he yearned to embrace his neglected daughter, he gave that opportunity to his wife.

    Antony chose to step away silently. ¡®Oh God, grant happiness to my daughter. Quickly remove the storm that hits her. She¡¯s just a fragile figure in need of love. Grant her offspring. Give her the best of everything. Don¡¯t let her linger in her sadness.¡¯ That was a fragment of the prayer Antony uttered for his eldest daughter.

    viaid down her spoon. Everyone seemed to have finished their meal. She arranged the tes and cleaned them up, taking the remaining food to smaller containers before cing them in the refrigerator to be reheatedter. Afterward, she silently washed the dishes.

    Meanwhile, Ignazio poured juice from the packaging into sses. When he exited the kitchen, Francisca identally bumped into him, causing his juice to spill onto the floor, and some of the liquid spread near via¡¯s feet. Unaware of this, via unintentionally stepped on it, causing her to slip, fall, and her head hit the floor unexpectedly.

    The sound of the impact made Ignazio, who was grabbing a mop, turn around. Ignazio knew that the head was the most sensitive part of his sister¡¯s body. Even their father often forbade Ignazio from teasing via by throwing a ball at her head, even if it was just a light stic ball. Their father said that via had once suffered a head injury, so she had to be extremely careful, avoiding any impact. And now, his sistery before him in a worrying condition.

    Ignazio screamed in shock and ran towards via. His sister groaned, her face now pale as if all the blood had drained from it.

    ¡°Papa¡­¡± Ignazio yelled, trying to call his father.

    However, there was no response from their father while via now curled on the floor. Her body curled up like a fetus, and her hands now clutched her head so tightly that her fingers appeared to whiten.

    ¡°Papa!¡± Ignazio shouted even louder. ¡°Papa! Help! Papa!¡±

    Fortunately, this time his cries were heard. Antony appeared running in a panic. His gaze shifted from the motionless Francisca with empty eyes to Ignazio, who was half-kneeling in front of via, still curled up and groaning while holding her head.

    Antony instantly dropped to his knees and silently gestured for Ignazio to step back. He turned via¡¯s body to lie on her back.

    ¡°Darling, it¡¯s Papa,¡± he said, trying to release his daughter¡¯s grip on her hair. ¡°Ignazio, find Tobby and ask Tobby to prepare the car,¡± he said with the remaining calmness.

    via still groaned. Her head felt extremely painful, as if there were thousands of nails piercing it. She pulled her hair very tightly, as if the hair were the nails she wanted to pull out of her head. Her eyes lost focus, everything started to blur, and it became dark.

    ¡°Darling, it¡¯s Papa,¡± her father¡¯s voice faintly heard, but via couldn¡¯t respond to his call.

    ¡®Papa, help me.¡¯ However, the words got stuck in her throat.

    ¡°Honey, let go of your hand, dear,¡± her father pleaded, and via felt her father¡¯s hand holding her finger, trying to bend them and move them away from her head.

    ¡°Honey, what happened to via?¡± ire approached in panic.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    Again, via wanted to speak, but when she tried to open her eyes, the pain struck again. She tried to reach for her head, but this time her father¡¯s grip was stronger.

    ¡°Honey, blood!¡± The scream made via¡¯s ears ring, and her head throbbed even more. ¡®Oh God, why is it like this? What¡¯s happening to me? My chest feels tight. Allow me to breathe. Papa, help me. It hurts.¡¯

    But those were just cries of pain that were held back in her throat.

    ¡°Sweety, don¡¯t be like this.¡± via felt her father¡¯s hand grip getting stronger as the pain in her head intensified. She tried to open her eyes, but once again, the pain struck her. And then everything was just dark and silent.

    At the Abigail parents home.

    dwin red at his mother in frustration. Why didn¡¯t anyone want to give him an exnation? And why did Abigail choose to disappear?

    dwin was frustrated by the curiosity. He knew Abigail wouldn¡¯t say anything even if he forced her. In the end, dwin only had one option ¨C to talk to his twin sister, ire.

    With lingering irritation in his chest, dwin finally left his mother¡¯s residence. He got into his car and drove towards ire¡¯s house. On the way, he saw Abigail¡¯s back, seemingly choosing to walk to ire¡¯s residence.

    dwin sessfully parked the car, coinciding with Tobby emerging from another car and hurriedly entering the house. Something seemed strange here because the man looked panicked.

    dwin entered the house and was greeted with a loud scream from his twin sister. ¡°Darling, blood!¡± In an instant, dwin ran towards the source of the sound. Who was bleeding? He asked in panic, and in the kitchen, he saw ire bent towards the pantry.

 Chap 40

    dwin widened his eyes when he saw Antony in a power struggle with via, who was now lying on the floor, in a rebellious position, writhing to release her father¡¯s grip. The girl convulsed in pain, and simultaneously, dwin saw blooding from via¡¯s nose.

    ¡°via..¡± dwin¡¯s voice sounded like a whisper in his ears. He was frozen, and via seemed to open her eyes for a split second, looking straight at him before then slumping weakly into her father¡¯s arms. ¡°via?!¡± dwin shouted loudly, rushing over and grabbing via from her father¡¯sp. Checking her pulse.

    Gone! Her breath was also absent. ¡°via, my love. Wake up.¡± He ordered while gently patting via¡¯s cheek. There was no response, so reluctantly, dwin started performing CPR on her.

    Abigail, who had just arrived, looked shocked at the panic unfolding in her aunt¡¯s house. She stood still, watching dwin trying to administer first aid to the limp and pale via on the cold floor.

    ¡°What happened?¡± Abigail approached via¡¯s feet. ¡°via, what happened to you?¡± she asked softly.

    dwin continued to pump via¡¯s chest, paying no attention to the people now gathered in the area, watching with a mix of concern and fear. dwin provided artificial breaths, checked via¡¯s pulse, and continued chestpressions. After what felt like a long time to Abigail, her uncle finally stopped his actions. He lifted via¡¯s body and ran out of the house. Abigail silently followed.

    ¡°Open the door!¡± dwin ordered Abigail. She opened the back door. ¡°Get in!¡± dwinmanded, and Abigailplied. He thenid via in the car with her head on Abigail¡¯sp. Ignoring ire and Antony, dwin got behind the wheel and left Antony¡¯s residence at high speed.

    dwin stopped his car right in front of the emergency room entrance, paying no heed to the security guard shouting at him for improper parking. With swift steps, he carried via inside andid her on the nearest stretcher by the door.

    ¡°Where¡¯s the attending doctor?!¡± His voice echoed in the room. A young female doctor approached.

    ¡°Doctor Hampton, what¡¯s the matter?¡± The doctor looked at via.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°She hit her head. Fainted. Went into shock, and CPR was performed,¡± he exined. dwin was a doctor himself, but he couldn¡¯t provide treatment for via at the hospital due to medical procedures and ethical considerations.

    ¡°Call Doctor Dominic,¡± Antony¡¯smand came from behind dwin. ¡°Doctor Dominic is her physician. Call him.¡±

    ¡°Doctor Dominic has already left,¡± one of the nurses said.

    Antony reached into his pocket and grumbled for not bringing his phone. Fortunately, Abigail was there. ¡°Abby. Contact Eijaz.¡± Antony¡¯smand was cold. With trembling hands, Abigail searched for Eijaz¡¯s number and made the call before handing the phone to Antony.

    ¡°Eijaz. Can youe to the hospital immediately?¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°via fell. Her head hit something.¡±

    ¡°¡­.¡±

    ¡°Yes, I¡¯ll wait.¡±

    via received treatment from the ER doctor while Antony and Abigail were expelled by the security guard on duty. dwin remained the only person inside the ER, closely monitoring via. He overheard Eijaz instructing the ER doctor to perform a CT scan on via, revealing to dwin that via¡¯s condition was serious.

    An hourter, Eijaz came out and observed dwin, Antony, and Abigail. ¡°Who can apany me?¡± he asked formally. Antony stood up, as did dwin.

    ¡°Stay here, Doc. After all, we¡¯re all family,¡± Abigail intervened.

    Eijaz nodded and began to speak. ¡°The impact wasn¡¯t too severe, but considering via¡¯s pre-existing condition, this can be deemed as serious. She experienced shock to her head. The CT scan results show bleeding in her head. We need to perform surgery on her head immediately. Do you know the procedures?¡± Eijaz looked at Antony, who nodded in response. ¡°I¡¯ll prepare the operating room.¡± Eijaz then left the three of them.

    Antony, assisted by Abigail, left dwin to go to the administrative area. Meanwhile, dwin remained motionless, confused by the simultaneous departure of via from the room, unconscious and pale, pushed by a male nurse toward the operating room.

    ¡°How is she?¡± ire asked, breathing heavily. Antony, Abigail, and dwin looked up simultaneously. They were now sitting in the waiting area outside the operating room.

    ¡°It¡¯s happening again,¡± Antony replied before ire¡¯s body copsed to the floor, immersed in her tears.

    ¡°Oh God, Via,¡± she whispered in her husband¡¯s embrace.

    dwin looked at Abigail, who was only staring at the operating room door with vacant eyes. ¡°Abby¡­ we need to talk.¡±

    5 years ago.

    via stared at her phone, reviewing the message Abigail had sent ten minutes ago. Abigail said they would leave for the airport to see dwin off.

    Ten minutes ago? Have they already left by now?

    via resides at her uncle Altezza¡¯s residence, while Abigail and the rest of the family, who will apany dwin, live at Antony¡¯s house.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on? Why do you look so restless?¡± her aunt, Adaline, asked. via looked at Adaline, smiled, and shook her head. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you go with them to the airport?¡± she asked again, curious.

    ¡°No, Aunt. I¡¯m scared,¡± she replied softly.

    ¡°Scared? What are you afraid of?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m afraid of crying at the airport. Isn¡¯t that embarrassing?¡± she answered innocently. Adaline understood her teenage niece¡¯s concern. Everyone knew that via had a strong liking for her step-uncle, and Adaline could sense that dwin felt the same way about his step-niece. However, dwin was too proud to admit it. At least, that¡¯s what Adaline thought.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay to cry at the airport; it¡¯s amon thing during farewells. It¡¯s better than holding back and suffocating yourself with longingter on,¡±mented her uncle, Altezza, who apparently had been quietly listening to the conversation between aunt and niece.

    via looked at her uncle with a puzzled expression.

    ¡°You know, I¡¯ve been foolish and almost driven to madness because I was once abandoned by her just because I neglected her?¡± Altezza nodded toward Adaline, making via nod too, as she was the witness to the heartbreaking farewell between the married couple. ¡°When she left me and disappeared from my sight, it was very painful. Here.¡± Altezza pointed to his chest. ¡°I don¡¯t want you to experience that. If you like someone, love them. Whether you¡¯re rejected or epted, think about itter. At least for now, let him know your feelings, and find out how he feels about you. So, whatever his answer is, you can move on with your life.¡±

    ¡°If you¡¯re rejected, you can choose to persist with your current feelings or let go and find someone new.

    In my opinion, it¡¯s better to endure heartbreak, cry, but then forget rather than just specte. Because what you specte may not be true either,¡± wisely answered her uncle. Adaline nodded in agreement with her husband¡¯s words.

    ¡°So, what should I do, Uncle?¡± she asked, feeling the need for reassurance.

 Chap 41

    ¡°You want to know dwin¡¯s feelings for you, right?¡± via nodded. ¡°In that case, just follow him to the airport. Talk to him face to face,¡± suggested her uncle, instilling courage in via from somewhere.

    Her uncle and aunt were right; it¡¯s better to face rejection directly than to specte about something that may not be true.

    via finally decided to go. She declined Altezza¡¯s offer to drive her and chose to hail a taxi, asking the driver to hurry. There was still enough time until her uncle¡¯s flight took off. However, via remained afraid. Who knows, the flight schedule might suddenly be moved up.

    The car via boarded entered the road leading to the international airport when, in the opposite direction, a freight truck lost control after a tire blowout. The taxi¡¯s speed and the truck¡¯s imbnce led to a collision. The truck hit the taxi via was in, dragging them backward for dozens of meters until the car finally came to a stop on the side of the road. via, sitting next to the steering wheel, was trapped. She felt an incredible pain on the left side of her body. She couldn¡¯t move. And the taxi driver? via screamed silently, seeing his unfortunate condition.

    ¡°Mom, Dad¡­¡± she whispered amidst the pain spreading throughout her body. She felt all her blood being drained somehow. ¡°Uncle¡­¡± A handsome figure with his characteristic smile became thest image that adorned via¡¯s eyelids before all the bright lights turned into total darkness.

    Antony was stunned. Silent and pale in his position after receiving the call, making ire, standing beside him, look at her husband anxiously. ¡°Honey?¡± ire called, touching Antony¡¯s shoulder. Startled, Antony looked at his wife with tears suddenly streaming down his face. Panicked, ire gently pped her husband¡¯s cheek. ¡°Honey, what¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked fearfully.

    Only the two of them remained at the airport. Abigail, Ignazio, and Julie Hampton had already left with Abigail¡¯s father.

    ¡°via¡­¡± Antony uttered softly. He then grabbed ire¡¯s hand and ran towards the parking lot.

    ¡°Antony?!¡± ire eximed, shocked. Her husband seemed in a hurry, oblivious to his surroundings. Antony¡¯s body trembled intensely, and the car keys slipped from his hand.

    ire, sensing that something was wrong, took charge. She instructed Antony to sit in the passenger seat while she drove the car.

    ¡°Where to?¡± she asked, trying to remain calm, but Antony, who ignored her, eventually made her panic. ¡°Darling! ANTONY! WAKE UP!¡± iremanded with a raised voice.

    Antony turned, whispering the name of a hospital. Antony had never been this frightened in his entire life. Even witnessing ire giving birth didn¡¯t feel as terrifying as this. Now, his world seemed toe to a halt. His head felt silent, empty. There was nothing in his mind.

    He snapped back to reality when ire hit his shoulder. ¡°Darling, wake up!¡± ire still didn¡¯t know whom they were visiting at the hospital. Throughout the journey, her husband remained transfixed and silent.

    Antony quickly got out and ran towards the Emergency Room, once again forgetting ire¡¯s presence. The man collided with everyone he passed without apologizing. ire, who still didn¡¯t know where they were going, could only follow the man and apologize on behalf of her husband.

    ¡°Car ident victim. via..?¡± Antony asked loudly to the nurse on duty. ire widened her eyes, looking at her husband in disbelief.

    Antony ran towards the stretcher pointed out by the nurse. Copsing beside his unconscious daughter, her face and body covered in blood. Her neck was supported, and her left leg was splinted. ire looked at the petite, pale body with a heavy heart.

    ¡°via¡¯s guardian?¡± A doctor diverted their attention. ¡°Car ident. The patient¡¯s head was impacted. We¡¯ve conducted a full scan. Broken left leg, three cracked ribs, and a vicle fracture. The patient needs surgery due to a brain hemorrhage. Please take care of the paperwork while we prepare the operating room,¡± the doctor answered and then walked away.

    ire, seeing her husband still in shock, went to the receptionist and quickly signed the surgery consent forms. Brain surgery and leg pinning operation. That¡¯s all ire skimmed through before signing all the authorization papers hastily. Afterward, she returned to where via was, and by that time, medical personnel had already pushed via¡¯s stretcher towards the operating room.

    Hour by hour passed. They still sat motionless in front of the operating room, hands tightly holding each other. Abigail arrived shortly after. It turned out she had tried to contact via, but via¡¯s phone, which was still at the hospital administration, was answered by a staff member who informed Abigail that her friend was in the operating room.

    ¡°How is she, Doctor?¡± ire and Antony stood up simultaneously as one of the medical staff emerged from the operation room.

    ¡°The surgery was sessful. We managed to stop the bleeding in her head, and the leg pinning operation has beenpleted. You need to know that the patient experienced a heart attack, but the critical period has passed. Let¡¯s just pray that the patient improves soon. We¡¯ll know more about her condition after she regains consciousness,¡± the doctor said again.

    ¡°What do you mean, Doctor?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Patients with head injuries always have postoperative side effects. Although I hope it doesn¡¯t happen to your daughter. But I can¡¯t sugarcoat it. I just want toy out the facts.

    ¡°Prepare for the worst, given the patient¡¯s injury. There¡¯s a possibility of side effects from the ident. But we¡¯ll discuss thatter after the patient wakes up. Right now, let¡¯s just pray that the patient wakes up soon. Because what I can confirm now is that your daughter has sessfully passed the critical period.¡± Then the doctor left ire, Abigail, and Antony.

    Half an hourter, via was transferred to the High-Care Unit (HCU), designated for patients showing improvement, no longer needing ICU care but still requiring close monitoring by medical staff. via¡¯s condition still didn¡¯t allow her to be moved to a regr ward. She was dered to be in aa, and there were concerns about seizures and other attacks. Therefore, she remained under observation.

    The following days for Antony were extremely challenging. via¡¯s father and mother, Abigail, ire, and even his wife¡¯s family took turns checking on her, although not everyone was allowed to see via¡¯s condition. Adaline often cried, feeling guilty because she was the one who encouraged via to go to the airport. ¡®If only I hadn¡¯t suggested her to go, all this wouldn¡¯t have happened.¡¯ She kept repeating that sentence, always apanied by apologies.

    Antony didn¡¯t me anyone. This was his daughter¡¯s fate. Even if he hadn¡¯t gone to the airport, something else would have happened to her.

 Chap 42

    A week after thest attack, via was finally transferred to a regr hospital room. Abigail faithfully stayed by her side, continuously urging via to open her eyes. Two weekster, via finally woke up. By then, her rib bones had healed, as had her vicle. Only her left leg remained pinned.

    via seemed disoriented, gazing at everyone with a puzzled expression. Antony even thought his daughter might be suffering from amnesia, but the doctor stated that her memory was intact, albeit slightly shocked. She remembered who she was, her parents, and thest thing that happened to her.

    The first thing she asked when her full consciousness returned was, ¡°How is the taxi driver?¡± She cried when the doctor informed her that the taxi driver had passed away on the spot.

    Then a new fact struck them. After further observation, via was diagnosed with a spinal cord injury. ¡°It¡¯s not permanent. Spinal cord injuries can still be healed through physiotherapy. This is a result of the severe impact the patient experienced.

    ¡°It will take time, indeed. And during the therapy, it may feel painful. But as long as the patient has a strong will, then God will work miracles,¡± the doctor earnestly replied.

    ¡°Therapy cannot be done in the near future. The patient needs to heal her left leg first. Once her leg is ready to support, then therapy can be initiated. But it doesn¡¯t mean the patient has to be idle. She still needs to do light exercises to prevent stiffness in nerves and muscles. A coach will assistter,¡± he continued.

    And yet, that wasn¡¯t all. The bombshell came from the specialist and the obstetrician. ¡°The impact the patient experienced had a detrimental effect on her uterus,¡± said the obstetrician with sadness. ¡°The patient¡¯s uterus has suffered damage. But don¡¯t worry too much. The patient is still young. Her uterus can still recover normally as long as she maintains a healthy lifestyle.¡±

    ¡°Does a damaged uterus mean I¡¯m infertile, doctor?¡± via asked innocently.

    ¡°No, not like that.¡± The doctor exined the impact on the cervix in simple terms, avoiding medical jargon that might confuse the patient. ¡°Not infertile. But in your condition, future pregnancies might be a bit challenging. However, there¡¯s a fifty percent chance of sess. Don¡¯t lose heart. We are just doctors, not gods. God is the Almighty Giver of all things. Always believe that miracles exist.¡±

    And that¡¯s what truly brought via to despair. She spent quite a long time mourning her situation. Physical disabilities from broken bones could be eliminated with stic surgery. But a damaged uterus? What does it mean for a woman if she can¡¯t conceive and give birth? That reality made her feel like she was no longer aplete woman.

    Abigail, ire, Adaline, and Mrs. Brianna Quirino-Antony¡¯s mother-seeded in making her resilient. As fellow women, they clearly knewforting words for via, and she was stirred. That she was still given a chance to live was a blessing. She continued with life, even though everything no longer felt the same.

    Yes, everything changed from that moment onward. via, who was shy from the beginning, became even more reserved. She asked everyone to keep this from dwin.

    ¡°If Uncle knows I had an ident, he¡¯ll insist oning back. You all know how excessive Uncle dwin can be.¡± That was her statement at the time. Although she expressed it in a joking manner, everyone could sense underlying sadness. via didn¡¯t want dwin to pity her.

    via chose to continue her studies, cherishing the schrship she had earned. She wasn¡¯t ashamed to go to college even though she had to use a wheelchair. For her, God allowing her to still have intact and recoverable legs was already something to be grateful for.

    ¡°I¡¯m not blind, and that¡¯s already a blessing, Dad,¡± she said when her fathermented and asked her to focus on her recovery instead of going to another city for college.

    The hospital became her home in the first year of her college life. Yes, via chose to live in the hospital. She was transported by a nurse specially hired 24/7. She slept and ate there, doing physiotherapy in between her sses.

    via was not only known by the nurses and doctors but also by the staff and inpatients undergoing long-term treatment. All because of via¡¯s personality, which, although reserved, was friendly to everyone.

    And it was in the hospital that via eventually met Eijaz Dominic. Eijaz, who had just returned from Germany afterpleting his studies, chose to live in a different city than his parents to avoid their insistence that he continue their family travel business.

    Eijaz¡¯s desire to be a doctor was greater than everything else. ¡®Youthful rebellion.¡¯ That was Eijaz¡¯s reason when via asked why he chose to be a doctor instead of continuing the family business.

    ¡°Do you know why I chose to be a doctor?¡± the handsome man asked at one point. via, still in her teens, shook her head innocently. ¡°To win the hearts of women,¡± the older man answered with a sweet smile. ¡°Most women like men in uniforms, be it soldiers, police officers, doctors, and others.¡±

    ¡°Is that true?¡± via asked hesitantly. Eijaz answered with a firm nod. ¡°Why?¡± she inquired.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Because in their eyes, we appear more handsome and authoritative,¡± he replied with augh, causing via to roll her eyes and groan.

    ¡°So, you want to be a doctor to be chased by women?¡± she mocked.

    Eijaz shrugged. ¡°Well, of course. What man wouldn¡¯t want to be a Casanova? Do you want to chase me? If you do, we can make a short film titled ¡®Chase me, and I¡¯ll catch you.¡¯ You chase me, I catch you. Tomorrow, we can head straight to the wedding.¡± He offered.

    via squinted again, while the nurse apanying herughed. ¡°I don¡¯t want to. I prefer to marry a normal man. Like an office worker.¡±

    ¡°Why? They¡¯re not as handsome as doctors.¡±

    ¡°But they also wear uniforms. Suits and ties. And their job is nice. They go to work in the morning ande home in the evening. Not like you medical professionals with irregr working hours, disturbing us patients even at night like this. Poor your partners at home having to be guarded by pillows.¡± via joked, making Eijaz burst intoughter.

    Truthfully, Eijaz didn¡¯t have a shift that night. He just liked apanying via. Yes, Eijaz fell in love with via. Aside from her beautiful face, via possessed determination and a fighting spirit. Her intelligence was an added value. They often chatted between therapy sessions. Even if there was spare time, Eijaz preferred to spend it in via¡¯s room, just like now. So, over time, they became closer.

    And even after via could walk normally again, Eijaz continued to stay in touch. There was no formalmitment in their rtionship. If via saw Eijaz as a brother, Eijaz always hoped for more. Just like the hopes of Antony and ire. Especially when Antony learned that Eijaz¡¯s parents were business associates. Knowing that Eijaz came from a good family, Antony hoped even more that his daughter would ept Eijaz.

    However, the heart cannot be controlled like a television channel that can easily be switched. via still couldn¡¯t shake off her feelings for dwin. This was evident in the way via avoided dwin. At one point, Antony even caught via gazing at a photo of dwin that the girl had stolen from social media. Antony, ire, and Abigail just tried to understand. Because all those feelings were felt by via herself.

    They wouldn¡¯t force via¡¯s heart to anchor on anyone. They only hoped, whether it was Eijaz or dwin, they hoped that one of them could boost via¡¯s confidence and help her regain her happiness.

 Chap 43

    Silence enveloped dwin and Abigail as they sat in the quiet hospital corridor. It was approaching dawn when Abigail finished narrating the lengthy tale of via.

    Anger welled up in dwin. Disappointment in himself and shame for via, making the girl he loved struggle alone, surged simultaneously. ¡°Why didn¡¯t any of you tell me?¡± was the only question that escaped dwin¡¯s lips.

    ¡°Because that¡¯s what via wanted,¡± Abigail replied softly.

    ¡°To hell with her wishes!¡± dwin red at Abigail in anger. ¡°Do you think that¡¯s what she truly wanted? Do you think she¡¯s afraid I¡¯d pity her?¡± dwin vented his frustration with short breaths. ¡°What she needed at that time was my presence, even if she said otherwise. What she feared wasn¡¯t my pity; she knew that. What she feared was that I would fall into despair with her.¡±

    ¡°Oh God¡­¡± dwin roughly sped his head. ¡°What kind of man am I?¡± he muttered to himself. ¡°I said I loved her, but I wasn¡¯t even there during her tough times.¡± dwin slumped against the wall, tears streaming down. Abigail looked at her uncle with a mncholic gaze.

    Her uncle was right. Back then, he shouldn¡¯t have simply epted via¡¯s request. Perhaps, doing so would have prevented their current situation. dwin could have helped via recover mentally; at least, he could have provided the emotional support she needed so that she wouldn¡¯t feel so low right now. But time couldn¡¯t be rewound, and Abigail didn¡¯t want any regrets. There was still a future they could build, a future they could shape. An unstained nk page.

    It¡¯s never toote; they just needed to start.

    Several hourster, Eijaz emerged from the operating room. Antony was the only one there. ire had gone home a while ago at Antony¡¯s request, as their three other children required her attention. Especially baby Meizar, who still needed his mother¡¯s breast milk.

    ¡°Waiting for the anesthesia to wear off. Hopefully, there are no side effects. I¡¯ve done my best.¡± Eijaz stated, and Antony responded with a weak nod. The middle-aged man slumped wearily in the metal chair. Eijaz sat beside him, still in his green uniform. ¡°Uncle, how could this happen? via is someone very careful,¡± he asked, more out of curiosity.

    Antony shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t know. Everything happened so quickly. Suddenly, I found her lying on the kitchen floor.¡± Antony answered honestly. ¡°She¡¯ll really be okay?¡± he asked with concern.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Eijaz nodded. ¡°I¡¯ve done my best. I can only predict. And in my opinion, she¡¯ll be okay. The rest depends on the patient¡¯s physical and mental condition. Conditions change ording to the patient¡¯s own state.¡± He reassured.

    Simr to the dosage of anesthesia given to the patient, the postoperative side effects would depend on the patient¡¯s own physical condition. That¡¯s what Eijaz believed.

    Eijaz fell silent for a moment, his thoughts suddenly turning to the events of that afternoon. He turned to Antony. ¡°Is via under any stress?¡± he inquired. Antony looked at him with a furrowed brow. ¡°Honestly, yesterday afternoon she had just had a checkup.¡±

    Antony was startled to learn a fact he didn¡¯t know about his daughter. Apparently, she still independently sought medical checkups from Eijaz.

    ¡°How were the results of the examination?¡±

    ¡°Sheined of a headache.¡± Eijaz replied, recalling via¡¯s pale face when she came after sending him a short message. ¡°We immediately did a scan, and all the results were fine.¡± He answered truthfully. ¡°Often, headaches arise from stress, fatigue, and excessive thinking. And I think, this time, her headache is more likely due to fatigue and too much on her mind.¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know the cause. Initially, I was going to talk about it while going to eat, but before going home, via suddenly changed her mind and asked me to take her home.¡±

    And Antony also remembered the events at his house that afternoon. When he witnessed via pouring out her feelings to ire. The sadness his daughter felt, the mental burden she had been carrying. And Antony felt once again that he had failed as a father.

    Abigail was seen running upon spotting Eijaz. The sound of her shoes echoed through the deserted hallway. Behind her, dwin also ran with an equally anxious expression.

    ¡°How is she?¡± she asked, breathless. dwin¡¯s condition was no less disheveled. Antony¡¯s brother-inw looked disheveled, and remnants of tears were still visible on his face even though he had wiped them away. Eijaz could see it from his wet hair.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just wait for her to regain consciousness,¡± Eijaz replied. He then looked at dwin. ¡°Can we talk privately?¡± he asked. dwin nodded and followed Eijaz. Eijaz led dwin to a quiet corridor, far enough from the hearing range of Antony and Abigail.

    The man turned his body to face dwin when he felt they were at a sufficient distance. ¡°I don¡¯t know if this has anything to do with you or not,¡± he said without preamble. ¡°You know that I love via, even though I can¡¯tpare the extent of my love to yours. And it¡¯s clear to me that via loves you too, whether you¡¯re aware of it or not.¡± dwin just stared at him, having no words to reply. Because Eijaz himself didn¡¯t require his retort. ¡°via has suffered enough all this time. Even though she doesn¡¯t say it, I¡¯ve clearly observed it. Mypanionship with her over thest five years has allowed me to read her character to some extent.

    ¡°Something is wrong here,¡± he murmured. His eyes were no longer focused on dwin. ¡°About your rtionship.¡± He continued. dwin remained silent. ¡°You need to know, there is no serious rtionship between us, even though I hoped for it. via never mentioned your name, but by the look in her eyes, I know the reason she rejected me all this time is you.

    ¡°And let me tell you, my greater hope is to see her happy.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know how you¡¯re going to fight for via. But if you¡¯re just going to remain silent, then I will step forward. I won¡¯t give her a chance to distance herself anymore. I won¡¯t give her an opportunity to be with you again.

    ¡°But I¡¯ll let her go if you¡¯re going to fight for her,¡± he stated firmly, locking eyes with dwin, carefully observing the man¡¯s expression. ¡°So please tell me. Are you going to fight for her, or are you going to give up? Because honestly, I can¡¯t bear to see her continue to suffer like this.¡±

 Chap 44

    This time, dwin looked up, anger in his eyes. Eijaz¡¯s insistence on his intentions unsettled him.

    Anger, guilt, and the desire to make via happy filled his chest simultaneously. dwin realized that everything wouldn¡¯t be easy. It wasn¡¯t about the people around them. He cared little about what was on their minds, as they wouldn¡¯t care about his happiness or sadness. But what was difficult was convincing via herself of his seriousness. Convincing the girl that what dwin felt now was love, not pity, as she suspected.

    dwin stared at Eijaz with a gaze full of determination. Yes, he had made up his mind. He would fight. He would no longer be a cowardly man.

    ¡°I will fight for her. I won¡¯t ask you to step back. It hurts my pride when you say that. As if via is an object that you can transfer ownership of. If you truly love via, let¡¯spete openly.¡±

    Eijaz shook his head and chuckled. ¡°I¡¯m not that foolish, dwin. I¡¯m a man who relies more on reason than emotion. My mind controls me more than my feelings do.

    ¡°I know and am aware that I can¡¯t beat your presence in her heart. Forcing her to choose between us is not something I want. I¡¯ve seen enough of her pain and hurt because of the irrationality of her love at that time.

    ¡°I prefer ¡®us¡¯ to make the decision. You step forward or I do. If you step forward, I surrender. If you step back, then step back forever so that she won¡¯t waver. That way, I¡¯ll rece your position in her heart, even though I know it will take time.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t confuse her. If you want to step forward, then I hope you can genuinely fight for her. I know no happinesssts forever. It¡¯s an impossible thing. Even fairy tales have conflicts before ending happily. And I also know that sadness is not always present, as there will always be something beautiful from every sadness felt.

    ¡°I just want you to promise that you won¡¯t hurt her directly. Consciously or unconsciously. If you canply with that condition, I willingly admit defeat and step back.

    ¡°But if you can¡¯t promise that, then I hope you step back. Disappear as you have for the past five years. Because truly, at least when you¡¯re not visible to her, she seems to be okay.¡±

    This was the longest sentence dwin had ever heard from Eijaz. He looked at the man with an incredulous gaze. His fists clenched to contain his anger.

    Yes, dwin was angry, or more urately, he felt jealous of Eijaz. Jealous of the time the man spent getting to know via while he chose to hide in his cowardice.

    Would Eijaz really give up that easily? dwin gritted his teeth.

    ¡°I¡¯ve already said I rely more on the mind than feelings. I consider everything from a logical perspective, not influenced by hormones,¡± Eijaz stated again.

    As if he could read his thoughts. Was the man a neurologist, right? Did dissecting too many human skulls make him some kind of fortune teller? Or a sorcerer?

    ¡°I know this won¡¯t be easy for you both. But if you¡¯re confident that you can handle it, then I believe you will seed.¡± What was Eijaz really doing? Encouraging them to fight or supporting them?

    Once again, dwin fell silent. ¡°I will step forward,¡± he replied firmly. Eijaz smiled. This was what he hoped for from dwin. Even though he loved via, he wasn¡¯t an angel without feelings.

    He couldn¡¯t endure loving without being loved in return. He was human, who wanted to receive, not just give. He wasn¡¯t a selfless man, even though what he had done for via so far had been from a sincere heart. But Eijaz knew, there woulde a time when he would tire and want via to give the same for him. And actually, seeing via happy was happiness in itself for him. He genuinely hoped for that.

    ¡°Thank you. At least because you didn¡¯t give up,¡± praised Eijaz. The man¡¯s eyes gazed at dwin with a smile full of appreciation and sincerity. ¡°And there¡¯s one more thing I need to tell you.¡± dwin once again looked at Eijaz. ¡°I don¡¯t know if you¡¯re aware of this or not, but there¡¯s a rumor circting here that you¡¯re going to marry Phoebe,¡± he said.

    What is this again? A new trial for him? He had just dered he would fight, and now he faced a new obstacle. ¡°Who spread such cheap gossip?¡± dwin asked, annoyed.

    Eijaz shrugged. ¡°I don¡¯t know where the gossip originated. I identally overheard some staff talking about your rtionship. Although I¡¯m sure it¡¯s not true, I still don¡¯t want via to hear this when she wakes up. Because such things will only make her sink into despair again.¡±

    dwin nodded. He would find a solution to that problem. ¡°Anything else?¡± he asked sarcastically.

    Eijaz grinned. ¡°Lastly,¡± the man said. ¡°Yesterday, I saw Phoebe talking to via, just before we left. And whether it¡¯s just my feeling, but via seemed fine when she left my room and turned pale after talking to Phoebe.¡± dwin looked at Eijaz suspiciously. ¡°She came to me for a medical check-up,¡± Eijaz answered without being asked.

    ¡°In your opinion, what did Phoebe say to via?¡±

    Eijaz shrugged again. ¡°via seemed to be holding back tears, which means Phoebe said something unpleasant for her to hear. Whether you ask via directly when she wakes up, or you choose to ask Phoebe directly. But I think both won¡¯t give honest answers.¡±

    dwin nodded. Eijaz was right, via wouldn¡¯t give an honest answer because she wasn¡¯t one toin. And Phoebe, that woman wouldn¡¯t speak truthfully because she was the type to lie.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    Eijaz patted his shoulder, squeezing it gently before deciding to leave. Afterward, dwin walked in the opposite direction, heading back to the room where via was. He thanked Eijaz for everything he had said. In his heart, he promised that he would try to make via happy, no matter what. He would ask, even beg if necessary, for via to ept him.

    They observed via from outside the ss walls of the High Care Unit (HCU). via still hadn¡¯t awakened, her condition unchanged sinceing down from the operating table several hours ago. She remained in her sleeping state, but the monitor disy showed that her body¡¯s condition was stable.

 Chap 45

    Days passed, and so far, no one outside Antony¡¯s household, including Abigail, dwin, and Eijaz, was aware of what had happened to via. They took turns checking on her.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin sat in a chair beside via¡¯s bed, his entire body wrapped in sterile clothing. It had been six hours since the girl came out of surgery. ording to standard operating procedures (SOP), if via didn¡¯t regain consciousness within two days, she would be categorized as being in aa.

    dwin held via¡¯s right hand. The girl¡¯s index finger was attached to a Pulse Oximeter, while an IV was set up on her left hand. A tube delivered oxygen to her nose, and electrodes were attached to her chest. Her normally rosy skin now appeared pale, and even her lips were starting to dry. Dark circles were forming under her eyes. via had used up two blood bags after her operation, yet she still hadn¡¯t opened her eyes.

    ¡°Love, can you hear me?¡± dwin stroked via¡¯s temple and asionally kissed the back of her hand. ¡°Wake up. Don¡¯t make us wait too long. You know, we¡¯re waiting for you.¡± dwin smiled, gently caressing via¡¯s cheek with the back of his hand.

    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful, always beautiful in my eyes. But you¡¯ll probably look even more beautiful when you wear a wedding dress at our wedding.¡± He said with a hopeful tone, a smile etched on his face. Imagining what via would look like in a white wedding gownplete with a tiara.

    ¡°Wake up, and let¡¯s prepare everything. We can order the dress from the boutique together. Then arrange catering and design our wedding invitations. I can¡¯t wait to see the house we¡¯ll live in.¡± dwin tried to hold back his tears from overflowing. ¡°Ah, you probably want to buynd and design our own house, right?

    ¡°After that, you¡¯ll design the rooms ording to what you want. And I¡¯ll make the furniture you describe. You know, I¡¯m already skilled at making cabs and tables. I can even make a multifunctional bed with drawers underneath.¡± He said proudly.

    ¡°I miss you,¡± he whispered, cing the back of via¡¯s hand on his cheek. ¡°Wasn¡¯t the sad five years we had together enough? Shouldn¡¯t we be together now? Happy together, weaving our future together?¡± He said again. He looked at via¡¯s face once more, but the girl still didn¡¯t respond. dwin stood up, half-bowing towards via¡¯s body, and whispered, ¡°Now, I have to go. Many patients are waiting for me. You know, I¡¯m quite a popr doctor, right?¡± dwin kissed via¡¯s forehead and gently stroked it. ¡°I¡¯ll be backter; I hope you¡¯ll be awake by then.¡± Once again, dwin kissed via¡¯s forehead before leaving the High Care Unit (HCU).

    dwin was in the process of taking off the special clothing he wore when he heard a rustling sound from the other side of the door. ¡°So, who is the patient¡¯s boyfriend actually?¡± The voice was a mere whisper, but dwin could hear it clearly.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. I¡¯m confused too. Isn¡¯t she Doctor Dominic¡¯s girlfriend?¡±

    ¡°She¡¯s Doctor Hampton¡¯s niece.¡± The third voice whispered. ¡°Didn¡¯t you know?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. Yes, I know she¡¯s Doctor Hampton¡¯s niece. But Doctor Hampton¡¯s attention isn¡¯t like an ordinary uncle. The Emergency Department said yesterday that Doctor Hampton looked more frustrated than anyone waiting for that girl.¡±

    ¡°If she¡¯s really Doctor Hampton¡¯s girlfriend, what about Doctor Dominic and Doctor Madsen? Isn¡¯t she Doctor Dominic¡¯s girlfriend? And isn¡¯t Doctor Madsen currently in a rtionship with Doctor Hampton?¡±

    ¡°Well, how should I know? Besides, why should we bother with their affairs? Whoever is getting married, we just need to wait for the invitation. That is, if we¡¯re invited.¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s right. If she¡¯s really Doctor Hampton¡¯s girlfriend, Doctor Madsen would be pitiful. Hasn¡¯t she been unting to everyone that she¡¯s Doctor Hampton¡¯s potential match?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s her fault for being shameless. Dreaming of being with someone who hasn¡¯t paid any attention to her. Their rtionship is still unclear, but she confidently announces to the whole world that she¡¯s a worthy candidate for Doctor Hampton. Enough, stop discussing them; we might get scolded. Besides, isn¡¯t it time for you to go home now?¡± Then the conversation disappeared, and dwin emerged from his hiding ce.

    ¡°What¡¯s up with Phoebe? If what the staff said is true, she won¡¯t stay quiet. She¡¯s just casually associating her name. In a thousand years, dwin isn¡¯t sure he would fall for Phoebe. But for now, dwin chooses to ignore it.

    The patients are not too busy at the moment. There are only a few people registering for examinations. So Jonas and dwin have more free time, and currently, they are reviewing patient reports. ¡°I saw Abigail here earlier. Does the doctor have an appointment with her?¡± Jonas asked curiously.

    dwin just nodded in response, but then he raised his head and stared at Jonas sharply. ¡°Jonas, there¡¯s something I want to ask.¡± He said with uncertain tone. ¡°Have there been rumors about me and Phoebe among the staff all this time?¡±

    dwin¡¯s question made Jonas furrow his brow. ¡°Why, Doctor?¡±

    ¡°Can you just answer?¡± dwin didn¡¯t want to give reasons.

    Jonas nodded in agreement. His eyebrows knitted, thinking. ¡°It seems like the rumors started when we had lunch together.¡± Jonas tried to remind dwin. ¡°Doctor remembers, right? During lunch with Doctor Dominic and Abigail.¡± Now it was dwin¡¯s turn to raise an eyebrow. ¡°It seems that the gossip started since then. I myself don¡¯t know who started it. Then they saw Doctor Madsen and her mother visit your room, and well¡­ The more mouths, the more versions, and the longer the story. So, nothing can be trusted.¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say anything?¡± dwin scolded.

    Jonas shrugged with an indifferent expression. ¡°If I tell the Doctor, what will the Doctor do? Hold a press conference like celebrities and say that you don¡¯t have any rtionship? Who would want to believe the Doctor? Netizens? Instead of getting tired of receiving snide remarks and gossip, it¡¯s better to close your ears. They will stop on their own. They will know the truth someday. Let them assume. As long as the person you love believes in you, knows your feelings, that¡¯s enough, Doctor.¡± Jonas¡¯s answer sounded reasonable.

    dwin nodded. Okay, from now on, he would shower via with words of love and expressions of his feelings. So that she would no longer doubt dwin¡¯s feelings and ignore all the disgusting rumors circting. ¡°But I hope, next time, you can confirm if there is any unpleasant news about me.¡± He ordered.

    Jonas nodded his head, agreeing with his boss¡¯s request. ¡°I will do that, Doc. You just rx.¡± Jonas¡¯s casual response made dwin frown.

    ¡°Is there something I don¡¯t know? Why do I feel like you¡¯re being too casual about the gossip that¡¯s happening to me?¡±

    Jonas widened his eyes, smiled while shrugging. ¡°I¡¯m casual because I know the actual reality.¡± He replied casually. ¡°I know that there is nothing between you and Dr. Madsen. In case the Doctor forgot, I¡¯ve been helping the doctor keep a distance from Dr. Phoebe. And I also know what kind of gaze you give every time via is near you. If I were to describe it, you look at her like a hungry wolf looking at its prey. If you open your mouth, your saliva won¡¯t be contained anymore.¡±

    ¡°Is it really like that?¡± He asked incredulously.

    Jonas nodded again. ¡°Yes. Even worse than that.¡± Jonas answered casually, and dwinughed at it. ¡°You¡¯re ruining our reputation as men. You should be more calm. Cooler, instead of showing that you¡¯re a love ve.¡± Well, at least Jonas¡¯s words somewhat eased his feelings. Forgetting his concerns about via¡¯s condition for a moment, dwinughed. Jonas was right; dwin was now a ve to via¡¯s love.

    After lunch, dwin chose to spend time in the HCU. There were no signs that via would wake up. dwin didn¡¯t stop talking to her until his break time was over, and he returned to his room to work. After his working hours ended, once again, dwin spent his time in via¡¯s room.

    Three days passed, although via¡¯s vital signs were dered normal, she still hadn¡¯t opened her eyes. And now she had been moved to a treatment room.

    Antony remained faithfully by his daughter¡¯s side. Abigail was also always there. The girl chose to reject impromptu contracts because she wanted to focus her attention on via. As for dwin, he never went home or to his apartment. His days were now spent in the hospital. Sleeping, eating, and everything else he did there. Abigail was the one kindly bringing all his necessities, including spare clothes and food.

    dwin¡¯s phone rang, and the name ¡®Mom¡¯ filled the square screen. dwin slid the green button and answered her call.

    ¡°Yes, Ma?¡± dwin asked.

    ¡°dwin, I¡¯m feeling unwell. Can youe home and check on me?¡± There was a coughing sound from there. dwin looked at via and Abigail alternately.

    ¡°dwin, go there, Ma.¡± He agreed and then hung up the phone. ¡°Your grandmother says she¡¯s not feeling well. I will go home to check on her condition,¡± dwin informed Abigail.

    Abigail responded to her uncle¡¯s statement with a smirk. ¡°Grandma seemed fine when I went home.¡±

    ¡°So, you think your grandma is trying to deceive me?¡± dwin looked at Abigail cynically. He was tired, frustrated, and reluctant to assume. If it¡¯s true that his mother is also lying to him about her health now, dwin feels like he¡¯ll truly explode.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t say that. I¡¯m just saying what I saw earlier.¡± Abigail nced at the watch on her left wrist. It was half-past six. ¡°This is just my assumption. Whether Uncle calls me having a high imagination or whatever. But it seems like grandma is nning something for you.¡± Abigail looked at her uncle intently. ¡°Just let me know if you need my help.¡± Her offer was sincere.

    dwin just nodded. ¡°Take care of Via, and if anything happens, contact me directly.¡± He instructed, and Abigail responded with a nod.

 Chap 46

    It¡¯s burdensome for dwin to leave via at the hospital even though he knows she¡¯s not alone. You might say dwin is dramatic, but that¡¯s the reality. If only he didn¡¯t have the responsibilities of being a doctor and the need to continue living as a human being, he would want to forget all his duties, ignore everyone who needs him, and choose to keep apanying via.

    But he took the doctor¡¯s oath. He must not ignore those who need his help. Patients can choose their doctors, but doctors can¡¯t choose their patients. It¡¯s not that he doesn¡¯t trust the medical staff or Abigail. But yes, as Jonas said, dwin has be infatuated. Because the fact is, dwin is now in a position of falling head over heels for via¡¯s charm. Despite via doing nothing but sleeping day and night. But because of that, dwin is afraid of missing the moment when via wakes up. What he wants is to be the first person via sees when she opens her eyes. To be the first person via touches when she wakes up.

    Should dwin try the methods used by princes in Snow White or Princess Aurora to wake via up? Like kissing her. But what if via¡¯s true love isn¡¯t him? Isn¡¯t it mentioned in Maleficent that true love is a mother¡¯s love?

    Oh God, dwin seems to be going crazy. How could he equate real life with a children¡¯s movie? dwin parked his car outside Abigail¡¯s parents¡¯ house. He did it on purpose because he didn¡¯t intend to stay long in that house. Just to check on his mother¡¯s condition and then return to the hospital afterward. As he said, he didn¡¯t want to be far from his beloved girl for too long.

    dwin didn¡¯t even bother entering through the front door. He chose to enter through the side door, which he knew was never locked before Nin Hindun returned to the back pavilion.

    dwin greeted and didn¡¯t notice that there were already some people sitting in the family room. However, a voice diverted his steps towards them. ¡°Well, herees dwin.¡± dwin heard his mother¡¯s voice.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    dwin entered and was quite surprised to see their guests. Besides Abigail¡¯s parents and his own mother, Phoebe and Penelope were also there. ¡°Darling, why are you sote?¡± His mother reproached with a pouting face that made dwin squint.

    Was his mother sulking because he arrived rtivelyte? Didn¡¯t his mother mention feeling unwell earlier, but now she seemed cheerful¡­

    ¡°Look, Phoebe has prepared dinner for us.¡± His mother said again with cheerfulness that dwin considered excessive. dwin stared at his mother with tightly clenched jaw and fists.

    His concern turned into anger, evident from his now cynical gaze. His mother still didn¡¯t know about via¡¯s condition, and dwin, along with via¡¯s parents, didn¡¯t want to tell anyone for fear of causing unnecessary worry. He himself didn¡¯t know if Phoebe was aware of via¡¯s whereabouts and condition. As a doctor, they don¡¯t know about all the patients unless the patients are under their care. And if Phoebe did know, it seemed she was good at keeping secrets.

    Correction, not secrets. But the woman was adept at keeping her mouth shut so that people¡¯s attention wouldn¡¯t shift to via.

    dwin tried to contain his anger. Instead of waiting for via, he was forced to y along with his mother and the woman. Abigail was right, this was a trap. But he wouldn¡¯t ask for the girl¡¯s help. He would handle it on his own.

    ¡°Mom, aren¡¯t you supposed to be sick?¡± dwin asked, one of his eyebrows raised, but he tried to keep his voice calm. Not explosive as he desired.

    His mother¡¯s face blushed. ¡°Mm¡­ at first, yes. But suddenly I got better because Phoebe is here,¡± she continued without daring to look directly at dwin. dwin looked at Phoebe, who was now smiling shyly. ¡°It¡¯s amazing if that¡¯s the case. Mom doesn¡¯t need a checkup; just seeing Phoebe makes her instantly recover. Does Phoebe have some kind of healing powder in her body, Mom?¡± He sarcastically remarked as he approached and politely kissed the back of Penelope¡¯s hand. ¡°But dwin is puzzled. Mom called dwin less than half an hour ago. If dwin calctes with the cooking show, it¡¯s impossible to finish cooking in half an hour. It feels a bit disconnected.¡±

    ¡°So, Mom was sick first, and then Phoebe cooked. Or did Phoebe cook first, and then Mom got sick, and she healed Mom?¡± dwin looked at his mother, who was now fidgeting, desperately searching for an excuse.

    Suddenly, the elderly woman got up. ¡°Oh, the food is getting cold. Come on, dear. It¡¯s a pity Phoebe has worked so hard to cook for you.¡± His mother stood up abruptly, inviting everyone there to head to the dining table.

    Abigail¡¯s parents also got up, surrounding the rectangr table where the food was already arranged. ¡°All of this is Phoebe¡¯s cooking, you know. She¡¯s amazing. Beautiful and a great cook,¡± praised his mother. dwin just smiled and took a seat next to his sister-inw, while Phoebe grabbed a chair beside him.

    ¡°Shall I serve for you?¡± Phoebe offered again. She reached for dwin¡¯s te and was about to turn it, but dwin stopped her hand. ¡°No need,¡± he ordered in a cold tone that halted Phoebe¡¯s movement. His mother looked at him in surprise. All the food in front of him was dwin¡¯s favorite, and usually, he never refused.

    ¡°Oh, you want to take your own food.¡± Phoebe tried to cover her embarrassment with an awkward smile. She then turned her own te and started spooning food onto it.

    Seeing everyone had taken their meals while dwin remained silent, his mother called out to him. ¡°dwin, aren¡¯t you eating?¡±

    ¡°dwin came home to check on Mom, who imed to be sick, not for dinner,¡± replied dwin tly. dwin sensed Phoebe tensing up. Then his sister-inw¡¯s elbow nudged his stomach.

    ¡°Be a little polite,¡± whispered Abigail¡¯s mother.

    ¡°I am polite, sister. Sitting here and apanying you for dinner is within my limits of politeness. Going home after finding out Mom¡¯s alleged illness, which turned out to be a lie, and not causing a scene is also considered polite,¡± replied dwin in his usual t tone.

 Chap 47

    Julie Hampton stared at her son with a reddening face. The elderly woman seemed about to scold dwin but restrained herself due to embarrassment in front of her guests.

    ¡°At least appreciate Phoebe¡¯s effort because she took the trouble to cook for us,¡± said his brother-inw, who was also Abigail¡¯s father, in a firm tone.

    ¡°I never asked her to trouble herself by cooking for me,¡± he replied, looking at his brother with a cold gaze. He then turned to Phoebe, half of his body turning towards her. ¡°Or did you do all this because you need praise from me?¡± he asked, one eyebrow raised. The girl¡¯s eyes widened, her face turning red, either from embarrassment or anger at dwin¡¯s rude attitude.

    dwin flipped his te, spooning Phoebe¡¯s cooking onto it bit by bit. He ate quickly, finishing it in less than two minutes. ¡°Done. Still, via¡¯s cooking tastes better.¡±

    ¡°dwin!¡± his mother scolded.

    ¡°Yes, Ma?¡± dwin looked at his mother with a sweet smile on his face.

    ¡°Behave politely.¡±

    ¡°I am already in the category of politeness, Ma. Here, you want me to appreciate Phoebe, I¡¯ve done that. But do you also appreciate me?¡±

    ¡°Didn¡¯t Mom already know what I want? It hasn¡¯t even been a week since I poured my heart out to you.

    ¡°If you choose to ignore my feelings, then I will do the same.¡± dwin replied with a cold tone that made his mother look at him in fear. Penelope stared at dwin and the rest of his family with a puzzled look. ¡°Sorry, Mrs. Madsen, whatever you and my mom n, I can¡¯t get involved. I can¡¯t ept Phoebe because there¡¯s someone else I like. Someone I love.

    ¡°Thank you for dinner. I¡¯m sorry, but I have to leave because there¡¯s something more important I need to do.¡± dwin stood up and looked at his mother and the two guests with a cold gaze. ¡°Next time, please don¡¯t use your health as an excuse for something as ridiculous as this.¡± dwin said more to his mother and left the table.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Is all this because of via?¡± Phoebe asked, apparently following dwin to the back door. The woman stared at dwin cynically, but dwin ignored her. He finished putting on his shoes and grabbed his work bag. Phoebe held his hand and shook it roughly. ¡°Answer me!¡± She shouted loudly.

    What is this? A live show? dwin looked at his mother and Phoebe¡¯s mother now standing tensely behind them. dwin smiled sweetly. ¡°Yes. Because of via.¡± He answered with an extraordinary gentleness. Penelope gasped while Julie red at her son angrily.

    ¡°But she¡¯s your niece,¡± Penelope said with a choked voice.

    ¡°Sorry, Mrs. Madsen, we are indeed uncle and niece, but we have no blood rtion. And you don¡¯t need to pretend, both you and Phoebe must already know that, right?¡± He said again in his sarcastic mode, making Penelope¡¯s face turn red with shame. ¡°So, any other questions?¡±

    ¡°What does she have that I don¡¯t?¡± Phoebe asked harshly. A clich¨¦ question, dwin scoffed inwardly.

    ¡°Do I have to write it in the form of an essay?¡± dwin stared at Phoebe coldly. ¡°Or should I type it on my phone, send it as a message so that someday you won¡¯t have to ask such clich¨¦ questions again?¡± dwin¡¯s sharp retort. ¡°But no need, because it doesn¡¯t take a long sentence to say via¡¯s strengths.

    ¡°In every way, via is clearly much better than you.¡±

    Phoebe smirked and snorted. ¡°You know for sure that she¡¯s not better than me at all, dwin. We all know she can¡¯t give you a child.¡± Phoebe¡¯s response hit dwin. Instantly, he looked at his mother in anger, and his mother turned pale instantly.

    dwin turned to look at Phoebe. ¡°So what? Not being able to give me a child doesn¡¯t make her worse in my eyes.¡± dwin¡¯s answer shocked his mother. ¡°It¡¯s better to marry a woman who can¡¯t give me a child but live happily, love and respect each other for a lifetime. Rather than marrying a woman who has a child but can¡¯t give full attention to her child, leaving her husband when he¡¯s at his lowest point, and even easily disparaging others without knowing the truth.¡± dwin spoke every word with sarcasm. Phoebe and her mother turned pale.

    ¡°Having someone who loves you, respects you, apanies you in health, sickness, difficult times, and happy times, that¡¯s the kind of person I choose. A child? We can still adopt. And a child isn¡¯t the only reason for a harmonious marriage. But this.¡± dwin pointed to his chest. ¡°The heart determines the happiness in a marriage. And this.¡± dwin pointed to his head. ¡°Will guide its sess.¡± dwin turned to leave, but it seemed Phoebe was not satisfied yet.

    ¡°She might not even wake up from hera.¡± She said loudly, and that made Mrs. Julie¡¯s eyes widen instantly.

    dwin turned around again to face Phoebe. He looked at Abigail¡¯s parents who were now standing behind Phoebe. ¡°Fine,¡± dwin said in a low tone. ¡°Since you are all here, I might as well tell you. via has had another ident, and now she¡¯s in aa.¡± His three family members were shocked by the news. ¡°And to address the possibility you fear,¡± dwin looked at Phoebe. ¡°I will marry her before she wakes up. So ¡®if¡¯ she doesn¡¯t wake up, I¡¯ve already changed my status to her husband, and she will be my wife. The only one.¡± He said with emphasis, shocking his mother. ¡°So ¡®if¡¯ she doesn¡¯t wake up. Then I will be herpanion. Are you satisfied?¡± dwin stared angrily at Phoebe. The woman¡¯s face was now covered in tears. Whether the pain was genuine or not, dwin didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°dwin! Mama doesn¡¯t approve of you!¡± Mrs. Julie shouted loudly.

    dwin smiled and shook his head. ¡°I don¡¯t need your approval, Ma.¡± dwin said, making everyone look at him in surprise. The obedient child has now be rebellious, undoubtedly shocking his sister, brother-inw, and mother. ¡°All this time, I¡¯ve tried to be a good and proud son for you. I¡¯ve always done everything considering your feelings. And I¡¯ve told you what I want.

    ¡°I love via, and you all know how hard I¡¯ve tried to restrain myself all this time. You¡¯re just pretending to turn a blind eye and a deaf ear.

    ¡°I don¡¯t ask for your approval¡­ Because if you really love me, you should let me live with the woman of my own choice. The woman I love and who can make me happy. And my love, my happiness, is only with via.

    ¡°Whether you¡¯re willing or not, I won¡¯t care. Just like you¡¯re now doing this petty thing without caring about my feelings.¡±

    ¡°Are you willing to hurt your mother just because of a woman?¡± dwin turned to look at Penelope, who spoke.

    ¡°As much as you¡¯re willing to separate a child from his father just because his father is in a low condition, iming that your child and grandchildren cannot make him happy? Then yes, I am willing,¡± dwin replied sharply. ¡°Perhaps you should find another prospective husband for your daughter. Another wealthy man who will kneel to Phoebe. Because clearly, I¡¯m not the right person to be your son-inw.¡± Then dwin turned aroundpletely. He didn¡¯t care about the shouts inside the house. Protests and insults yelled by Phoebe¡¯s mother.

    His mother might have been influenced by the instigations of Phoebe and Penelope. Just blindly believing the statements of the mother and daughter when, in fact, Phoebe left her husband due to domestic violence. But the reality was not like that.

 Chap 48

    dwin knew who Phoebe¡¯s husband was. They attended the same university back then. Not a close friend of dwin, not even a close friend of Freddie, his friend. dwin knew from Freddie that Phoebe married the son of their university¡¯s rector while being pregnant out of wedlock a few weeks after dwin left America.

    From Freddie, he also knew that the man, Phoebe¡¯s husband, was obsessed with her.

    Sultan, that was the man¡¯s name. Groveling under Phoebe¡¯s finger.

    ¡°Lucky I didn¡¯t fall in love with her. Like, she and her mom probably looked down on me. What can I do? I¡¯m just the son of a small shop owner. Notparable to dwin, the son of a cement worker. Especially with Sultan, the son of a ruler.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°A handshake is probably brushed off; if I propose, maybe I¡¯ll be hit by a bucket of dung. Every time I see her, her gaze is disgustingly gross.¡± Freddie¡¯s voice from across the line made dwin want tough. This friend of his could be considered absurd.

    At that time, Freddie was about to tell him about the news of his uing marriage. And suddenly, his friend brought up their other friends. Although dwin didn¡¯t ask anything. dwin was more interested in the news about via, who suddenly disappeared from his reach. But dwin was used to Freddie¡¯s chatter, so he let the guy talk.

    ¡°Didn¡¯t expect that the one I thought was innocent turned out not that innocent. I don¡¯t even know how many men have been her bedpanions.¡±

    Then, two years ago.

    ¡°Our rector was caught embezzling student schrships. His position was revoked. And he¡¯s even in jail now.¡± Freddie announced to the public back then. He was truly an authentic informant. ¡°What¡¯s more painful is that Phoebe is suing Sultan for divorce, bro. Sultan is used as his father¡¯s puppet. He¡¯s under investigation now, and instead of supporting him, Phoebe is demanding a divorce.¡±

    And some time ago.

    ¡°Is everything you said on the phone a while ago a fact?¡± dwin deliberately visited Freddie¡¯s house just to satisfy his curiosity.

    ¡°Which fact?¡±

    ¡°About Phoebe and her husband.¡±

    ¡°Oh, that. Yes. That¡¯s true. But there¡¯s even more shocking news.¡± Freddie said.

    ¡°What else?¡±

    ¡°Until now, there¡¯s still a question about who the biological father of Phoebe¡¯s child is.¡± Freddie¡¯s answer made dwin furrow his brow. ¡°After being acquitted, I identally met Sultan. He looked so embarrassed to see me. Because he used to undercut Phoebe when he found out I liked her. I told him that I¡¯m not angry because destiny has its own ns, and that¡¯s the reality.

    ¡°I¡¯m not angry; in fact, I¡¯m grateful not to be destined with Phoebe.

    ¡°I asked him casually about the reason they divorced, even though they seemed harmonious all this time.

    ¡°Sultan frankly answered, ¡®because there¡¯s no more money.¡¯ Apparently, Phoebe demanded a divorce on the grounds of domestic violence, and I even read the divorce certificate that she presented at that time. Even though we know Sultan is someone who is so against violence. Yes, even though in reality, no one knows. They say a patient person¡¯s emotions are scarier than someone who explodes.

    ¡°Phoebe also demanded custody rights for Gisel. But not only that. What¡¯s more shocking is the visa letter that Phoebe submitted to the court. It turned out to be a fake visa. She engineered everything with one of her friends who worked in the forensic department. Those injuries never even existed. The evidence belonged to someone else.¡±

    ¡°I really didn¡¯t expect it. Whether it¡¯s the truth or just nder used by Sultan out of anger. But I think karma is indeed real,¡± Freddie replied with a thoughtful look.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°You know, with the ¡®chance for those who want to change¡¯?¡± dwin nodded. ¡°About three months after the official divorce, Sultan got married again. To a good woman. And their married life is good now.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t God fair?¡± Freddie eximed with emotion. dwin smiled in agreement. ¡°But why are you suddenly interested in Phoebe?¡±

    dwin shrugged. ¡°Just a little curious.¡±

    ¡°Is she pursuing you?¡± Freddie asked curiously. dwin raised an eyebrow. ¡°Of course, you¡¯d be an easy target. An old wealthy bachelor forced to marry.¡± Freddie teased again. ¡°Her mother must see you as a potential son-inw. It¡¯s always like that, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    And dwin didn¡¯t care. Even if he was considered a potential son-inw, Phoebe wasn¡¯t the ideal wife for him. Call him evil, but he didn¡¯t care.

    dwin was back at the hospital. Abigail was still there, engrossed in her phone. Antony was also still there. He edged closer to his brother-inw. ¡°I want to get married.¡± dwin unexpectedly said to Antony.

    dwin suddenly knelt before Antony, making the fifty-year-old man startle in surprise. ¡°What do you mean?¡± Antony¡¯s voice rose one octave. Abigail, who had been busy with her phone, now stood facing dwin.

    ¡°Sir Antony Quirino. I, dwin Hampton, am currently requesting from you to give your eldest daughter to me. I wholeheartedly ask for via Quirino to be my wife. I plead, please ept my proposal.¡± He requested with his head bowed.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± Abigail was lost for words. Her eyes instantly felt warm hearing dwin¡¯s words.

    ¡°dwin, are you serious?¡± Antony stared at him sharply. dwin looked up and met the middle-aged man¡¯s gaze with a determined face. He nodded. ¡°But via is still in aa,¡± Antony said hesitantly.

    dwin shrugged. ¡°That¡¯s why I want to marry her as soon as possible. Before she wakes up and decides to reject me.¡± There was a mischievous smile on his face. Abigail was even surprised that her uncle could joke. Sheughed along with him.

    ¡°Please, ept me as your son-inw.¡± dwin held Antony¡¯s knees with a pleading face. ¡°Even though I¡¯m too old for her, but I¡¯m a potential son-inw. I¡¯m a doctor. My business is also stable, and my stock values are good.¡± He praised himself. ¡°She won¡¯tck wealth. And, of course, she won¡¯tck my love.¡± He continued. ¡°Please, ept me.¡± dwin even bowed his head on Antony¡¯s knees.

    Abigail still stared at him in amazement. Could this be considered a romantic proposal? Even her uncle could still act silly like this. What if Antony responded to it as a joke too?

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± Abigail called dwin again, but then turned to look at Antony. ¡°Uncle Antony, just ept it, via will surely be happy about this.¡± Antony now looked at Abigail with a smile on his face. Oh my, the middle-aged man still looked handsome even though his face had wrinkled a bit. His white hair even made him look sexier. Like Richard Gere, that grandpa.

    Antony patted dwin¡¯s shoulder and squeezed it hard, even causing dwin to wince. ¡°I ept you.¡± He said with emotion. ¡°As her father, I know she loves you. And I know that she would reject you to death.¡± He affirmed dwin¡¯s statement. ¡°So, as a kind father, I will give her the happiness she needs. And I¡¯m sure, just like ire is my happiness, for via, her happiness is you.¡± dwin looked up, observing the seriousness on his brother-inw and future father-inw¡¯s face before rising and hugging Antony without hesitation.

    ¡°I promise. I will always try to make her happy. I know it¡¯s clich¨¦, but as much as possible, I will keep trying to make her happy. I will always be the forefront person to take care of her.¡± He said in the midst of their hug.

    ¡°I believe you.¡± Antony replied without hesitation. ¡°When will you marry her?¡± Antony¡¯s question surprised him.

    ¡°Tomorrow morning. I have to prepare everything first. Is it okay if I marry her even though she¡¯s not fully conscious yet?¡± dwin asked hesitantly. Antony nodded. Matters with paperwork could be dealt withter. The sooner they got married, the better. Hopefully, after they got married, via would finally wake up.

 Chap 49

    via POV

    Whose voice is that? Why are you all whispering like that? I can¡¯t hear it. Can youe closer? Whoever it is?

    ¡°When did you wake up? Don¡¯t you miss me?¡±

    Ah, that¡¯s Uncle¡¯s voice. Uncle, I can hear you. I miss you too.

    Is that your hand touching my cheek? I want to open my eyes too, but for some reason, it feels so hard.

    ¡°I¡¯ll go now, I¡¯ll be backter.¡±

    Don¡¯t go. I don¡¯t want to be alone. Why are you leaving me?

    ¡°Via, the new menu at our restaurant has beenunched. The response from the customers is very good, and even today¡¯s sales are very high.¡±

    Abby. That¡¯s Abigail¡¯s voice, right? Abby, I want to wake up. But I can¡¯t. Abby, please. Help me¡­

    ¡°Ignazio keeps asking me to cook our new menu. That chubby kid. Seems like he¡¯s never full. I¡¯m already kind enough to cook that food for him, and he says your cooking is better than mine. Come on, wake up, Via. Aunty Ada has given birth. It¡¯s a boy. Falisha is happy because she remains the prettiest child of Uncle Altezza.¡±

    Falisha, Geremia? Ignazio, Francisca? Abby, how long have I been sleeping? I want to wake up, Abby. Please ask anyone to wake me up.

    Why is it so quiet? Why does it feel unpleasant?

    My body feels tired. I want to stretch, why is it so difficult? My head hurts. ¡°Eerghh¡­¡±

    ¡°Via?¡±

    Whose voice is that? There¡¯s a hand squeezing mine. Gentle, and warm.

    ¡°Darling, open your eyes.¡± It¡¯s a man¡¯s voice, and it¡¯s too close. His breath brushes against my cheek. Who is he, why is he holding me?

    ¡°Let me check, Doctor.¡±

    Whose voice is that now? Someone is opening my eyes and shining a light. Oh God, it¡¯s blinding. Did that person do it on purpose? My head is throbbing again.

    I try to blink. It¡¯s so heavy. ¡°Via, can you hear me?¡± The man¡¯s voice asks again. My eyes sting, hurt, and dazzle.

    ¡°Via?¡± Finally, I can see him. The man has a handsome face, why is he looking at me with concern? ¡°Via, are you awake now?¡± He asks again.

    Via? Is that my name? I furrow my brow. I want to answer him, but my throat is so sore.

    ¡°Drink. Just a sip first.¡± The man offers a straw to my mouth again. I stare at him for a moment.

    He¡¯s handsome, but looks disheveled. Tired. There are even bags under his eyes. Iply, sucking the water in one full gulp. Swallowing slowly and it tastes so good. I even want to moan because of it.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Okay, now look at me.¡± The sweet doctor in a suitmands. I redirect my gaze to him.

    ¡°How many fingers is this?¡± The doctor raises his index finger.

    ¡°One.¡± I reply still with a hoarse voice. Or is my voice always like this?

    ¡°Is it blurry?¡± He asks again.

    ¡°No.¡±

    ¡°And this?¡± The doctor raises his finger again.

    ¡°Eight.¡±

    ¡°Alright. Now, try to clench both of your hands.¡± Iply. It feels quite painful. My muscles seem to scream in protest. ¡°Good,¡± the doctor praises. ¡°Now, your toes.¡± I obey. Curling my toes and it feels the same. My muscles scream. ¡°Do you recognize me?¡± The man asks again. I furrow my brow.

    ¡°You¡¯re a doctor, right?¡± I ask, feeling confused. He¡¯s wearing a doctor¡¯s coat, so he must be a doctor, right?

    The man smiles sweetly. ¡°Yes. But do you remember my name?¡± He asks patiently.

    I can¡¯t shake my head. There seems to be something blocking in my head. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Doc. Do we know each other?¡±

    Once again, the doctor just smiles, but his smile looks sad. ¡°Alright. Then do you remember who this man is?¡± The doctor taps the shoulder of the man who gave me the straw.

    I nce at him. What kind of gaze is that? Why does he look sad and longing? Should I say that he seems to be looking at me with longing?

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, but I don¡¯t know you guys.¡± I reply again. My head is pounding hard, but it feelspletely empty.

    ¡°Tell me what you remember.¡± The sweet doctor asks again. I try to think. There¡¯s nothing in my memory. I just shake my head. Then a name suddenly pops up.

    ¡°Abigail?¡± I ask uncertainly.

    Who is Abigail?

    ¡°Alright. Call for Abigail.¡± The sweet doctor says to someone, I¡¯m not sure who.

    A beautiful girl with a tall, slim figure, straight ck hair, and fair skin smiles at me.

    ¡°Hi,¡± she greets.

    I look at her, but I don¡¯t recognize her. Do I really know her? Is she an actress? Why does she seem to shine so brightly?

    ¡°She¡¯s Abigail. You don¡¯t remember her?¡± The doctor asks again.

    I just shake my head, and the girl looks at me sadly. Have I hurt her?

    ¡°via,¡± the sweet-faced doctor says. ¡°Your name is via Quirino.¡± He tells me. ¡°Do you recognize that name?¡± I shake my head again. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s start slowly. Is there something you want to ask?¡±

    ¡°Are my parents still around?¡± I finally ask.

    I¡¯m confused, truly. I don¡¯t know these people, but they¡¯re staring at me too intensely. Especially the handsome man who has been sitting beside me on my right and hasn¡¯t taken his eyes off me.

    I¡¯m a little scared, but at the same time, I feelfortable.

    ¡°Your parents are here,¡± the doctor nods towards the beautiful girl named Abigail.

    The beautiful girl leaves, and a few secondster, another handsome man enters the room. I guess he¡¯s around fifty. Some strands of white hair, along with a beard and mustache, adorn his face. His eyes have a sharp gaze. But as he approaches, he looks just as sad as the handsome man who is still sitting in his ce.

    Is that man really my father? As handsome as he is?

    If my father is around fifty, then how old am I?

    ¡°Via, sweetheart,¡± his call snaps me out of my own thoughts. And his voice, for some reason, sends shivers down my spine, making my whole body tremble as if it wants to cry.

    Why does my chest suddenly feel tight and sad? Therge hands of the middle-aged man touch my left hand. Warm. The touch of his hand is warm.

    I lift my head and look at him. And suddenly, without my wanting, my eyes feel hot. I feel like I¡¯ve made a big mistake towards this man. But what mistake?

    ¡°Via, this is Papa. Don¡¯t you recognize me, sweetheart?¡± he asks sadly.

    I shake my head. My brain ispletely empty right now. I feel tired.

    My head is throbbing painfully. I hiss. The doctor approaches again.

    ¡°Is your head hurting?¡± he asks with concern. I nod slightly. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t push you further. Go back to sleep. When you wake up againter, then you can eat.¡±

    I just stare at him and nod again. I dare not nce to my right where the handsome man is still looking at me and holding my hand silently. I swallow my saliva. I feel embarrassed and ufortable at the same time. But I also don¡¯t want the man to let go of my hand.

    ¡°Can we talk in my office, Uncle?¡± The sweet doctor speaks to the middle-aged man. ¡°With you too.¡± I see the handsome man holding my hand turn to the sweet doctor. He nods and then stands up.

    ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon.¡± His words sound promising, and it makes my heart race wildly. I look at him, and he also looks back at me with a gentle gaze.

    Oh God, it feels¡­

    Oh, what is this feeling? Why do I want to hug him and erase the pain in his eyes?

    He strokes my head and then kisses my forehead softly. I¡¯m surprised. Warmth spreads across my face, and my heart races even more wildly.

    Who is he? Why did he dare to kiss me? But I also like his touch.

    I watch them leave the room, and the beautiful girl named Abigail re-enters and sits in the chair previously upied by the handsome man.

    ¡°Via¡­¡± she calls softly. I nce in her direction.

    Is she calling me? via. Via. So those are fragments of my name?

    ¡°Have you really forgotten about us? You¡¯re not ying around anymore, are you, Via?¡± she asks hopefully.

    ¡°Meaning?¡± I ask, confused. Am I a mischievous person? Or am I ustomed to nonsensical mischief?

    ¡°You deliberately yed tricks on us, right, Via? You intended to get back at Uncle, didn¡¯t you? Just tell me, I promise I¡¯ll help you. But don¡¯t do this, Via. You make me sad,¡± she says, and the girl truly looks sad.

    ¡°Uncle? Who do you mean? The bearded man earlier? My father?¡± I inquire.

    The girl¡¯s eyes widen at me. She reaches for my left hand and grips it tightly.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, I think I misunderstood,¡± she whispers. Something warm touches the back of my hand. It seems like the girl¡¯s tears. ¡°Go to sleep, I¡¯ll take care of you. I hope when you wake upter, you¡¯ll remember everything.¡± There¡¯s a pleading tone there. I clearly hear it. I just nod and try to close my eyes.

 Chap 50

    dwin and Antony are now in Eijaz¡¯s office. They sit facing each other like a doctor and patient. ¡°There¡¯s nothing wrong with the results of her operation,¡± Eijaz disyed thetest test results on the t screen on his desk.

    ¡°And from my observation, via¡¯s brain condition is indeed fine.¡± ¡°What¡¯s happening to via right now is a side effect of the head trauma. We call it brain trauma.

    ¡°Actually, the reason for amnesia after the ident cannot be determined yet. Plus, the two factors via experienced-head trauma anda-are not the first time they¡¯ve urred.

    ¡°But what we need to further investigate is whether this is temporary or permanent,¡± Eijaz continued. His eyes kept scrutinizing the man in front of him.

    ¡°I personally hope it¡¯s temporary. Meaning it¡¯s just a side effect of the trauma and shock she endured. Because in some cases of amnesia, patients experience it due to the patient¡¯s own mental issues. So the patient¡¯s subconscious suppresses them to forget certain things or their entire past that the patient wants to forget.¡± Eijaz exined. He was addressing Antony more, as Eijaz was confident dwin would already understand this.

    ¡°Some patients experience memory loss in specific areas only. They seem to hypnotize themselves to forget those points. For example, if she¡¯s a victim of domestic violence, what she wants to forget is her husband. When she realizes it, the only thing missing from her memory is about her husband. The rest she can still remember.

    ¡°There are also cases where the patient¡¯s memory loss brings in entirely new thoughts. Completely new to the point where she can¡¯t even read or count. And in some cases, they forget events from one or two months or several years ago, while they can still remember the rest.

    ¡°Meanwhile, in some cases, there are instances of memory loss that onlyst for hours, but there are also those thatst for several days, months, or even longer.

    ¡°I just hope that what¡¯s happening to via is Dissociative Amnesia, which is temporary, and she will regain her memory in theing days,¡± Eijaz hoped.

    ¡°What if via experiences long-term amnesia?¡± Antony asked, concerned.

    ¡°Based on what I see of her brain condition, overall it looks good. There¡¯s no condition where if we prompt her to remember, it would endanger her life. via¡¯s condition can be considered stable. Her uncle can slowly help trigger her memories back without putting her at risk.

    ¡°But remember, don¡¯t force it,¡± he emphasized. ¡°There are cases where patients who have lost their memory after a head injury should not be reminded of their past as it could endanger their lives. And for via¡¯s case, we need to reassess it, whether the cause of this amnesia is indeed due to brain trauma or triggered by emotional stress.¡±

    Eijaz nced at dwin. dwin remained silent.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Antony inquired.

    ¡°I¡¯m saying this as someone who knows via. It¡¯s possible that the trauma to her head and her memory loss are because she had emotional issues before the impact urred. For that matter, her uncle might consult with a psychologist if necessary.

    ¡°There¡¯s a process of hypnotherapy that can be used as a treatment method. It taps into via¡¯s deepest feelings so she can express what she¡¯s holding back. However, it alles down to the choice of her uncle and family.¡±

    ¡°For now, let¡¯s just pray that via¡¯s amnesia is only temporary. And in theing days, she can return to her old self.¡± After the conversation, dwin and Antony returned to via¡¯s room. ire and Ignazio were already there. Antony approached his wife, who was sitting on the sofa, while dwin sat back beside via.

    ¡°Where¡¯s Francisca?¡± Antony asked his wife.

    ¡°At Adaline¡¯s house. She was ying with Falisha and Geremia earlier. Baby Meizar is with his grandmother,¡± ire replied. ¡°Abigail said earlier that via was conscious for a while?¡± Antony nodded, his face still grim. ¡°Be patient, dear. This is a trial for our family. Especially for via and dwin.¡± ire looked at her twin sister, who now seemed to gaze at via with a mncholy expression. Being close yet feeling distant due to the lingering longing was truly torturous.

    Two weeks passed. It took via two weeks until she finally opened her eyes. Although there were no seriousplications after the surgery, the fact that she lost her memory upon waking up was still very surprising.

    ¡°What did Eijaz say?¡±

    ¡°Eijaz predicted that via¡¯s memory loss might be caused by psychological issues. She¡¯s under stress.¡± Antony tightened his grip on ire¡¯s hand. His wife returned the squeeze and rubbed his back.

    ¡°Eijaz could be right. Do you remember our conversation with via back then? I¡¯m sure if there¡¯s something bothering her to the point of asking such questions.¡±

    dwin and Abigail, who had been silent all this time, seemed to perk up and listen intently to the conversation between the couple.

    ¡°What do you mean, ire?¡± dwin spoke up. ire jumped in surprise. She thought no one heard her conversation with Antony. ¡°What did via ask you?¡± dwin approached, curious.

    dwin remembered his conversation with Eijaz, where Eijaz mentioned that the day before via¡¯s ident, she seemed increasingly mncholic. And ire had just mentioned another ¡®conversation¡¯ too. He was certain that something was indeed troubling via.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Not much,¡± ire replied, trying to recall everything in order. ¡°She asked me about what it feels like to be pregnant and breastfeed. Honestly, her question caught me off guard because discussions about children and pregnancy are taboo for via, and we¡¯ve always tried to avoid bringing it up.

    ¡°Then suddenly, she cried. She felt guilty for falling in love with you. She felt like she wasn¡¯t worthy of being loved. She felt like she wasn¡¯t good enough to be Mama¡¯s daughter-inw.¡± ire shed tears, saddened by recalling her conversation with via. ¡°She loves you too much, but the fear of not being epted makes her hesitant.

    ¡°She feels inferior. She feels imperfect as a woman. I don¡¯t know why she suddenly brought all of that up. At the time, I thought maybe you provoked her. But I know you couldn¡¯t have said anything because you didn¡¯t know about the ident yourself. Then I thought maybe Mama said something to make her think that way. But I¡¯m not too sure about that.¡±

    dwin clenched his fists. It could have been his mother who said such things. But considering the timing, via didn¡¯t meet his mother at that time. dwin was sure of it.

    That day, dwin apanied via. They stayed together until via said she was going to the campus. And as it turned out, via didn¡¯t go to the campus but went to the hospital and had an examination with Eijaz. And¡­

 Chap 51

    ¡°Phoebe.¡± The name slipped out of dwin¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°What about that woman?¡± Abigail now turned to her uncle.

    ¡°Eijaz said that after via had her examination, she met with Phoebe. After that, via, who was supposed to go with Eijaz, suddenly asked to be taken home. I¡¯m sure Phoebe said something to via.¡± dwin rose from his seat. Determination and anger glinted in his eyes.

    ¡°Where are you going, Uncle?¡± Abigail asked again.

    ¡°I¡¯m going to see Phoebe. I need to ask her directly about what she said to via.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°dwin,¡± ire intervened. ¡°I know you¡¯re angry right now. But it won¡¯t serve any purpose.¡±

    dwin turned to his sister. ¡°What do you mean?¡± His voice was edged with frustration.

    ¡°Confronting Phoebe won¡¯t help. Whether she said something to via or not, if she knows about via¡¯s condition, she¡¯ll feel victorious.¡±

    ¡°This isn¡¯t a game, ire. There¡¯s no winning or losing here,¡± dwin replied, a hint of bitterness in his tone. What his sister was saying didn¡¯t make sense.

    ¡°To us, it may not be a game, but to Phoebe, she and via are currentlypeting to get you. If she¡¯s notpeting with via, she wouldn¡¯t bother approaching Mama and seeking her attention.

    ¡°That woman clearly knows you don¡¯t like her. But she¡¯s still openly trying to win you over. For her, you¡¯re a challenge to conquer, and via is a rival to eliminate. Do you understand?¡± Her question sounded more like an admonition.

    dwin nced at Antony, then at Abigail. Both of them didn¡¯t meet his gaze, leading dwin to assume that they believed what ire was saying was true.

    ¡°Confronting her won¡¯t change anything for via,¡± Abigail whispered softly. ¡°Instead of wasting time dealing with that woman, we should think of ways to help via remember us.¡± Her voice carried a hint of sadness.

    dwin finally looked over at the bed where the beautiful woman they were discussingy asleep. At least, that¡¯s what they thought.

    via¡¯s POV:

    ¡°Aunty.¡± The word slipped from Abigail¡¯s lips.

    Is the woman Abigail called Aunty my mother? I can¡¯t remember her face. But her body scent is so soothing. It¡¯s familiar, like a baby¡¯s scent. Just like her gentle touch and melodious voice, I like everything about the woman called Aunty. I don¡¯t want to open my eyes. The thirst for that touch makes me choose to keep my eyes closed.

    ¡°How is she?¡±

    I heard Abigail sigh before she answered softly. ¡°Can¡¯t say she¡¯s doing well,¡± she whispered. ¡°via seems to be experiencing amnesia.¡±

    There was a gasp. It must be Itan¡¯s voice. ¡°How could this happen?¡±

    There was a soft rustling sound. ¡°Uncle Antony and Uncle dwin are gone to see Eijaz.¡±

    ¡°Have they been gone for long?¡±

    ¡°For quite a while.¡±

    ¡°What about my brother?¡±

    Who else is this ¡®brother¡¯? It seems like I live in arge family environment. There are so many people around me. Will it be difficult for me to remember each of them?

    ¡°He looks terrible,¡± Abigail sighed.

    ¡°Poor thing.¡± I felt a touch on my forehead and then a kissnded there. My heart felt like it exploded, bursting with happiness instantly. Oh, I like this Aunty.

    I felt the woman move away from my bed. I felt lost. I only listened as they talked about the names Ignazio, Francisca, and Meizar.

    I felt like I was truly entering a silent world before I heard a high-pitched voice echoing in the room. Whose voice was that?

    I couldn¡¯t catch their conversation. Child? Son-inw? Phoebe? Who is Phoebe anyway? Why do I feel a dislike for that name?

    And why should I be herpetitor? Am I a bad person to be hated by others? Phoebe. Should I avoid that person in the future? I chose to try to sleep again. I can¡¯t think anymore. My body feels tired.

    I woke up to voices. ¡°Via?¡± That was Abigail¡¯s voice.

    Who is that girl, actually? She¡¯s so nice to keep staying by my side. Likewise, that handsome man. He¡¯s still there. If I observe their faces, they somewhat resemble each other. Are they husband and wife? Or siblings? Or¡­?

    ¡°Do you want something?¡± Abigail asked softly.

    I tried to sit up from my bed, but then I felt the top part of my bed being raised. I turned to the right and saw the handsome man pressing a button. So, I was lying in a semi-upright position.

    ¡°Water,¡± I said.

    Then a straw was ced on my lips again. I turned to the right once more, and once again, the handsome man was the one giving me a drink. His gaze was so gentle. Too gentle that my heart felt like it was pounding hard.

    Oh God, my hand itches to touch his face. Is that wrong?

    ¡°via?¡± The question made me turn to the owner of the voice. An elderly woman, probably over sixty, but still beautiful with her slim figure and gorgeous attire. She looked at me with concern.

    I just stared back at her. How should I greet her? Who is she to me?

    ¡°Yes?¡± That was the only word that came out of my mouth. ¡°Who are you?¡±

    The woman seemed shocked. Her eyes widened, and her mouth opened towards me. ¡°Y-you truly don¡¯t recognize me?¡± Her wrinkled hand, adorned with a blue gemstone ring, touched her chest.

    I nced at Abigail. Abigail smiled. ¡°She¡¯s our grandmother,¡± she replied. I looked back at the woman.

    ¡°Sorry, grandma,¡± I murmured softly.

    ¡°Oh God,¡± the woman eximed. Then she walked closer and held my hand. ¡°I thought your mother was joking. But how is this possible?¡±

    ¡°Ma,¡± a male voice interjected.

    I turned to the right, and he was the only man in the room. And he addressed my grandmother as Ma. So who is this man? My uncle? But he looks too young to have a child my age, right?

    So, how old am I actually? Am I as old as Abigail? Because my father isn¡¯t too old either. But the woman referred to as my grandmother is also young, while my father¡­ seems to be around the same age as my grandmother. My head suddenly throbbed painfully.

 Chap 52

    A knock on the door drew my attention again. A beautiful woman, tall with fair skin and soft makeup, entered carrying a basket of fruits. Behind her was a woman the same age as my grandmother, but her appearance was more striking and attention-grabbing. Especially her bright red lips.

    ¡°Are we interrupting?¡± The voice sounded friendly. I looked at her, and her gaze didn¡¯t seem too friendly towards me.

    ¡°Oh, Phoebe. No, dear, you¡¯re not interrupting at all. via just woke up,¡± my grandmother answered the question.

    Phoebe? Is she the Phoebe, the one who sees me as her rival? But rival in what? She¡¯s clearly beautiful. What does she have topete with me for?

    ¡°It¡¯s just a little something. Sorry for arriving sote,¡± she said, still with a friendly tone.

    Her gaze shifted to my right side, and the handsome man just nodded, epting the gift with a murmured thank you and cing it on the nightstand.

    Does that woman like the handsome man? So who is he really? I don¡¯t even know his name. He never introduced himself to me. And Abigail doesn¡¯t seem to have any intention of introducing us either.

    ¡°How are you feeling?¡± the woman asked again, so I redirected my attention to my visitor.

    ¡°Fine,¡± I replied simply.

    ¡°Of course, Eijaz must have taken good care of you,¡± she said with her sweet smile.

    Eijaz? Who is he? Oh God. Why are there so many names mentioned here? Should I jot down their names one by one and memorize them?

    ¡°You don¡¯t remember Eijaz either?¡± the woman asked again, her shocked expression seeming forced.

    ¡°He doesn¡¯t even recognize me,¡± my grandmother said softly and sadly.

    ¡°Sorry,¡± I murmured softly. The handsome man held my hand tightly.

    ¡°No need to apologize. You¡¯re not at fault at all, dear.¡±

    Dear? Did he just call me ¡®dear¡¯? It sounds sweet to my ears. I like it.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Am I smiling now? Because he¡¯s smiling at me too. My body feels like jumping for joy because of it.

    Oh God, why does this man stir up my feelings like this? His handsome smile is still directed at me. It feels adorable. My hands really itch to touch him. I want to kiss him.

    Wait. What¡¯s happening to me? Why do I want to kiss this stranger?

    A sigh diverts my attention. The beautiful woman named Phoebe is still looking at me. And what¡¯s with that look? Anger? Jealousy? Is she jealous because I¡¯m looking at the handsome man?

    ¡°Sorry. If I was rude,¡± I murmured softly.

    I genuinely apologized to her. But the movement of the handsome man sitting next to me, wrapping his arm around my shoulder, startled me.

    ¡°I already told you, you¡¯re not at fault at all. So stop apologizing,¡± he said, kissing the top of my head.

    Oh God, is he deliberately giving me a heart attack? My chest hurts even more because of its uncontroble beating.

    I nced at Abigail from the corner of my eye; the girl was smiling mischievously at me. What does she mean by that?

    ¡°Forgive us, but via still can¡¯t engage in long conversations. She still needs to adjust. I believe you understand what I mean, Doctor Madsen,¡± the man¡¯s voice sounded cold.

    Doctor? So, that woman is also a doctor. Wow, she¡¯s not just beautiful, but also smart. Then what about me? What¡¯s my job? Am I already working? Or still in school? Or am I already married?

    Thinking about marriage makes my cheeks feel hot. I guess I should borrow a mirror from Abigailter. But thinking about a mirror just makes me want to go to the toilet.

    I stand up, feeling restless. Unsure of what to say.

    ¡°Why?¡± the handsome man asks, his expression panicked.

    ¡°Toilet,¡± I whisper softly.

    The handsome man smiles. He stands up and asks Abigail to remove the IV from its hanger. He shifts a round object and then ces it in my right hand.

    ¡°Hold this. I¡¯ll take you to the bathroom,¡± he says, then lifts me gently and effortlessly.

    Does it have to be like this? I wonder silently as I reflexively wrap my arms around his neck.

    ¡°Your legs aren¡¯t ready to walk yet. The muscles must be stiff from not being moved for so long,¡± he says as if he heard the question in my head.

    His face is very close to mine. I can even see the pores on his face because our faces are so close. His thick eyebrows tease me. If I weren¡¯t using my left hand to hold the IV and my right hand to support myself, maybe I would use my fingers to touch his eyebrows right now.

    He lowers me into the bathroom that Abigail has helped to open. He lets me stand for a moment while he opens the toilet lid.

    ¡°Can you manage by yourself, or do you want my help?¡± His question sounds mischievous in my ears, as does his facial expression. I¡¯m momentarily stunned when he shes a smirk. Then I shake my head, asking him to leave and promising to call him when I¡¯m done.

    He¡¯s right. When I¡¯m finished with my business, I stand up again, and my legs feel stiff. My muscles ache, and I feel like I¡¯ve been running for miles without stopping.

    I¡¯m trying to step slowly towards the door. The thought of calling him in and asking him to carry me back didn¡¯t make me happy.

    I opened the bathroom door, and the man was still there. Standing with his back against the wall, both hands folded across his chest.

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you say when you were done?¡± He asked in panic. Then, gently, he carried me back and sat me down on the bed. Hanging the IV bag in ce and adjusting something on the tube.

    I thought my three new guests were gone, but as I looked around the room, they were still there. Though they had now moved positions to the sofa in the guest room.

    ¡°Are you hungry?¡± The man asked with concern.

    I wasn¡¯t really hungry. But yes, I guess I should eat. I nodded. The man then contacted someone, and less than ten minutester, a bowl of porridge was steaming in front of me.

    ¡°This is your favorite pumpkin porridge. Eat up.¡± The porridge did look tempting with several toppings on it.

    ¡°Shouldn¡¯t she be eating hospital food?¡± The question was thrown just as I was about to put the food in my mouth.

    ¡°She just needs to eat soft food. Doesn¡¯t always have to be hospital food.¡± The handsome man responded coldly. Then he looked at me and instructed me to continue eating. ¡°Your stomach hasn¡¯t been filled for a while. So, you need to adjust your food before your stomach is truly ready to process something else.¡± He exined.

    I just nodded. Somehow, this felt like d¨¦j¨¤ vu. Have I experienced something like this before?

    ¡°You¡¯re a Doctor, but you¡¯re breaking hospital rules.¡± The woman retorted with a disapproving tone.

    ¡°I am a doctor, but as a husband, I prefer to please my wife rather than adhere to work rules.¡± The man replied again, his voice sending shivers down my spine. Just look at my hands, the fine hairs on my hands stood on end instantly.

    But wait. Husband? I saw the handsome man was looking at me. So, he¡¯s my husband? My hands felt weak. Even the spoon I was holding just fell off.

 Chap 53

    dwin was surprised when the spoon in via¡¯s hand fell. However, the amused smile didn¡¯t leave his face. His girl. No, his wife stared at him with her beautiful round eyes. dwin realized he hadn¡¯t introduced himself to via since his wife became aware.

    Yes, wife. via had officially be his wife ten days ago. Right in the morning on the fourth day the girl was in care.

    After getting permission from his brother-inw who was now his father-inw, the next day dwin married via in the hospital while via was still in aa.

    There were Antony, ire, and Abigail. While Jonas and Eijaz served as witnesses to their marriage. The wedding took ce in secret. Not even his mother and elder brothers were informed. From dwin¡¯s family, only Abigail and ire knew.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    via still looked at dwin with her adorable surprised expression. dwin knew in that room it wasn¡¯t just via who was surprised by his words, but also three other women. His mother, Julie Hampton. The woman chasing him, Phoebe Madsen, and Phoebe¡¯s mother, Penelope Madsen.

    ¡°dwin, what do you mean by your words?¡± Phoebe¡¯s restrained shout came out. dwin turned, looking at her with a sardonic smile.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± He replied, choosing to feign ignorance.

    ¡°Y-you married her?¡± Phoebe¡¯s finger pointed at via. dwin nodded in agreement. Phoebe looked usingly at Julie Hampton. And so did Penelope Madsen.

    Both women looked disappointed. dwin suspected his mother had made a promise that he couldn¡¯t keep, thus disappointing the people who had trusted him.

    ¡°dwin! You must be joking!¡± The woman shouted. Anger was clearly emanating from her.

    ¡°I¡¯m not joking, Mom. Didn¡¯t I tell you that night that I love via and will marry her?¡± dwin turned and saw his wife¡¯s face flushing. Not because she was angry like his mother, but more because she was embarrassed. It seemed the girl was surprised to hear the word ¡®love¡¯ that dwin uttered loudly.

    ¡°But?¡± Julie Hampton still stared at her son with disbelief.

    ¡°I married her when she was in aa,¡± dwin announced. ¡°The day after I left your house, I fulfilled my promise.¡± He retorted sharply. ¡°You should be praising me for acting quickly. Didn¡¯t you previously urge me to get a wife as soon as possible? And via is now my wife. She¡¯s already your daughter-inw. Whether you like it or not, Mama, I don¡¯t care. What matters is I have received Antony and ire¡¯s blessing as her parents.¡± He answered proudly.

    dwin noticed Phoebe ring at via with anger and hatred that the woman didn¡¯t bother to conceal.

    ¡°Whatever you said to via before the ident happened, I don¡¯t care. I don¡¯t even need your apology.¡± dwin spoke again with his cold tone, causing Phoebe to look back at him with a pale face. ¡°Do you think I don¡¯t know that you deliberately met her and said something nasty to her? I know, even though I wasn¡¯t there.¡±

    The blood seemed to drain from Phoebe¡¯s face. She stared at via with piercing eyes. dwin understood; the woman must have thought via was the one whoined.

    ¡°My wife is not ainer. On the contrary, she¡¯s the most patient woman I¡¯ve ever known. And my wife needs to rest again, I hope you can all go home now.¡± He subtly dismissed them.

    ¡°I don¡¯t believe it,¡± Phoebe rejected softly. ¡°You¡¯re just making it up, aren¡¯t you? Because she lost her memory, that¡¯s why you¡¯re saying you¡¯re married.¡± She used harshly. ¡°How could you get married but your mother doesn¡¯t know about it?¡± dwin just shrugged nonchntly.

    ¡°Consider it a surprise, if you will,¡± he replied tly. ¡°But if you really want to know, Abigail will provide proof of our marriage to youter.¡±

    And without being asked, Abigail responded, ¡°The video has already been sent to Aunty¡¯s phone. I didn¡¯t want to show it using my phone because I didn¡¯t want to risk you getting angry and throwing my phone away just like that.¡± Abigail answered indifferently. ¡°Considering how expensive phones are, it would be a waste if the understudy actor gets emotional and doesn¡¯t ept reality, then starts throwing things.¡± She whispered, causing via to bite her lip to hold backughter.

    Phoebe turned around, reaching for her phone from her bag, and within a minute, the woman growled in anger. Gripping her phone until her fingers turned white. The two women standing on either side of her, who had watched the video in silence, now looked wide-eyed.

    ¡°I told you I wasn¡¯t lying,¡± dwin said again. ¡°I won¡¯t apologize to you, Mom. Because I know my choice wasn¡¯t wrong. If you want to be angry, I don¡¯t care. On the contrary, I¡¯ll prove to you that your assumption about via is wrong.¡± dwin replied, still maintaining his t demeanor.

    Julie Hampton¡¯s face reddened even more. Anger, sadness, and disappointment were clearly visible. The woman was angry for being deceived, sad because her son didn¡¯t care about her request. And disappointed because her son didn¡¯t include her in something as important and sacred as this.

    dwin¡¯s marriage was thest marriage among her sons. And Julie Hampton lost her chance to marry her son ording to her wishes.

    ¡°Mama, please go home. Abigail will apany you. Let me be alone with my wife. I hope you understand my wish,¡± dwin nowpletely shifted his attention to via. ¡°The soup has gotten cold, Darling. Would you like to get a fresh one?¡± He asked gently, very different from the attitude he disyed towards his guests just a few moments ago.

    via, still unable to digest the information and processing it in her mind, simply shook her head and reached for her spoon again. Eating seemed to be the best option for her right now.

    Abigail nced at the three women in front of her. She knew they were disappointed. But somehow, seeing their disappointed faces made her happy.

    Even though she wanted tosh out at her uncle for shamelessly using her as bait for these three she-wolves. But Abigail just epted it. Facing these three women was easier than exining to via who dwin was and whatplicated issues they were facing.

    dwin¡¯s longing for the girl who was now his rightful wife was much greater than his anger for being used as bait by the man. And because Abigail loved challenges so much, she awaited the possibility of a verbal showdown between them in a moment.

    ¡°I¡¯m truly disappointed in you, Abigail,¡± Julie Hampton began to speak.

    Look, not even five minutes passed, and Abigail¡¯s prediction immediately came true. Okay, the drama was about to begin. Abigail only nced briefly at her grandmother without any desire to apologize in her mind. But out of respect for her grandmother, she reluctantly uttered it.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Grandma,¡± she replied tly.

    As simple as that. Abigail said without wanting to repeat the same sentence or give a lengthy exnation about why she didn¡¯t say anything to her grandmother.

    ¡°Why does the journey to the parking lot suddenly feel so far?¡± Abigail thought irritably as they stood waiting for the elevator doors to open.

 Chap 54

    ¡°Julie, know that I truly didn¡¯t expect this to happen,¡± Penelope Madsen¡¯sint could be hearding from her mouth.

    Abigail raised her head and watched the changing numbers above while tapping her foot impatiently.

    ¡°dwin really has insulted you this time. He even got married without your blessing. Isn¡¯t this outrageous? Indirectly, he has insulted you as well.¡±

    Finally, the Lady Rouge began to try to ignite her grandmother¡¯s anger. Abigail saw a dark aura surrounding her. How could she not, when demons were whispering? The poison was starting to work and filling her grandmother¡¯s mind with the unclear chirpinging from the Lady Rouge¡¯s mouth.

    ¡°He is yourst son in the family. And shamelessly, he married secretly. Isn¡¯t his action disgraceful? What will people say when they find out about this? A Doctor who can¡¯t respect his own mother, choosing to marry without approval and secretly. I think you should avoid the public for a while,¡± she continued.

    Abigail noticed that Julie Hampton had started to be swayed by the instigation. She was sure, in a moment, Julie Hampton would transform beautifully like Princess Fiona in the movie Shrek.

    Abigail needed the right words as a response to give to the Lady Rouge. Perhaps she should borrow the magic mirror of Queen Ravena to give to the Lady Rouge so she and her daughter could reflect upon themselves.

    The elevator doors finally opened, and they entered one by one. Abigail pressed the button for the first floor before shemented, ¡°I think what Grandma Madsen said, Grandma, is true. It¡¯s better for you and Grandma Madsen to avoid your socialite events for a while. Otherwise, you will be embarrassed by people¡¯s gossip.¡± Her words sounded regretful, but Abigail was trying hard to hold back a smile by biting her inner lip.

    ¡°Why should I stop gathering with my friends?¡± Lady Rouge asked, puzzled. Her eyes blinked quickly towards Abigail.

    ¡®What does she want, to crumble this gingerbread cookie?¡¯ Abigail thought, annoyed. Abigail leaned against the elevator wall and folded her arms casually while her eyebrows furrowed, her expression showing as if she were deep in thought.

    ¡°Well, Grandma Madsen, everyone in your social circle knows that my grandmother and you are very close, sticking together like the glue used to catch mice. People will definitely think that my grandmother and you have a very close rtionship, and they might even think that you are rted. Isn¡¯t that right?¡± Abigail answered persuasively. Lady Rouge nodded in agreement.

    ¡°And if your social circle friends find out about this, it means you will also be embarrassed by them because they will think that Dr. Madsen, who was supposed to be married to Dr. Hampton, was eventually left behind because Dr. Hampton secretly married someone else.

    ¡°They will pity Dr. Madsen for being abandoned. And you can¡¯t demand ountability from my grandmother or the attitude of your friends who embarrassed you, because my grandmother is just as embarrassed since her son got married without telling her anything. Won¡¯t you both end up being pitied?¡± Abigail said again with a sad expression.

    But Abigail didn¡¯t feel any sadness at all; instead, she felt like she was ying in aedy drama. Abigail nced at the two middle-aged women alternately before finally looking at Phoebe. The three women were clearly equally pale, which made Abigail struggle even harder to hold backughter.

    ¡°Do you know the hurtful remarks people will make?¡± Abigail once again caught the attention of the three women.

    ¡°What?¡± They all asked simultaneously.

    ¡°Are you sure you want to hear it? This sentence is not suitable to be uttered, but you will eventually hear it.¡±

    ¡°Just say it, don¡¯t beat around the bush,¡± Mrs. Madsenmanded Abigail.

    ¡°You will hear themment like this, ¡®No wonder Mrs. Hampton¡¯s son chose to marry secretly because his son¡¯s choice of woman is far better than his mother¡¯s choice. I heard besides being twelve years younger than Mrs. Hampton¡¯s son, the girl is also of Italian-American descent. Her parents are entrepreneurs, an old-money family that won¡¯t be poor for generations. Of course, Mrs. Hampton¡¯s son is more logical to marry a girl rather than marrying a single mother Mrs. Hampton set him up with.''¡±

    Abigail¡¯s words clearly aimed at Phoebe. And the woman immediately red back at Abigail with anger. Meanwhile, Penelope Madsen looked pale and tense.

    ¡°That¡¯s probably the sentence you¡¯ll hear if you insist on gathering,¡± Abigail continued with a fake innocent smile. In her silence, Penelope confirmed Abigail¡¯s words, and the middle-aged women couldn¡¯t offer any rebuttal, including Phoebe Madsen.

    Abigail praised herself inwardly and thought she should start spreading her wings into the acting world or perhaps apply to be an infotainment host because of her clever sarcastic remarks that could easily provoke others¡¯ anger.

    Abigail pressed the car remote in her hand and asked her grandmother to get in. As she saw the two women behind her walking, she stopped, raised her hand, and restrained them from entering her car.

    ¡°Sorry,dies. I¡¯m not your personal chauffeur. So, you can order a taxi to go home. I¡¯m sure you both have plenty of money to pay for the fare,¡± she said before getting into the car, once again infuriating the two women.

    Abigail didn¡¯t hate widows. No, God forbid she wasn¡¯t that envious girl. She even greatly admired the inspirational figures of women who managed to be the backbone of their families, especially if they were widows left by their husbands.

    For her, these women-especially wives and mothers-were warriors. However, she still differentiated people based on how they behaved, how they maintained themselves, and their reputation. In Phoebe Madsen¡¯s case, Abigail clearly disliked her personality, which indirectly always emphasized her status as a widow. Moreover, the woman always manipted her innocent child to carry out her cunning intentions.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Women like Phoebe were the type that damaged the dignity of widows. Women who had no shame in pursuing someone who already had another woman in his life.

    Love? Abigail was sure that the woman did not possess genuine love for dwin. The love Abigail knew was nothing like the love in Phoebe¡¯s thoughts.

    The true love that Abigail knew was the love shared between dwin and via. One sacrificing to avoid causing harm and wanting to bring happiness to the other, while the other struggled to convince the former.

    Her grandmother remained silent throughout the journey back home. Quiet. Not even a tremor. ¡®Is she a cellphone or something?¡¯ If Abigail hadn¡¯t seen the movement of her chest when the elderly woman took a breath, she might have rushed her grandmother to the emergency room.

    Abigail knew that her grandmother was sulking and needed to be persuaded. But sorry, Abigail wasn¡¯t in the mood to seek her grandmother¡¯s attention. ¡®Even if you were happy, you wouldn¡¯t give me extra pocket money.¡¯ Abigail thought. She felt better seeing her grandmother silent like a statue than rambling nonsensically. She hoped to receive enlightenment that her approach all along was wrong.

    ¡°Oh God, can¡¯t You give her proper guidance? Open her mind and heart. Because apparently, merely opening her eyes isn¡¯t enough to make her realize what¡¯s right and what¡¯s wrong,¡± Abigail prayed silently in her heart.

    Meanwhile, elsewhere, Phoebe was raging. Her anger seemed uncontroble. Her eyes were red, as was her face. The veins on her neck bulged. She stared at her mother as if she were a piece of meat to be torn apart.

    ¡°I told you to let me handle everything my way. Now look what happened? dwin secretly married that whore!¡± she cursed angrily. ¡°I told you that dwin is the kind of person who will act recklessly when he¡¯s cornered!¡± she yelled harshly at her mother, who was now sitting with her legs crossed and arms folded across her chest.

    ¡°Exactly what can you do?¡± Her mother replied coldly. ¡°Approach him slowly? Act all coy? Even with just one nce, I can clearly see that dwin is not interested in you at all,¡± Penelope Madsen retorted, refusing to back down.

    ¡°Arrgghhh!¡± Phoebe raged and threw objects nearby. ¡°Damn via! That barren woman!¡± Phoebe seethed. Her breath was short, irregr. Her chest ached with frustration. Then suddenly, a smile crept onto her face.

 Chap 55

    ¡°Finished?¡± dwin¡¯s question made via look up. Her face still flushed with embarrassment as she nodded.

    dwin picked up the bowl from the table and then folded the table back to the side of the bed. He took the dirty styrofoam bowl to the other side of the room and threw it in the trash.

    ¡°Is there anything you want to ask?¡± he asked, still in his gentle tone. He climbed onto the bed and sat with his body sideways facing via.

    ¡°I-I¡­¡± via bowed her head silently. ¡°Actually, this isplicated. I¡¯m still a bit confused,¡± the girl twiddled her fingers.

    ¡°Hmm, I understand,¡± he replied. He reached for via¡¯s hand and held it gently. ¡°I just hope your memory returns soon. But until then, I ask that you don¡¯t be too hard on yourself. I¡¯ll help you as much as I can.

    ¡°If there¡¯s anything you want to ask, don¡¯t hesitate to ask. If you feel embarrassed to ask me, you can ask Abigail. She¡¯s the closest person who knows about you besides your parents.¡± He stroked the back of via¡¯s hand with his thumb.

    via looked at their intertwined hands. Her small hand felt warm in the grasp of therge hand belonging to the man she now knew as her husband. Arge hand with long, graceful fingers.

    ¡°But, why ¡®Uncle¡¯?¡± via asked softly. ¡°I mean, are we siblings? Why should I call you Uncle? It sounds unusual.¡± She looked at dwin. The man smiled.

    Handsome, that word filled via¡¯s head.

    dwin couldn¡¯t help but smile. This was the first question her wife had asked after regaining consciousness.

    dwin briefly exined the outline of their rtionship to via. That his twin sister, ire, married via¡¯s father, Antony, who was fifteen years older. By family ties, dwin became via¡¯s step-uncle, but their marriage was neither forbidden nor prohibited legally or religiously because they were not blood rtives. via simply nodded, listening to every word dwin uttered.

    ¡°Do we love each other?¡± She asked again after dwin finished recounting their family rtionship history. dwin looked at his wife with a charming smile. ¡°I-I mean. But, Grandma, your mother seemed surprised to hear about our marriage. Was this marriage not approved?¡±

    dwin nodded. ¡°I love you too much to do something wicked like this.¡± dwin¡¯s deration of love once again brought a flush of red to via¡¯s face.

    ¡°B-but¡­¡±

    ¡°Believe me, someday my mother wille around. She¡¯s no longer just your grandmother. She¡¯s be your mother-inw.¡± dwin said with a mischievous smile. ¡°Someday Mama will ept all of this.¡± dwin squeezed his wife¡¯s hand, trying to reassure her. His right hand reached out, touching the strands of via¡¯s hair falling on her temples. ¡°Because in the end, Mama will realize that you¡¯re my best choice.¡±

    ¡°At the moment, she¡¯s just confused. Despite all the negative thoughts in her head, deep down in her heart, she loves you.

    ¡°All this time, she chose to close her heart and listen to unclear instigations around her. But you have to believe me that in the end, everything will be alright.

    ¡°I¡¯m actually more worried that after you regain your memory, you¡¯ll hate me. Angry and furious at me more than my mother was earlier.¡±

    ¡°Why?¡± via blinked in disbelief.

    ¡°Because I trapped you. I forced your father to ept my proposal and forced him to marry you while you were unconscious.

    ¡°So why didn¡¯t you wait for me to regain consciousness before marrying me?¡± via asked, puzzled.

    ¡°Because you would have given a million reasons to reject my proposal if you were conscious.

    ¡°I know I did something sneaky. And I know you¡¯ll be very angry about it. But it¡¯s okay, I¡¯ll ept it. After all, you can¡¯t back out now.¡± He replied with a victorious smile. via just looked at him with a confused gaze. ¡°Take it slow, Darling. Take it easy. Don¡¯t force your head to think too hard. It¡¯s not good for you. Besides, you¡¯re not fully recovered.¡± dwin stroked via¡¯s cheek with the back of his hand. via felt her body warming up from his touch. Unconsciously, she closed her eyes, enjoying the sensation of her husband¡¯s touch.

    It¡¯s okay, right? Thinking about wanting to kiss him isn¡¯t a sin either because, it turns out, they¡¯re husband and wife.

    ¡°You¡¯re beautiful.¡± Thepliment made via open her eyes.

    It¡¯s unclear when exactly the man moved closer. One of his legs was folded on the bed while the other dangled to the floor. His body faced her, and one of his hands held via¡¯s chin while the other still held her hand.

    ¡°You¡¯re so beautiful. My wife is truly beautiful,¡± he praised sincerely.

    Then, a gentle peck. The man kissed via¡¯s forehead softly. via closed her eyes again. Her chest pounded hard, and something fluttered in her stomach. She liked the touch of his hand on her body. And she also liked the gentleness of his lips on her forehead.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin released his kiss on the girl¡¯s forehead. His eyes gazed at via with passion. Slowly, his face drew closer, and for some reason, via chose to close her eyes again. The man¡¯s warm breath touched her face. Then, she felt his lips softly touch hers. Gentle, warm.

    The soft kiss slowly turned into nibbles and suckling. The man¡¯s thumb touched her chin and pulled it, slowly opening via¡¯s lips. via instinctively opened her mouth, letting the man¡¯s tongue roam inside. It twirled and sucked gently.

    Since when, via was fully lying on the pillow. The man¡¯s hand, which originally held via¡¯s hand, now felt touching the side of her stomach. Large and warm. And via¡¯s hands were now embracing the man, stroking his neck and gently pulling his hair. Both moaned simultaneously.

    The kiss stopped after they felt satisfied. Foreheads met as they took breaths.

    ¡°I miss you. Miss you so much,¡± the man whispered in via¡¯s ear before burying his face in the crook of her neck. Then via felt the man¡¯s body trembling. The man, her husband. Cried.

    ¡°Uncle..?¡± she called softly.

    ¡°I¡¯m scared,¡± his words muffled against via¡¯s shoulder. ¡°Every night, I¡¯m afraid that you¡¯ll never open your eyes again. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll leave me again. I¡¯m afraid you¡¯ll seek revenge on me. I can¡¯t bear to lose you. I¡¯m truly scared,¡± he uttered between sobs.

    via hugged him tightly, patting his back gently, trying tofort him.

    The man cried because of her. How precious was she to make a man like dwin cry for her? Even he said he couldn¡¯t bear to lose her.

    via could only remain silent. Her hand moved down to stroke the man¡¯s back and head slowly, while her nose breathed in theforting scent of his body.

    Her heart felt warm. Calm and happy at the same time. This man, via knew she had deep feelings for him. Her uncle. Her husband.

    ¡®Yes, this man is my husband,¡¯ she admitted to herself. ¡®He¡¯s my husband. And I know I feel the same love for him, my heart tells me so. That I love him.¡¯

    They then fell into a peaceful sleep after the exhaustion of their tears. Allowing their tired bodies to face each other, cradled in warm embrace filled with longing.

 Chap 56

    That morning, Abigail arrived carrying a paper bag filled with clothes and breakfast. Until now, since awakening from hera, via hadn¡¯t seen a mirror. So when she saw Abigail bringing facial care products, it made via both surprised and curious about her own face.

    ¡°What does she look like? What does her face look like? Is she beautiful?¡±

    Honestly, she felt embarrassed waking up in dwin¡¯s embrace. Even though he was her husband, he was still a stranger to via.

    ¡°I¡¯m sure you must be eager to take a shower. But you can do thatter when you¡¯re home. For now, just enjoy a clean wipe-down.¡± Abigail said with her sweet smile.

    dwin wasn¡¯t in the room; her husband had mentioned that he had a morning work schedule and wouldn¡¯t be done until the evening. ording to dwin, if Doctor Eijaz allowed it, via would also be allowed to go home today. And Doctor Eijaz, the sweet-faced man who had examined via.

    Seeing two familiar men in blue suits and doctor¡¯s coats made them even more charismatic. Oh God, via herself didn¡¯t know what goodness she had done to be surrounded by such kind-hearted and handsome people.

    ¡°What time can I go home?¡± via asked softly after the examination was over. She just wanted reassurance that what dwin had said was true.

    ¡°Later this afternoon. Maybe after dwin¡¯s schedule is finished. He seems impatient to take you home right away. Honestly, I feel ufortable every time I see him ring at me whenever Ie to check on you.¡± Sheined in a mocking tone that made dwin snort. via nced at dwin, and he just responded to Eijaz¡¯s remark by shrugging and looking indifferent.

    ¡°My shift ends at four. After that, we¡¯ll go home.¡± He said before kissing the top of via¡¯s head and leaving the room.

    ¡°Hmm¡­ so sweet,¡± Abigail said with sparkling eyes. via felt her cheeks suddenly warming at such temptation.

    Abigail took out clothes from the paper bag she had brought. A in pale yellow dress appeared to move softly in her hands.

    ¡°Is this mine?¡± via asked in surprise. Abigail nodded. ¡°It¡¯s so beautiful,¡± she said, inexplicably fond of the dress.

    ¡°It¡¯s indeed your favorite dress,¡± Abigail replied, as if answering via¡¯s astonishment. ¡°I also brought a hat.¡± Abigail said, pulling out a wide-brimmed hat from another paper bag. ¡°I¡¯m afraid this might hurt the part of your head that just had surgery,¡± Abigail replied honestly. via touched the side of her head, feeling a slight bump although faint. There was no bandage because the wound had dried during the surgery. ¡°But it¡¯s up to you whether you want to wear it or not,¡± she added, shrugging, which was met with a smile from via. ¡°Today, we, you, me, and Uncle will go back to Uncle¡¯s apartment. Your parents have sent some of your belongings there. They agreed for you to stay there because the apartment is the only ce grandma can¡¯t ess.¡± Generally. Abigail then reached for a light blueb from the same paper bag and approached via. ¡°Let meb your hair. I always enjoy doing it,¡± she said.

    via touched her head. It felt greasy, oily, and her hand didn¡¯t like it. She wanted to shampoo, but Abigail hadn¡¯t allowed her yet.

    via was sure her face would also look worse. She touched it, and Abigail smiled. She reached for something in her bag and handed it to via. A small folding mirror with a stic frame decorated with flower motifs.

    via held the mirror with her left hand. Her eyes widened as she saw her own reflection. A fair-skinned woman looked back at her. Her eyebrows were thick and arched, her eyshes long and curly, and she had golden-brown eyes. Her nose was small, straight, and slightly pointed. And her lips appeared full at the bottom.

    Her face felt¡­ foreign. Then via remembered her father¡¯s face and knew that she had Italian blood in her veins.

    Her entire face looked beautiful in her eyes. Was it okay for her to be proud? via then looked at the left side of her face, there was a pinkish-red line from the top of her left forehead, extending to the top of her ear and disappearing beneath her ck hair.

    ¡°What is this?¡± She asked softly.

    Abigail, who was braiding via¡¯s hair, shifted her attention momentarily.

    ¡°Almost six years ago, you were in a car ident. You referred to that scar as an ¡®eye injury¡¯,¡± Abigail answered honestly. ¡°Later, when you shower, you¡¯ll see some other ¡®eye injuries¡¯,¡± she added.

    ¡°It seems like the ident was really severe,¡± via murmured.

    ¡°If breaking your left leg and fracturing several ribs along with the impact that put you in aa qualify as ¡®severe¡¯, then your treatment for a year could be considered ¡®double severe¡¯,¡± Abigail finished tying the braid as via shivered in horror. ¡°Do you want to go for a walk?¡± She asked again.

    via looked at the IV still hanging from her hand. Thest quarter of the IV bag remained. She was actually tired of being in the room, and Abigail¡¯s invitation sounded tempting, so via finally nodded in response.

    Abigail pinned her hair up and helped via down from the bed after bringing a wheelchair.

    ¡°Do I have to use that?¡± She asked with a grimace of dislike. The thought of using a wheelchair somehow made via shudder. She felt embarrassed and, somehow, there was something within her that resisted it. But Abigail nodded firmly, an expression not to be argued with.

    ¡°Eijaz did say you could go home. But he doesn¡¯t rmend excessive physical activity. Once we¡¯re at the apartment, you can move around as much as you want,¡± she offered.

    via nodded. Hearing the word ¡®apartment¡¯ somehow made via¡¯s cheeks warm again.

    ¡°I think I prefer the via who lost her memory,¡±mented Abigail when via was already seated in the wheelchair.

    ¡°Why?¡± via asked, puzzled.

    ¡°You were more like your old self,¡± said Abigail. ¡°Radiant, and genuine.¡± They had entered a hallway where the nurses were on duty. They greeted Abigail and via warmly, receiving polite nods from Abigail in return.

    ¡°What was I like before losing my memory?¡± via asked again when they were back in the quiet area.

    ¡°Do you want an honest answer or a lie?¡± Abigail countered.

    via fell silent. She was afraid Abigail would say something painful. But if she wanted her memories to return, via felt she had to ept Abigail¡¯s honesty even if it hurt.

    ¡°I think honesty is better,¡± she replied softly. Abigail smiled upon hearing this.

    ¡°Truthfully, for the past five years, you¡¯ve been somewhat annoying. But thesest three months, you¡¯ve been incredibly frustrating,¡± she replied bluntly. via turned her head and looked up.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°That bad?¡±

    ¡°Yes, that bad. You¡¯ve be very, very stubborn. It¡¯s been so difficult for me to influence you even though I¡¯ve been doing everything for your own good. But you always give up and feel hopeless.¡±

    They arrived at the hospital garden, filled with several patients wearing hospital uniforms like via. Some of them sat in wheelchairs, while others walked holding onto IV poles.

    Abigail stopped the wheelchair next to a long bench under a small canopy made to provide shade. She sat at the far end of the bench, crossing her legs and leaning back.

    ¡°We¡¯ve known each other for almost half our lives. I feel like we know the smallest things about each other. You know me very well, and I know you. There are hardly any secrets between us.

    ¡°I know you¡¯ve liked Uncle dwin since the first time you met him. You used to say he was handsome and funny. We shared secrets about that. You liked Uncle, I liked Gilbert, and Haisley liked Nathaniel.

    ¡°We both thought those feelings were just teenage crushes. Fleeting loves that would disappear when we found someone else we felt was more suitable for us.

    ¡°But we also knew that the feelings we had were not just teenage infatuations that would cry and wail when rejected and then look for a new, more handsome and perfect guy the next day.

    ¡°No, our love for those men was clearly that of grown women. Rooted and ingrained, making it difficult to let go and rece them just like that.

    ¡°You and I, we¡¯re clearly not the type to give up even after falling several times.

    ¡°But then, the events of five years ago changed everything about you. That damn ident turned you into a different via. You refused to rise. You refused to pursue your love. You shut yourself off from everyone. Including me.¡±

    via watched as the girl quickly wiped away her tears.

    ¡°The doctor¡¯s diagnosis made you desperate and retreat. Not slowly, but running away. You distanced yourself and kept your distance from those closest to you.

    ¡°Even though you knew that doctors are only human. God has more power. And you understand that better than I do.¡±

    ¡°What did they say about me?¡± via asked.

 Chap 57

    ¡°The doctor said your uterus was injured. And you would have difficulty having children. And because of that, you gave up instantly,¡± Abigail¡¯s response made via tense. ¡°Even though all this time, you¡¯ve been the one tofort others. But you didn¡¯t even ept it when others tried tofort you.

    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, Via. You were only diagnosed with ¡®difficulty¡¯ and even then there was still a fifty percent chance of hope. You weren¡¯t dered infertile. But then, as if hell opened its doors in front of you, you became desperate.

    ¡°So many irrational fears filled your mind. You always wanted to make others happy regardless of your own happiness. You didn¡¯t want Uncle to be unhappy because if he was with you, there was a high chance he wouldn¡¯t have children. You were afraid of my grandmother¡¯s rejection. And there are still many other fears you have.

    ¡°Yet, only you know that your fears might not necessarily be Uncle¡¯s fears.

    ¡°You gave up before even stepping into the arena. I was angry, and I hated you for it. That¡¯s why I changed my strategy.¡± She smiled and turned to via. ¡°I made Uncle not give up on you. He had to know what it¡¯s like to suffer like you. But it turns out, even without me making him like that. He was already suffering because of you.¡±

    ¡°You two are truly the main characters in a mncholic and masochistic drama. Unfortunately, the script you¡¯ve written yourselves is what makes it so painful.¡±

    ¡°A-Am I that bad?¡± via asked, unsure.

    ¡°Yes. You¡¯re that bad and that evil.

    ¡°Now, use the opportunity of your lost memory to see new possibilities. You¡¯ll know that your deepest feelings clearly indicate that you love Uncle. And Uncle feels the same way.¡±

    Abigail noticed the faint blush on her friend¡¯s face again. Clearly not from the heat of the sun as they were fully shaded.

    ¡°Tell me your first impression when you saw Uncle. Before you knew he was your husband,¡± she gently requested.

    ¡°He was handsome,¡± via honestly answered. Abigail smiled. The same reason as eleven years ago.

    ¡°Yes, I guess none of our grandfather¡¯s descendants fail in that department. And then? How did you feel?¡±

    via pondered. ¡°I liked it when he held my hand. It felt warm andforting. He was very attentive, making my heart race.¡± Unconsciously, via touched her left chest. ¡°His smile¡­ I liked it. I liked everything about him. Even his voice and the way he looked at me always made me want to touch him.

    ¡°I guess that¡¯s wrong. It feels like a beautiful sin. Then I found out he¡¯s my husband. Although I was surprised, it just felt right somehow. It felt so fitting that what I saw and felt about him after opening my eyes was truly normal and not sinful. And thenst night¡­¡±

    ¡°Whyst night?¡± Abigail asked again.

    ¡°Last night I saw him, but somehow I missed him so much. I wanted to touch him so badly. I wanted to hug him. And he cried.¡±

    ¡°Uncle? Crying?¡± Abigail couldn¡¯t believe her ears. via nodded.

    ¡°Yes. He cried, and it broke my heart to see him cry because of me. He said he was so afraid I wouldn¡¯t wake up. I¡­ It feels like I¡¯ve fallen in love with him all over again. Is that normal?¡± via turned to see a tearful smile on Abigail¡¯s face. Abigail nodded.

    ¡°Very normal. Because deep down in your heart, that¡¯s the feeling you¡¯ve been trying to deny. You¡¯ve been trying to push it away. At least, losing your memory has helped you organize your heart and mind better. You¡¯ve be more honest and sensible,¡± she said sincerely. ¡°Now you just have to ept it. Stop sacrificing continuously. Enjoy the love you have. Ignore the people. Those who don¡¯t like you will always find ways to keep you apart. But if you strengthen each other, everything is just a storm that will gift you a beautiful rainbow.¡±

    via smiled, feeling a newfound conviction within herself.

    At ten minutes past four in the afternoon, dwin appeared. Looking handsome and refreshed in a white Henley shirt and dark gray chino pants. Who would have thought that he was thirty-five years old if his appearance resembled that of a man in his twenties?

    ¡°Ready to go home, darling?¡± he greeted as he entered the room. via, mesmerized, nodded slowly. dwin approached and kissed the top of her head. ¡°You look so beautiful,¡± he praised and kissed her cheek.

    ¡°Ahem, please censor, someone¡¯s getting emotional,¡± Abigail said. dwin just grinned mischievously.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ignore opportunities. Seize the moment; it¡¯s an obligation,¡± dwin replied. Abigail rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah, newlyweds can do whatever they like. What am I, just an old singledy,¡± Abigail muttered.

    dwin ruffled Abigail¡¯s hair, earning a yful scowl from the girl. He then took the tote bag from her with his left hand while his right hand reached for via¡¯s hand, intertwining their fingers. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± he whispered in via¡¯s ear, causing her cheeks to flush again.

    They walked side by side, Abigail on dwin¡¯s left and via on his right. The nurses and fellow doctors who saw them couldn¡¯t help but turn their heads, seemingly hypnotized.

    ¡°Ready to go home?¡± the friendly greeting came from Eijaz, with Jonas coincidentally standing beside him.

    ¡°Sorry, haven¡¯t had a chance to check in,¡± Jonas handed a gift to via.

    ¡°He¡¯s Jonas. He works with me as a nurse and was also your schoolmate,¡± dwin exined.

    via nodded, smiling, and epted the gift, murmuring her thanks.

    ¡°Congrattions on your wedding as well. May you two be happy together forever,¡± his sincere wishes were met with agreement from via and dwin, while surprised readiness could be heard from the nurse¡¯s station.

    ¡°D-Doctor. So, it¡¯s true?¡± one of the plump female nurses asked. dwin looked at her and nodded. ¡°Wow, I really had no idea. We thought¡­¡± she didn¡¯t finish her sentence. She then looked at via and smiled warmly. ¡°Congrattions on your wedding. Please forgive us if you¡¯ve felt our care has beencking,¡± she said.

    via could only smile. She herself was still surprised by the recent revtion of her status, so she didn¡¯t know how to respond.

    Many staff and nurses congratted them, making their journey to the parking lot a bit longer. And by via¡¯s estimate, in less than twenty-four hours, via and dwin¡¯s hospital wedding would be a trending topic for them for some time toe.

    They continued their journey to the parking area, as it happened that Jonas and Eijaz had finished work and were heading home. Their steps briefly halted when they saw Phoebe.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Wow, what¡¯s going on here?¡± the woman asked with enthusiasm. ¡°Is there some kind of celebration, and I wasn¡¯t invited?¡± she added sarcastically.

    ¡°No, there¡¯s no celebration, Aunty,¡± Abigail replied. ¡°We¡¯re just on our way home. Same as you.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I thought there was a celebration, and I wasn¡¯t invited. Sorry, I felt disappointed already,¡± she said. Her eyes shifted between dwin and via, seeing their intertwined hands. A disgusted snort escaped her, which didn¡¯t sound very elegant. But they ignored it and chose to continue their journey.

 Chap 58

    ¡°The doctor said your uterus was injured. And you would have difficulty having children. And because of that, you gave up instantly,¡± Abigail¡¯s response made via tense. ¡°Even though all this time, you¡¯ve been the one tofort others. But you didn¡¯t even ept it when others tried tofort you.

    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, Via. You were only diagnosed with ¡®difficulty¡¯ and even then there was still a fifty percent chance of hope. You weren¡¯t dered infertile. But then, as if hell opened its doors in front of you, you became desperate.

    ¡°So many irrational fears filled your mind. You always wanted to make others happy regardless of your own happiness. You didn¡¯t want Uncle to be unhappy because if he was with you, there was a high chance he wouldn¡¯t have children. You were afraid of my grandmother¡¯s rejection. And there are still many other fears you have.

    ¡°Yet, only you know that your fears might not necessarily be Uncle¡¯s fears.

    ¡°You gave up before even stepping into the arena. I was angry, and I hated you for it. That¡¯s why I changed my strategy.¡± She smiled and turned to via. ¡°I made Uncle not give up on you. He had to know what it¡¯s like to suffer like you. But it turns out, even without me making him like that. He was already suffering because of you.¡±

    ¡°You two are truly the main characters in a mncholic and masochistic drama. Unfortunately, the script you¡¯ve written yourselves is what makes it so painful.¡±

    ¡°A-Am I that bad?¡± via asked, unsure.

    ¡°Yes. You¡¯re that bad and that evil.

    ¡°Now, use the opportunity of your lost memory to see new possibilities. You¡¯ll know that your deepest feelings clearly indicate that you love Uncle. And Uncle feels the same way.¡±

    Abigail noticed the faint blush on her friend¡¯s face again. Clearly not from the heat of the sun as they were fully shaded.

    ¡°Tell me your first impression when you saw Uncle. Before you knew he was your husband,¡± she gently requested.

    ¡°He was handsome,¡± via honestly answered. Abigail smiled. The same reason as eleven years ago.

    ¡°Yes, I guess none of our grandfather¡¯s descendants fail in that department. And then? How did you feel?¡±

    via pondered. ¡°I liked it when he held my hand. It felt warm andforting. He was very attentive, making my heart race.¡± Unconsciously, via touched her left chest. ¡°His smile¡­ I liked it. I liked everything about him. Even his voice and the way he looked at me always made me want to touch him.

    ¡°I guess that¡¯s wrong. It feels like a beautiful sin. Then I found out he¡¯s my husband. Although I was surprised, it just felt right somehow. It felt so fitting that what I saw and felt about him after opening my eyes was truly normal and not sinful. And thenst night¡­¡±

    ¡°Whyst night?¡± Abigail asked again.

    ¡°Last night I saw him, but somehow I missed him so much. I wanted to touch him so badly. I wanted to hug him. And he cried.¡±

    ¡°Uncle? Crying?¡± Abigail couldn¡¯t believe her ears. via nodded.

    ¡°Yes. He cried, and it broke my heart to see him cry because of me. He said he was so afraid I wouldn¡¯t wake up. I¡­ It feels like I¡¯ve fallen in love with him all over again. Is that normal?¡± via turned to see a tearful smile on Abigail¡¯s face. Abigail nodded.

    ¡°Very normal. Because deep down in your heart, that¡¯s the feeling you¡¯ve been trying to deny. You¡¯ve been trying to push it away. At least, losing your memory has helped you organize your heart and mind better. You¡¯ve be more honest and sensible,¡± she said sincerely. ¡°Now you just have to ept it. Stop sacrificing continuously. Enjoy the love you have. Ignore the people. Those who don¡¯t like you will always find ways to keep you apart. But if you strengthen each other, everything is just a storm that will gift you a beautiful rainbow.¡±

    via smiled, feeling a newfound conviction within herself.

    At ten minutes past four in the afternoon, dwin appeared. Looking handsome and refreshed in a white Henley shirt and dark gray chino pants. Who would have thought that he was thirty-five years old if his appearance resembled that of a man in his twenties?This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Ready to go home, darling?¡± he greeted as he entered the room. via, mesmerized, nodded slowly. dwin approached and kissed the top of her head. ¡°You look so beautiful,¡± he praised and kissed her cheek.

    ¡°Ahem, please censor, someone¡¯s getting emotional,¡± Abigail said. dwin just grinned mischievously.

    ¡°Don¡¯t ignore opportunities. Seize the moment; it¡¯s an obligation,¡± dwin replied. Abigail rolled her eyes.

    ¡°Yeah, yeah, yeah, newlyweds can do whatever they like. What am I, just an old singledy,¡± Abigail muttered.

    dwin ruffled Abigail¡¯s hair, earning a yful scowl from the girl. He then took the tote bag from her with his left hand while his right hand reached for via¡¯s hand, intertwining their fingers. ¡°Let¡¯s go home,¡± he whispered in via¡¯s ear, causing her cheeks to flush again.

    They walked side by side, Abigail on dwin¡¯s left and via on his right. The nurses and fellow doctors who saw them couldn¡¯t help but turn their heads, seemingly hypnotized.

    ¡°Ready to go home?¡± the friendly greeting came from Eijaz, with Jonas coincidentally standing beside him.

    ¡°Sorry, haven¡¯t had a chance to check in,¡± Jonas handed a gift to via.

    ¡°He¡¯s Jonas. He works with me as a nurse and was also your schoolmate,¡± dwin exined.

    via nodded, smiling, and epted the gift, murmuring her thanks.

    ¡°Congrattions on your wedding as well. May you two be happy together forever,¡± his sincere wishes were met with agreement from via and dwin, while surprised readiness could be heard from the nurse¡¯s station.

    ¡°D-Doctor. So, it¡¯s true?¡± one of the plump female nurses asked. dwin looked at her and nodded. ¡°Wow, I really had no idea. We thought¡­¡± she didn¡¯t finish her sentence. She then looked at via and smiled warmly. ¡°Congrattions on your wedding. Please forgive us if you¡¯ve felt our care has beencking,¡± she said.

    via could only smile. She herself was still surprised by the recent revtion of her status, so she didn¡¯t know how to respond.

    Many staff and nurses congratted them, making their journey to the parking lot a bit longer. And by via¡¯s estimate, in less than twenty-four hours, via and dwin¡¯s hospital wedding would be a trending topic for them for some time toe.

    They continued their journey to the parking area, as it happened that Jonas and Eijaz had finished work and were heading home. Their steps briefly halted when they saw Phoebe.

    ¡°Wow, what¡¯s going on here?¡± the woman asked with enthusiasm. ¡°Is there some kind of celebration, and I wasn¡¯t invited?¡± she added sarcastically.

    ¡°No, there¡¯s no celebration, Aunty,¡± Abigail replied. ¡°We¡¯re just on our way home. Same as you.¡±

    ¡°Oh, I thought there was a celebration, and I wasn¡¯t invited. Sorry, I felt disappointed already,¡± she said. Her eyes shifted between dwin and via, seeing their intertwined hands. A disgusted snort escaped her, which didn¡¯t sound very elegant. But they ignored it and chose to continue their journey.

    Part 58 (2

 Chap 59

    via was surprised. Previously, via knew that dwin¡¯s twin sister was her stepmother. But goodness, via was shocked because her stepmother looked so young and beautiful.

    ¡°Yes, Mother. You¡¯re the one who came and proposed to me to be your father¡¯s wife,¡± she said with a sweet smile.

    via bit her lower lip, more out of embarrassment. A gentle stroke touched her head, and it was her father¡¯s hand. via could distinguish the feeling because it was different.

    ¡°He¡¯s your Altezza uncle,¡± Antony said, nodding his head towards the tall and handsome man with a stubbled face. The man gazed at via for a moment before winking yfully, causing via to startle. Her uncle deliberately teased her, prompting the tall woman to elbow his stomach quite hard, making him wince.

    ¡°And that¡¯s his wife, Adaline. In her arms is their newborn baby, Baby Rayyan. They¡¯re the parents of the twins, Falisha and Geremia,¡± her father continued to exin. via looked back at the twin children, who were now engrossed in their own entertainment.

    ¡°How are you? I¡¯m sorry I didn¡¯t visit you in the hospital. It¡¯s all because your uncle forbade me,¡± he said, annoyed.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, thank you for your concern,¡± via replied honestly.

    ¡°When she entered the hospital, her name was still via Quirino. And after leaving the hospital, she removed our name and reced it with via Hampton. Their move is smarter than ours, Mrs. Quirino,¡± Altezza quipped, nudging his wife¡¯s arm. Antony, ire, and dwin burst intoughter, while Adaline just scowled at her husband.

    ¡°Ignazio, Francisca, and the twins made that specifically for you,¡± Antony pointed to the binder in via¡¯s hand. via opened the first page of the binder and saw the inscription, ¡®For Princess via. The most beautiful siblings, Ignazio, Francisca, Falisha, and Geremia. We made this so Princess wouldn¡¯t forget us again.¡¯

    via turned to the second page and saw arge family photo that seemed to have been taken at a special moment.

    ¡°After they found out you were awake but suffering from amnesia, they immediately contacted people, asking for photos to be sent, and it turned out like this,¡± her father said again. via smiled and ran her fingers over the colorful marker-written handwriting of the children.

    ¡°The Quirino Family?¡± via whispered. Her father nodded. Then the next page was opened, showing a photo of an elderly man and woman. Below the photo was written ¡°Grandpa and Grandma Quirino.¡±

    via carefully examined each photo. At the bottom of each photo was a name: Antony, ire, Ignazio, Francisca, Meizar. In several photos taken, there were moments of togetherness with via, usually featuring smiles in front of the camera.

    On another page were photos of another elderly couple, whom Antony said were Altezza¡¯s parents. Then a photo of Altezza, Adaline, Falisha, Geremia, and the newborn baby Rayyan. Next were photos of another elderly couple whom Antony said were via¡¯s uncle Gian¡¯s parents, followed by photos of Gian, Joanna, and their children Sara and Luca. On the next page were photos of ire and dwin¡¯s family.

    via vowed in her heart that she would memorize those faces so she could recover her memories quickly.

    The dinner was lively. via felt genuine happiness because of it. Although she could only follow along with bits of every joke her family made-due to her memory condition-what always made her blush was the small attentions dwin showed her unabashedly in front of her family. asionally, this made via the subject of teasing from her family members.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    After her family left, only dwin and Abigail remained in the apartment. via sat at one end of the long sofa while Abigail upied the single sofa. They were watching a movie airing on one of the TV channels while dwin was on a call with someone on the balcony. Shortly after, he came in andy down on the sofa, resting his head on via¡¯sp.

    dwin took via¡¯s hand and ced it on his head, asking her to rub his head.

    ¡°Heh, spoiled,¡± Abigail teased, giving her uncle a sardonic look.

    dwin grinned mischievously. ¡°Are you jealous?¡± he retorted. ¡°That¡¯s why you should stop being single and find a partner.¡± dwin responded to his niece¡¯s teasing. He nced towards via, who was too focused on the television to pay attention to him. Abigail¡¯s heartyughter made via realize and turn to look at them.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± she asked, puzzled.

    ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Your husband is upset because you¡¯re ignoring him. Poor guy, his face is apparently less handsome than Theo James,¡± Abigail teased.

    via bent down to see her husband, who now showed a disgruntled expression. ¡°No, Abby is wrong. Uncle is still more handsome than him,¡± via replied innocently, causing dwin to smile triumphantly and move abruptly, catching Abigail off guard with his unexpected movement.

    ¡°Really? Do you think I¡¯m more handsome than him?¡± he asked enthusiastically, to which via nodded. A quick pecknded on via¡¯s cheek. The girl¡¯s eyes widened, and her cheeks instantly flushed. But then dwiny back down as if nothing had happened.

    Abigail pped her hands loudly and stood up. ¡°Okay, guys, I think I¡¯m tired of holding back watching your lovey-dovey moments. So before I really feel nauseous, I better go back to my den andy my eggs there,¡± she said, then entered her room and turned off the light.

    via remained still with dwin there. The silence seemed deafening even though the television screen was still on.

    ¡°Are you not sleepy yet?¡± dwin finally asked. via shook her head. The clock on the wall already showed ten o¡¯clock. ¡°It¡¯s gettingte, and you¡¯re still in the healing process. It¡¯s better for us to rest now,¡± dwin suggested as he stood up and extended his hand.

    via took his hand. dwin turned off the television, and they walked into the bedroom together.

    Intentionally, dwin didn¡¯t close the window with the curtains per via¡¯s request. Instead, he turned off all the lights in the room, including the bedsidemp.

    ¡°Don¡¯t forget to take your medicine,¡± dwin reminded her.

    via obeyed and took all the prescribed medication. Then shey down on the left side of dwin. Very carefully, not wanting to hurt via¡¯s head, dwin¡¯s left arm moved beneath her neck, and viafortably used his arm as her pillow.

    ¡°Are you happy?¡± dwin asked, looking closely at via¡¯s face.

    via raised her head, returning dwin¡¯s gaze, and nodded slightly. dwin suddenly kissed her forehead and smiled sweetly.

    ¡°I am too. I am so happy because now we can be together. It still feels like a dream to me. Yet before, you kept avoiding and rejecting me,¡± he said.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± via replied softly.

    ¡°I should be the one apologizing,¡± dwin replied. He hugged via tighter, resting his wife¡¯s head on his chest. ¡°If only I hadn¡¯t acted like a coward back then. Maybe by now, we would have two children,¡± he said jokingly. via pinched his stomach until he winced. ¡°Ouch, dear.¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s your own fault. Did you think having children is easy?¡± she teased, while dwin justughed.

    ¡°Well, I was just daydreaming, Darling,¡± he said again. He then cupped via¡¯s face with one hand. ¡°You know? The effect you have on me is very strong,¡± he said, causing via to look at him with confusion.

    dwin tightened their embrace, pressing his lower body against via¡¯s. ¡°Do you feel that?¡± via felt something hard pulsating against her stomach. dwin then took via¡¯s left hand and brought it down to touch it. ¡°Just seeing your face turns me on,¡± he whispered before pressing via¡¯s hand against his intimate area, still covered by his pajama pants and boxers. via¡¯s eyes widened, and she quickly pulled her hand away.

    Her face flushed instantly while dwinughed. ¡°Why? Are you scared?¡± he asked, met with via¡¯s silence. dwin kissed via¡¯s forehead again, then both of her cheeks and the tip of her nose. ¡°Rx, I won¡¯t force you to satisfy me. You need to know, via Hampton, I love you very, very much,¡± he said before gently kissing via¡¯s lips.

    via instinctively returned dwin¡¯s kiss, both of them moaning in longing. However, suddenly dwin pulled away and redirected his kisses to via¡¯s neck.

    ¡°I will patiently wait until you recover and remember everything. I don¡¯t want to touch you just to make you hate me even moreter,¡± he whispered softly.

    via looked at her husband. A warm feeling surged in her chest, reaching the depths of her soul.

    dwin, her husband. A man whom she had loved even in her current state of not remembering anything. via wondered, when she remembers everythingter, whether this feeling has reached its limit or if it¡¯s just the beginning of her love.

    The man embraced her again, enveloping her with his natural warmth. As if not wanting to let go, via snuggled closer, burying her face in his strong chest and inhaling his scent before falling into a peaceful slumber.

 Chap 60

    Apartment, ire¡¯s house, and Adaline¡¯s house have be regr ces visited by via. If dwin is not at the apartment, then Abigail will take her to ire¡¯s ce. But if both Abigail and dwin cannot apany via, then ire will pick her up at the apartment and take her to Adaline¡¯s ce.

    Why is that? This is done so that via is not alone in the apartment.

    via is not a coward who can¡¯t stay alone, but they always apany via because they guard against the possibility of dwin¡¯s mother and her allies terrorizing via and making her ill again. And the allies in question are Phoebe and Penelope Madsen.

    via and dwin have finally received their valid marriage certificate. Without having to wait long and with the help of Antony and ire, they easily obtained the documents. As for the wedding reception, via still refuses it. And dwin chooses toply with his wife¡¯s wishes.

    Until now, Julie Hampton is still trying to contact dwin and ask him to talk face to face. Not only once has the woman who gave birth to hime to the hospital and asked dwin to cancel his marriage with via, but dwin has never listened to her.

    dwin knows his mother will be determined to break into his apartment or ire¡¯s residence if she knows dwin isn¡¯t there. Julie will intentionally bombard via with her desire to separate via and dwin. All this is done by his mother not because she hates via. Julie Hampton clearly loves via, but ording to her calctions, via will not be able to make dwin happy because via will not be able to give dwin offspring. And offspring are important to Julie Hampton because it means there will be someone to continue their family name.

    ¡°The love you currently have may blind you because of its intensity. But over time, when you feel your home is empty due to the absence of a child, your love will slowly erode. And in the end, you won¡¯t just hurt yourself, but you will hurt me, via, and also her family,¡± that¡¯s what Julie Hampton has believed up to this point.

    As for the presence of a child, dwin has his own version. He feels confident that, although it may take time, via will be able to conceive and give birth to a son or daughter for him. And dwin still has patience for that. Unlike his mother, who is impatient.

    And even if in the end via cannot give him a child, for dwin, that won¡¯t be a big problem. Adopting a child could be one solution for them.

    Because of his concern that his mother might harm via mentally, dwin-after discussing with Antony-agreed that via should not be left alone and should continue to be under surveince.

    ***

    It¡¯s been a month since via came home from the hospital. All medication via was taking has stopped because it wasn¡¯t needed anymore, and even Eijaz has dered that via ispletely healthy, although she still needs to have regr check-ups asionally.

    dwin was on his way home to the apartment after work when, to his surprise, his mother was standing in front of his unit, clearly annoyed from waiting for him.

    ¡°I hope you¡¯re not going to just kick me out like that, dwin. I¡¯ve been waiting for you long enough,¡± said the sixty-eight-year-old woman.

    dwin didn¡¯t say anything. He just entered the password to his apartment and let his mother in first. He promised to change the password after his mother left because he knew she had been spying on him earlier.

    via greeted Julie warmly and even offered her a drink, but Julie coldly refused. via didn¡¯t feel disappointed by her mother-inw¡¯s behavior because dwin and ire had already informed via beforehand that Julie Hampton would react like this towards her. ording to ire, via just needed to be patient because Julie Hampton¡¯s feelings would soften over time.

    via sat right next to dwin and faced his mother directly. ¡°What¡¯s going on that made you bother toe here? I could have visited your residence if there was something,¡± dwin initiated the conversation.

    ¡°Why? Can¡¯t I visit my own child¡¯s residence? Would you reallye if I asked you toe to my house?¡± Julie Hampton asked skeptically, her gaze sharp as she directed it at dwin.

    ¡°As long as you ask-and don¡¯t invite unexpected guests-I wille,¡± dwin replied bluntly.

    Julie¡¯s gaze then shifted to via. ¡°So, are you pregnant?¡± she asked without beating around the bush.

    ¡°Mom, our marriage has only been going on for one month. What do you expect? via can¡¯t get pregnant instantly,¡± dwin defended his wife.

    ¡°What¡¯s impossible about that? There are plenty of people out there who get married for one month and get pregnant right away. There are even many women who get pregnant after the first try,¡± Julie taunted again. dwin just sighed deeply out of annoyance at his mother¡¯s attitude.

    ¡°If you came here just to discuss that, you might as well ask over the phone. At least that wouldn¡¯t waste your time and energy on the journey here.¡±

    ¡°Why? Don¡¯t you like my questions?¡± Julie Hampton asked with a sharp gaze. dwin rubbed his tired face.

    ¡°I haven¡¯t even touched via yet, Mom. Are you satisfied now?¡± dwin grumbled in frustration. Julie¡¯s eyes widened instantly. ¡°I¡¯m waiting for the right time to do it with my wife. I married her the wrong way, so at least I can do something else the right way. I want to wait until via¡¯s memory returns, and only then will we discuss the matter of the child you¡¯re fussing about.¡±

    ¡°Waiting for her memory to return?¡± Julie asked back with a raised voice. ¡°Until when? What if her memory neveres back? Will you keep holding out, keeping her a virgin? Being a husband with no experience? Is that it?¡±

    ¡°Mom¡­¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t want to hear it. One year, dwin! I¡¯ll give you one year. If via still isn¡¯t pregnant within a year, then your choices are divorce or marrying Phoebe again.¡± Julie finished her sentence before rising to her feet and leaving dwin and via, who had been silent with tension in their bodies.

    The door was opened and closed loudly, startling via out of her reverie. She looked at dwin, who was also looking at her with a sad smile.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡±

    ¡°Just ignore her words. I¡¯ll never divorce you, no matter what. Especially not to marry Phoebe. Even if we part ways, it¡¯s because God takes one of our lives.¡± He said, embracing and kissing via¡¯s forehead. ¡°But, dear. There¡¯s one thing Mom said that I agree with.¡±

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°I think, I don¡¯t want to wait anymore. I¡¯m afraid Mom might be right. What if your memory never returns? Do I have to stay inexperienced forever?¡± His eyes gazed at via with a tempting nce, causing via to blush instantly. ¡°I think we really should go on a honeymoon.¡± He said. ¡°Do you want to?¡±

    ¡°B-but?¡±

    dwin showed his sad expression. ¡°Alright, I won¡¯t force it,¡± he suddenly surrendered. via looked at her husband, knowing he was currently sulking.

    Just like dwin, via was initially optimistic that her memory would return someday. But after hearing her mother-inw¡¯s words a while ago, via couldn¡¯t help but feel shaken. Life is full of uncertainties. And both Julie and dwin were right. What if her memory never returns? But the new demand she received wasn¡¯t easy for her to ept.

    One year? It did seem long if measured in days, hours, minutes, and seconds. But a year would pass by so quickly without them realizing it. Proof is that one month has already passed without them feeling it. They never counted, but then the month changed just like that.

    And if she couldn¡¯t give dwin offspring within a year, then reluctantly via had to ept the options offered by her mother-inw. Divorce or let dwin marry again weren¡¯t choices via wanted. Both options were painful for via. Like a double-edged sword, there was no gain.

    Divorce meant she would spend the rest of her time alone. Although it¡¯s not impossible that someday there would be another match for her. But just imagining another man without a face already made via shudder.

    While letting dwin marry again? That wasn¡¯t a choice she wanted to take either. She would have to share her husband. Body, heart, and attention. What if dwin ended up loving someone else more? She wouldn¡¯t be able to bear it.

    The love she had for dwin right now didn¡¯t allow her to share her attention with another woman. And the fear that dwin¡¯s heart might shift to his new wife felt painful.

    via looked at dwin, and her husband remained silent. via chose to get up and go to her room. Then shortly after, she returned and stood before dwin. dwin¡¯s eyes widened at the sight before him.

    Sure, here¡¯s the trantion into American English with correct grammar:

    Is this via, his wife? She appears more like a goddess in dwin¡¯s eyes. Her long, thick ck hair cascades down to her waist. Her slender, petite figure stands tall. Her fair skin is exposed freely.

    His wife. via, who is usually shy, is now wearing sexy red lingerie with spaghetti straps supporting her shoulders. Her hip bones, her enticing curves, tantalize dwin¡¯s eyes. Her calves and thighs look tempting to touch. via moves closer, suddenly sitting astride hisp. Her small hands embrace dwin¡¯s shoulders, moving up to stroke his neck and then cupping his face. Her face, now flushed red, draws near.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin knows it takes great courage for his wife to do something as sensual as this. He knows his wife is trying to calm him down because he deliberately acted sulky. But dwin can¡¯t believe that his usually shy wife would be so bold.

    ¡°I don¡¯t need to go on a honeymoon, Uncle. Just the two of us without any interruptions,¡± she whispers in dwin¡¯s ear. And yes, dwin won¡¯t waste this opportunity. Immediately, he kisses via and carries her body to their room, locking them inside.

    It starts with gentle kisses. They explore each other passionately. Their hands touch each other, while their tongues entwine. via¡¯s uncontroble moans increase dwin¡¯s desire. However, amidst it all, dwin must restrain himself because this is via¡¯s first time, as well as his own. And dwin knows, the first time for a woman is much more painful than it is for a man. So patiently, he holds back, even though he¡¯s reached the point of agony in restraining himself from releasing all his desires.

 Chap 61

    via woke up feeling sore all over, especially in her intimate area. Instead of stretching her muscles, she chose to stay lying down, not wanting to let go of the warm feeling pressing against her back and dwin¡¯s strong hand embracing her stomach, to which she responded by sping dwin¡¯s hand against her back. dwin¡¯s warm and steady breaths blew against her neck.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    Now, via was officially a wife. Fully belonging to dwin. Happiness bubbled within her heart for no apparent reason.

    via nced at the digital clock on the nightstand. Morning was approaching, and she was about to get out of bed, but dwin held her back. ¡°Where are you going?¡± he asked with a hoarse voice, typical of him waking up.

    ¡°To shower, it¡¯s already morning,¡± she replied softly. dwin got up, ced his elbow under his head, and supported it with his palm.

    ¡°Wanna shower together?¡± he teased. via shook her head.

    dwin turned via¡¯s body around so that they were facing each other, both naked. He moved via¡¯s hair aside, clearing his view of her back. His eyes traced via¡¯s slender neck. He caressed it with his fingers, making via shiver. Not out of fear, but because of the strange sensation that reached her sensitive area. Just that tiny touch made her feel wet.

    ¡°Still sore?¡± he asked, and via just bit her lower lip. It did feel a bit sore and achy, but for some reason, via wanted it again. dwin kissed her forehead. ¡°How about we hold off on the shower for a little longer and start another round?¡± he suggested, and via only responded with a faint nod.

    After they had finished their lovemaking, for who knows how many times, via truly felt too tired to get out of bed. Her petite body still curled up under the nket while dwin sat up, looking refreshed in his white corless shirt and ck satin pajama pants.

    ¡°Want something to eat? Shall I order?¡± he asked before rubbing and kissing via¡¯s forehead.

    ¡°I want to eat beef,¡± she said innocently. dwin nodded.

    ¡°Do you want to shower? Soaking in warm water sounds nice. I¡¯ll prepare some warm water, okay?¡± he suggested, and via nodded sleepily. dwin kissed via¡¯s forehead again before heading to the bathroom.

    Half an hourter, via felt refreshed, wearing afortable T-shirt and shorts. Her still wet hair was wrapped in a towel. Her fresh face looked rosy and invigorated.

    The scent of coffee and grilled meat wafted through the air as she stepped out of the room. dwin was grilling slices of beef on the skillet, while hot coffee was steaming from the mug.

    ¡°Instead of ordering food, why did you cook yourself? If I had known, I would have cooked,¡± herment made dwin turn.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay. Besides, I enjoy making food for my beloved wife,¡± he replied flirtatiously, making via blush.

    ¡°But where did you get that?¡± she pointed to the meat on the skillet.

    ¡°I called Abigail earlier and asked where she was. She said she was on her way home from a photoshoot. I asked her to stop by your caf¨¦ and bring this meat,¡± dwin flipped the meat in the skillet.

    ¡°Abigail¡¯s already home?¡± via looked around, ncing towards Abigail¡¯s closed bedroom door.

    ¡°Yeah, looks like she¡¯s in the shower. You just sit down, let me finish cooking and serve you,¡± he said. via simply nodded.

    Soon, Abigail emerged wearing a casual outfit simr to via¡¯s. If via wore a short-sleeved shirt, then Abigail wore an oversized long-sleeved shirt with simrly oversized sweatpants.

    ¡°Is it just me, or is there something different about you guys?¡± she asked suspiciously, squinting her eyes as she nced at via. via, meanwhile, looked back at her in confusion. ¡°One, two, three¡­¡± Abigail pointed to via¡¯s neck, which was indeed exposed with her index finger. ¡°Uncle turns out to be quite strict,¡± she said with a mischievous smile spreading across her face. via reflexively touched her neck. She hadn¡¯t looked in the mirror earlier, so she didn¡¯t know what Abigail meant, and after understanding, via stifled a shriek and her face instantly flushed with embarrassment.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± she whispered as she looked at dwin, who came in carrying a te of hot meat emitting a tantalizing aroma.

    dwin ruffled via¡¯s head, still wrapped in a towel. ¡°Don¡¯t feel embarrassed, she¡¯ll experience what we did soon enough,¡± he said casually before heading back to the pantry.

    ¡°Ahem¡­ Looks like someone has broken the seal,¡± Abigail teased again. via¡¯s face kept getting redder.

    ¡°That¡¯s enough, don¡¯t tease her. My beloved wife wants to eat,¡± dwin said as he offered white rice and reheated vegetables.

    ¡°Now that the seal is broken, you should change your terms of endearment. How long are you going to call your husband ¡®Uncle¡¯? People out there will still assume you two are uncle and niece,¡± Abigail admonished, to which dwin nodded, while he asked his wife to feed him.

    ¡°So, what nickname should we use? Mom-Dad? No, we¡¯re not that old yet. How about ¡®my love¡¯?¡± dwin asked as he rubbed via¡¯s head, now free from her towel. via looked at dwin and Abigail alternately. Then she nodded. ¡°In that case, try calling me by that nickname,¡± she requested softly.

    via swallowed her food. ¡°My love?¡± she asked, a smile ying on her lips.

    ¡°Oh my goodness, my wife, you¡¯re so adorable,¡± dwin cupped via¡¯s face and kissed her lips affectionately.

    ¡°Oh God, Uncle. Are you two intentionally making me jealous?¡± Abigail taunted, finally getting up and heading to the pantry.

    ¡°Please understand, we¡¯re still newlyweds in the midst of our honeymoon phase. If you¡¯re jealous and can¡¯t handle our affection, feel free to move back to your father¡¯s house. He¡¯ll appreciate it,¡± dwin retorted.

    Abigail instantly scowled with sharp, narrowed eyes. ¡°So now that you¡¯ve got what you wanted, you¡¯re just going to discard me like that? You¡¯re really heartless,¡± Abigailmented as she returned with a cup of coffee mixed with creamer and toast in her hand.

    ¡°Well then, whatever we do, you can¡¯t protest. Besides, it¡¯s not my intention to be affectionate in front of you, it¡¯s Via who doesn¡¯t want me to take her on a honeymoon,¡± dwin huffed, earning a pinch from via. ¡°Besides, there¡¯s no difference; whether on a honeymoon or staying here, I still enjoy our activities,¡± dwin continued with his wide grin, making via blush again as she pinched him back, while dwinughed and ruffled via¡¯s head before kissing her forehead.

    ¡°Come on, finish your food quickly, then we¡¯ll dry your hair,¡± dwin ordered, then got up and headed back to the pantry while via continued eating, getting yful nces from Abigail. Her face remained downcast with a lingering blush that refused to fade.

 Chap 62

    The psed time feels short because we enjoy it too much. It¡¯s so leisurely that twenty-four hours in a day don¡¯t seem enough.

    via and dwin¡¯s routine is always the same. Working,ing home, and enjoying the rest of the day together. Two months passed by just like that. via has begun to manage the caf¨¦ again and started working on reports with the help of her stepmother, ire. Meanwhile, her studies had to be temporarily postponed. It¡¯s a pity, but what can be done? Her current condition doesn¡¯t allow it. Besides, dwin also asked her not to worry too much. Excessive stress is not good for her head.

    Apart from the caf¨¦, via once again only spends time with her cousins. Since thest meeting with her mother-inw, via hasn¡¯t seen her again. And dwin hasn¡¯t visited her either.

    Cruel? Some people might judge dwin¡¯s action of not meeting his mother as cruel. But dwin does all of this to avoid confrontation with his mother. And also for via¡¯s mental health. So far, Abigail has been the mediator, and dwin thinks that¡¯s enough.

    They always spend the weekend together. As much as possible, Abigail never disturbs them in the apartment. The girl chooses to spend her time at ire¡¯s ce or at via¡¯s house-something dwin still doesn¡¯t know about.

    Abigail refuses to go home to her parents¡¯ house. Because besides not wanting to face Julie who always sneers at Abigail for siding more with via and dwin, she¡¯s also tired of being asked ¡®when are you bringing a potential husband¡¯ and simr questions.

    Even via heard rumors from ire that Abigail¡¯s mother intended to set Abigail up with the son of her old friend. And that conversation clearly made Abigail furious.

    via herself didn¡¯t dare to question it orment on it. Her memory gave her no clue about Abigail¡¯s personal life or romantic life.

    Sometimes, though, she wondered in her heart if her friend had someone she loved. I mean, did her friend have her own choice and couldn¡¯t introduce him to her family? Because via often saw Abigail lost in thought with the TV on. But when via asked what was wrong, she only replied, ¡®we¡¯ll talk about it when your memory returns.¡¯ It¡¯s always like that.

    Months passed by. So far, there were no signs of pregnancy in via¡¯s body. Was she suffering? Of course. As a woman, via also wanted to get pregnant and have children so that she could feel like aplete woman. But dwin always said ¡®we¡¯ve tried, the rest is up to a higher power¡¯ every time via brought it up.

    She also often received positive affirmations from dwin, ire, and also Adaline. But still, via felt increasingly restless day by day.

    ¡°My mother got pregnant with Abigail¡¯s father after a year of marriage. And my second brother could have a child after five years of marriage. So don¡¯t think ill of God. If He hasn¡¯t given you a child yet, it doesn¡¯t mean you won¡¯t be given one. We just have to be patient and keep trying.¡± ire said soothingly. At that moment, via responded to herment with a nod, pondering it in her heart.

    via also didn¡¯t want to taint her mind with negative thoughts. Every person has their own time, including herself. Fate hasn¡¯t given her the chance to have a child yet. She should enjoy it to get to know each other better. Because no matter what, for her, dwin and his family are still strangers.

    But still, when remembering the time given by her mother-inw, via¡¯s desire to conceive peaked again. And finally, she spent the night in silence, unable to close her eyes in dwin¡¯s embrace.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    Divorce or allowing dwin to marry Phoebe. These two options always made via imagine the worst possibilities in the future. She¡¯sfortable with dwin. Her love for him grows stronger over time. She also knows that Phoebe isn¡¯t a woman who captures her husband¡¯s attention. Even hearing her name makes her husband appear reluctant. Especially if they end up living together.

    Is it possible for via to offer another option to her husband? Maybe she could find another woman for dwin who could give him a child without him having to love her. But who? Where could she find a woman willing to rent out her womb? Even if there is one, what if dwin and the woman end up like Uncle Altezza and Aunty Adaline?

    God is the Owner of Hearts. What seems impossible can be possible in the blink of an eye. In one snap of a finger. So what if that happens to dwin and another woman? Would she ept it?

    Actually, just imagining dwin touching another woman is something she can¡¯t bear. Her chest feels like it¡¯s being squeezed by invisible hands. Even her whole body aches with fear.

    Every night, via cries without dwin knowing. Or at least that¡¯s what she thinks because in reality, dwin knows his wife¡¯s sadness, and which husband could bear to see his beloved wife in such distress.

    dwin doesn¡¯t fail to understand or want tofort via, but every word of constion thates out of his mouth doesn¡¯t soothe her; instead, it only makes via feel sadder. So, thest resort dwin has is to stay silent and let his wife cry, and afterward, he will spend the rest of the night holding her.

    Nine months passed. via now fully understands her job at the caf¨¦. There¡¯s no more ire to help her. She even started using her MacBook again, beginning to design some tasks given by her father and uncle. Her time is no longer wasted.

    dwin would go to the caf¨¦ when lunchtime arrives. Either he would invite via to have lunch elsewhere or bring food from outside and eat it at the caf¨¦. Or sometimes, dwin would ask via to cook something. But that afternoon, dwin said he couldn¡¯te to the caf¨¦ because of an unexpected matter at the hospital, and via just nodded.

 Chap 63

    Ten minutes before twelve o¡¯clock, via heard the door to her office being knocked, and the figure that dwin had been trying to keep away from her appeared before via with her broad grin.

    ¡°dwin can¡¯te this afternoon, can he?¡± the woman asked, to which via didn¡¯t respond at all because she knew the woman¡¯s question was rhetorical. ¡°Not offering me a seat or perhaps a drink?¡± she asked again. Her friendly demeanor seemed too forced.

    ¡°Please, have a seat, Doctor Madsen,¡± via invited, and Phoebe sat back on the sofa, leaning casually as if the room were hers.

    ¡°Just call me Phoebe. Your room is quitefortable, I must say,¡± she looked around via¡¯s office, assessing it. ¡°Rich people¡¯s offices are ssy.¡± Whether it was praise or sarcasm, via couldn¡¯t distinguish. She pressed a button on her desk phone and asked someone to bring drinks to her office.

    ¡°What brings you here?¡± she asked after hanging up the phone. She was reluctant to engage in small talk. Her heart firmly told her that the woman in front of her should be avoided.

    ¡°Why? Am I not wee here?¡± Her beautifully arched eyebrow raised. Her eyes red with dislike.

    ¡°To be honest, I don¡¯t know you very well. So, I don¡¯t think we need to beat around the bush,¡± via replied.

    ¡°So, this is your true character. Pretending to be weak in front of others but being cynical when no one¡¯s around,¡± she sneered.

    via frowned. ¡°What do you mean by that?¡± A knock interrupted them. One of the servers entered and brought two sses of cold drinks and snacks. cing one on via¡¯s table and the other on the table in front of Phoebe. ¡°Thank you,¡± via said, the teenager nodded and turned to leave the room.

    ¡°See, you can be friendly to others but you can¡¯t act the same towards me!¡± Phoebe jabbed again. ¡°Forget what I said earlier. I came here because I wanted to know how you¡¯re doing,¡± she said, grabbing the cold drink and sipping it.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, thank you for your concern,¡± via replied tly.

    Phoebe waved her hand. ¡°No no no. I wasn¡¯t asking about your physical condition because I know you¡¯re healthy. If you were still sick, you wouldn¡¯t be here,¡± she said with a sarcastic grin. ¡°I mean, how¡¯s your pregnancy? It¡¯s been nine months since you left the hospital, right? Shouldn¡¯t we have heard about your pregnancy?¡± She jabbed again.

    via fell silent. ¡°It¡¯s only been nine months, there are still a few months left,¡± she replied simply.

    ¡°Time? Your marriage has been going on for ten months. And wasn¡¯t dwin¡¯s mother only giving you a year? That means you only have two months left, and you think that¡¯s enough?¡± via didn¡¯tment. ¡°You should havee to me since Julie came to you. After all, I¡¯m a specialist in obstetrics. I might have been able to give you a prescription to help you get pregnant quickly. But, of course, if it¡¯s toote now.¡±

    ¡°You and dwin only have two months left to go through a pregnancy program, and clearly that¡¯s highly unlikely. Two months, via,¡± the woman repeated the same word again with emphasis. ¡°You only have to choose between divorcing dwin or allowing him to marry me. Yes, although I want to be dwin¡¯s only wife, if you¡¯re not willing to divorce him, that¡¯s fine. I¡¯ll be his second wife and also a good friend to you. Isn¡¯t that a win-win solution?

    ¡°You can have dwin and a child in my womb. And I can have dwin without having to take care of a baby and getting all the facilities I need,¡± she continued.

    ¡°So, all of this is about money?¡± via frowned.

    Phoebe snorted. ¡°Don¡¯t say it¡¯s all about money, dear. I¡¯m just giving you what you want, and in return, I get what I want. dwin, and the honor of being part of the Hampton family. That¡¯s it. And didn¡¯t I tell you before that Julie Hampton would prefer dwin to marry me rather than a wed woman like you?¡± Her eyes looked at via with disgust.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    via felt something stabbing her chest. Why did that statement sound familiar in her head?

    ¡°Well, you wouldn¡¯t remember my words because you¡¯ve lost your memory,¡± the woman taunted again.

    Faint images of a garden and people in patient and nurse uniforms filled via¡¯s head. The throbbing in her head came along with some memories haunting her.

    ¡°Moreover, dwin¡¯s mother has agreed for dwin to marry me. Your grandmother clearly likes me, and I¡¯m more potential to be his daughter-inw than you. Of course, I¡¯m healthy and normal. Moreover, I¡¯m an outsider. If dwin marries me, there will be no unpleasant rumors about our marriage. Even though my status is a divorced mother of one. But it¡¯s better than marrying your own niece. Isn¡¯t it?¡±

    That was Phoebe¡¯s voice. Yes. The exact same voice as the woman in front of her now. Her entire head was pulsating. It felt like being roughly yanked and tossed around.

    ¡°I¡¯m asking you to stay away from dwin. It¡¯s clear you¡¯re not worthy of marrying him. Do you intend to burden him for a lifetime?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re just a wretched person.¡±

    Sentence by sentence, it entered her brain. Piercing her head like repeated stabs of a knife. via groaned, holding her head tightly with both hands, as if her brain would spill out any moment. Her elbows rested on the table.

    ¡°Not infertile. But in the patient¡¯s condition, future pregnancies might be a bit difficult. But there¡¯s a fifty percent chance of sess. Don¡¯t lose heart. We¡¯re just doctors, not God. God is the One who gives everything. Always believe that miracles exist.¡± The woman¡¯s voice echoed in her head, a voice via didn¡¯t recognize but was certainly friendlier than Phoebe¡¯s voice. ¡°Oh God, what memories are these? Is this really my memory?¡± via asked herself inwardly.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay to cry at the airport, rather than feeling suffocated from missing himter.¡± That was Altezza¡¯s voice and Adaline¡¯s face. ¡°If you really like someone, love them. Pursue them. Whether you¡¯re rejected or not, that¡¯s a matter forter. At least your feelings are certain. So you can move on with your life. Stick with your current feelings, or find someone new. It¡¯s better to be heartbroken, cry, but eventually forget. Rather than just guessing. Besides, what you guess might not even be true.¡±

 Chap 64

    via shook her head, hoping the pain would fade away. The muscles behind her eyes seemed to tense up. The throbbing felt painful, blurring her vision. She tried to open the drawer, searching for the pain relief medication prescribed by Eijaz. Instead, her rolling chair identally pushed back, and her foot unintentionally stepped on the hem of her skirt, causing her to fall onto the floor on both knees.

    ¡°It feels like marrying your own niece. I prefer women who aren¡¯t too much younger.¡± That was dwin¡¯s voice.

    Every memory that entered her head only made via¡¯s head hurt more. Her vision was blurred. She tried to shake her head again, trying to push away all those memories so they wouldn¡¯te back. But it was futile. She saw Phoebe sitting quietly on the sofa. There was no intention from her to move and help.

    ¡°Two months, via. That¡¯s all that¡¯s left. Let him go, let him be with me. A woman who¡¯s clearly more suitable for him than a wed woman like you.¡±

    via couldn¡¯t see clearly what the woman was doing. The door mming shut with a loud noise only intensified her headache.

    She retreated to the shadows that she knew were part of her past. ire¡¯s wedding, Adaline singing with her melodious voice. The figure of dwin thirteen years ago greeting her with his characteristic smile. His mischievousughter. Ignazio, Francisca, Falisha, Geremia, Abigail. They all shed before her like scenes from an old movie.

    via didn¡¯t hear her own agonizing cries. She didn¡¯t even realize Abigail¡¯s presence, who arrived breathless and knelt in front of her.

    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, via! Snap out of it!¡± Abigailmanded, trying to pry via¡¯s hands off. ¡°via!¡± she shouted again. via stood frozen for a moment, looking at Abigail with empty eyes before darkness enveloped her.

    Abigail was shocked. Phoebe¡¯s presence surprised her, but seeing via¡¯s condition was even more startling. Abigail quickly grabbed the desk phone and called one of the male employees before shifting her gaze to via¡¯s illuminated phone. Soon, a uniformed employee arrived.

    ¡°Carry her,¡± she ordered. Then she walked behind via, who was being carried on the employee¡¯s back.

    Abigail opened the front door of the car, instructing her employee to seat via carefully. She fastened the seatbelt and adjusted the backrest until via could leanfortably. Then she turned to the driver¡¯s seat and pulled her car out of the parking area.

    ¡°Hello, Uncle. Where are you?¡± She asked on her phone, which was on speaker mode.

    ¡°I¡¯m in a meeting, what¡¯s up?¡±

    ¡°via fainted. I¡¯m on my way to the hospital,¡± Abigail announced generally.

    ¡°Fainted? Why?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. We¡¯re almost there, gotta go.¡±

    Abigail parked her car in front of the ER, asking anyone there to help via out of the car. ¡°Please, she suddenly fainted,¡± she said to a nurse in uniform.

    ¡°Did she suffer a blow or something?¡± the nurse asked. Abigail just shook her head in frustration because she really didn¡¯t know. When she arrived, she saw via sitting on the floor and hitting her head. The nurse asked her to step back when the attending doctor came to examine her friend¡¯s condition.

    ¡°It seems the patient experienced shock. We can examine further when the patient wakes up. So far, her vital signs have returned to normal,¡± the doctor said. Abigail nodded. She waited for via to wake up by her bedside. Not long after, dwin arrived, panting.

    ¡°What¡¯s going on?¡± He asked panicky, alternating between looking at Abigail and via. He seemed to be wearing a neatly tailored suit. Apparently, he had just attended an important meeting.

    ¡°I really don¡¯t know, Uncle. I stopped by the cafe, right when that woman came down from the second floor. When I entered the room, via was already lying on the floor, and shortly after that, she fainted.¡±

    dwin examined via carefully. His wife¡¯s face looked pale but calm, as if she were sleeping. via opened her eyes shortly after. She saw dwin and Abigail alternating. ¡°What happened?¡± She asked softly.

    ¡°Via?¡±

    ¡°Sweetheart?¡±

    Both of them called out via¡¯s name simultaneously with loud voices, causing via to squint due to the throbbing pain in her head.

    ¡°Where am I?¡± That was the first question that popped into her head.

    ¡°Are you okay? What are you feeling right now?¡± dwin leaned down towards her, observing her face.

    ¡°Uncle?¡±

    There it was again. dwin felt something strange. Especially now, the look in her eyes seemed to revert back to ten months ago. Mncholic, no longer like it was just a few moments ago.

    Even thest time they parted ways when dwin escorted her to the cafe, the sparkle in her eyes seemed cheerful. And that cheerfulness now seemed to dim. There was only one possibility that dwin knew. His via was back. His wife¡¯s memory had returned.

    Dear Diary

    Dear Diary,

    There are too many words I can¡¯t express.

    About happiness, and fear I feel at the same time.

    A fleeting memory of the past brings my soul back to where it belongs.

    Brings my sanity back to its ce.

    The fleeting happiness I felt yesterday is now nowhere to be found.

    Love?

    Even my subconscious knows that the love I have for him is so immense that this body refuses to reject his presence.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    This heart refuses to reject his affection.

    But once again, I realize. That the happiness I feel is only fleeting.

    The longsting happiness I found in the end is now traded for choices I cannot make either of them.

    All the choices aimed at me in the end will only hurt me.

    Then what should I do?

    I¡¯m frustrated.

    Torn apart?

    That word doesn¡¯t even begin to describe what I feel.

    Far¡­ far more painful than just a word¡­

    Can¡¯t they let me live life ording to my wishes?

    Can¡¯t they allow me to be happy in my own way?

    Can¡¯t I pursue my dreams without beingbeled selfish?

    I love him.

    By God, I love him so much.

    If I could, I would run away with him.

    To find another side of the world where they don¡¯t exist.

    Where it¡¯s just him and me.

    But what can I do?

    Another side of my heart cannot lie. Because to me, they are equally precious.

    I believe in Your destiny, Lord.

    I am sure there will be a rainbow after the storm.

    There will be sunshine after the night.

    There will be happiness after all the sadness.

    But when?

    Don¡¯t let me be someone who constantly doubts You, Lord.

    Don¡¯t let me close my eyes to Your goodness just because I¡¯m tired of waiting patiently.

    I beg You, Lord. Show this servant the way.

 Chap 65

    via¡¯s POV

    Memories stirred within me. The woman¡¯s words unintentionally brought back all my memories. And now, the man looked at me with his sad gaze.

    ¡°Uncle?¡± The word slipped out of my tongue. I should¡¯ve bitten my tongue. The face of the man I loved now paled in surprise. I shouldn¡¯t have addressed him like that. Didn¡¯t we agree that I would call him ¡®Dear¡¯?

    Yes, my memory returned. And the memories during my memory loss were still intact, not a single one lost.

    ¡°Via¡­¡± I turned. Abigail was still faithfully waiting for me, always like that. Oh God, my heart felt grateful yet sinful towards her. Why was she always good to me even though I always acted wickedly towards the people she loved? Towards dwin and the man¡¯s mother.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± I greeted. The girl held my hand, squeezing it tightly. Somehow, I felt desperation in that squeeze. Or was it just my thoughts?

    ¡°What¡¯s happening? Do you remember something?¡± She asked, curious. I tried to recall what was racing through my mind.

    Phoebe. That name immediately pierced through the fog in my mind.

    ¡°I saw Phoebeing down from the second floor. Did shee to see you? What did she say?¡± Abigail¡¯s voice wasden with concern.

    ¡°Phoebe?¡± This time, I heard my husband¡¯s voice. ¡°So, what do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Yes, the woman doctor. She¡¯s Phoebe. I saw her leaving as I just parked, and immediately I ran to the third floor to find via. It seems she knew via was alone in the caf¨¦. Otherwise, she wouldn¡¯t dare toe.¡± Abigail voiced her suspicion. Then her gaze shifted back to me. ¡°What did she say to you? Did she threaten you? Did she intimidate you?¡± Again, her questions were filled with worry.

    I could only muster a faint smile. ¡°Nothing serious. She came to reveal some facts.¡± I answered honestly. ¡°Uncle, how are you?¡± I asked my husband even though we had just met this morning. I remembered everything that had happened in the past ten months. But somehow, I felt longing for him now even though he was in front of me.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong, Darling? We just met this morning.¡± He asked anxiously.

    I just smiled. Alright, I decided I could do whatever I wanted. Right? After all, he¡¯s my husband now. Anything I want to do to him now is permissible, not a sin. I reached for his hand, squeezing it gently and smiled. I tried to rise from my bed, and faithfully he helped me.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine, my dear,¡± my voice made dwin look surprised. His eyebrows twitched slightly before he smiled and embraced me. ¡°Can we go home? Being in the hospital makes me ufortable,¡± I pleaded. I nced at Abigail, and the girl nodded in agreement.

    ¡°Not yet, wait for the IV fluid to finish,¡± Abigail replied.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t we take the IV with us and Uncle can remove it at home. Is that okay?¡± I suggested. I looked at dwin, and he nodded. Then he went to the administrative area, leaving me alone with Abigail.

    ¡°Is your memory fully back?¡± She inquired. I simply nodded in response. ¡°All of it?¡± I nodded again. ¡°Even thest ten months?¡± I smiled tightly and nodded again. ¡°She really said something to you, didn¡¯t she?¡± For the umpteenth time, I nodded. ¡°Damn! What did she say to you?¡± This time Abigail¡¯s voice rose. I reached for her hand gently.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Later. I¡¯ll tell you everythingter.¡± I answered. I just wanted to talk when it¡¯s just the two of us. I didn¡¯t want any interruptions from anyone, and Abigail agreed with a nod.

    ¡°Did you leave an important meeting?¡± I asked when dwin returned from the administrative room. I just realized my husband was still wearing his dark brown suit with a cream-colored shirt. He didn¡¯t look as neat as he did this morning because his tie was loose, and so were the top two buttons of his shirt.

    ¡°Not a too important meeting,¡± he replied tly. ¡°Shall we go home now?¡± He asked again, and I nodded. Abigail followed us from behind. She walked towards her car while I got into my husband¡¯s car. ¡°Darling¡­¡± I turned, my husband seemed to be looking straight ahead. ¡°Everything¡¯s alright, isn¡¯t it?¡± He asked, ncing briefly in my direction. I nodded, trying to smile in front of him. There was a lot I wanted to say, but not now. Later, I promised myself silently.

    I reached for my husband¡¯s hand, which was holding the gearshift. I had promised to do everything I wanted, right? Even though I only had two months left. Consider this like thest plea of someone at the brink of death.

    ¡°I¡¯m fine. You don¡¯t need to worry,¡± I reassured him. My husband turned his hand so that our palms faced each other. Then he intertwined our fingers and gently kissed the back of my hand.

    ¡°Don¡¯t hide anything from me. Please,¡± he pleaded. I simply nodded. My dear dwin. The love I¡¯ve been holding onto all this time.

    Author¡¯s POV

    They had reached the apartment basement. Abigail had leaned back in her car when they arrived, engrossed in her phone. The girl liked to speed if she didn¡¯t have passengers.

    dwin helped via out of the car. There was only a little left of her IV. In less than half an hour, the fluid would surely be depleted. They walked side by side towards the elevator. Abigail pressed the button for their floor while dwin faithfully held via¡¯s waist with one hand and carried the IV, which he had turned off, with the other.

    They entered the apartment. Abigail went into her room and came back out with a hanger stand, using it to hang the IV. Meanwhile, dwin headed to the pantry and made hot chocte for via. The sweet aroma wafted through the air, tempting via.

    ¡°So?¡± Abigail felt like her mouth would widen if she restrained herself any longer. ¡°Did you regain your memory?¡± She reiterated. via nodded. ¡°All of it? Before and after your memory loss?¡± via nodded again. ¡°And this has something to do with that damn female doctor?¡± via nodded once more. ¡°Tell me what she said,¡± she demanded, her tone forceful.

    via nced between Abigail and dwin alternately. ¡°She said exactly what she said before I lost my memory,¡± she answered honestly.

    via didn¡¯t want to hide anymore. Let dwin know everything; after all, he wasn¡¯t spreading rumors because it was the truth. dwin was now her husband, the man who had promised her safety. And via would indeed entrust herself under his protection.

    ¡°A while before I lost my memory, we met at the hospital. Or more precisely, she came to see me. She said she knew about the ident I had six years ago and its effects. ording to her, I¡¯m just a disabled woman who can¡¯t bear children.¡±

    Abigail covered her mouth, restraining her shock. While dwin seemed to clench his jaw, the veins in his neck bulging as he held back his anger.

    ¡°She said she had the power for such information. Well, maybe you understand better about patient data authorization and such.¡± via looked at her husband and murmured her thanks as she epted the chocte offered by dwin. ¡°She knew that the ident had a negative impact on my uterus. And earlier, she repeated the same thing. And she also warned me about the remaining two months I have.¡± via nced at dwin again while Abigail looked at the couple alternately, puzzled.

    ¡°Two months?¡± Abigail¡¯s forehead furrowed. ¡°What¡¯s that about? Is there something I don¡¯t know?¡± She asked, her tone demanding.

 Chap 66

    via looked at Abigail. She didn¡¯t want her friend to be angry. dwin already had enough resentment towards his biological mother; she didn¡¯t want her friend to also hate her grandmother because of herself.

    Growing impatient at not receiving an answer, Abigail shifted her gaze to dwin. dwin shrugged casually, his left hand gently stroking via¡¯s head.

    ¡°Your grandmother asked via to give me a child within a year. And if Via isn¡¯t pregnant, she has to be willing to divorce me or let me marry Phoebe,¡± he said, still maintaining his rxed demeanor.

    The crease in Abigail¡¯s forehead deepened. She tried to digest the information before finally cursing in frustration. ¡°Has Grandma lost her mind? It seems old age has made her think irrationally,¡± she huffed angrily. ¡°Does she think you¡¯re some kind of livestock? Does Grandma really think you¡¯re a god who can easily fill your womb with the presence of a baby?¡± Abigail now paced back and forth in front of via and dwin. Her left hand was folded while her right hand supported it.

    Abigail bit her thumbnail roughly, trying to quell the anger that seemed to have reached its boiling point. ¡°That witch must have influenced Grandma¡¯s mind,¡± she said again, her gaze distant. ¡°That¡¯s the only reason why Grandma would act like this. The options she gave are even absurd.¡± She murmured softly, more like speaking to herself.

    dwin turned to his wife, studying her face closely. ¡°What else did Phoebe say?¡± he asked curiously.

    via shook her head, returning her husband¡¯s gaze. dwin¡¯s left hand now gently stroked via¡¯s cheek. ¡°She said the choice was between me leaving you or me having to share you. She believes sharing you is the only best solution. We could have a child with her, while she could get all the facilities you can provide,¡± via replied matter-of-factly.

    Abigail sneered. The girl had now slumped her body onto the single sofa and folded her arms in front of her chest.

    ¡°Like Mother, Like Daughter. See, Uncle?¡± via looked at Abigail with confusion now. ¡°We discussed this once, and we concluded that it¡¯s all about money.

    ¡°It seems that woman knows about the inheritance you received and also the property business you¡¯re currently involved in. And ording to them, you¡¯re just like a money tree,¡± Abigail said again, her tone sharp.

    via fell silent, as did dwin. ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you¡¯ve already made a choice among the options my mother gave you? For God¡¯s sake, I won¡¯t stand for it if you do. There¡¯s no good choice among the two options my mother gave.¡± She said threateningly, but via remained silent, offering no response. ¡°I¡¯ll slowly die if you¡¯re cruel enough to leave me, especially if you lead me to that vixen,¡± she continued as via still remained silent.

    Abigail could only watch via. With via¡¯s character, Abigail was sure her friend had already made a choice as suspected by her husband.

    ¡°The IV¡¯s finished,¡± via redirected her husband¡¯s attention to the empty IV bag.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin stood up, went into their room, and fetched a medicine box. Carefully, he removed the IV and disposed of the unused equipment in the trash. Afterward, via got up, looked at Abigail, and uttered, ¡°I want to rest.¡± Abigail knew her friend was trying to avoid, but she only nodded. via went into her room, which she had upied for the past nine months, and dwin followed her from behind.

    ¡°You haven¡¯t had lunch,¡± her husband remarked behind via, who was now about to change clothes.

    ¡°I¡¯m not hungry. Maybeter. Do you want to shower? Shall I prepare warm water?¡± dwin shook his head, declining his wife¡¯s offer. ¡°You¡¯re still unwell, right?¡± via shook her head in response. ¡°I¡¯m not sick. I¡¯m just in shock. Shall I prepare the bathtub?¡± Without waiting for dwin¡¯s answer, via entered the bathroom. She filled it with warm water and scented therapeutic soap.

    dwin entered the bathroom with a towel around his waist. via smiled at him. Slowly, she removed her clothes from her head, causing dwin to be surprised by his wife¡¯s actions. Initially, he suspected that via¡¯s regained memory would revert her back to her shy mode, but he was mistaken. via now became more aggressive than she was before she lost her memory.

    Her personality during her memory loss, dwin believed, was her true character. It was the one via had hidden from him all this time. Not hidden, more urately, the one she tried to change since the major ident that happened to her. So, dwin was quite surprised because his wife now no longer wanted to hide behind her mask of shyness. And dwin liked his wife¡¯s current nature.

    via removed all her clothes, leaving only ckce bra and panties. She approached her husband and removed the towel around dwin¡¯s waist, then pulled him to enter the bathtub.

    dwin followed suit, leaning his body against the edge of the bathtub. Afterwards, via removed her underwear and joined him, asking dwin to spread his legs so she could sit in front of him. She positioned herself in front of dwin with her back against his chest, leaningfortably against his chest.

    ¡°I thought you were going to give me a ¡®plus-plus¡¯ shower experience,¡± dwin whispered in via¡¯s ear. His wife smiled, turning her head to nce at dwin over her shoulder. She reached for dwin¡¯s head to bring him down closer. She kissed him warmly before dwin changed it into a passionate kiss that left them breathless.

    ¡°I want it,¡± dwin requested softly. His nose nuzzled via¡¯s shoulder, moving up and down.

    ¡°I¡¯m still unwell,¡± via replied, giggling.

    ¡°You should take responsibility because you teased me first,¡± dwin pouted.

    via smiled, then she turned around. She sat on dwin¡¯sp with her legs open. Her hands were on dwin¡¯s shoulders, teasingly caressing his neck.

    dwin pulled his wife¡¯s waist, pushing her petite body forward until the sensitive area could feel his. via smiled, her head tilting closer. Then, without a word, she gently kissed dwin¡¯s lips. Tasting and teasing.

    dwin groaned, his hands softly rubbing via¡¯s back. He responded to via¡¯s kiss hungrily. They made love in the bathtub as if there were no tomorrow. Continuing it under the shower and ending up exhausted on the bed.

    ???

    via gazed at dwin. Currently, she was in her husband¡¯s warm embrace, facing each other naked. Watching her husband¡¯s face as he slept wasn¡¯t something she did for the first time. She often did it. However, somehow it felt different this time.

    dwin¡¯s thick, ck hair, usually neatlybed for work, now fell over his forehead. His thick eyebrows, sharp nose, slightly darkened lips from asional smoking, and pointed chin. via observed them all carefully. Even his straight, ck, short eyshes. via liked everything. Everything about her husband. Not just his handsome face and muscr body, but also his personality. His skin was white, clean. And hisrge hands had long fingers, which via found beautiful.

    ¡°Whatever I do in the future, I hope you won¡¯t be angry with me,¡± she whispered softly. She hugged dwin tightly, hiding her face in his broad chest. ¡°You have to know that I always love you. Whatever I doter on, I do it not only for my own good, but for us.

    ¡°I¡¯m tired of holding everything alone. I want to share everything with you. I¡¯m tired of surrendering to circumstances. I want to fight for my own happiness, and my happiness is being with you.

    ¡°I know you¡¯ll be angry, but for God¡¯s sake, I won¡¯t give up on our rtionship, because I do all of this for us. Unless you want to back down, then I can only surrender.¡±

    dwin heard everything, and he believed every word his wife said. Just as via decided not to give up, he would do the same.

    dwin tightened his embrace, giving his wife reassurance through his bodynguage. Whatever happens in the future, whatever problems they face, and whatever path his wife chooses, he believes in her.

    ¡°Even if someday I leave, you have to believe that I wille back. Please, wait for me until I return,¡± she whispered softly again before silence enveloped them.

 Chap 67

    The news about via¡¯s memory returning spread so quickly, even though initially only Abigail and dwin knew about it. For the time being, they decided to keep it a secret because they wanted to buy time toe up with a new n regarding the two options Julie had given via. via hadn¡¯t even informed her parents about her memory returning yet, but now she had to prepare herself to confront her mother-inw.

    Yes, her mother-inw who was also her step-grandmother.

    The middle-aged woman suddenly appeared at via¡¯s workce with her chosen daughter-inw, none other than Phoebe Madsen. via didn¡¯t feel scared by their presence, but she, who usually didn¡¯t harbor any anger towards anyone, now had to stain her heart because of one name: Phoebe.

    via didn¡¯t hate her step-grandmother. As a woman, she also understood that Julie¡¯s desires were reasonable for any mother in the world. She just wanted her son¡¯s life to be happy and their family name to continue with the arrival of descendants.

    via also knew that Julie Hampton didn¡¯t fundamentally dislike her. It was evident from all the kindness via received since she got to know and befriend Abigail, and even the affection of that woman increased after via¡¯s father married Julie¡¯s youngest daughter.

    via knew that Julie¡¯s drastic change at present was due to the negative influence of the woman who was now sitting arrogantly beside her. Both women entered via¡¯s room without permission and sat on the sofa as if they owned the ce, while via stood stunned behind her desk.

    ¡°I heard that your memory has returned,¡± the statement came out before via could engage in small talk.

    ¡°Yes, recently,¡± she replied frankly. ¡°Would you like something to drink?¡± she offered. The elderly woman asked for a hot beverage.

    Shortly after, via¡¯s employee arrived with three cups of hot drinks and several types of snacks. ¡°I was waiting for you toe to the house and inform me of your condition, but it seems you had no intention of visiting me,¡± her mother-inwmented while sipping the scent of jasmine tea in her hand. via fell silent; she had no defense or reason to respond to her mother-inw¡¯s statement.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tell me you also asked dwin not to visit his mother, Via,¡± Phoebe interjected. via could only stare at the woman with a nk expression. Her mouth chose to remain silent. She didn¡¯t want to engage in verbal sparring with the woman as it felt utterly pointless.

    ¡°Why did Grandma suddenlye here? Is there anything I can help you with?¡± via redirected her attention entirely to her mother-inw and step-grandmother. She chose to ignore Phoebe¡¯s presence, behaving as if the woman were just a living statue.

    Julie¡¯s old hand waved gently. ¡°There¡¯s no need for anything; I just wanted to see you,¡± she replied, cing the ss on her coaster and gazing at via with both hands resting on her knees. ¡°How about your memories during thest ten months? Did they disappear with the return of your old memories after thea?¡± she inquired.

    via could guess where this conversation was heading, so she prepared herself mentally. ¡°No, Grandma. All my memories are intact.¡±

    ¡°So, do you remember what I said at the apartment that time?¡± she asked again, and via nodded in response. ¡°So, do you have any good news for me now?¡±

    via shook her head, but a smile still lingered on her face. ¡°Unfortunately, there is no good news yet,¡± she replied honestly.

    ¡°Then, have you made a decision if, within the next two months, you are still not pregnant?¡± Julie¡¯s back straightened, as did the woman beside her who looked at via with a satisfied and mocking smile on her face.

    via stared at her grandmother with an emotionless gaze. ¡°May I ask you something?¡±

    Julie¡¯s eyebrow raised. ¡°Just ask.¡±

    ¡°When you came to the apartmentst time, honestly, at that time, I was still confused. Losing my memory made me unable to refute or question, because I myself was not sure of my condition at that time. But now, after my memory has returned, I am no longer confused about my identity.

    ¡°So I want to ask you. Are you sure that the two options you offered me will make Uncle happy?¡± she asked with a more pressing tone.

    Her grandmother¡¯s eyebrows furrowed, while the woman beside her stared sharply. ¡°What do you mean by that question?¡± she asked cynically, but via chose to ignore it.

    ¡°Why are you asking like that?¡± Julie questioned after Phoebe¡¯s question went unanswered for a while.

    ¡°I don¡¯t mean to be disrespectful to you. But the issue of having children is not something that humans can measure. It¡¯s not what humans want, then they get it.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t it excessive for you to set a deadline for me to have a child within a year just because of my condition?¡± she continued with a t tone. Julie Hampton was taken aback. ¡°What happened to me was just a doctor¡¯s prediction. And doctors are only human, they cannot defy fate. Like Uncle Harry, who could only have a child after five years of marriage, while the doctor said they were both healthy. Couldn¡¯t that also apply to me?¡±

    ¡°That¡¯s clearly different. Because your uterus is injured,¡± Phoebe replied heatedly, but via chose to ignore her again.

    ¡°Grandma, don¡¯t you really want to give Uncle and me a chance? Didn¡¯t Dr. Madsen agree to give me a consultation?¡± This time via looked at Phoebe, as did her grandmother. ¡°Thest time you were here, you told me that you were willing to give me a gynecological consultation. Doesn¡¯t that mean, ording to you, I still have a chance to get pregnant?¡± via raised one eyebrow while Phoebe looked surprised. ¡°If you give me a chance, maybe I can try a fertility program.¡±

    ¡°I only said that as a formality,¡± Phoebe replied stiffly. ¡°Besides, Auntie, remember your age,¡± she persuaded again. ¡°And dwin¡¯s age is not young anymore, Auntie.¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°There¡¯s no menopause for men, Doctor. You should know that. As far as I know, many men can still have children at an older age.¡±

    ¡°But the problem here is you. You have a low pregnancy rate,¡± Phoebe responded again.

    ¡°But that doesn¡¯t mean I won¡¯t be able to get pregnant at all, right? The percentage you mentioned is not insignificant,¡± via retorted, unwilling to give in. ¡°Remember, you are only Doctors, not God,¡± via retorted. ¡°And even if Grandma believes in the doctor¡¯s diagnosis, I want to know something else. All this time, you know that Uncle and I love each other, and you also know that issues of offspring are God¡¯s blessing. Uncle¡¯s happiness is with me, and vice versa.

    ¡°With the two options you¡¯ve offered, are you sure they will make Uncle happy? Because I¡¯m sure Uncle won¡¯t be happy. In the end, three people will be hurt. You, me, and Uncle.¡±

 Chap 68

    Phoebe scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re so arrogant!¡± she sneered.

    Julie Hampton looked at via with a doubtful gaze, a hint of hesitation disturbing her thoughts. What via said wasn¡¯t entirely wrong, but Julie also didn¡¯t want to give in so easily.

    ¡°Via, I know that you and dwin love each other. But love won¡¯tst if there are no offspring between you. Eventually, that love will fade along with dwin¡¯s desire and need for offspring. And I also want my son to have descendants, not just for dwin.¡±

    ¡°Then is your patience only up to one year? Even you were patient when Uncle Harry didn¡¯t have children for five years of marriage. So why can¡¯t Grandma be patient with me and Uncle?¡±

    ¡°Because Phoebe is right, I¡¯m not young anymore. Because I don¡¯t know when I¡¯ll die.¡±

    ¡°Tapi pilihanmu sekarang juga belum tentu membuatmu memiliki keturunan dari Uncle.¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡± Phoebe asked cynically. ¡°I am fertile. I can give dwin as many descendants as he wants,¡± she boasted.

    via reluctantly nced in her direction. ¡°Then are you sure Uncle would be willing to touch you?¡± via stopped being friendly. Although her gaze and tone of voice still seemed t, they sounded more derogatory to Phoebe¡¯s ears.

    ¡°What do you mean? Do you think dwin won¡¯t be tempted by my body?¡± she asked sharply.

    via shook her head. ¡°If Uncle really wanted to, he would have chosen you from the start after knowing my condition. Or he would have chosen another woman out there. But the fact?¡± via looked back at her mother-inw. ¡°There¡¯s no best answer from the options you gave me. Even if I choose to sign the divorce papers. Do you think Uncle would be willing to divorce me? Because I will never sign a polygamy consent form as long as I live.¡± The question was based on via¡¯s belief in dwin¡¯s love for her. ¡°I don¡¯t have the power to decide this divorce alone; Uncle¡¯s approval must still be obtained before the court decides our divorce. Especially since our divorce doesn¡¯t have a clear reason.

    ¡°And if Uncle is unwilling to divorce me. Will you force Uncle to marry her?¡± via looked back at Phoebe. ¡°In the end, they will only have amonw marriage. Because I will be Uncle¡¯s only legal wife in the eyes of thew.¡±

    The woman looked back at via in astonishment. Astonished because it turned out via didn¡¯t act ording to her prediction. Because initially, Phoebe thought via had a weak mentality and would do anything she was asked. But the reality proved Phoebe wrong, because there was firmness in via¡¯s sad eyes. The conviction via possessed that would certainly be difficult to shake.

    ¡°But your choice now also doesn¡¯t guarantee that you¡¯ll have offspring from Uncle.¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡± Phoebe asked cynically. ¡°I am fertile. I can give dwin as many descendants as he wants,¡± she boasted.

    via reluctantly nced in her direction. ¡°Then are you sure Uncle would be willing to touch you?¡± via stopped being friendly. Although her gaze and tone of voice still seemed t, they sounded more derogatory to Phoebe¡¯s ears.

    ¡°What do you mean? Do you think dwin won¡¯t be tempted by my body?¡± she asked sharply.

    via shook her head. ¡°If Uncle really wanted to, he would have chosen you from the start after knowing my condition. Or he would have chosen another woman out there. But the fact?¡± via looked back at her mother-inw. ¡°There¡¯s no best answer from the options you gave me. Even if I choose to sign the divorce papers. Do you think Uncle would be willing to divorce me? Because I will never sign a polygamy consent form as long as I live.¡± The question was based on via¡¯s belief in dwin¡¯s love for her. ¡°I don¡¯t have the power to decide this divorce alone; Uncle¡¯s approval must still be obtained before the court decides our divorce. Especially since our divorce doesn¡¯t have a clear reason.

    ¡°And if Uncle is unwilling to divorce me. Will you force Uncle to marry her?¡± via looked back at Phoebe. ¡°In the end, they will only have amonw marriage. Because I will be Uncle¡¯s only legal wife in the eyes of thew.¡±

    The woman looked back at via in astonishment. Astonished because it turned out via didn¡¯t act ording to her prediction. Because initially, Phoebe thought via had a weak mentality and would do anything she was asked. But the reality proved Phoebe wrong, because there was firmness in via¡¯s sad eyes. The conviction via possessed that would certainly be difficult to shake.

    However, Phoebe wasn¡¯t about to back down. She shrugged with an indifferent expression.

    ¡°It doesn¡¯t matter whether it¡¯s amonw or official marriage, because eventually dwin wille to his senses. He wouldn¡¯t make me amonw wife forever if I could give him offspring.¡±

    ¡°Doctor,¡± via interjected. ¡°You are an educated woman; surely you know the disadvantages of amonw marriage? You wouldn¡¯t even have the right to demand anything from Uncle. I can even assure you that Uncle won¡¯t fulfill his duties as a husband.

    ¡°Maybe economically, but not in other aspects. Uncle isn¡¯t the type of man to grovel to a woman who spreads her legs so easily.¡± via¡¯s response made Phoebe¡¯s face flush with anger. Certainly because of fury.

    ¡°Are you implying that dwin will be a bad husband and also an irresponsible man? Do you think I¡¯ve been raising him wrong all this time?¡± the mother-inw¡¯s sharply-toned question emerged.

    via shook her head. ¡°As far as I know, Uncle is a very responsible man,¡± via replied honestly. ¡°He is also generous, friendly, and caring. But he is selective. He doesn¡¯t love just anyone, and I¡¯m sure one of the people he won¡¯t love is your chosen woman.¡±

    Phoebe scoffed. ¡°You¡¯re too afraid, Via. Just admit that you¡¯re afraid dwin will eventually sumb to me. I have more than you, and that¡¯s what you¡¯re afraid of, right?¡±

    via shook her head. ¡°By God, as much as I love my husband, that¡¯s how much I believe that my husband will never fall for your charms.¡± She said softly.

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, don¡¯t hesitate. Just sign the documents Julie asked for,¡± Phoebe ordered.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

 Chap 69

    via looked back at her grandmother. ¡°I just don¡¯t want you to regret and ultimately lose your beloved son.¡± via tried to change her grandmother¡¯s mind again. ¡°Give me the letter. If within two months I still haven¡¯t conceived, then I will willingly hand it over to you.

    ¡°But let me tell you again. Won¡¯t you change your mind? Because in the end, it won¡¯t just be me who¡¯s hurt by being forced to step back. But you and Uncle will also bear the consequences.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you and Uncle to end up hating each other. Uncle¡¯s heaven is at your feet, and I also want your blessing. But if it¡¯s done like this¡­¡± via saw doubt in her grandmother¡¯s eyes, but it seemed Phoebe¡¯s whisper strengthened her resolve.

    via smiled, taking a sheet of divorce papers. Meanwhile, the document containing her statement to give permission for dwin to marry Phoebe and make her his second wife remained untouched. She folded the paper and held it tightly.

    ¡°Grandma, you don¡¯t need to worry. I won¡¯t break my promise because I¡¯m not someone who likes to break promises. But if you ever change your mind, you can tell me,¡± she said as a final attempt.

    Julie didn¡¯t say a word as she rose and left via. via didn¡¯t bother to be polite by escorting her mother-inw and her guest downstairs. It was enough; she didn¡¯t need to seek favor because via wasn¡¯t the type to be a sycophant. Even if her grandmother were to hate her, so be it. via was sure that God doesn¡¯t sleep. If not now, then someday her grandmother¡¯s heart would open to reality.

    via slipped the paper into arge white envelope and tucked it into a diary with a faded pink leather cover. An old diary that had been with her for the past seven years. A diary she received as a birthday gift from dwin when she turned seventeen. A diary she had hidden from everyone all this time. And via was certain it would return to its owner someday.

    via was lost in thought after her mother-inw¡¯s departure when Abigail arrived. ¡°Did Grandmae here?¡± she asked without preamble. via smiled and nodded. ¡°With that woman?¡± via nodded again. ¡°What did they talk about?¡±

    ¡°Not much,¡± via replied tly. ¡°Just reminding me of the remaining two months I have.¡±

    Abigail furrowed her brow. ¡°Two months? Are they discussing your separation from Uncle?¡± via nodded again. ¡°What was your response?¡±

    via smirked. ¡°What do you think?¡± she asked. Abigail furrowed her brow even more. ¡°I think I want to see the house before going back to the apartment. Will you take me there?¡± she asked. Abigail simply nodded in silence.

    In the evening, dwin returned to the apartment. The scent of food wafted as he entered. His beautiful wife was cooking in the kitchen while Abigail seemed engrossed in front of the TV. Ignoring Abigail, dwin headed to the pantry and hugged his wife from behind. ¡°What are you making?¡± he asked in via¡¯s ear.

    ¡°Honey, I smell. Keep your distance,¡± via shrugged, trying to keep dwin¡¯s head away from her neck.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with you smelling? I already know how your body smells,¡± dwin replied casually.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tease me. Go take a shower first, then we¡¯ll eat. I¡¯m starving,¡± she said, pushing her husband¡¯s back out of the pantry area.

    ¡°Wanna shower together? I¡¯d dly bathe you likest time,¡± he teased, making via imagine their lovemaking in the bathroom, instantly making her face blush.

    ¡°Go away quickly,¡± she said embarrassedly, which made dwinugh. He kissed via¡¯s forehead before heading to their bedroom.

    via had already prepared a change of clothes for her husband on the bed, so she didn¡¯t need to rush to finish her work in the kitchen. After transferring the food into bowls, she chose to shower in Abigail¡¯s room. Finally, they finished at the same time and got ready for dinner.

    Light conversation about their daily lives became their dinnerpanions. It had be via¡¯s habit to chat during dinner, at least it was a way to bond after they had been busy with their respective activities all day.

    After dinner, Abigail and via washed the dishes while dwin returned to the bedroom to attend to some matters. Later, they gathered again in front of the TV, just watching the news or any shows that caught their attention.

    A new habit dwin had developed after marriage was sleeping with his head on via¡¯sp and asking her to stroke his head. Often, he would end up falling asleep due to exhaustion from taking care of patients and other work outside the hospital.

    In addition to his work at the hospital, dwin also had his own practice at a specialized clinic. And amidst his work as a doctor, dwin also had a furniture business. He liked furniture, and buying and selling furniture was his sideline. What via didn¡¯t know was that dwin had been coborating with several hotels, resorts, and constructionpanies, including Coskun Company and Quirino Hotel,panies owned by his father¡¯s family.

    By ten o¡¯clock, via felt her eyes could no longer stay open. Finally, she woke dwin up and asked him to move to the bedroom. Meanwhile, Abigail was still engrossed in her shows. The girl liked reading and watching TV. And if she got too absorbed, she could forget the time and stay awake all night. Sometimes via worried the girl might get sick. But so far, Abigail had only experienced minor ailments. And even then, just letting her sleep all day would refresh her.

    via had already tucked herself into her nket, and so had dwin. Automatically, their bodies moved closer, embracing over the soft pillows for support. ¡°Darling,¡± via whispered.

    ¡°Yes?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Our marriage will soon reach its first anniversary, but we¡¯ve never been on a honeymoon. Are you sure you don¡¯t want to go on a honeymoon with me?¡± It was not the first time dwin had sulked about this. He was so eager for them to spend time alone somewhere without anyone bothering them.

    ¡°Do you really want to go on a honeymoon? Do you even have time?¡± via didn¡¯t want to ignore her husband¡¯s desires anymore. At least, as she had promised herself, she would spend the remaining time doing whatever he wished.

    ¡°I can manage my schedule if you want to.¡± His tone was now more enthusiastic. via nodded.

    ¡°But I don¡¯t want to go far away.¡± She requested, causing dwin to furrow his brow.

    ¡°People usually want to go far away. Foreign destinations are quite popr now. Maldives, Japan, Korea,¡± dwin offered, knowing he had the money for it, so why not?

    via shook her head. ¡°Boring. The journey takes a long time. And in the end, I¡¯ll experience jetg,¡± she stated.

    ¡°In that case, where do you want to go?¡±

    ¡°Jekyll Ind,¡± via replied.

    ¡°Jekyll?¡± dwin asked, to which via nodded. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll go there,¡± he answered. via smiled and kissed her husband¡¯s chin. ¡°Is that it? Not anywhere else?¡± dwin teased. via got up from her bed, choosing to lie on top of her husband and kiss every inch of his face. dwin groaned, instantly dispelling his drowsiness. His wife was now awakening the hungry stallion.

    dwin flipped their positions so now he was on top of via. viaughed but didn¡¯t reject her husband¡¯s affection. And eventually, they spent the night with sighs and pleasurable moans.

 Chap 70

    Their honeymoon ns were ultimately dyed for quite a while because dwin couldn¡¯t take his annual leave as his colleague had already applied for it earlier. Combined with his propertypany receiving numerous orders, dwin¡¯s time was suddenly consumed.

    via didn¡¯t mind. For her, as long as her husband returned home healthy and safe, that was already happiness. As for the remaining time she had, it had significantly dwindled against her wishes.

    Their marriage was now nearing its first anniversary. They were just counting down the days until their anniversary. Anxious? Of course, via was anxious. But she had made a decision, and she wouldn¡¯t waver. via knew her decision would hurt them both, especially dwin. But via was confident that this was a test in their marriage.

    No life is without trials, isn¡¯t it? Evenpared to marriages out there, the trials they faced weren¡¯t that significant.

    via believed that she and dwin would be able to weather this storm. Even if one day dwin was angry with her, angry about the decision she was about to make, then via would kneel before her husband to seek his forgiveness.

    But one thing via was sure of was that the trials they were facing and would face now would have a beautiful end. But if not? Then via entrusted everything to the Happy Owner.

    In mid-February, dwin finally got his share of leave. He seemed so ecstatic when he came home and announced that they would be vacationing for two weeks. ¡°If necessary, we¡¯ll explore the entire America,¡± that¡¯s what her husband said as they were busy packing.

    During their journey, they spent time telling each other stories. They stopped by a local diner to enjoy the cuisine. They savored the dating moments they had missed before due to their somewhat unconventional wedding process.

    Upon arriving at the hotel, they opted to rest due to exhaustion, and after breakfast the next day, they finally made their travel ns.

    They eventually embarked on a random journey, following their moods and the weather until the two weeks passed by effortlessly. Now, they were back in their hometown, returning to their routines. dwin resumed his work at the hospital, tending to his patients and managing hispany during his spare time. Meanwhile, via returned to managing the cafe and her design work.

    via was already at the cafe; it was already noon. Shortly before lunch, her phone rang. via grabbed her phone without diverting her attention from the building design she was working on, unlocking it with her fingerprint. She furrowed her brow when she saw who the message was from.

    Dr. Madsen:

    Did your honeymoon bear fruit?

    Less than five days left, Via.

    I hope you haven¡¯t forgotten your promise.

    via chose to flip her phone over and leave it on silent mode. Five days. She smirked. The battle would soon begin in five days.

    Suddenly, via¡¯s chest tightened. Anger enveloped her, mingled with the pain of fearing losing dwin. It was truly agonizing. Thinking about the decision she had made. Hurting the people she loved, especially dwin.

    via eventually gave in; she couldn¡¯t focus on her work anymore. She cried instantly. Tears that she had tried to hold back for the past two weeks now flowed freely. The problems she had tried to push away, tried to forget, now greeted her again.

    She didn¡¯t want to have ill thoughts about her God. But she was still just a regr human who would cry and wail when sad and disappointed. Oh God, strengthen her. She was just a woman with too much love. She didn¡¯t want to lose anymore, let alone leave. But that was the choice she had to make.

    via tried to steel herself. Hopefully, what she believed in ¨C her love and trust in dwin ¨C was indeed true. Hopefully, the choice she made would bear sweet fruit.

    via shut down her MacBook, putting it into her bag. She grabbed her phone and then left her room. There was only one person she had to meet right now. Only he could give her peace of mind.

    Their taxi had arrived at Quirino¡¯s residence, and via entered through the front door. On a day like this, her father was at the office, and her younger siblings were still at school. Only her mother and the one-year-old baby were surely at home.

    True enough, via saw ire sitting with Meizar in herp. The toddler looked sleepy, sucking on a pacifier. via greeted her stepmother, who warmly smiled back at her.

    ¡°Darling, it¡¯s not usual for you toe here in the daytime like this. Aren¡¯t you supposed to be working on your dad¡¯s design request?¡± ire always knew about their work because via¡¯s father always talked about it.

    Yes, the husband and wife always shared everything down to the smallest details because it was one of themitments their parents upheld. ¡°To avoid misunderstandings and disputes,¡± that was the reason their parents gave. It was something via and dwin thought to emte to keep their marriage free from future conflicts caused by third-party interference.

    via nodded at her mother. ¡°Yeah. The deadline ising up soon, but I can still handle it, Ma,¡± she said casually.

    via chose to sit beside her stepmother, being affectionate by resting her chin on her mother¡¯s right shoulder and teasing the chubby-bodied toddler in herp.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Meizae. Hey. Wake up. Don¡¯t you miss me?¡± via poked the chubby cheeks of her youngest sibling with her index finger, trying to wake him up. This clearly irritated ire, and she swatted via¡¯s hand away and scolded her.

    ¡°Poor thing, he just fell asleep. Don¡¯t tease him. You don¡¯t know how exhausting it is to deal with this little baby.¡± She scolded, which made via grin without feeling the slightest bit guilty.

    ¡°He¡¯s just as greedy as Ignazio was when he was a baby, isn¡¯t he?¡±

    ¡°Yes. Much greedier than Ignazio.¡± Her mother replied.

    After feeling satisfied, ire took her youngest son into the room. Sheid him down in the crib before leaving the room with the door open and returning to via. ¡°Are you hungry? Taking care of Meizar constantly makes me feel hungry.¡±

 Chap 71

    ¡°Are you cooking something?¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m making grilled ribs. Would you like some?¡±

    ¡°Of course, I would.¡± via followed her mother to the kitchen. The woman was now busy with the griddle and the marinated ribs.

    ¡°How was your vacation?¡± Her mother asked without turning around.

    ¡°Tiring,¡± via replied briefly.

    ¡°Tired from sightseeing or¡­¡±

    ¡°Let¡¯s not talk about it.¡±

    via returned with steamed vegetables, pouring them onto a te. ¡°I know, you¡¯re still newlyweds, must be in the honeymoon phase,¡± teased ire, which made via frown in annoyance.

    Therge grilled ribs were served with chili sauce and vegetables. They ate apanied by conversation about via¡¯s vacation.

    After the meal, via invited her mother back to the sofa. She had to discuss her decision and find someone who would support it.

    via began by recounting the agreement she had made with her mother-inw. Who was none other than ire¡¯s biological mother.

    ¡°Oh God. Is my mother really that heartless?¡± ire was shocked after hearing via¡¯s entire story. Her eyes welled up with tears, looking at via with a mix of shame, disappointment, and sadness. ¡°I don¡¯t know what to say. Apologizing feels useless.¡±

    ¡°You don¡¯t need to apologize. I also understand what Grandma wants. She¡¯s not wrong. She just wants me and via to be happy. And like Grandma, I also want to be happy with Uncle.¡± via replied confidently. There were no tears. She couldn¡¯t afford to be sad right now.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°So? Have you made a decision?¡±

    via nodded. She exined the choice she had made and her ns for the future. ¡°Only you and Abigail know my decision. Abigail agrees with my choice, and I hope you do too. Even though it will indeed hurt Uncle more.¡±

    ire reached for via¡¯s hand, squeezing it gently. ¡°It¡¯s not just dwin who will suffer, but you too, dear. Five years of your time wasted, and now another test hase. I know this isn¡¯t an easy choice, but I agree with your decision. I¡¯ll support you,¡± she said reassuringly.

    via looked at her stepmother. Oh God, there were no words to express how lucky she was, how happy she was to have a mother like ire. There were no tales of wicked stepmothers in via¡¯s life. Because her stepmother was truly an angel-hearted woman, a vision of grace.

    Tears welled up in via¡¯s eyes. Not because she was sad about the decision she had made, but because she was happy to have Abigail as a friend and cousin, and ire as her mother.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma. I¡¯ve been nothing but a burden all this time,¡± she whispered. ire shook her head, enveloping via in her embrace.

    ¡°No, dear. You¡¯ve never been a burden at all. I feel happy and grateful to have you,¡± ire said, releasing her hug. ¡°After getting a handsome husband, even though he¡¯s aging, I also got a bonus of a beautiful daughter like you, who is as kind as you are. I¡¯m the luckier one for having you both,¡± ire replied with her smile. via smiled and hugged her mother again.

    Later that evening, via told dwin that she would spend the night at her parents¡¯ house. Something she had never done since they got married. dwin said he would join her after finishing work.

    That evening, via spent time ying with Ignazio and Francisca. And coincidentally, the twins Falisha and Geremia were also there. The house became even livelier in the evening with the arrival of Abigail, Adaline, and Altezza.

    Finally, that night they had an impromptu barbecue party in the backyard. The youngest duo, Meizar and Rayyan, enlivened the atmosphere with their typical toddler chatter. ¡°I always remember Gian, who used toin when we entrusted Falisha and Geremia to him,¡± Altezza said with a wistful look, watching the two toddlers who were learning to stand and walk.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong with Uncle Gian?¡± Ignazio asked, curious.

    ¡°Your uncle always gets annoyed because Falisha and Geremia always make a mess of the house. Not to mention Geremia who always cries, and Falisha who always teases Geremia,¡± via exined.

    ¡°Dad, I¡¯m not teasing!¡± Falisha protested to her father with her cute pouty face. The ten-year-old girl looked even more beautiful. Her adult teeth had grown, disying her rabbit-like teeth that added to her beauty.

    ¡°Yeah, yeah. You¡¯re not teasing. You¡¯re Papa¡¯s prettiest, kindest, and most diligent daughter, aren¡¯t you?¡± her father teased, making Falisha pout even more.

    Themotion between Falisha and Altezza was amon sight in their family. Falisha always indulged her father and mother, considering she was the only daughter in her uncle¡¯s family. The twins were born from a contract marriage between their parents. via never thought her uncle and aunt¡¯s past was not as beautiful as the scene she saw now.

    She looked at her parents. Her parents¡¯ marriage wasn¡¯t easy either. They also faced challenges before everything became beautiful. And this made via even more convinced of her choice.

    So when Adaline, Altezza, and the twins went home, via canceled her n to stay overnight and invited dwin to return to their apartment. Meanwhile, Abigail chose to stay at Antony¡¯s house because she felt too tired to move and drive home.

    No one suspected her reason. In fact, Abigail didn¡¯t feel tired at all. She just wanted to give via time alone with dwin. To spend the remaining time via could give to her husband before the decision was implemented.

    via was already at the apartment. While dwin was showering, via prepared a change of clothes for her husband. And via herself had changed into her pajamas by the time dwin came out of the bathroom.

    As usual, they slept while embracing each other. via rested her head on her husband¡¯s chest while her right hand gently stroked dwin¡¯s chest. It wasn¡¯t meant to tease, just a habit of touching each other. Meanwhile, dwin stroked via¡¯s back and yed with her long hair, which was usually spread out when sleeping.

    ¡°Darling.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    via lifted her head, gazing at her husband¡¯s face, his eyes half-closed with drowsiness. ¡°I looooove you so much, Doctor dwin Hampton. The husband of via Quirino.¡± dwin smiled without opening his eyes, but his embrace tightened around via¡¯s shoulders.

 Chap 72

    ¡°And I looooove you soooo much too, Mrs. via Quirino,¡± he replied, then kissed the top of via¡¯s head.

    ¡°Whatever happens in the future, you have to believe that I truly love and cherish you. Do you believe me?¡± via chose to bury her face in her husband¡¯s chest. dwin tensed.

    ¡°What¡¯s wrong?¡± dwin nudged via¡¯s body, urging her to look up without a sound. His eyes, once sleepy, now narrowed sharply. ¡°What¡¯s going on with you? I¡¯ve been hearing you say things like thistely. You¡¯ve been apologizing to me too. What¡¯s really going on? What are you nning?¡± dwin¡¯s voice carried a hint of fear in every word he uttered.

    via smiled reassuringly. ¡°Have you forgotten, dear? Husbands and wives should always ask for forgiveness before sleeping. Why? Because we never know when the Angel of Death wille. And a wife¡¯s heaven lies in her husband¡¯s pleasure. A wife who¡¯s angry with her husband will be cursed by angels until morning. And some say, a wife will enter heaven if she dies and her husband is pleased with her. I want that too.¡±

    ¡°But I can¡¯t bear it if you leave me first. If necessary, it¡¯s better for me to die first, then you. I don¡¯t know if I can handle it if you leave me. I might go insane if that happens.¡± dwin tightened his embrace even more, and so did via.

    ¡°Please don¡¯t go insane, Honey. If you go insane, it¡¯s like you¡¯re not epting God¡¯s will,¡± via replied again. ¡°Whatever problems we face in the future. No matter how heavy they are, we must believe that there is a God who will help us. I always pray that our marriage will be happy forever. You should pray for the same thing, right?¡±

    ¡°Hmm..¡± dwin murmured softly. His eyes were closed, but the drowsiness hadpletely vanished.

    ¡°And one more thing. You must always trust and believe in my feelings. You must agree with every step I take so that I am safe and always protected by angels. And I promise, wherever I am, I will never betray you. I will never cheat on you. Do you believe me?¡±

    ¡°I always believe in you.¡±

    ¡°Thank you. I love you more and more.¡± She said.

    dwin finally surrendered. He rose from his bed, propping himself up with his elbow and gazed at his wife with a mischievous look. ¡°In that case, tonight we¡¯ll have one more round, okay?¡± dwin suggested. via looked at her husband, a smile appearing as she nodded. dwin didn¡¯t waste any time. He immediately pinned down his wife and silenced her mouth with his lips.

    That night, they filled it with passion once again. dwin didn¡¯t dwell on anything his wife had just asked. Until dawn, he reached for the bed and felt the coldness on his wife¡¯s side of the bed.

    ¡°Honey?¡± He called out. dwin tried to listen. If she wasn¡¯t in the bathroom, then she would be in the pantry.

    dwin got up, choosing to enter the bathroom to clean himself up. Aftering out of the bathroom, he saw that the bed was still messy. dwin left the room and headed to the pantry, but it was empty. Where was his wife? Where was via?Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    An uneasy feeling crept into his heart. dwin searched the apartment, looking for via¡¯s whereabouts. Abigail¡¯s room, theundry room, the balcony, he searched everywhere, but there was no sign of via.

    dwin tried to calm himself down. He searched for his phone and intended to call via. His phone must be on the nightstand, where via usually ced it after charging. Sure enough, his phone was there. Right on top of an old diary that dwin recognized.

    The diary was covered in leather with the initials ¡°F. Q¡± carved on it, specially made by a craftsman acquaintance of his. The paper inside was also custom-made at his friend¡¯s printing press, featuring butterfly illustrations with the initials ¡°F. Q¡± beautifully drawn in the bottom right corner. dwin believed there was no other diary like it because he had made it specifically for via as a seventeenth birthday gift.

    His heart pounded so hard. Why was this seven-year-old item here? dwin took a step and reached for it. Once again, he felt uneasy. dwin opened the diary, and an envelope fell near his feet. dwin looked at the open page in front of him. His wife¡¯s handwriting was there, with her name written at the top of the page.

    Dear Uncle

    Dear Uncle,

    I return this Diary to its rightful owner. It has been in my embrace for seven years, apanying my days filled with longing for you. Don¡¯t be jealous of this Diary because it has stayed with me longer than you.

    Dear Uncle,

    The magnitude of love I feel for you allows me to do this cruel thing to you. But please don¡¯t see it as revenge, for I swear, there has never been any anger in my heart towards you. Believe me, the feeling in my heart for you is only love and affection.

    Dear Uncle,

    I entrust my heart to you. Like the promise I madest night. Wherever I am, my love is only for you. I will never turn away or rece you with someone else. Never.

    I know this will hurt you. Because as much as you love me, that¡¯s how much I love you. But I have to choose between two options. And I swear, I will never agree if you marry another woman. Especially marrying that woman.

    Believe that my departure is not forever. But during my absence by your side, I hope you can prove to everyone that my trust in you is true. That in your heart, there is and will never be another woman besides me.

    Dear dwin Hampton, my Husband,

    Pray for your wife to always be in goodness. ept my departure, so that angels will always be by my side, guarding me in every step I take. Because that¡¯s what I need as your wife.

    With love and affection always,

    Your wife

 Chap 73

    dwin opened the envelope containing the two sheets of paper with overwhelming anger. One of the papers he opened was a divorce petition with via¡¯s signature at the bottom. Meanwhile, the second paper was a statement containing via¡¯s agreement to make Phoebe his second wife. Unlike the first sheet, the second one had no signature from his wife at all.

    Furious, dwin crumpled both papers into shapeless forms and tossed them roughly.

    ¡°Stay calm, dwin, stay calm,¡± he muttered to himself. He tried to take a deep breath and exhale slowly. Control yourself because getting angry won¡¯t solve the problem, he muttered to himself again.

    ¡°via¡¯s love is only for you,¡± Galdwin reminded himself. And didn¡¯t via also say she woulde back?

    dwin had to control himself. Control his anger even though what he wanted now was to go to his mother¡¯s house and scold the woman who had given birth to her because indirectly it was Julie Hampton who had made via leave him.

    ¡°Oh God, I know there is not a single human being on this earth who lives without trials. Whether good or bad, happy or sad, healthy or sick. You give us all so that we may be grateful to You. Oh God, forgive my negligence all this time. I was too carried away with all the worldly pleasures and beauty that I forgot You. Forgive me,¡± a tear fell, wetting dwin¡¯s cheek.

    ¡°Forgive me for loving Your creation more than I love You. I know this is a test from You for me. I can only plead for You to strengthen my heart, my wife¡¯s heart. Strengthen us. Always watch over my wife wherever she is. Keep her safe as long as she is with her. Return her to me in good health. Forgive me if my efforts to save our marriage hurt others. If my choice to marry via was a mistake, then show me its truth.¡±

    ¡°You, the Owner of Hearts, shake my heart and show me who my true soulmate is. I believe You are the All-Knowing, the Most Compassionate. If via is indeed my destiny, then open the door to my mother¡¯s heart. Make our efforts to unite easy.

    ¡°Because truly, Lord, I love her too much right now.¡± dwin couldn¡¯t hold back his tears any longer. He could only sit weakly and let out all the pain in his heart. He spent all his tears. Angry? Of course, he was angry. But here wasn¡¯t the ce for it.

    dwin woke up again at seven o¡¯clock. It turned out he cried himself to sleep. He wasn¡¯t lost in a dream. via left; that was the reality he had to face now. And resignedly, though it was difficult for him, he would try to endure.

    dwin wore a milk chocte-colored sweater with a short-sleeved shirt underneath. ck trousers and dark brown leather loaferspleted his attire. dwin grabbed his car keys. Today, he would go through it as if nothing had happened. It¡¯s not that he didn¡¯t want to look for via. But he knew if via intended to disappear, then she would be hard to find.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    dwin arrived at the hospital parking lot. Though his eyes were still puffy, he still smiled at everyone he encountered, greeted everyone he knew, and responded to every greeting from those who knew him. He didn¡¯t have to be rude to those who didn¡¯t know anything, did he?

    dwin entered his office. Jonas was already there, preparing all his needs. The list of patients was in his hands. Even dwin¡¯sputer was on, ready with all the necessary data.

    One by one, dwin attended to the patients. Until lunchtime when Jonas was ready to invite him to eat together. But dwin chose to refuse. He hadn¡¯t eaten anything all day, not even drinking water. So he decided to fast for the day.

    At four o¡¯clock, dwin finished his shift. Fortunately, there were no scheduled surgeries because if there were, he would feel guilty for not working wholeheartedly. His mind still lingered on the possibilities of where his wife might be now. In the end, dwin chose to go back to his apartment.

    Abigail was already there, watching television silently. Her eyes looked clearly vacant. dwin didn¡¯t greet her; it felt like his mouth had turned numb. He chose to enter his room andy down without changing his clothes.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± a soft knock snapped dwin out of his thoughts. ¡°Uncle, it¡¯s dinner time, wake up,¡± she softly ordered. dwin opened his eyes, which he had covered with his arm, and looked at Abigail, who was now looking at him with sadness. ¡°What do you want for dinner?¡± She asked again.

    ¡°Anything,¡± he replied hoarsely. dwin cleared his throat, then got up. He reached for the ss beside the nightstand and filled it with water before drinking it until it was empty, then headed to the bathroom.

    Fifteen minutester, he came out of the room and saw Abigail had already prepared food on the table. dwin ate it. Whether he had an appetite or not, hungry or not, dwin still had to endure to continue his life.

    Abigail, who had chosen to remain silent all this time, finally spoke up. ¡°Do you want to ask me something?¡± She asked hesitantly.

    ¡°No,¡± dwin replied tly. He took the dirty te to the sink and washed it.

    Abigail looked at her uncle sadly. The man¡¯s face was clearly gloomy, there was no mischievous spark in his eyes. At first, Abigail thought she would see dwin explode, get angry, or do any other anarchic action like mming or breaking things, which often happened when a patient man got angry. But she was wrong. Instead of venting his emotions, her uncle chose silence. And that actually made Abigail even more scared. It was clear her uncle wasn¡¯t okay, but he was trying to appear okay.

    A week had passed, and her uncle still appeared the same. Silent like a statue. Although he asionally smiled, his smile was never genuine because Abigail no longer saw the lines ofughter in his eyes. The man went about his activities as if everything was merely an obligation and necessity. But his soul seemed to be absent. Her uncle looked empty. Hollow. Living just for the sake of living. No passion, no enthusiasm.

 Chap 74

    Abigail had told this to dwin¡¯s twin siblings, ire Hampton. After hearing her story, their aunt could only shed tears. Even hearing Jonas¡¯ story about her uncle during work inevitably made them sad. Her uncle didn¡¯t be a workaholic like men typically do when stressed. Or suddenly be a drunkard to lose his senses. Even in certain situations, Abigail feared her uncle would withdraw, daydream, and cry. But her uncle never did any of those things.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    Instead, her uncle spent more time with his nieces and nephews. And every time she saw dwin at ire¡¯s house, Abigail heard her aunt apologize repeatedly, not to dwin but to her husband. Feeling guilty because the cause of all this pain-especially via¡¯s departure-was her mother, Julie Hampton. And what hurt was that Antony never responded to those apologies except with a sad expression, much like the one dwin disyed.

    Consciously or not, via was a precious figure whom they loved dearly. Especially for Antony, ire, dwin, and via¡¯s own siblings.

    ¡°Uncle¡­¡± Abigail tried to start a conversation once again. ¡°Dad wants us to have dinner at home,¡± she informed.

    Abigail had just returned from the cafe and saw her uncle sitting in front of the television, watching nkly at the silly program being broadcasted on a private television station. Usually, dwin wouldugh at the absurdity of it. But not this time. It seemed like the man was lost in his own thoughts and didn¡¯t realize Abigail¡¯s arrival.

    ¡°Uncle..?¡± Abigail called out to the man again and waited for his response.

    ¡°Yeah. We¡¯ll go to your father¡¯s houseter,¡± he replied tly, then changed the TV channel. At least, her uncle¡¯s movement let Abigail know that he was a living being, not a mannequin deliberately ced in the living room.

    By five in the evening, they were on their way to Abigail¡¯s father¡¯s house. As Abigail had guessed earlier, the dinner invitation was not just an ordinary one as they saw other guests there. Say her father¡¯s message was just a means to lure them into the trap of the vixen.

    Julie Hampton greeted dwin¡¯s arrival with a cheerful smile on her face, seemingly unaware of the sadness felt by her son. She ushered dwin into the dining room as if he were an honored guest who had just arrived.

    Abigail greeted her parents, hugging her mother. She also waved to the elderly woman who was her grandmother¡¯s guest. dwin chose to sit at the other end of the empty dining table, and somehow Phoebe suddenly sat beside him while Penelope sat to Phoebe¡¯s right. Abigail clearly didn¡¯t want to be left out; she sat beside her uncle on his left side, while Julie Hampton sat on his right side, facing the guest who was the same age as her.

    Was there anyone who asked about dwin¡¯s legitimate wife¡¯s whereabouts? The answer is no. What did dwin and Abigail expect? They certainly already knew that via had been missing for a week, so they felt there was no need to ask where via had gone or where the information about via¡¯s departure came from.

    The dinner was dominated by silence. Even though the people around the dining table tried to start conversations, dwin only responded briefly and then fell silent again. He showed no interest whatsoever in asking anyone anything.

    After dinner, they moved to the living room where Julie¡¯s house assistant had prepared snacks and hot drinks for them.

    ¡°Where¡¯s via?¡± The casual question was suddenly posed by Mrs. Gincu. Abigail initially looked at her with a raised eyebrow before smiling slightly at her and ying along with the middle-aged woman¡¯s game. Whether she genuinely didn¡¯t know or pretended not to know about via¡¯s departure, Abigail had tomend her for her wless acting.

    ¡°via?¡± Abigail replied with her usual nonchnt demeanor. ¡°Why are you asking about via? Do you need something from her?¡± she asked tly.

    ¡°No, I was just asking,¡± she replied nervously.

    ¡°via is missing. I hope that answer satisfies you,¡± dwin responded with a t expression and tone as he put a snack in his mouth. Abigail¡¯s parents stared at dwin with shocked expressions, unlike the three other women who remainedposed.

    ¡°What do you mean she¡¯s missing?¡± Abigail¡¯s mother asked with a furrowed brow. ¡°I thought she didn¡¯te because she had some business.¡± Or more urately, avoiding her mother-inw. The statement was too harsh for Abigail¡¯s gentle mother to express.

    ¡°Missing,¡± dwin reiterated. ¡°Gone.¡± dwin replied still with his t tone. ¡°Disappeared, ran away. Whatever you want to call it, you can look it up in the dictionary.¡±

    ¡°But why?¡± Abigail¡¯s mother asked again.

    ¡°Why don¡¯t you ask your mother-inw?¡± dwin handed an envelope to Abigail¡¯s mother. She took it, opened the envelope which contained a crumpled piece of paper, and read it. Her eyes widened, and her mouth opened. She looked at her husband and handed him the paper.

    ¡°What does this mean, dwin?¡± Abigail¡¯s father asked with a furrowed brow.

    ¡°Just ask our mother, maybe she knows the answer,¡± dwin remained nonchnt even though his heart was pounding, suppressing the emotions he was trying to hold back.

    ¡°There has never been a history of divorce in our family, so why is via filing for divorce from dwin now, Mom?¡± The question had a cold tone to it. Abigail herself shuddered at it. Her father, much like dwin, rarely showed his anger. But when his emotions exploded, the man could be terrifying. And usually, Abigail avoided situations like that. But not this time.

    Julie Hampton¡¯s face paled instantly. The elderly woman even hesitated to look at her eldest son when she answered. ¡°I never asked via to divorce dwin. I actually gave her another option,¡± she replied with a trembling voice. Yes, after Abigail¡¯ste grandfather, the person Julie Hampton feared was Abigail¡¯s father. Perhaps it was because of his firm charisma or because he had been the backbone of the family all this time. Abigail didn¡¯t know.

    ¡°Not asking for a divorce, but asking her to ept another woman?¡± Rafka stared at his mother sharply. ¡°What kind of choice is that? Mom, it¡¯s like you¡¯re offering a death sentence or being shot at the same time.¡± Abigail¡¯s father¡¯s words made Mrs. Julie¡¯s face even paler. Abigail¡¯s father had never interfered with his siblings¡¯ personal affairs. As a man, he believed his siblings could take care of themselves and make the right decisions.

 Chap 75

    Even when dwin hastily married via without notice, Abigail¡¯s father didn¡¯t get angry or criticize his decision. Because he knew dwin made decisions with careful consideration. Just like ire and Antony¡¯s marriage. Abigail¡¯s father never criticized it even though Julie Hampton initially objected due to Antony¡¯s status and age. ording to him, that was ire¡¯s life. The happiness and sadness, ire would enjoy them.

    Unless his siblings caused trouble and embarrassed the family, only then would Abigail¡¯s father intervene. And now, he was quite surprised to see his mother interfering too much in dwin¡¯s life.

    Abigail¡¯s father knew the reasons behind Julie¡¯s actions, but he didn¡¯t condone them. Whatever the reason, marriage was not something to be used as a bargaining tool. It wasn¡¯t a game where people could switch roles as they pleased.

    ¡°I will never divorce via, Brother. So you can rx,¡± dwin replied, still maintaining his calm demeanor. ¡°For now, I¡¯ll just consider via as if she¡¯s on vacation. Or maybe she¡¯s continuing her education somewhere far away. I know in the end she¡¯lle back to me.¡±

    ¡°dwin?!¡± His mother interjected, expressing her disapproval of her son¡¯s mindset.

    dwin turned. ¡°What, Mom? Do you want dwin to marry Phoebe?¡± dwin looked sharply at Julie before shifting his gaze to Phoebe. ¡°Do you want to marry me?¡± he asked, causing Phoebe to look back at him with a blush. dwin snorted in disgust at her expression. ¡°Honestly, I¡¯m surprised by your desires. You¡¯re forcing a wife to leave her husband and then forcing the husband to marry another woman just to have a child?¡± dwin¡¯s tone rose. His eyes shifted between Julie, Penelope, and Phoebe. ¡°Mom, are you sure if I marry Phoebe, I can get a child from her?¡± dwin stared sharply at his mother, his soft voice sounding terrifying.

    ¡°Of course. I¡¯m very sure that Phoebe will soon give you a child because she¡¯s a normal woman. The fact that she already has a child means she¡¯s fertile,¡± his mother confidently replied.

    ¡°¡®Having had¡¯ a child doesn¡¯t mean she can have another one. And ¡®not having had¡¯ a child doesn¡¯t mean she ¡®can¡¯t¡¯ have one,¡± dwin replied, his eyes fixed on his mother¡¯s face. ¡°What if it turns out I¡¯m the one who can¡¯t produce offspring? What if I¡¯m the one who¡¯s defective?¡± dwin asked cynically, causing his mother to widen her eyes. The middle-aged woman¡¯s body tensed up. ¡°If I can¡¯t give you descendants, are you nning to give me another Phoebe whom I can use as just another woman, impregnate her, and then leave her when I can¡¯t give you a grandchild?¡±

    ¡°dwin, mind yournguage!¡± Julie Hampton scolded angrily. Her son¡¯s vulgar words made her angry. Meanwhile, dwin himself felt no shame at all for saying such harsh words. Moreover, everyone present in that ce were adults, including Abigail even though she wasn¡¯t married yet.

    ¡°Why, Mom? Did I say something wrong? Weren¡¯t you the one who considered Phoebe as a baby-making machine?¡± dwin stared at Phoebe, who now returned his gaze sharply. ¡°via, Phoebe, and any other women you n to present to me are nothing more than baby-making machines in your eyes. Because all you care about is the birth of an heir, no matter which woman your grandchildes from. Regardless of whether she¡¯s suitable for me or if I love her. Am I wrong?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t care about whatever is in your mind. What matters is, you have to marry Phoebe. Besides, via has already left and chosen to divorce you,¡± Julie Hampton rejected coldly.

    dwin rose, grabbing the paper from his brother¡¯s hand and tearing it in front of everyone. ¡°via never divorced me because this document will never reach the court. And if you want me to marry Phoebe? Fine, dwin, I¡¯ll marry her,¡± he responded, stunning Abigail, who looked at her uncle in disbelief, just like her parents. Unlike Phoebe, Penelope Madsen, and Julie Hampton, who were astonished with joy. ¡°But, there¡¯s something Phoebe must sign before we get married.¡±

    ¡°Whatever it is,¡± Julie Hampton replied happily. The fact that dwin had changed his mind and was willing to marry Phoebe already made her happy.

    dwin left the room, heading towards the front door. The sound of the car rm went off as he automatically unlocked it. dwin then returned with a brown envelope in his hand. ¡°Sign it now, or not at all. Because I won¡¯t give a second chance,¡± he said, handing the envelope to Phoebe.

    Phoebe eagerly opened the envelope. However, her happy expression turned pale instantly before turning into a deep red of anger.

    ¡°Why? Changed your mind?¡± dwin asked challengingly.

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m marrying you for your money?¡± The woman sounded offended. dwin just shrugged.

    Julie Hampton reached for the paper in Phoebe¡¯s hand. She grabbed her reading sses and read it carefully. Her expression mirrored Phoebe¡¯s, but it didn¡¯t reach the level of Phoebe¡¯s anger. Abigail then grabbed the paper and read it.

    Somehow, the points made Abigail cheer inwardly. If it were up to her, she would happily jump for joy and proudly kiss her uncle at that moment. The letter contained dwin¡¯s wishes as the first party to marry Phoebe under the condition that:

    ¨C dwin would only provide financial support for her ¡®NEEDS.¡¯ Not her desires.

    ¨C dwin will rent a house for Phoebe. Meanwhile, Phoebe is prohibited from stepping foot in dwin¡¯s private areas, including his house, apartment, hospital workspace, or craft workshop.

    ¨C Phoebe is not entitled to any ie from dwin outside of her job as a doctor. All of dwin¡¯s ie, efforts, and wealth are already under via¡¯s name as hiswful wife.

    ¨C Phoebe is not entitled to inquire about dwin¡¯s personal matters or contest any of his decisions.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¨C If Phoebe vites these terms, dwin will annul the marriage. There will be no marital property division, regardless of what happens next in their marriage.

    And other points Abigail knew were highly disadvantageous to Phoebe. Imagine, what the woman truly aimed for couldn¡¯t be obtained from dwin. Her dreams seemed shattered in an instant with just a signature.

    ¡°You¡¯re ying games with marriage, dwin,¡± Abigail¡¯s father reprimanded.

    ¡°I¡¯m only doing what our mother wants, Brother. Our mother has already turned my marriage into a game, so why can¡¯t I do the same? I¡¯m just trying to be a good son to our mother. Is that wrong?¡± His sarcastic reply made Julie Hampton turn pale. ¡°So? Sign now or not at all. If you agree and sign it, tomorrow you could be dwin Hampton¡¯s second wife.¡± dwin grabbed the paper from Abigail¡¯s hand and handed it to Phoebe¡¯s face.

    Kindly, Abigail also handed her pen to Phoebe. The woman snatched the pen roughly. ¡°Wait,¡± Abigail said before Phoebe signed the document. ¡°Uncle?¡± Abigail looked up at her uncle. dwin turned. ¡°Isn¡¯t there a time limit included in the document for Aunt Phoebe?¡± She inquired.

    ¡°A time limit? What time limit?¡± Penelope asked sharply.

    ¡°Of course, your time limit for pregnancy. Didn¡¯t grandma give via a year to get pregnant? Surely that time was long enough considering via¡¯s condition. But for you, because you¡¯re healthy, what about six months?¡± He challenged Phoebe. Phoebe immediately signed the document quickly before Abigail¡¯s crazy idea could be realized by dwin.

    dwin smirked mockingly, grabbing the paper and putting it in the brown envelope. ¡°I don¡¯t think that¡¯s necessary, Abby,¡± dwin replied. ¡°I assure you, she won¡¯t conceive my child anytime soon.¡± He answered casually. ¡°Alright, we¡¯ll get married tomorrow. I¡¯ll prepare everything, and you just need to prepare yourself,¡± dwin said with a sweet smile on his face. ¡°And yes, also prepare yourself to move. Because I¡¯ve already rented a house for you and your daughter.¡± dwin rose from his seat and looked at Abigail as if asking whether his niece woulde with him or not. And of course, Abigail stood up and chose to leave her parents¡¯ house with dwin.

 Chap 76

    As promised, dwin arrived at Phoebe¡¯s house the next day with Abigail. Somehow, Phoebe¡¯s house had been transformed with quitevish decorations. It seemed Penelope didn¡¯t want her daughter¡¯s wedding to go unnoticed by others. Neighbors had already gathered when dwin and Abigail¡¯s car pulled into Phoebe¡¯s driveway.

    Julie Hampton was already there, as were Abigail¡¯s parents. Antony and ire were absent because dwin hadn¡¯t informed them about his marriage to Phoebe. He also hadn¡¯t informed his other brothers.

    Looking at the decorations in Madsen¡¯s home, dwin couldn¡¯t guess how much Phoebe had spent on everything, but he didn¡¯t care. His wedding with via-though it had been a simple affair at the hospital without decorations or guests-had been far more beautiful and meaningful to dwin.

    dwin exchanged marriage vows, greeted by the guests. Phoebe, appearing in a beautiful wedding gown and wless makeup, didn¡¯t even impress dwin. When he married via, his wife hadn¡¯t even had time to dress up, let alone wear fancy clothes. But in dwin¡¯s eyes, there was no woman more beautiful than her, making him reluctant to look away.

    The ceremony proceeded like any other wedding. Family photos, adorned with Phoebe¡¯s family¡¯sughter, didn¡¯t move him. There was no warmth or anticipation-filled heart in this marriage. Unlike his marriage to via, which he felt was more beautiful than what he was experiencing now.

    They asked dwin to pose by kissing Phoebe¡¯s forehead, but he coldly refused. Unlike when he married via, dwin kissed the girl¡¯s entire face without being asked.

    ¡°Sorry, I can¡¯t.¡± dwin¡¯s rejection clearly stunned the photographer and some people with his attitude, although dwin felt he had done it as politely as he could.

    They were then asked to sit in the bridal chairs because whatever it was, a show and speech would be given. However, dwin once again refused, even though the chairs were magnificent and lookedfortable, quite different from the chair he sat in next to the patient¡¯s bed when he married via the other day.

    ¡°Sorry, I can¡¯t stay because I have to return to the hospital. I have a surgery scheduled for today,¡± he said tly. dwin bid farewell to his mother and also to his brother and sister-inw. Intentionally, he allowed Phoebe, Penelope, and Julie to watch his departure, holding back their anger and embarrassment because dwin believed there would be many questions from the guests about the reason for his departure on what should have been an important day. Important for Phoebe and Julie, but not for dwin.

    Clearly, dwin wasn¡¯t going to make things easy for the people who hurt him. Just as they made dwin suffer, he would do the same. Maybe even more than that.

    ¡°I really admire you, Aunty, and your mom too. In less than twenty-four hours, you managed to arrange an event like this,¡± Abigail said sincerely. The decorations were simple, but they looked beautiful. Unfortunately, the beauty of the decorations didn¡¯t make the newlyweds happy.

    Abigail heard whispers from the neighbors questioning the confusion of dwin and Phoebe¡¯s marriage. A sudden wedding without the usual bridal procession. No invitations and now the groom has disappeared.

    ¡°Oh yes, Aunty. Here,¡± Abigail handed the keys and a piece of paper to Phoebe. ¡°These are the keys and the address of the house Uncle dwin rented for you and your daughter. You don¡¯t need to bother bringing a lot of stuff other than clothes. Because the furniture in the house isplete. Uncle even arranged a housekeeper to help with household chores.¡± She said, only to be met with angry stares from Penelope and Phoebe. Abigail chose to ignore them and left, iming she had a job she couldn¡¯t leave.

    A few hourster, after swallowing her disappointment and enduring the questioning looks and spiteful whispers of the neighbors, Phoebe finally persuaded her mother and brought her daughter to the address given by Abigail.

    Phoebe gazed at the house in front of her with amazement. The house couldn¡¯t be called simple, but it wasn¡¯t a luxurious mansion like Abigail¡¯s father¡¯s. Yet, it was a home suitable for a family. It had two floors and was located in a housing estate close to the hospital. Phoebe even bumped into some colleagues by chance during her journey, whether fellow doctors, nurses, or hospital staff.

    Embarrassed? Of course Phoebe was embarrassed, but she tried her best to hide it.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Phoebe was very angry right now. It was a great anger that she couldn¡¯t just let out. dwin gave her a contract that was not beneficial to her at all, and that became her own dilemma.

    How could she not be? If she refused, she would confirm the man¡¯s belief that what he was after was wealth. But epting it wasn¡¯t a good answer either, because she wouldn¡¯t gain anything from the man except for the promised monthly transfer to her ount.

    Nevertheless, Phoebe was confident she wouldn¡¯t lose.

    She was beautiful, intelligent, and cunning. There were plenty of men not interested in her, and she made sure that would apply to dwin too. What man could withstand a life without sex after experiencing its pleasures? Phoebe would seduce him. By any means, she would get dwin. And she would make him eat his words because Phoebe would make dwin kneel and make herself pregnant with his child.

    At the hospital, Jonas nced at dwin with a raised eyebrow. After a week of seeing his boss always looking gloomy, now dwin came to the hospital with a radiant face and a cheerful smile. There must be something that made him like this, but Jonas didn¡¯t want to ask. He felt more scared than doubtful.

    dwin had already taken off his surgical gown. He and Jonas had left the operating theater and were about toplete the final procedure by informing the patient¡¯s family about the surgery results. After everything was done, they walked back to their office. ¡°I¡¯m hungry. What do you think would be good to eat at this time of night?¡± dwin asked, still with his cheerful expression.

    ¡°Hmmm, how about pizza?¡±

 Chap 77

    ¡°Pizza?¡± dwin asked back, furrowing his brow, and Jonas nodded enthusiastically. dwin seemed to ponder for a moment before nodding in agreement. ¡°Okay. I¡¯ll change clothes first. Wait for me in the parking lot,¡± he ordered before walking away.

    Jonas nodded and went to the male nurse¡¯s changing room to freshen up. Just as he finished changing clothes, he heard his phone ringing, and Abigail¡¯s name appeared on the screen.

    Jonas finally knew the reason why dwin had been looking so gloomy recently. Eventually, Abigail told him everything. About via leaving suddenly and Abigail asking for his help to watch over dwin because she was worried her uncle would go crazy. But other than being quiet, there was nothing strange about dwin. Except for today.

    ¡°Is your surgery finished?¡± Abigail asked over the phone. ¡°How is he doing today?¡± She asked without preamble.

    ¡°We just finished. We¡¯re about to go home. And about Dr. dwin, he seems like a madman today. Since the start of the workday, he¡¯s been smiling to himself,¡± Jonas replied honestly. He ced the phone on top of the locker in speaker mode while he was wearing his jeans.

    ¡°Really? Hasn¡¯t he done anything crazier? If he¡¯s just smiling to himself, that¡¯s still pretty standard. What I want to know is if there¡¯s any sensational news at the hospital. Like vague announcements?¡± ¡°What do you mean by vague announcements?¡± Jonas asked back, his voice muffled as he pulled his shirt cor over his head.

    ¡°Oh, so the news hasn¡¯t reached you yet?¡± Abigail sighed dramatically. ¡°Uncle dwin just got married again,¡± she replied.

    ¡°What?!¡± Jonas unintentionally yelled. He turned off speaker mode and put the phone back to his ear. ¡°Don¡¯t joke, Abby! Who did he marry? What about via?¡± he whispered.

    ¡°With ¡®her,''¡± Abigail answered ambiguously.

    Jonas froze momentarily on his way to the parking lot. ¡°If you want to joke, don¡¯t make jokes that are too much like this, Abby. It¡¯s like you¡¯re cursing your own uncle,¡± he said, continuing his journey.

    ¡°Why should I joke? Just wait until ¡®her¡¯ starts working tomorrow. I¡¯m sure you¡¯ll all hear the sensational news. So, before you hear it from someone else and feel betrayed by me, I¡¯m telling you first. I don¡¯t want you to have a heart attack at a young age. And about via, everything will be fine, and I¡¯m sure everything will return to normal.

    ¡°But you still have to take care of my uncle, don¡¯t let him lose his mind and do irrational things because I know ¡®her¡¯ will keep trying to conquer my uncle.¡±

    ¡°Okay, you can count on me. Don¡¯t worry, I¡¯ll take good care of your uncle,¡± Jonas said, patting his chest proudly, although he knew Abigail couldn¡¯t see him. Seeing dwin walking towards his car at the same time, Jonas decided to run up to him.

    ¡°I believe in you,¡± Abigail replied sincerely. ¡°Thanks, bro.¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t just say thanks. Give me a voucher for a free meal at your caf¨¦,¡± Jonas half-jokingly coaxed.

    ¡°You¡¯re such a freeloader.¡±

    Jonasughed, then hung up the phone after reaching dwin¡¯s car. They ordered a medium-sized pizza and ate it with arge ss of c. Their conversation flowed casually, and Jonas kept their discussion in safe territory. No mention of via or Phoebe in their conversation.

    And the next day, what Abigail had discussed earlier actually happened. The nurse group chat received a video of dwin and Phoebe¡¯s wedding.

    Whispers began to spread. Some criticized dwin for having a second wife after having such a beautiful and kind wife like via. Some even spected that this marriage happened because Phoebe was pregnant out of wedlock, considering the sudden and secretive nature of the wedding. Some medical and administrative staff purposely intercepted Jonas just to ask about the truth of the news, but Jonas chose to remain silent.

    And all themotion paled when Jonas saw Eijaz walking hurriedly, almost half-running, with an angry expression, passing him without a greeting as usual.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    Jonas¡¯s mind froze instantly. He ran to follow Eijaz¡¯s fast steps because he believed-from reading Eijaz¡¯s expression-that a showdown between the doctor and his boss was about to happen.

    And true enough, before the door to dwin¡¯s room fully closed, Jonas heard the sound of loud blows and several objects falling and even breaking, deafening the ears. Some nurses and patients who happened to be within a ten-meter radius of dwin¡¯s room suddenly stopped in their tracks and watched.

    Jonas entered the room and saw Eijaz beating dwin, who seemed to choose to surrender rather than fight back.

    ¡°You bastard! I sacrificed via for you so you could make her happy. Not to hurt her like this, let alone betray her by marrying another woman!¡± Eijaz growled amid his relentless punches.

    Jonas saw that dwin¡¯s face was already covered in blood. He tried to intervene, but was struck back and groaned as Eijaz elbowed him and resumed hitting dwin.

    Jonas refused to back down. He grabbed Eijaz¡¯s arms again, trapping him by squeezing his armpits. But Eijaz went berserk again and kicked. Panicked screams were heard, and someone approached and sat in front of dwin, trying to help him. But dwin¡¯s response instantly made Eijaz freeze.

    dwin pushed away the woman¡¯s assistance and even looked at her with disgust. ¡°dwin?¡± The woman whispered.

    ¡°I¡¯ve told you, don¡¯t approach my private area!¡± dwin hissed sharply. His gaze was so piercing that Jonas shuddered hearing it. ¡°Remember, you¡¯re just a paper wife!¡± dwin growled as he stood up and wiped his bloody lips with the back of his hand. His eyes stared at Eijaz, who was still frozen in ce. A smile formed on his face. ¡°Thanks, Bro,¡± he said, patting Eijaz¡¯s shoulder. ¡°At least you made me realize that there are still people who support via.¡± He said before entering the bathroom and locking the door from the inside, the sound of running water heard afterward.

    Eijaz freed himself from Jonas and looked at him in confusion. ¡°What is actually happening here?¡± He asked, wanting to know, but Jonas just shrugged. He didn¡¯t want to answer recklessly. So instead of making a wrongment, he chose to clean up the messy room.

    Jonas looked at the woman in a red shirt and ck knee-length skirt with a nk expression. ¡°Why are you still here? Didn¡¯t Doctor Hampton say you shouldn¡¯t be here?¡± He said sarcastically.

    Phoebe returned Jonas¡¯s gaze with equal sarcasm. ¡°Why? Is there a problem?¡± She asked back loudly. ¡°He¡¯s my husband, I have the right to be here,¡± she continued, not hiding her emotions.

    Jonas shrugged with a sneer. ¡°Well, just a reminder,¡± he replied indifferently and chose to continue his work.

    dwin emerged from the bathroom five minutester. The blood waspletely gone from his face, leaving bruises on his jaw and a torn lip corner.

    ¡°dwin?¡± Phoebe spoke up, making dwin turn towards her.

    ¡°What are you doing here?!¡± He asked coldly.

 Chap 78

    ¡°Have you forgotten the agreement you signed?¡± dwin warned. He ced his dirty smock at the bottom of the locker and grabbed a new one.

    ¡°I was worried.¡± Phoebe approached. ¡°Are you okay?¡± She tried to touch dwin, but he evaded her.

    ¡°You don¡¯t want to be a widow in less than two days, do you?¡± He asked sharply, making Phoebe wide-eyed. Her face paled, and a gasp of shock was heard from the door. Some nurses who were still there stared in shock at dwin and Phoebe alternately, as if demanding an exnation, but dwin chose to ignore them.

    ¡°Never act like a wife in front of me, because I don¡¯t need it. And don¡¯t step into my room unless your visit is work-rted,¡± he muttered. He then walked behind the desk, preparing for his work.

    ¡°What was that just now? Is that true, Doctor Hampton?¡±

    ¡°Oh my God, that¡¯s the first time I¡¯ve seen Doctor Hampton¡¯s terrifying expression like that. I never thought he could be so ruthless, but apparently¡­¡±

    ¡°So, what¡¯s the real reason they got married?¡±

    ¡°Is Doctor Madsen being treated like that too?¡±

    ¡°Why would a woman like Doctor Madsen want to be the second wife? Is she already in love with Doctor Hampton? Or are there no other men willing to marry her?¡±

    ¡°I wonder if Doctor Hampton¡¯s attitude towards his first wife is just as cruel? Is that why we don¡¯t see his wife now?¡±

    ¡°I didn¡¯t know Doctor Hampton could be so harsh, even though he¡¯s always been very friendly. But even when he¡¯s harsh, he still looks very handsome.¡±

    Those were thements Jonas read in the group chat as he apanied Eijaz and dwin for lunch after they called a truce. He didn¡¯tment at all, neither in the group chat nor in their conversation. He himself was confused about his purpose there. One thing was certain, silence was the right choice for him at the moment.

    ¡°So, can you exin to me what actually happened between you two?¡± Eijaz asked after finishing his meal.

    dwin recounted everything that happened between him, Phoebe, and via to Eijaz. About their marriage that didn¡¯t receive his mother¡¯s blessing. About his mother preferring Phoebe because she was believed to be able to give him offspring. Also about the agreement via made with his mother. Lastly, about his marriage contract with Phoebe.

    Jonas again became a mere listener, but now all the questions filling his mind had been answered. Although Abigail had discussed this, she only told half the story, and that minimal information irritated Jonas.

    Eijaz seemed enraged. Anger was evident on his handsome face. How could it not, if the woman he loved and willingly gave to another man to be happy ended up being hurt, it surely made him furious.

    ¡°Now what? Aren¡¯t you trying to find her and bring her back?¡± Eijaz asked. There was a hint of mockery in his voice.

    dwin shook his head. ¡°via doesn¡¯t want to be found. It¡¯s not that I¡¯m not trying, but I choose to trust her. And I¡¯m sure she¡¯lle back someday when she feels it¡¯s right.¡±

    ¡°Do you just give up like that?¡± Eijaz snapped.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m behaving like this because I¡¯m giving up?¡± dwin countered skeptically. ¡°I¡¯m doing all this because it¡¯s what she asked for. She asked me to trust her just like she trusts me.¡± dwin didn¡¯t mention the issue of the diary to Eijaz. The diary that depicted the girl¡¯s feelings for him over the past seven years.

    No, the diary belonged to her and via deliberately left it for him, which meant it wasn¡¯t meant for dwin to unt to others, especially to Eijaz, who was clearly his toughest rival.

    dwin smiled as he remembered via¡¯s heartfelt words for him. Yes, via poured out all her feelings, grievances, and love for him in that diary as if the diary itself was dwin. Now dwin knew all the secrets his wife had been holding back. Embarrassment, sadness, happiness, he felt all those emotions as he read through his wife¡¯s diary, page by page.

    ¡°I love her as much as she loves me,¡± dwin returned to the present and looked at Eijaz firmly. ¡°I know her departure wasn¡¯t without reason. She wanted me to prove to people that she¡¯s valuable to me. And I¡¯m doing that. Proving to everyone that she¡¯s the only one I want,¡± dwin answered emphatically. ¡°It may sound clich¨¦, or maybe you can¡¯t understand how we work. But I understand via, very well. Just like she understands me,¡± dwin replied.

    ¡°But what if she doesn¡¯te back? What if your assumption is wrong? What if she actually wants you to look for her?¡± Eijaz asked.

    dwin just smiled. ¡°She wille back. And if she wanted me to search for her, then she wouldn¡¯t have said that she ¡®will return.¡¯ And my answer would remain the same. Even if she never returns, my heart will forever belong to her.¡±

    Jonas could only shake his head in silence. So did Eijaz.

    Love truly makes a stone look like a cake. Smart heads be foolish. And it makes perfect people appear wed in the eyes and ears of others. But Jonas didn¡¯tment.

    Love has different versions for everyone. Some choose to endure even when it feels painful. Some choose to step back to heal. And some choose to move forward, ignoring everything as long as they can get what they want. Hmm, love, obsession, and pain always seem to go hand in hand.

    But whatever it is, Jonas can only pray for the best for both of them. He always believes that good people will end up with good people. So if a good person ends up with a bad person, then that good person is tested to make the bad person be good. Although Jonas would prefer to say that the ¡®good person is just having a stroke of bad luck¡¯.

    Finally, there is no more conflict between Eijaz and dwin. Eijaz chooses to remain silent even though there are many words he wants to say. And now they behave as if the events of this morning were just worthless advertisements. Not worthy of being seen, let alone remembered.

 Chap 79

    One month has passed since dwin and Phoebe¡¯s wedding, and ever since then, everyone at the hospital knows that dwin and Phoebe¡¯s rtionship isn¡¯t doing well.

    dwin now has a bad reputation in everyone¡¯s eyes because he is believed to have betrayed via. Some even say that from the start, dwin had a secret rtionship with Phoebe and was tempted to marry via because she was wealthier than Phoebe. And dwin doesn¡¯t care at all about the gossip from those who dislike him, and he doesn¡¯t try to set the record straight because he doesn¡¯t want to bother changing his image just for the sake of reputation. Let people say what they think; his closest ones know why dwin married Phoebe.

    It¡¯s all for via, the woman he loves. And until now, he hasn¡¯t received any news from via. While Abigail, ire, and Antony never tell him anything. But dwin is sure, even though via doesn¡¯t contact him, she will definitely reach out to her parents. Because however, via loves them both deeply. dwin chooses to spend his time keeping busy, whether it¡¯s at the hospital, the office, or the furniture workshop.

    He devotes his remaining time to pursue his hobbies. Yes, dwin chooses to delve into the furniture industry not only for the profits but also because he enjoys creating something. It¡¯s like if Antony enjoys building a house, then via would decorate it, and dwin would make the decorations. Initially, making furniture was just a hobby for him to pass the time. But after getting to know Antony, Altezza, and Gian Quirino, he seemed to gain support, deepening his hobby even further, and eventually, in thest eight years, his hobby has be profitable. Increasing his financial coffers, and of course, this sess is inseparable from his coboration with his inws¡¯ family.

    dwin wiped his sweaty forehead. Too focused on the noisy machinery filling the room, he didn¡¯t even notice anyone else there. Straightening his back, the machine still buzzing, he saw Abigail standing, hands folded in front of her chest. Turning off the machine, dwin took off his safety sses and moved to relieve the ache in his lower back from bending too much.

    ¡°What¡¯s up?¡± he asked, his tone not pleased. Abigail¡¯s presence meant there was a new problem for him. It¡¯s not that dwin considered Abigail a troublemaker, but his niece was more like the harbinger of trouble, especially for dwin.

    Abigail sighed. ¡°Grandma asked us to have dinner at her ce,¡± she replied curtly, as if confirming dwin¡¯s thoughts from a few seconds ago.

    ¡°Hmm,¡± was dwin¡¯s only response before he put his sses back on and restarted his saw, finishing the wood pieces in front of him.

    At four-thirty, dwin was on his way to Abigail¡¯s parents¡¯ house. Turns out, the girl hade to dwin¡¯s workshop apanied by her assistant, which was a plus for dwin because that way he could ask his niece to drive his car during rush hour while he could rest his eyes for a moment.

    ¡°What do you think will happenter?¡± he asked when the traffic light turned red. dwin, fully leaning back in his passenger seat, chose to remain silent. ¡°There¡¯s bound to be more drama,¡± he answered because dwin still didn¡¯t speak up.

    ¡°How¡¯s ¡®her¡¯ doing?¡± dwin asked softly. Abigail was now driving again.

    ¡°Huh? What?¡± Abigail asked back. She didn¡¯t hear her uncle¡¯s question clearly because a motorcycle with a loud exhaust overtook them.

    ¡°How¡¯s via? Is she okay?¡± he tried to sound indifferent even though his chest felt tight from longing.

    Abigail grinned. ¡°She¡¯s fine. Why don¡¯t you just ask me where she is right now?¡± Abigail teased, her eyes ncing yfully at dwin. dwin snorted. ¡°If you ask, I¡¯ll answer and im that I said it identally.¡± Abigail replied with a mischievous grin on her face.

    ¡°Hmm. identally on purpose,¡± mocked dwin. But the man shook his head slowly. For the time being, he wanted to let his wife be free out there. He wanted to let his wife rest from all the troubles that have been tormenting them. ¡°For me, knowing that she¡¯s alright is enough,¡± he answered honestly.

    ¡°Uncle, aren¡¯t you angry?¡±

    dwin turned. ¡°Angry? Why would I be?¡±

    Abigail shrugged. ¡°Everything. I mean, aren¡¯t you angry at via for just leaving you like that?¡±

    dwin shook his head. ¡°No. I¡¯m not angry. She¡¯s the one who should be angry at me for trapping her into a marriage life she tried to avoid. I was too selfish, yet I received such kindness from her.¡± dwin replied. His eyes stared nkly at the street.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Abigail squinted. Confused.

    A crooked smile formed on dwin¡¯s handsome face. ¡°Six years ago, I left her after hurting her. I decided to distance myself from her even though I knew exactly how she felt about me. I was too cowardly to even promise her anything. Meanwhile, she? She left me with a message that she would return. Isn¡¯t that much better? She made sure that no matter what, she woulde back to me.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯ve decided to wait?¡±

    ¡°Hmm..¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not going after her?¡±

    dwin shook his head again. ¡°I trust her. No matter how long it takes, I¡¯ll wait for her. Right now, I imagine via is vacationing in some remote ce where there¡¯s nomunication device to connect us.¡± He answered, and that was the end of their conversation because they had arrived in front of Abigail¡¯s parents¡¯ house. dwin¡¯s familiar car was already parked there.

    dwin and Abigail walked side by side. As they entered the house, they saw Julie Hampton gently rubbing Phoebe¡¯s back. Her gestures seemed to beforting.

    dwin and Abigail greeted, but neither of them cared to acknowledge or greet Phoebe. They didn¡¯t bother hiding their dislike for her.

    Abigail chose to approach her siblings, while dwin¡¯s steps were halted by his mother¡¯s call just as Abigail¡¯s father returned from his office.

    ¡°Yes, Ma?¡± dwin responded, returning to his mother and choosing to sit in the farthest chair from his mother and her second wife.

    ¡°How long are you going to keep behaving like this?¡± His mother asked sharply. dwin raised an eyebrow as he looked at his mother.

    ¡°What do you mean by that? Behaving like what?¡± He asked, not understanding.

    ¡°How long are you going to keep ignoring Phoebe like this?¡± His mother sounded annoyed.

    dwin smiled sarcastically. ¡°Ignoring?¡± he asked cynically. dwin nced between his mother and Phoebe. ¡°Ignoring like how you mean, Mama? I just transferred the monthly allowance yesterday, isn¡¯t that enough?¡± He said sarcastically.

    His mother sighed. ¡°You know that¡¯s not what I¡¯m asking, dwin,¡± she scolded him again.

    ¡°What else, Ma? Why do you have to keep meddling in their marital affairs?¡± Abigail¡¯s father asked wearily. His wife came with a cold drink in her hand, which Abigail¡¯s father epted with a murmured thank you.

    ¡°It¡¯s been a month, and dwin hasn¡¯t even touched Phoebe,¡± his mother announced with a voice full of frustration. dwin, now the used, chose to lean back, folding his arms across his chest, his right leg resting on his left thigh.

    ¡°And?¡± dwin asked tly. Rafka and his wife looked at dwin with confusion.

    ¡°You haven¡¯t even visited the house you rented for her,¡± his mother continued.

    ¡°And?¡± dwin asked with the same t tone.

    ¡°dwin!¡± His mother eximed. Her anger was no longer containable.

    dwin stared coldly at his mother. ¡°Ma, let me rify everything. What you want from me is to marry Phoebe and provide for her, right? And I¡¯ve done that for you. I gave her a home, even if it¡¯s just a rented one, and I¡¯ve also fairly given her my sry because I still have to fulfill via¡¯s rights. So what else?¡±This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    ¡°Touch her? I never promised you that I would touch her, and I never promised to give you grandchildren from her. Never at all. So stop forcing me to do something I don¡¯t like because I¡¯ve already sinned enough by entering into this marriage.¡±

    ¡°If that¡¯s the case, lessen your sins. Be a full husband to Phoebe,¡± his mother pleaded.

    ¡°A full husband? Do you mean by sleeping with her?¡±

 Chap 80

    dwin retorted harshly, causing his mother to widen her eyes. ¡°Sorry, Mama. For me, my wife is only one, and that¡¯s via. The only woman I love and want to touch is via, not her,¡± he said, nodding his head towards Phoebe. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t even be tempted even if Phoebe were naked and spread in front of me,¡± he said insultingly. Phoebe, Julie, and Abigail¡¯s parents were shocked by dwin¡¯s harsh words.

    ¡°dwin!¡± Abigail¡¯s father reprimanded.

    dwin turned his head to look at his eldest brother. He knew his words were impolite, but he acted indifferent because dwin was tired of all this drama.

    ¡°What¡¯s up, Brother? Just say what you want to say. Since I¡¯m already here, why don¡¯t we contact Harry and ask him too?¡±

    ¡°Why involve Harry?¡± His mother asked confusedly.

    ¡°So you can ask him how he would feel if you offered the same choice you gave me to him when his wife didn¡¯t get pregnant within a year!¡±

    ¡°Ask Harry if he¡¯s willing to leave his beloved wife and marry another woman that you choose for him! Ask Harry¡¯s wife if she¡¯s okay with letting her husband have another wife without divorcing her! Why are you only doing this wicked deed to me?!¡± dwin¡¯s voice rose with anger. ¡°Why didn¡¯t you do the same thing to Harry? Why didn¡¯t you give me and via the same chance during the time you gave to Harry and his wife? You let them stay together even though it took five years for them to have a child. But why can¡¯t you do that for me and via?! Don¡¯t ever ask me to touch her. Just seeing her makes me feel like a defective man!¡± He hissed.

    ¡°dwin!¡± His mother eximed again, her voice filled with pain.

    ¡°Why? Do you want to keep forcing me? Why don¡¯t you just lock me up with her in a room and install CCTV inside. You¡¯ll see what happens between us. No matter how hard she tries to seduce me, I¡¯ll remain impotent towards her. It¡¯s different when I¡¯m with via. Just seeing her smile is enough to arouse me.¡± dwin¡¯s vulgar words made everyone feel embarrassed. Especially Phoebe, she felt truly humiliated by all of dwin¡¯s words, but dwin didn¡¯t care.

    ¡°dwin!¡± Abigail¡¯s father reprimanded.

    ¡°What else, Brother? What I¡¯m saying is the truth. Aren¡¯t you like that too?¡± dwin¡¯s sudden question made Abigail¡¯s father blush. ¡°Just imagining via¡¯s smile is enough to make me instantly aroused. While seeing her,¡± dwin nced briefly at Phoebe before turning his attention back to his brother and shaking his head, ¡°I feel nothing.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Lies! You say that because you¡¯ve never tried it,¡± Phoebe¡¯s voice was now heard. Her tears seemed to have dried up.

    dwin snorted. ¡°I wouldn¡¯t even want to try it,¡± he replied disgustedly.

    ¡°dwin?!¡± Julie eximed, exasperated.

    ¡°What else, Mama! Do I need to consume Viagra to prove it?¡± He challenged. ¡°Even with high doses, dwin would rather endure the pain of suppressing his desire and soak in an ice bath than have sex with her,¡± he continued.

    Julie Hampton bowed her head in despair. Tears fell on her aging face, but traces of her beauty still lingered. ¡°Why, dwin? Why are you like this?¡±

    ¡°Why what?¡± dwin retorted. ¡°Mama, you¡¯re asking the wrong question. The question you should be asking is ¡®Because of Whom¡¯. Because of whom I¡¯ve be like this,¡± he said tly, making Mrs. Julie tense.

    ¡°dwin¡­¡± Julie whispered softly.

    ¡°What else do you want me to do now, Ma? Do you want me to lick her feet? Fine, I¡¯ll do it.¡± dwin rose from his seat, crossed the table, and approached where his mother and Phoebe were sitting. He kneeled in front of Phoebe and reached for her foot, but his mother pushed his shoulder. ¡°What else?!¡± dwin snapped angrily. The rush of emotions in his heart felt excruciating. His breaths became short.

    ¡°I don¡¯t want you to do that!¡±

    ¡°Then what?¡± dwin looked at his mother frustratedly. ¡°You want dwin to be nice to her? Sorry, I can¡¯t,¡± he replied with a shake of his head.

    ¡°Why won¡¯t you give me a chance?¡± Phoebe screamed. dwin, who was now standing, looked in her direction. ¡°What am Ickingpared to via? I love you too,¡± she shouted.

    ¡°You¡¯re asking me?¡± He asked sarcastically, pointing to his chest. ¡°Me?¡± He repeated, and Phoebe nodded. ¡°Do you want me to answer that honestly?¡± dwin asked sharply. Phoebe looked up, giving her full attention to dwin. dwin smirked sardonically, his gaze piercing sharply at Phoebe. ¡°There¡¯s only one sentence I can say about via. She is far superior to you in every way. And there are too many paragraphs that could exin that sentence,¡± he snorted.

    ¡°And what about you? Love? What kind of love do you have for me? It¡¯s not love. Nor obsession. But greed. You can look up the meaning of greed in the dictionary yourself.¡±

    ¡°Real love doesn¡¯t hurt the one you love. Real love is letting the one you love be happy. But you? You only bring suffering. You made me lose the one I love, you made me lose half of my life. You call that love? You¡¯re even slowly killing me. Here.¡± dwin pointed to his chest.

    ¡°dwin¡­¡± his mother uttered softly.

    ¡°Yes, Mama? What else? Still not satisfied with slowly killing me?¡± dwin retorted. ¡°Do I need tomit suicide in front of you to make you satisfied?¡± The question was met with a p. A sensation of heat spread, leaving a reddish mark on dwin¡¯s face.

    ¡°Watch your words! I never taught you to be like this.¡±

    dwinughed. Not a joyfulugh, but a forced one that sounded painful to the ears. ¡°Be like what? Be petty?¡± dwin taunted again. ¡°I actually learned all of this from you,¡± he used. ¡°Didn¡¯t you ever teach us to repay kindness with kindness? And I¡¯m doing just that. Marrying Phoebe is something you consider good. And not touching Phoebe is the kindness I can give to you.¡±

    ¡°dwin¡­¡±

    ¡°Mama, deep down in your small heart, you know what and who I need. But you choose to turn a blind eye because of your narrow-mindedness. You act selfishly and choose to ignore my feelings and via¡¯s as well. So I choose to be selfish too and choose to ignore your feelings. Fair, isn¡¯t it?¡±

    Julie Hampton slumped, drowned in her tears. But dwin paid no attention to her.

    ¡°Stop calling me here if you only want to discuss my issues and Phoebe¡¯s. Because no matter how long, I will never grant your dreams.¡± dwin then left the family room and chose to leave even before dinner started.

    Abigail remained silent, frozen in her ce. She turned off the screen that had been on since earlier. She felt sorry for her grandmother, but she couldn¡¯t fully me dwin. dwin and via deserved to be happy in their own way. Especially since they had never hurt anyone, so why should they be hurt now.

    Abigail left the house quietly. She felt ufortable staying there any longer. Finally, she chose to walk, heading towards another residence that felt like a second home to her.

    ire weed her as usual. The cloudiness Abigail brought with her seemed to diminish at least a little. ¡°What¡¯s happened to you?¡± ire asked as Abigail sat on the sofa with a downcast face. Antony came in with Francisca in his arms. The little girl was whimpering because she didn¡¯t feel well.

    Without much talk, Abigail handed her phone over after opening the video she had recorded earlier. Antony stood behind his wife and watched. Anger surged within Antony suddenly; his hand even clenched tightly, the veins in his jaw bulging. But not long after, he felt his heart calm down.

    He didn¡¯t regret epting dwin¡¯s proposal because it turned out that the man¡¯s love for his daughter remained unwavering. Antony was confident that dwin and via¡¯s marriage would endure even though via was currently missing.

    Missing ording to those who wished her departure. And also missing in dwin¡¯s eyes because his daughter wanted her to be. But for their family, via was simply ¡®away.¡¯ And that meant she woulde back.

 Chap 81

    via gazed at a magnificent building in front of her. The building, located in Istanbul, Turkey, waspleted in 1616. The towering forty-three-meter towers looked majestic with their five-meter diameter concrete columns.

    ¡°Beautiful,¡± that was the word that came to her mind as via observed the sturdy structure. Passing through flower gardens and lush trees, via made her way to the ablution area.

    Silk carpets lined the mosque¡¯s floor. Blue ceramics adorned its walls. The ceramics decorating the mosque walls featured motifs of leaves, tulips, roses, grapes, pomegranates, or geometric patterns. With two hundred and sixty windows inside the mosque, imagine the tranquility and coolness of this house of God.

    An essential element of this mosque was the marble mihrab carved with stctite decorations and double incritive panels above it. The surrounding walls were filled with ceramics. The mosque was designed so that even in its fullest condition, everyone inside could still see and hear the Imam.

    via, visiting the beautiful country, now felt moved by the joyful news she had just received. Unconsciously, via stood up, tears streaming down her face, feeling grateful for all the kindness of her God after all the trials she had endured.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    A young woman, perhaps disturbed by her sobbing, approached. ¡°Iyi misin?¡± The woman asked in Turkish, which means ¡®Are you okay?¡¯

    via smiled and nodded. She replied that she was okay in the samenguage, albeit hesitantly. via wasn¡¯t very fluent in Turkish, but little by little, she knew some from learning from her uncle.

    The woman then asked where via was from. via said where she was from. ¡°Can you speak English?¡± She asked after feeling quite dizzy with her father¡¯snguage. The woman smiled kindly and nodded.

    ¡°So, are you here for vacation?¡± The woman asked again.

    ¡°Yes. Visiting some ces and learning at the same time,¡± via answered honestly.

    They continued strolling around the Blue Mosque. Ayesha, the woman¡¯s name now acting as her impromptu guide, took via around and told her about the history of the Blue Mosque.

    Ayesha then took her to a nearby restaurant from the Blue Mosque. After finishing their meal, via bid farewell after sharing contacts with the friendly woman.

    via entered the Aristocrat Hotel, its outer part dominated by silver ash with white window leaves. Greeted warmly by the receptionist, via smiled back and entered the elevator to her room floor. Her uncle Erhan was already inside, busy with his work.

    Yes, this uncle of hers asionally visited Turkey for family business matters in the hotel and culinary fields.

    ¡°Enjoy your walk?¡± Her uncle asked without raising his head. Square sses adorned his sharp nose. This uncle¡¯s age wasn¡¯t far from ire, via¡¯s stepmother, and also a close friend of his wife Altezza, Adaline. The woman married to Gian Quirino was a model who chose to take a break from her world and now switched professions to be a clothing designer.

    via ced her bag on the queen-sized bed and nodded. ¡°Don¡¯t tire yourself too much,¡± her uncle advised, to which via responded with a smile.

    ¡°Uncle,¡± via uttered softly. Erhan now looked up and gazed at his niece. He took off his sses and gave via his full attention.

    ¡°Yes?¡± He asked.

    ¡°Do you think I did something wrong?¡± Gian leaned back on the sofa. His right leg propped on his left, now swinging, while his hands sped together, resting on his thigh and knee. ¡°Which part do you think was wrong?¡± Her uncle asked back.

    via sighed. ¡°Everything,¡± she whispered. Gian smiled, patted the left side of the sofa, and asked his niece toe closer. via obeyed, moving closer and entering her uncle¡¯s embrace.

    ¡°You¡¯re a grown woman. You surely know what you believe is wrong and what you believe is the best choice. I epted the reasons you gave me when you came to me, and I hope dwin does too. But,¡± he paused. ¡°running away is clearly not an answer. Marriage isn¡¯t always about the husband and wife. In other words, when you marry him, you indirectly have to ept his family as well, and vice versa.

    ¡°I am proud of you. Proud of your resilience and patience in facing the trials that God has given to you both. But you also have to remember that when you want to calm yourself, there are others who need calming too. When you want to fight, there are other people who also need to be fought for.

    ¡°I¡¯m not defending anyone. What Julie Hampton did to you wasn¡¯t right, even though her reasons might seem understandable. But instead of running away, it¡¯s better for you to approach her and try to persuade her. It will indeed hurt with every rejection and coldness she shows. But eventually, I believe everything will get better.

    ¡°You should show your grandmother that you¡¯re the one who deserves to be by dwin¡¯s side. If ¡®that woman¡¯ should be the one to leave your life, it¡¯s your grandmother and also dwin.

    ¡°Believe me, the rottenness will eventually be smelled. Insincerity will bear bitter fruit in the end. And¡­¡± Gian said with a tighter embrace. ¡°you must always believe that the goodness we sow will also reap goodness. Don¡¯t expect repayment from humans, because God has promised that He will repay it. If not now, then in the hereafter, our goodness will bear sweet fruit.¡±

    via returned her uncle¡¯s embrace tightly, hugging his abdomen and leaning against his chest. Gian and Altezza had be another father figure for via without discing Antony. The three men were individuals whom via admired and cherished. Their love for their wives and children was something via always wanted in her own life. And via was confident that dwin possessed what they had: love, affection, and attention.

    That evening, via stood in front of her hotel room window. Her uncle invited her back to his residence, but via refused because she wanted to be alone. She ¡®needed¡¯ to be alone.

    via gazed at the traffic below. The twilight lights twinkled into her room. Beautiful. If only her husband were here, she wanted to share the good news with him.

 Chap 82

    It had been three months since via ran away. The first week of her departure, she spent hiding in her private residence. She didn¡¯t meet anyone except Abigail. Her close friend and cousin always met her, apanying her.

    Although they didn¡¯t talk much, via was grateful for her understanding. Then, in the third week, via contacted her uncle and asked him to pick her up at the airport. And here she was now, in Turkey. via had been living with her uncle and aunt for two months. Visiting several ces she wanted to visit. And yesterday, via received news that Abigail was on her way to meet her. Abigail¡¯s arrival in Turkey was what made via decide not to return to her uncle¡¯s house.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    The doorbell rang, and via smiled happily. She walked to the door with enthusiasm, but the smile vanished instantly, reced by tears of joy when she saw a slender figure with dark circles under his eyes and disheveled hair standing before her. Although looking tired and disheveled, the man still appeared very charming to via.

    ¡°Honey¡­¡± he whispered before entering the man¡¯s embrace.

    dwin hugged his petite wife¡¯s body tightly as if he didn¡¯t want to let go, repeatedly kissing her head apanied by tears streaming down his cheeks.

    For three long months, he had endured longing, and finally via asked him toe after her. Without a n, without many words, dwin immediately booked the fastest flight avable. He didn¡¯t care that it was the dead of night. He didn¡¯t care about Abigail¡¯s groans of fatigue as she had just returned from a photoshoot outside the city. And he also didn¡¯t care about the patients waiting for his care.

    ¡°Come in,¡± Abigail pushed her uncle¡¯s waist. ¡°Can¡¯t you two hold off on hugging at the doorstep like this?¡± Abigail grumbled wearily. She continued to push the couple further inside with both hands. Without releasing their embrace, via guided her husband¡¯s body towards the sofa. Meanwhile, Abigaily down on the bed due to exhaustion.

    Yes, Abigail was very tired because she had just returned from a photoshoot at a location far from her home when suddenly via contacted her and asked her to convey to dwin to follow her to Turkey because via couldn¡¯t return anytime soon.

    Stupidly, Abigail didn¡¯t wait until the next day to convey this news to dwin. If only she had restrained herself and told dwin about via¡¯s request the next day, she could have given herself time to rest and recover from fatigue.

    Abigail thought dwin would wait until the next day to leave, considering he should at least prepare their necessities. But it turned out, what her uncle did was beyond expectations. The old man entered their room, changed his clothes, grabbed a bag containing only two sets of spare clothes and important documents, and pulled Abigail out to follow him.

    God, they weren¡¯t just going to another city. They were about to embark on an international journey.

    Her uncle immediately hired an online taxi service, and they headed straight to the international airport, booking ne tickets and enduring hours-long journey to Istanbul. Not to mention the nearly two-hour journey from the airport to the hotel. Abigail¡¯s bones were already shattered.

    But Abigail couldn¡¯t scold her uncle because she knew how much dwin missed via. Abigail could onlyply with his wishes. And now, she regretted the intimacy she saw between the couple, which made her feel like nothing more than a decorative pillow for the bed.

    via was still in her husband¡¯s embrace, which he hadn¡¯t released since hugging and kissing her head and entire face. The pent-up longing had finally burst. via epted all of dwin¡¯s gestures. The fear of being scolded by dwin for her sudden departure had vanished.

    ¡°Do you want something to eat?¡± via finally asked.

    Abigail groaned. She was too tired to feel hungry but didn¡¯t refuse via¡¯s offer to order food. It was eleven o¡¯clock at night when via called the hotel and requested dinner for three.

    ¡°It seems we need to rent another room,¡± dwin said after via finished her call.

    ¡°Do we have to?¡± via asked, puzzled. She felt there was no need to rent another room because she nned to take dwin and Abigail to Gian¡¯s residence tomorrow morning, but dwin nodded firmly.

    Without much talk, dwin left the room and went down to the reception area to rent another room for himself and via, while the room via rented would be given to Abigail to upy alone. dwin was sure that tomorrow-they, especially Abigail-would choose to spend time resting at the hotel rather than traveling again. dwin felt truly guilty towards Abigail for forcing his niece to leave immediately, especially when the girl was still very tired.

    dwin already held the key to the other room, deliberately asking for it to be on the same floor as via¡¯s rented room. After that, he returned to the room and saw his wife coaxing Abigail to get up from her bed and eat.

    The three of them ate together, and after everything was finished, Abigail copsed back onto the bed.

    dwin took via out of the room, walking through the corridor to their own room. dwin¡¯s rented room was slightly different from the one via had booked. If via¡¯s room had a queen-size bed, dwin¡¯s room had a king-size bed equipped with much moreprehensive facilities than what via had ordered earlier.

    As soon as the door closed, dwin hugged via again and kissed her face gently, filled with longing.

    ¡°Sweety¡­¡± via whispered.

    ¡°Never leave me again, please,¡± he pleaded, briefly kissing via¡¯s lips. ¡°I truly felt pain, here.¡± dwin reached for via¡¯s hand and ced it on his left chest. via bit her lower lip, trying to hold back tears, while dwin didn¡¯t hesitate to shed tears.

    ¡°Forgive me. I know I¡¯ve been cruel to you, but I did all this for us. I want Mom to know that you need me because I also need you so much. But I have nothing to guarantee that you can keep me.¡± He said, tears streaming down his face.

 Chap 83

    dwin hugged his wife¡¯s trembling body tightly, stroking her back and kissing the side of her head.

    ¡°I know. That¡¯s why I¡¯ve been patient. Waiting for you to contact me first, even though I was actually frustrated myself.

    ¡°I thought you would take revenge by leaving me for five years before finallying back,¡± he whispered with a smile on his face.

    via moved away from his body and looked at her husband. dwin, instead, reached for her waist again and led via to the bed.

    ¡°I once left you for five years, and I thought you would make me suffer for that long too,¡± she answered honestly. via smiled, feeling guilty.

    ¡°I did intend to do that,¡± she replied casually, which left dwin wide-eyed. But then via smirked mischievously. ¡°But turns out, I¡¯m not that strong.¡± She pulled dwin¡¯s right hand and ced it on her t stomach. Her left hand pressed the back of dwin¡¯s hand while her right hand touched dwin¡¯s jaw. ¡°We want to be close to you,¡± she whispered before kissing the corner of dwin¡¯s lips. dwin tensed, his eyes widening.

    ¡°We?¡± he asked, unsure, looking at via¡¯s face while his hand rubbed her stomach. via smiled and nodded. ¡°You¡­?¡± he asked again, and via just nodded again.

    ¡°Oh, my God,¡± he said, deeply moved as he hugged via tightly. ¡°Oh, my God, is this a miracle for us?¡± dwin kissed via¡¯s stomach, resting his head there while his hand embraced his wife¡¯s waist. via hugged her husband¡¯s shoulder and kissed his head. ¡°When did you find out about this, Darling?¡± dwin looked up. Their eyes met with teary gazes.

    via tried to divert her tears by looking at dwin¡¯s slightly long hair, which she deliberatelybed with her hands.

    ¡°Yesterday afternoon,¡± she replied softly, her voice slightly hoarse from holding back tears. ¡°I didn¡¯t know and didn¡¯t realize that I was pregnant. At first, I felt dizzy and my stomach ached. But unexpectedly, I fainted at Uncle Gian¡¯s house. Uncle called a doctor to the house, and after the examination, the doctor said there was a possibility that I was pregnant.

    ¡°I bought a pregnancy test kit, and the result indeed showed two lines. Then this morning, Uncle Gian took me to the obstetrics clinic rmended by the doctor. And I saw it, our little baby is already fourteen weeks old,¡± she replied again.

    ¡°So, does that mean?¡± dwin smiled. ¡°When you left, it means?¡± via nodded. ¡°Oh, my God¡­¡±

    ¡°Forgive me, if only I had been a little more patient then¡­¡± she whispered again.

    dwin shook his head. ¡°Don¡¯t apologize,¡± said dwin, rubbing via¡¯s stomach again. ¡°Our story has to be like this,¡± he continued, filled with emotion. ¡°My baby, keep growing and healthy in your mother¡¯s womb. Your mother and I are very happy with your presence.¡± He said and kissed via¡¯s stomach again.

    Something squeezed via¡¯s heart, and she knew it wasn¡¯t sadness or disappointment. It was happiness.

    dwin rose from his seat, climbed onto the bed, sitting with his back leaning against the stack of pillows he arranged high. He opened his arms wide, inviting via to enter his embrace.

    Without much talk, via crawled onto the bed and returned to the arms of her dearly missed husband. The one she loved so much. dwin¡¯s right hand became a cushion under via¡¯s neck, his palm tilting her head so he could kiss the top of it. Meanwhile, his left hand reached for via¡¯s body and pulled her closer.

    via¡¯s left hand was bent in front of her chest while her right hand hugged dwin¡¯s waist just as tightly. The two bodies longing for each other merged in a tight embrace with their legs intertwined.

    ¡°I love you so, so, so much, via Hampton,¡± said dwin with a voice so melodious in via¡¯s ears. via looked up, pulling her husband¡¯s face down towards hers.

    ¡°And I also love you so, so, so, so much, my husband, dwin Hampton,¡± she said without ever diverting her gaze from dwin¡¯s eyes. She wanted dwin to know that there was no doubt in her words.

    dwinughed. ¡°You don¡¯t want to lose, huh?¡± he said. via smiled. ¡®Oh God, Your creation is so beautiful and wonderful. Thank you for making her my wife. I swear to God, I will never leave her no matter what. Allow us to live together in heaven. But if we must part, let only death separate us.¡¯ dwin¡¯s prayer in his heart. Before he turned his wife¡¯s body over so shey on her back.

    dwin pinned his wife down, making sure his weight didn¡¯t burden via¡¯s stomach. Slowly, he lowered his head. He kissed via¡¯s forehead, then moved to her nose, then to her left and right cheeks. Then her chin, ending with a gentle kiss on her lips. via sped her hands around his neck, slipping her fingers through the ck hair of her husband, pulling him closer.

    Their lips met in longing. Their tongues caressed each other. It was unclear who moaned and sighed. What was certain was that both felt the pleasure of the pent-up longing they had held back for so long.

    dwin pulled via up. He took off the T-shirt and jeans that had been pressing against him, leaving himself naked. The lower part of his body was already erect and firm. Then he slowly removed his wife¡¯s clothes until she was wearing nothing.

    dwin pulled via onto hisp. via wrapped her legs around her husband¡¯s waist. They kissed again. Slowly, but it felt so arousing. dwin untied via¡¯s hair, throwing it aside.

    Just as via¡¯s fingers had slipped into his hair, dwin also slipped his fingers into his wife¡¯s long hair. They continued kissing with their hands touching each other, seeking the pleasure they had withheld for months.

    dwiny down, pulling his wife¡¯s body into his embrace. Their bodies were covered in sweat. Their breaths were still racing, and their chests were pounding so hard. Oh God, this is the beauty of marrying the one you love. dwin kissed via¡¯s head again. He gently stroked his wife¡¯s back. And it was unclear who closed their eyes first, but both of them fell asleep not long after.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

 Chap 84

    Morning approached, and the sunlight caused their warm embrace to loosen slightly. dwin¡¯s hand, still faithfully resting on his wife¡¯s stomach, moved slowly in a circr motion, eliciting a groan from via.

    ¡°Morning, honey,¡± dwin kissed via¡¯s temple. His wife wasn¡¯t fully awake yet. dwin gently pulled her chin to turn towards him and kissed her lips softly. ¡°Let¡¯s get up and shower,¡± he requested, met with a nod from via, her eyes still closed. dwin smiled, finding his wife irresistibly adorable, possibly due to the pregnancy.

    dwin pulled his left hand, which served as a pillow, and bent his elbow to use it as head support. via stilly on her back, allowing dwin to freely stroke her stomach, which wasn¡¯t yet prominently showing but already felt firm.

    ¡°Honey,¡± via caressed dwin¡¯s jaw softly. Her eyes were now fully open, no longer drowsy.

    ¡°Yes, honey?¡±

    ¡°I love you,¡± she whispered. dwin smiled, reaching for via¡¯s right hand with his own and tenderly kissing the back of her hand.

    ¡°I love you too, honey. I love you so much. Thank you for sticking around to love me,¡± he said softly, kissing his wife¡¯s forehead affectionately.

    ¡°Are you angry with me for leaving?¡± dwin shook his head. ¡°No. I¡¯ve been thinking of it as you being on vacation this whole time. So I¡¯m not angry at all, honey,¡± dwin ran his fingers through via¡¯s hair. ¡°How about we shower and then you can tell me all about what you did on your ¡®vacation¡¯?¡± He suggested, met with a nod from via.

    dwin got up from bed, reached for via¡¯s right hand, and ced it behind her knee, lifting her up and carrying her into the bathroom.

    After cleaning up, they sat on the sofa by the window. The sun in Turkey during springtime like this usually appeared around six in the morning. dwin sat in the corner of the sofa, asking via to sit beside him on his right. He requested his wife to sit sideways and lifted both her legs to drape over the sofa, while dwin bent one of his legs and pulled via¡¯s body so her back leaned against his chest.

    Still longing to express his affection, dwin hugged his wife¡¯s stomach again and stroked it gently while via leanedfortably. Inhaling the scent of her husband, she gazed at the sky outside the window.

    ¡°To be honest, I was shocked when I woke up in the morning and found you weren¡¯t there,¡± dwin began to recount. ¡°I searched every corner of the apartment for you, but I couldn¡¯t find you. Then I found that diary and thest note you wrote. At that moment, I felt scared and frustrated. Especially seeing the envelope containing divorce papers, I felt truly heartbroken.¡±

    via bowed her head, looking at her husband¡¯s hand still caressing her stomach gently. ¡°I¡¯m sorry,¡± she whispered softly.

    ¡°I¡¯m not finished,¡± dwin interjected, kissing via¡¯s cheek from behind. ¡°At first, I was angry because you left so suddenly with divorce papers after the passionate night we had. I felt worthless. I felt used. I felt betrayed.

    ¡°I was powerless, my world seemed to crumble at that moment. I thought you didn¡¯t value our marriage. I thought you pawned me off to that woman.

    ¡°Then I realized you didn¡¯t actually leave your wedding ring.¡± dwin took a deep breath and then chuckled. ¡°The pain lessened a bit. Then with newfound hope, I started reading all the contents of that diary. And I knew that you loved me deeply, just as much as I love you. Just as I don¡¯t want to lose you, you don¡¯t want to lose me either.¡±

    ¡°Because we¡¯re meant for each other,¡± via interjected, which was met with dwin¡¯s nod along with a gentle kiss.

    ¡°And that letter, I knew it was just a bait for my mother. Because if you really wanted to leave me, you wouldn¡¯t have said you¡¯de back. You should have promised to disappear forever if you truly wanted to leave me.

    ¡°Truth be told, I found it amusing. My heart bloomed instantly even though the longing couldn¡¯t be contained,¡± she continued softly.

    ¡°I felt lonely. Every night I struggled to sleep thinking about where you might be. Whether everything was okay. Whether you were safe wherever you were. All these thoughts made me restless.

    ¡°I didn¡¯t dare to ask because I was afraid. I held on, clinging to your promise that one day you woulde back to me.

    ¡°I diverted all my thoughts to work. Exhausting my body so I wouldn¡¯t have to think about you. But the truth is, every time I returned to the apartment, I still felt lonely.¡±

    ¡°I forgive you.¡±

    ¡°I forgive you, honey. Just as you forgave me after I left you six years ago. I¡¯m so grateful that you only left me for three months,¡± he said with a genuine smile. He rewarded his wife with a kiss on the cheek again. ¡°So, tell me, what have you been doing and where have you been all this time?¡±

    via ced her hand on the back of her husband¡¯s hand. She rubbed the back of his hand with her thumb. Her eyes wandered.

    ¡°I¡¯ve prepared everything once my memory returned. About all Mama¡¯s and that woman¡¯s words. But I didn¡¯t want to give up and retreat just like that. I knew everything wouldn¡¯t be easy. Especially the promise I made when I lost my memory, it weighed heavily on me.

    ¡°I secretly went for tests at the hospital. nning pregnancy programs with the doctor, and that¡¯s also one of the reasons I agreed to go on a honeymoon. Because ording to the doctor¡¯s calctions, it was my fertile period.¡±

    ¡°Why didn¡¯t you tell me? Why did you choose to fight alone?¡±

    ¡°Because I was desperate. I was afraid of giving you false hope and I was afraid my efforts would fail,¡± she whispered. ¡°I didn¡¯t want to lose you. But if I stayed, I would be forced to watch you marry that woman. You¡¯re my only hope. I hoped you wouldn¡¯t agree to the divorce petition.

    ¡°You know that when the divorce is initiated by the husband¡¯s side, the process is easier. Especially since I wasn¡¯t there, there wouldn¡¯t be any conflict in court.

    ¡°That¡¯s also why I promised toe back. Because if you didn¡¯t grant Mama¡¯s request for divorce, then you would still be my husband. And even if Mama forced you to marry that woman, you wouldn¡¯t be able to legally marry her because I didn¡¯t give permission. And that means, even if she bes your wife, in the eyes of thew, I¡¯m still your onlywful wife.¡± via smiled, looking up at her husband, studying his expression. But he seemed indifferent. ¡°I don¡¯t want her to be happy at the expense of our suffering. I don¡¯t care if she suffers, because she¡¯s the one who caused that suffering herself,¡± she answered softly.

    dwin kissed via¡¯s temple for a long time. His embrace tightened. ¡°Luckily, everything went ording to your prediction. What if I did something that didn¡¯t align with your prediction? What if I decided to grant your divorce and marry her legally?¡±

    via remained silent for a while. ¡°If that¡¯s the case, then it means your love for me all this time isn¡¯t as great as my love for you,¡± she replied sadly.

    dwin burst intoughter. He lifted via¡¯s body and ced her petite frame on hisp. His hands reached for via¡¯s hands, cing them behind his neck. Then he cupped his wife¡¯s face and looked into her eyes deeply.

    ¡°Just like you love me so deeply that you trust me so much. That¡¯s how I feel too.

    ¡°You don¡¯t know the struggle I went through to fulfill Mama¡¯s request. I even felt like a lowly person for doing something cruel to that woman.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Deep in my heart, I ask for forgiveness from God for my sins. But above all, I did all those wrongs because she truly deserved it. Because she made me suffer, and made the wife I love suffer even more,¡± he answered, kissing via¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you for trusting me so much.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m also grateful that you trusted my decision,¡± via replied.

    ¡°Then, where have you been all this time?¡± dwin returned to his initial question.

    ¡°That night, I went to my private house and stayed there for a week.¡±

    ¡°Your house?¡± dwin furrowed his brow. He had visited Antony¡¯s house and asked Ignazio about via¡¯s whereabouts. But Ignazio clearly stated that via had never stayed there. ¡°Antony¡¯s house?¡± he asked uncertainly.

    via shook her head. ¡°My house. The house I bought myself. Not an apartment or penthouse, but a countryside house that only Abigail knows the location of.¡±

    ¡°So that night, Abigail escorted you there?¡± via nodded.

    ¡°Abigail deliberately stayed over so you wouldn¡¯t suspect that she was the one taking me away. She even spent her daytime at my house and stayed at your apartment at night,¡± she continued. ¡°Two weekster, I decided toe here.¡±

    ¡°So you¡¯ve been here for two months.¡± via nodded.

    ¡°I asked Uncle Gian to pick me up at the airport. And then, I spent all my time visiting various ces and enjoying culinary delights. I spent my holidays ying with Aunt Joanna, Luca, and Sara.¡± dwin, who had been stroking his wife¡¯s long hair, simply nodded along.

    ¡°While I was here, Abigail often contacted me and told me everything that happened. She even sent me videos of your wedding, including the video of your argument with Mama a month ago.¡± via felt her husband¡¯s surprise, her back tensing. Surely, her husband didn¡¯t expect that their argument with his mother and that woman had been secretly captured by Abigail.

    ¡°The girl,¡± he whispered. via smiled.

    ¡°Then yesterday, during the event at Auntie¡¯s boutique. Suddenly, I felt dizzy and somehow fainted out of the blue. Uncle Gian immediately called the doctor and it turns out I¡¯m pregnant. I immediately contacted Abigail and asked her to request your presence here because I couldn¡¯t go back to America for the time being.¡±

    ¡°Abigail knows? About her?¡± dwin rubbed via¡¯s stomach.

    via shook her head. She lifted her body and looked at dwin. Her face blushed. ¡°I want her father to be the first to know about her presence,¡± she replied. Oh God, how adorable via is, dwin thought happily. ¡°Even though Uncle Gian was the first to know, but all this happened not because of my n.¡± Her voice was filled with guilt. dwin cupped his wife¡¯s face again. He stroked her cheek with his thumb.

    dwin gave a brief kiss on via¡¯s lips. ¡°Thank you, honey. Thank you for everything. For you, for our baby. For our marriage.¡± He then kissed his wife¡¯s lips passionately.

    dwin was about to invite his wife to return to their bed when the bedroom bell rang. Letting out a sigh with a racing breath. dwin furrowed his brow, silently asking.

    ¡°Maybe Abigail.¡± via got off her husband¡¯sp. She tidied her hair and clothes before walking to the door. She peeked through the peephole, and indeed it was Abigail.

    via opened the door and Abigail burst in. Her face looked fresh and her hair was still wet. ¡°Breakfast, then to Auntie Joanna¡¯s ce. I want Uncle to empty his boutique because I didn¡¯t bring spare clothes,¡± she demanded with a demanding tone, which was only responded to by dwin¡¯s nod of agreement.

 Chap 85

    Joanna, Gian Quirino¡¯s wife, weed via, dwin, and Abigail warmly at her luxurious boutique. Joanna, ire-via¡¯s stepmother-and Adaline, via¡¯s aunt who is also Altezza Quirino¡¯s wife, were all the same age, which meant the three women were also the same age as dwin. So, even though they weren¡¯t familiar with each other, it wasn¡¯t difficult for them tomunicate.

    Joanna used to be a model in America. Although she didn¡¯t be an international model, her achievements in America were remarkable. Joanna never created sensations or scandalous gossip to boost her market value, but due to an incident, Joanna eventually chose to retire from the modeling world and pursue her dreams in the fashion design industry.

    Abigail continuously marveled at the clothes made by her aunt via. It should be noted that one of the reasons Abigail entered the modeling world was because of Joanna.

    After Joanna married Gian Quirino, Abigail and Joanna¡¯s rtionship became even more intense, and Abigail considered Joanna as her mentor and role model because Joanna had a way of thinking that amazed Abigail. For Joanna, being a model didn¡¯t mean being a cheap woman as people assumed. Being famous didn¡¯t have toe through sensationalism or attracting wealthy men to sponsor. In the past, before choosing to settle in Italy, Joanna was also the coach and mentor for Abigail until Abigail, the tomboy, managed to wear high heels and walk on the catwalk.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    They were sitting on an L-shaped sofa. dwin sat on via¡¯s right side, with his arm around his wife¡¯s petite shoulders. Meanwhile, Joanna sat on the other corner of the sofa, observing Abigail while sipping her tea.

    ¡°How¡¯s your job going? Smooth sailing?¡± Joanna asked Abigail.

    ¡°Everything¡¯s going smoothly. I¡¯ve just signed a new contract with Chayton Design,¡± Abigail replied as her hands continued to search for the clothing she wanted to grab.

    ¡°Does that mean you¡¯ll be working with Gilbert Chayton?¡± Joanna asked to confirm.

    Abigail froze, momentarily shifting her attention from the clothes to Joanna¡¯s face. ¡°Do you know him?¡± she asked, pretending to remain neutral.

    Joanna chuckled. ¡°Who doesn¡¯t know him? Right now, he¡¯s a renowned photographer among models and fashion entrepreneurs.¡±

    Abigail smirked slightly, then refocused her attention on the neatly arranged clothes on the hangers.

    via nced at Abigail with a slightly strange look before turning to her aunt. ¡°If only you hade yesterday, I would have taken you to his brand¡¯sunch event. He opened a store here, in Istinye Park. Right near Zara. Isn¡¯t he amazing?¡± Joanna praised, causing Abigail to freeze once again. But only for a split second, so no one noticed. ¡°I just found out that he¡¯s also involved in every product photoshoot, so you¡¯ll be meeting him often.¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± was Abigail¡¯s only response.

    Then she picked up a sleeveless silk dress with a low V-neckline and a belt under the bust. ¡°Can I take this dress?¡± she asked. Joanna nodded, and Abigail went into the fitting room.

    ¡°Their rtionship hasn¡¯t made any progress yet?¡± Joanna turned to via. via understood what her aunt was asking and shook her head.

    ¡°There are too many factors making it difficult for them to be together,¡± via whispered. Joanna nodded in understanding.

    dwin, who had been sitting beside via all this time, looked at the two women bewildered. He couldn¡¯t grasp the direction of the conversation between his wife and aunt. However, he didn¡¯t want to ask, but maybeter he would ask via privately.

    After spending the whole afternoon in the boutique, in the evening Gian arrived with an SUV. Gian invited Abigail, dwin, and via to his house, and they agreed.

    They spent the dinner enjoying young goat cooked in Turkish spices along with bread and various other dishes. After the meal, they bid farewell to return to the hotel.

    dwin desired privacy, so he chose to stay at the hotel instead of epting Gian¡¯s offer to stay at his residence. Abigail opted to continue shadowing her uncle and his friend, even though she would have to sleep aler.

    ¡°How about your job?¡± via asked after they arrived at the hotel. They hadn¡¯t had a chance to discuss it yet.

    ¡°I¡¯ve requested a two-week leave, forcefully and through email,¡± he continued, noticing via¡¯s raised eyebrow. ¡°I haven¡¯t fully utilized my annual leave, so I still have plenty of days off left,¡± he replied casually.

    dwin was now wearing a white T-shirt and shorts they had bought at a traditional market.

    ¡°Are you sure there won¡¯t be any problemster?¡± via asked, concerned. dwin nodded casually as he moved to the other side of the bed, getting closer to his wife¡¯s body and embracing her petite shoulders again before kissing via¡¯s forehead. ¡°What about Abigail?¡±

    ¡°I don¡¯t know yet. Let¡¯s ask her tomorrow. For now, let¡¯s sleep. It¡¯ste, our baby might get tired.¡± His right hand gently caressed via¡¯s stomach in a circr motion.

    ¡°If you n to stay here for that long, tomorrow we can visit my grandparents. Coincidentally, they are also in this country. Would you like that?¡±

    via was referring to her father¡¯s parents, Arthur and Brianna Quirino.

    dwin smiled and epted his wife¡¯s offer with a nod.

    ¡°I¡¯ll ask Uncle Gian to lend one of his drivers to take us there. Granny and Grandpa don¡¯t know you and Abigail are here. They¡¯ll be thrilled to wee you and Abby,¡± via said enthusiastically, and once again, dwin nodded.

    ¡°But what about your pregnancy?¡± dwin asked, concerned.

    ¡°The doctor said my pregnancy is strong. But still, I¡¯m not allowed to travel far,¡± she informed. ¡°Granny¡¯s house is only a two-hour drive away, so it won¡¯t take much time.¡±

    ¡°Alright, tomorrow morning we¡¯ll go there. For now, our baby¡¯s mother needs to sleep,¡± he persuaded. via nodded, entering her husband¡¯s embrace and beginning to close her eyes.

    The next morning, Gian¡¯s driver arrived. dwin decided to check out because Abigail also agreed to join the adventure with dwin and via. During the two-hour journey to Bursa, they were treated to views of the densely popted city. Though not as congested as Manhattan.

    ¡°Grandpa has another house in the city of Antalya, but the journey there is quite long. It takes about eight hours to get there. Maybe next time if we have the opportunity, we can go there.¡±

    ¡°Grandpa¡¯s house there is near the pier, and the Quirino family has their own speedboat, so we can sail freely,¡± via exined enthusiastically. dwin smiled and nodded, listening to his wife¡¯s chatter.

    They had left the densely popted area and passed through roads lined with tall trees on both sides, then turned into an open area with sprawling green grass and towering trees as fences.

 Chap 86

    A two-story European-style house weed them. In front of the house with a porch, there was a yard filled with various flowers. A tall, slim woman with a wrinkled yet cold-looking face was standing in front of one of the nts. She wore a knee-length skirt and knitted sweater with a ck leather apron on her chest, rubber gloves, and a small shovel in her hand.

    dwin had met the elderly woman several times before. Brianna Quirino, a beautiful and intelligent woman who was behind the scenes of Kralligimiz. dwin¡¯s twin brother¡¯s mother-inw who always hid her kindness behind her stern demeanor and impassive expression.

    Alright, she was also his grandmother-inw now. And dwin had to be prepared to face her in case she showed coldness as a response for making her granddaughter suffer all this time.

    via eagerly opened the car door, ignoring dwin¡¯s request to be careful. How could she not? via couldn¡¯t contain her longing because for her, Brianna Quirino wasn¡¯t just a grandmother, but also a mother figure as via grew up with her.

    Yes, since Antony separated from via¡¯s mother, he entrusted via¡¯s care to Brianna while he chose to keep his distance from his own daughter. Antony¡¯s rtionship with via only developed after Antony married dwin¡¯s twin sister, ire. Especially in recent years, Brianna and Arthur chose to spend their old age by traveling.

    His petite wife¡¯s body was now in Brianna¡¯s embrace. The seventy-year-old woman looked happilyughing. Abigail and dwin walked together towards the two women when Brianna scolded them foring without notice.

    Brianna took off her gardening gloves before embracing dwin in her warm hug. She weed him warmly, and dwin felt grateful for it. The woman ended up hugging Abigail with a warm hug just as she did with via, and yes, Abigail and the woman were quite close considering Abigail and via had been friends since they were in middle school.

    ¡°You look more beautiful every day,¡± the elderly woman praised Abigail.

    ¡°Of course, I have to be beautiful; beauty is mymodity,¡± she said mischievously. ¡°Besides, I have to have a youthful body and face like yours,¡± she replied, making Briannaugh.

    ¡°Come in, Arthur will be pleased to know you¡¯re here,¡± Brianna walked with her arms around Abigail on the right and via on the left.

    dwin paid a little attention to the simple yet beautiful building as he walked. The two-story wooden house carried the American ssic style. There was a hammock on the porch, securely tied to both wooden pirs. Beside it were wooden chairs with soft cushioned seats. In the middle of the two wooden chairs was a square ss table with a flower pot on top. Behind the chairs was a wide window covered with white curtains.

    Upon entering, on the right side of the door, there was a shoe rack, alongside umbre storage and coat and hat hooks. And above the shoe rack, there were key hangers. dwin took off his shoes, reced them with the avable house sandals, and continued forward.

    There was a wooden staircase leading to the second floor right by the wall. They turned left towards the middle room, which was also the family room where dwin had noticed the window earlier. Two long velvet sofas filled with square cushions adorned with knitted covers were there. There were no strange decorations adorning the walls except for family photos printed in various sizes, framed and neatly arranged on the wall, capturing every moment of happiness.

    On a firece mantle, there were decorations in the form of antique vases. The middle area and the kitchen werepletely open, making the area look even more spacious.

    The wooden door under the stairs opened, revealing a tall,rge man withpletely white hair. The elderly man seemed wide-eyed seeing the guests in front of him. via approached and hugged her grandfather. Gratefully reciprocating, her grandfather hugged her tightly.

    ¡°I thought you were toofortable staying at Gian¡¯s house until you forgot to visit us, dear,¡± Arthur Quirino hugged and patted his granddaughter¡¯s back while kissing the top of her head. ¡°And who is this? The talkative girl, the foodie?¡± He asked, looking at Abigail. ¡°When did youe here? Why didn¡¯t you inform us?¡± His free hand stretched wide. Abigail entered the embrace of the older version of Antony and affectionately kissed his wrinkled cheek.

    ¡°I was kidnapped by him, Grandpa!¡± She pointed towards dwin. Arthur Quirino looked sharply at dwin. dwin saw via gently rubbing her grandfather¡¯s chest, trying to calm him down.

    ¡°You!¡± He spoke coldly with a raised tone. ¡°You¡¯ve married my granddaughter without permission, and now you¡¯re visiting without notice. What kind of grandson-inw are you?¡±

    dwin approached and respectfully kissed his father-inw¡¯s hand. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Sir,¡± he whispered softly.

    ¡°Sir?¡± The old forehead, adorned with ck spots, furrowed even deeper. ¡°You strange grandson-inw. I¡¯m your grandfather-inw. Call me Grandpa!¡± Hemanded.

    ¡°Alright, Grandpa,¡± dwin obeyed.

    ¡°If only I knew you wereing, I would have thrown a weing party for you,¡± he grumbled, surprising dwin. Clearly, his eptance by via¡¯s grandfather was beyond dwin¡¯s expectations, as he had thought Arthur Quirino would scold him for making his beloved granddaughter sad enough to run away to another part of the world.

    via tried to calm her grandfather¡¯s heart by exining that they would be staying for quite some time in Bursa, so the old man would have plenty of time to throw a party for them.

    ¡°It would be nice if your father and uncles were here,¡± Arthur Quirino murmured again.

    And the old man¡¯s murmuring became a reality because two dayster, the Antony and Altezza Quirino family entourage arrived to fill Arthur¡¯s residence. Their arrival was, once again, surprising and unannounced, much like dwin¡¯s sudden arrival.

    The old man muttered his annoyance again. What Arthur wanted was for his sons-inw and grandchildren to stay at his house in Antalya because he considered his residence in Bursa too small to amodate them all. Although they weren¡¯t a big family, the three Quirino siblings plus their children and grandchildren would clearly not fit into four rooms.

    Equally clever, Gian eventually decided to rent tents for the young ones to stay in, and they set them up in Arthur¡¯s spacious yard. Two tents for the children and three tents for the adults. Meanwhile, the parents and nursing mothers would sleep inside the house.

    They were now gathered in the family room with the firece lit. They pushed the table aside andid out severalrge carpets on the floor. The elder Quirinos sat on the sofa with their partners. The second generation, Antony-ire, Altezza-Adaline, and Gian-Joanna, like dwin, via, and Abigail, chose to sit on the floor on thick and warm carpets.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    They chatted warmly, reminiscing about embarrassing memories, revealing secrets they had hidden for years. They told stories of their youth and the mischief they got up to without their parents¡¯ knowledge. Until they eventually discussed via and dwin¡¯s personal affairs.

    ¡°What will you do next?¡± Antony, as dwin¡¯s father-inw, asked. The question clearly referred to the actions dwin and via would take regarding their somewhatplicated and perplexing marriage.

 Chap 87

    ¡°I will return to Kansas first. When via is allowed to travel long distances, I wille back to pick her up,¡± dwin replied.

    ¡°What about that woman? What will you do about her?¡± ire asked anxiously.

    ¡°I don¡¯t have any ns yet. But one thing¡¯s for sure, for the time being, via cannot meet her. I¡¯m afraid she might do something extreme to my wife and our unborn child without our knowledge,¡± dwin replied firmly. ire nodded in agreement, as did the others.

    ¡°What about Mom? Are you going to tell her about via¡¯s pregnancy?¡± dwin shook his head, and via tensed.

    ¡°Not yet. Until now, our mother still thinks via is missing. I n to resign from the hospital and choose to apany via until she gives birth,¡± dwin replied.

    ¡°But why resign?¡± via looked up at her husband with concern.

    ¡°Let¡¯s just say I need peace. I¡¯m sick of constantly seeing that woman at the hospital,¡± dwin replied frustratedly.

    ¡°That woman has no shame indeed,¡± Abigailmented. ¡°Maybe she¡¯s already pawned off her dignity,¡± she added innocently.

    ¡°Abigail¡­¡± ire interjected. Abigail looked at her aunt with an expression of faux regret that everyone knew was just a pretense.

    ¡°Sorry, that slipped out unintentionally,¡± she replied sheepishly. ¡°Okay, correction. That woman has sold her shame,¡± she repeated more slowly, which ire nodded in agreement to.

    ¡°Are you sure you can handle not working? Haven¡¯t you been working like crazy all this time, like a debtor chased by loan sharks?¡± ire continued, turning back to her twin brother.

    ¡°I did it because I needed to distract myself from via,¡± dwin replied honestly, causing via to blush with embarrassment. ¡°But now, I have another obligation, which is to take care of my wife and our unborn child. I have to be an attentive husband who is always there when my wife needs me,¡± he said, casting a mischievous nce at his wife.

    ¡°I know you want to lock your wife in the room,¡± Gian chimed in casually.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Thank goodness you understand,¡± dwin chuckled, elicitingughter from the rest of the family.

    ¡°Of course, I understand. I knew firsthand how enjoyable the honeymoon phase ispared to you. That¡¯s why I feel sorry for the only single person here,¡± Gian teased Abigail, causing her to snort while the othersughed at her.

    The next day, the tents that were set up the night before were dismantled. The garden, which had served as impromptu camping grounds, was now transformed into a garden party. Since they were in Turkey, Arthur intentionally invited a chef specializing in Turkish cuisine to cater for them.

    It turned out that Arthur also invited some rtives and business acquaintances to his residence. He did this deliberately to celebrate dwin and via¡¯s marriage and to introduce his son-inw¡¯s grandchildren, Rayyan and Meizar.

    The festive party ended as night fell, leaving some people feeling tired.

    ¡°Tired?¡± dwin asked via.

    via shook her head. They had set up the tent outside again. However, since via couldn¡¯t sleepfortably in the tentst night, dwin finally asked Arthur if they could use his workspace as via¡¯s bedroom for the night.

    Of course, Arthur didn¡¯t mind. The old man even helped dwin move the chairs and table so they could bring in the sofa bed into the room.

    Now, the coupleyfortably and warmly on the sofa bed, their gaze directed towards the window, enjoying the beautiful backyard that provided a view of the climbing flowers adorning the high walls of the house.

    ¡°Honey?¡±

    ¡°Yes?¡±

    ¡°Are you really going to resign from the hospital?¡± She asked hesitantly. dwin rubbed his wife¡¯s arm, giving her warmth.

    ¡°Why? Are you afraid I won¡¯t be able to meet your needs and those of our child?¡± He teased, causing via to pout.

    ¡°Sweetheart, I¡¯m serious.¡±

    ¡°So am I,¡± dwin replied confidently. ¡°Just think of it as me taking a break from the routine I¡¯ve been following for thirteen years. But don¡¯t worry, I still have other activities that generate ie, so our finances will be fine. Besides, I¡¯ve transferred all my assets to your name. The apartment,nd, stocks, everything. That woman won¡¯t get anything,¡± he continued seriously, eliciting another pout from via.

    ¡°Do you think I¡¯m a materialistic woman?¡± She asked annoyed.

    dwin shook his head. ¡°Not at all. I¡¯m just protecting what rightfully belongs to you and our child before someone else ims what isn¡¯t theirs. We both know why ¡®that woman¡¯ insisted on this marriage. If not for the wealth, then for what? Because it¡¯s clear she doesn¡¯t love me.

    ¡°And as for the job, like I said, I¡¯m just taking a break because I don¡¯t want to see her constantly at the hospital. You know, I feel like I¡¯m being terrorized. She always shows up when I¡¯m not ready. Her presence is more terrifying than ghosts, zombies, or aliens.¡± dwin¡¯s reply made via chuckle.

    ¡°Are you not going to get bored? What about your patients? You¡¯ve always prioritized them,¡± via questioned.

    ¡°I have a recement, and I¡¯m confident they¡¯ll receive the same quality of care as when they were under my supervision,¡± dwin assured her.

    ¡°But still, I don¡¯t ept it. You even left me for years to pursue your dream of bing a doctor. How could you throw it all away because of her? I¡¯m not okay with this,¡± via whined yfully.

    ¡°Just temporarily, not forever. Besides, I can also spend my time working in the furniture workshop. And honestly, I already have ns to work with Freddie,¡± dwin said, slightly amused by his wife¡¯s pouting. He even pinched her puffed-up cheek, which made via irritated enough to hit her husband¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Doctor Ludders?¡± via asked uncertainly. dwin nodded.

    ¡°We had a discussion recently. We intend to open our own clinic. We n to recruit several doctors and open vacancies for nurses. But we can¡¯t realize that n in the near future.¡±

    ¡°Why not?¡±

    ¡°Freddie has decided to continue his studies and specialize. But it¡¯s still just a n.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    ¡°Originally, if you still wanted to hide, I nned to move to another city.¡±

    via now sat down, looking at her husband who also rose and leaned against the back of the sofa. ¡°Move where?¡± via asked, scared.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know. Maybe to a rural area or maybe be a volunteer. I¡¯m still looking for a ce where my medical skills are needed, and as a bonus, I can distance myself from my mother and that woman,¡± he replied casually. ¡°But now that I know where you are, I¡¯m rethinking offering myself as a volunteer. Maybe for the time being, I¡¯ll just move to another city, to a location that¡¯s still easily essible.¡± dwin reached for his wife¡¯s hand again, asking her toe closer and lean on his shoulder.

    ¡°To be honest, I feel tired. Both mentally and physically. I can¡¯t make that woman go away because of Mom. I¡¯ve been trying to make her step back on her own. But as Abigail said, it seems like that woman has already sold her dignity.¡± via¡¯s chuckle was met with a pinch.

    ¡°We can¡¯t keep running forever. It¡¯s not us who are wrong here, but that woman,¡± via replied. dwin nodded. ¡°Sweetheart?¡±

    ¡°Hmm¡­¡±

    ¡°Actually, there¡¯s one way to get her out of our lives,¡± via whispered. She looked up, her husband looked down at her with furrowed brows.

    ¡°What is it?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s cunning, indeed.¡± via rubbed her belly and murmured so nothing bad would happen to her baby and prayed that her baby wouldn¡¯t do what she was about to say. ¡°Can we set a trap that will reveal her worst side? Something that will make Mom hate that woman and willingly drive her out of our lives?¡±

    dwin smiled. His eyes sparkled. He quickly kissed his wife¡¯s cheek. ¡°You¡¯re truly brilliant, Darling. Of course, we can do that. We don¡¯t need to fabricate anything. We just need to find witnesses who will state the facts,¡± he replied again.

    Suddenly, dwin remembered his conversation with Freddie some time ago.

 Chap 88

    Phoebey prone weakly on the bed, sweat streaming down her body. A man pinned her down, his hand still fondling Phoebe¡¯s breasts. He leaned in, his mouth whispering softly. ¡°Isn¡¯t mine more pleasurable than those other men?¡± The man¡¯s voice was still uneven with breath.

    ¡°Hmm,¡± Phoebe tiredly responded.

    ¡°Your body feels so delicious too, Darling,¡± he whispered again into Phoebe¡¯s ear while his hand continued to move upward, squeezing her breasts. ¡°I never feel satisfied touching you.¡±

    ¡°Deryl, your body is heavy. You make me feel suffocated,¡± Phoebeined again.

    The man chuckled, moving his body down beside Phoebe and pulling her back into his embrace. Their heads were close to the foot of the bed, while their legs were at the headboard.

    ¡°Why did it take you so long to contact me again?¡± The man asked, his hands still moving to touch every part of Phoebe¡¯s body. Caressing and squeezing.

    ¡°I can¡¯t contact you often. I¡¯m someone else¡¯s wife now, in case you forgot.¡±

    ¡°But you¡¯re also my wife, if you forgot,¡± he grumbled. ¡°And I don¡¯t like that fact, Darling. I¡¯ve been waiting for you for so long. I even left Nora for you, but why can¡¯t we still be together? Why did you have to marry that man?¡±

    Phoebe turned around, looking at the sulking man and gently touching his chin. ¡°You know very well why I married him,¡± she said sadly.

    ¡°Yes, I know. But how long will you two be together? I can¡¯t even be with you and our child. How much longer do I have to wait for you?¡±

    ¡°I just need him to touch me once. Then you¡¯ll make me pregnant again, just like you did before. And after that, I¡¯ll drain all his wealth and leave him,¡± Phoebe replied confidently.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sure. He¡¯s clearly not as foolish as your ex-husband.¡± Deryl guessed. ¡°And that man,¡± Deryl paused, his eyebrows furrowing. ¡°He doesn¡¯t seem like he¡¯ll touch you at all. He¡¯s even gone now, who knows where. Just leave him, Darling. Come with me. We¡¯ll live happily together. Leave your mother, your father will take care of her. I just want to live happily with you and our child as aplete family.¡±

    Phoebe again caressed Deryl¡¯s face, kissing him teasingly. ¡°I know. I promise this is thest time, and after that, we¡¯ll be together. Me, you, and our child,¡± Phoebe said confidently. She caressed Deryl¡¯s body, slowly moving downward until she felt the lower part of his body stiffen. ¡°Now, let¡¯s just enjoy tonight.¡± Phoebe climbed back on top of Deryl, taking his manhood into hers, and they both moaned in pleasure once again.

    Phoebe¡¯s POV

    I gaze out at the scene beyond the hotel room where I¡¯m staying. It feels suffocating. My chest is tight with everything I¡¯ve been through. Everyone condemns me, both with their words and their stares. They judge me without knowing the truth of what happened to me.

    No one ever asked me why I did all of this. Why I became the third person in dwin and via¡¯s marriage. Why I left my first husband after he and his family went bankrupt.

    Everyone says I¡¯m just a gold digger. I won¡¯t deny it because the fact is, that¡¯s what I¡¯ve be. But not a single person asked why I turned out this way. Even though I¡¯ve always had afortable life.

    Yes. In everyone¡¯s eyes, I¡¯m the daughter of a wealthy man, from a prestigious family. My father, he owns arge showroom and a renowned automotive workshop in this city. At first nce, people would think our monthly ie reaches seven digits, maybe even more. But the reality?

    It¡¯s just a two-story building filled with debt. None of the cars in the showroom belong to us. And all the items in the automotive workshop are on consignment.

    Yes, my life has beenfortable. But there¡¯s a price I had to pay to have it all. And they think it¡¯s all easy, when in reality it¡¯s not. I suffer. Physically, I¡¯m fine. But deep inside, I¡¯m not the same Phoebe I used to be.

    Back then, during the early days of my college years, dwin liked me. Yes, he was one of those who paid attention to me. But everything changed shortly after.

    Everyone began to understand what my mother¡¯s character was like. She was a materialistic woman who only allowed her child to associate with wealthy individuals with deep pockets. If someone approaching me was poor, then my mother would consider them merely stumbling blocks.

    The first time dwin and his friend Freddie met my mother was when we were working on a college project together. At that time, my mother regarded dwin and Freddie as just poor young men, so she looked at them with disdain and even refused to smile in response to their greetings.

    And now, my mother is asking me to pursue dwin after finding out that he¡¯s not just an ordinary person but one of the heirs to a renowned cement factory in Kansas. Not to mention that dwin has now be a specialist doctor and also has a very sessful business. Of course, that only makes my mother more interested.

    For her, it doesn¡¯t matter if I be a second wife as long as I can get what she needs. Not just her, but also my father. Yes, what else do they need besides money.

    And you don¡¯t need to be cynical towards my mother like you are towards me. Because my mother is not what you imagine. It wasn¡¯t her who made me promiscuous like this. It wasn¡¯t her intention to make me dwin¡¯s second wife. And it wasn¡¯t her who caused me to leave my first husband who was dered bankrupt. It wasn¡¯t her. Because the real mastermind was my father.

    Yes. It was my father who sold me for all that wealth. From the beginning.

    And if you think my first husband was my first victim, you¡¯re wrong. Since entering college, my father¡¯s business has been declining. All because of his own fault. The ie from the showroom and the workshop, which were not much, he used for gambling. Not card gambling or online gambling like most people. But gambling in Golf.

    Wasn¡¯t his choice of gambling so ssy? But still, the losses he suffered drove him crazy.

    He sold me for the first time to a man the same age as him. You can imagine how it feels. Heartbreaking. He pawned my virginity just to cover his gambling debts. At first, I didn¡¯t want to, until I became numb. I did everything, staining my heart. I participated in selling myself for luxury in exchange for my deepening wounds.

    Then I fell in love with dwin, but unexpectedly, it was Freddie who dered his love for me.

    Freddie, a sweet man. He¡¯s a good man, just like dwin. But I was too lowly to approach both of them and too ashamed to ept Freddie¡¯s love, so I rejected him. Regardless of the man¡¯s assumption that I was just a materialistic woman.

    Then I truly fell in love with a man. A man I considered no better than myself, yet capable of giving me true love. Amon man belittled by my father and mother. A man who only worked as my father¡¯s subordinate, working as a mechanic in my father¡¯s workshop.

    I married him, without my father¡¯s blessing. At that time, I was tired of being my father¡¯s ve and being sold to his associates. I gave him an ultimatum, allowing him to sell me to anyone as long as he allowed me to marry Deryl. And after tough negotiations, my father finally married me off.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    Then I became pregnant, and my father couldn¡¯t ept it, so he sought another victim for me. And then came that man, a man so foolish to say that he loved me. A rich kid who only knew how to spend his parents¡¯ money. A good man who knelt at my feet. That man even agreed to acknowledge the child in my womb as his own.

 Chap 89

    Yes, I engaged in polyandry. I was married to Deryl and had a child with him, but shamelessly, my father married me off to another man. I didn¡¯t want to divorce Deryl because he was the only one who epted me for who I am, listened to myints, and loved me unconditionally. And what more could I ask for from my first husband? Even during my marriage, I was tempted and fell slightly in love with him.

    Until finally, my father-inw was indicted for corruption, and my first husband was dered bankrupt. I was forced to divorce him. Taking custody of my daughter, and wickedly, my mother asked me to file for divorce, iming that my husband hadmitted violence, which he never did in the name of God. My mother did all this because she was tired of my husband¡¯s continuous pleas for me to return to him and start over from scratch, and she knew I was almost swayed by him.

    I truly wanted to die at that moment. But I loved my daughter too much. I couldn¡¯t let her stay with those monsters and turn her into a second Phoebe. Because my daughter was beautiful and so obedient.

    I really wanted to die. I wanted tomit suicide. But instead of ending my life, I chose to numb my senses. Until finally, that man returned. dwin Hampton returned. He was still single at that time. And I felt that he would end my difficult times.

    I swore, if dwin epted me, then I would leave Deryl and be his only wife. I would be a devoted wife to him. And I would love him with all my heart, because I knew he would be the right husband for me and would love my daughter. Considering how kind he had been with the children all this time.

    Until finally, I learned the truth. That dwin loved the girl who had been his nephew¡¯s friend since childhood. Who was now the stepdaughter of his twin sister, ire.

    I didn¡¯t want to give up. Before the wedding actually took ce, I thought I would keep fighting. I¡¯ve lost my dignity all this time, so let this be thest time.

    I fought to gain sympathy from Julie Hampton. But it seemed clear that both the twin sister and her niece really disliked me. But I wasn¡¯t willing to give up; I would keep fighting for dwin. For me, for my well-being, for the healing of my heart.

    Julie clearly pressured me to marry dwin, even after knowing about dwin¡¯s love for via. But because of the girl¡¯s disability, Julie feared for her offspring¡¯s continuity, so she didn¡¯t support her, even though their position was not wrong.

    Julie¡¯s fear of via¡¯s inability to have children fueled my desire even more. I became more aggressive in approaching Julie, constantly searching for via¡¯s shorings and heating up the middle-aged woman to continue rejecting via as her daughter-inw and make me her recement. Because I thought dwin was a obedient son who would do anything his mother asked.

    But I was wrong. dwin¡¯s love for via was too deep. Even the man who was younger than me firmly refused his mother¡¯s request. I lost my mind, feeling desperate with my desire. I wanted dwin, because I also wanted to know what it feels like to be loved and fought for like the way he fought for via in front of his mother.

    Deryl did love me, but he couldn¡¯t fight for me. He relied too much on my father to survive. While dwin, he was very independent, and I was sure he wouldn¡¯t be shaken by any threats.

    So I chose to terrorize via. Hoping that by hurting her heart, she would slowly step back. And once again, I lost. dwin ended up marrying her without his mother¡¯s knowledge while she was in aa.

    I¡¯m hurt. Disappointed. Sad and angry. I¡¯m really angry. Frustrated and tired. Why did dwin not choose me and instead chose that disabled woman?

    I¡¯m trying to find a way. I¡¯m forcing Julie to give via an option. Because truthfully, I¡¯m also scared. I know what via is going through. She¡¯s not incapable of getting pregnant, it¡¯s just that the injuries she suffered in the ident make it a bit difficult for her to conceive due toplications with her uterus. But if she undergoes therapy and follows the pregnancy program correctly, her chances of having a child are very high.

    I persuade Julie to give via time for one year until she can have a child. Hoping that in that year via, who is currently losing her memory, won¡¯t go through the pregnancy program as she should. And I¡¯m reluctant to give her advice.

    I persevere. And in the tenth month, I be too desperate because of dwin¡¯s attitude and also the pressure from both my parents.

    And now via has disappeared. Three months have passed and dwin¡¯s behavior hasn¡¯t improved; it¡¯s even worse. I didn¡¯t predict that the shy girl would resort to extreme measures by leaving dwin. I thought her actions would only involve letting me and dwin get married. And it would benefit me if she chose to remain silent because I could continue to hurt her until she finally felt tired and decided to leave dwin. But I was wrong. Again, I was wrong.

    She left, and I was humiliated on my wedding night. Even during our three months of marriage, dwin never once agreed to touch me. He never agreed to visit the ce he rented for me.

    My parents are also angry because my marriage to dwin didn¡¯t meet their expectations. dwin only provides his sry, nothing else. All of his possessions have be his legal wife¡¯s because I¡¯m just his mistress. So, what can I do?

    Now I have to find a way to conquer that man. Who has now also disappeared somewhere. Quietly requesting leave, making all the hospital staff ask me about his departure. I, who have only been a mannequin all this time, feel more worthless. Then who should I be angry with?

    I won¡¯t give up so easily.

    After all this waiting, I won¡¯t give up so easily. If they want to get rid of me, then they have to do it their way because I won¡¯t let dwin be happy with via.

    If initially I wanted dwin¡¯s love and all his attention, now I will return to my obsessive soul. I will make dwin kneel before me, making him solely mine. And making all his possessions mine. And when I have them, I won¡¯t share them anymore. Not for my mother, not for my father. Only for myself and my only daughter.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    Deryl? That man is nothing more than my sex object now. I¡¯ll leave him soon, after I sessfully get dwin.

 Chap 90

    Two weeks of his journey in Turkey had already passed. dwin had returned to America and was getting ready to resume his routine while via entrusted her to her uncle, aunt, and grandparents. via would only return to America after her obstetrician dered that her pregnancy was strong enough for long-distance travel.

    During the dozen hours of travel she had spent, she thought about the right way to handle Phoebe. It was impossible for her to change her attitude drastically. Phoebe wasn¡¯t a foolish woman; of course, she would suspect even though dwin had reasons to be kinder to her.

    If only she could admit she was lonely because she missed via, then dwin made sure the woman woulde and be willing to kneel before her. But that idea wasn¡¯t something dwin wanted to actualize.

    dwin returned to work, wearing a light blue long-sleeved shirt that he had rolled up to half his sleeves and neatly pressed ck trousers. His hair, as usual, looked tidy with a touch of pomade. A smile remained on his face as he made his way from the parking area to his office. Jonas, the nurse who also served as his assistant, was already standing in his office with a clipboard and had turned on hisputer.

    ¡°Your vacation seems enjoyable, Doc,¡± the man greeted as dwin put on hisb coat.

    dwin nodded. He wouldn¡¯t mention that he had just spent a honeymoon-like vacation and received the gift of his wife¡¯s pregnancy. Although Jonas was one of his confidants, they were in a public area now. dwin was still afraid someone might overhear.

    ¡°How has the hospital been for these two weeks?¡± he asked casually.

    Jonas snorted. ¡°Many patients have been asking for you. They don¡¯t like having their doctors reced,¡± heined honestly. dwin just chuckled. ¡°And, her,¡± Jonas added, nodding towards an object, ¡°she seems to be really missing you, Doc,¡± he said mockingly, but dwin didn¡¯t care at all.

    ¡°Joe,¡± dwin looked up and gazed at his assistant. Jonas returned his gaze, though his face remained expressionless. ¡°Do you know anyone who works in the police? Or if not, someone who works as a private detective?¡± dwin¡¯s question made Jonas furrow his brow.

    ¡°Why? Is there a problem?¡± he inquired.

    ¡°Do you have it or not?¡± dwin didn¡¯t want to borate.

    ¡°Well, there¡¯s this guy. He used to be my senior at the orphanage. He¡¯s smart and physically strong. He¡¯s an army veteran, used to be a presidential guard too. But due to an injury, he decided to retire early. I heard recently he was recruited by a private investigator¡¯s office. But I don¡¯t know if he can do what you¡¯re asking for or not,¡± Jonas replied honestly. dwin just nodded in response.

    ¡°Give me his contact. I¡¯ll try to talk to him,¡± said dwin, met with a nod from Jonas. After that, they resumed their work until noon arrived.

    ¡°Where have you been? You disappeared for two weeks without giving me any updates!¡± A loud voice came from a beautiful woman who was now ring angrily at dwin.

    dwin stared back at her with a nk expression. He still couldn¡¯t bring himself to switch to friendly mode.

    ¡°Should I inform you of all my schedules? What¡¯s in it for me?¡± he asked tly.

    Jonas, feeling like he didn¡¯t want to be involved in a marital drama, finally chose to leave the room.

    ¡°Like it or not, whether you ept it or not, I am your wife, dwin. At the very least, I deserve to know where you¡¯ve been for the past two weeks. I was embarrassed when a hospital asked me where you had gone while I had no idea at all. You just disappeared, and even your mother didn¡¯t know where you went,¡± the woman replied in a high-pitched tone. Her emotions seemed uncontroble.

    ¡°Don¡¯t be proud just because you¡¯re my wife, because I can embarrass you by saying that you¡¯re just a nuisance of a woman,¡± dwin pointed his finger at Phoebe¡¯s chest. ¡°Your current position is nothing but a mistress whose presence I never wanted and never cared about,¡± dwin replied with a tight jaw. ¡°So stop pretending like you¡¯re a wife I desire, because that will never happen.

    ¡°And stop acting like you¡¯re hurt by me, because clearly, the pain is felt more by me and my wife. My legal wife.

    ¡°Stop pretending to care and stop begging my mother as if I¡¯m the one causing you suffering. When in fact, all the agony you im to feel is a result of your own actions,¡± dwin said. He took off hisb coat and walked out of the room.

    ¡°dwin! I¡¯m not done talking!¡± the woman shouted as dwin left her behind.

    dwin acted just as if he didn¡¯t know via¡¯s whereabouts. He didn¡¯t want to arouse suspicion even though he wanted to announce to the world about the happiness he now shared with via.

    dwin spent his time busying himself at the hospital, the workshop, and the office. His routine was always the same. Acting in public as if he still missed the woman he loved, but in between, he spent his time contacting his wife through video calls.

    ¡°How¡¯s our baby doing today? Is she giving you trouble?¡± He was in his workshop¡¯s break room, looking at the screen, seeing his wife who always looked beautiful to him.

    ¡°We¡¯re doing just fine, Daddy,¡± via answered in a childish manner. ¡°The baby isn¡¯t causing me any trouble at all,¡± she replied from the other side.

    ¡°Darling, is it just me or are you indeed carrying a baby girl?¡±

    via frowned. ¡°Why, is there something strange about me?¡±

    dwin shook his head. ¡°No, there isn¡¯t. But in my eyes, you look radiant. Very beautiful and¡­ captivating.¡± dwin¡¯s response clearly made his wife blush.

    ¡°You¡¯re such a smooth talker,¡± via replied shyly.

    ¡°I¡¯m telling the truth, Darling. Not just sweet talk. In my eyes, you look so radiant right now. Or is it because you¡¯re far away from me that makes me feel so longing?¡±

    via chuckled. ¡°Stop sweet-talking me, you¡¯re making me embarrassed,¡± she said, covering part of her face with her free left hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m not sweet-talking you, on the contrary, right now I feel miserable and feel like a beggar.¡±

    ¡°What do you mean by a beggar?¡±

    ¡°A beggar for your love and affection,¡± he replied, chuckling, making via cover her face again out of embarrassment.

    ¡°Oh, God,¡± via whined.

    ¡°Yes, Darling. I know what you want to say. You want to say that you miss me too, right? I know, I feel the same way as you.¡±

    ¡°For God¡¯s sake, Doctor dwin!¡±

    ¡°Yes, Darling. I know that you love me very, very, very much. You don¡¯t need to express it, I know your feelings.¡± Once again, dwin made his wife blush. It always happened like this every time theymunicated.

    dwin felt reluctant to discuss anything else, even though it was important. For him, taking the time to indulge his wife¡¯s feelings like this was far more valuable than discussing other people.

    ¡°Don¡¯t buy anything for the baby there yet, okay? Anyway, I don¡¯t want to know, I want to go shopping for our baby¡¯s needs together.¡± Hismand was met with a nod from his wife. After spending a considerable amount of time chatting, dwin decided to end the video call.

    ***All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    A knock diverted dwin¡¯s attention. On the fifth day since his conversation with Jonas, now his assistant stood in front of his workshop door with a tall, medium-built man with long, wavy hair almost touching his shoulders.

    ¡°This is the friend we talked about earlier, Doc,¡± Jonas informed him.

    dwin continued to scrutinize the man before politely inviting him in. They introduced themselves, and without much ado, dwin discussed his needs. The man, named Hendrick, simply nodded without saying much.

    ¡°This is the data I have. I need your assistance with the rest,¡± dwin concluded the conversation.

    The man epted a piece of paper and a photo, ncing at them briefly before tucking them into the pocket of his leather jacket. After discussing the payment, the man bid farewell and left. Meanwhile, Jonas remained there, looking at dwin with a puzzled expression.

    ¡°You seem odd, Doc. Did your sudden departure some time ago affect your mental state?¡± asked the man who was twelve years younger.

    ¡°Are you mocking me?¡± dwin raised an eyebrow. Jonas shrugged.

    ¡°You look different. When you hadn¡¯t left yet, you almost seemed like a living mannequin. Only answering questions when asked. Although yes, it could be said that you still behaved professionally and friendly to those around you. But clearly, you weren¡¯t yourself.

    ¡°And now? You actually seem weirder than before. If I were a stranger, I might just think you¡¯re a friendly guy. But considering I¡¯ve been working with you for several months now. Honestly, I thought you were heading towards madness.¡± dwin looked at Jonas with one raised eyebrow but then smiled to himself. The young man turned out to be very perceptive.

    ***

    Sitting in his apartment with aptop on the table, dwin gazed at his wife¡¯s sleepy face. They had been on a video call for quite some time, but dwin felt reluctant to turn off the video. Even though he knew it wasn¡¯t good for their baby, but missing someone was indeed very difficult to ovee.

    Reluctantly, dwin shut down hisptop after repeatedly uttering words of longing, love, and how much he wished to be with his beloved. Yet dwin reassured himself to be patient. Gian and Joanna promised that they would personally apany via back to America once her obstetrician gave the green light.

    With a heavy heart, dwin made his way to his bedroom, patting the bed before lying down on it. ¡°Darling, I hope this all ends soon. May our trialse to an end, and let¡¯s conclude everything beautifully,¡± he silently monologued before closing his eyes and drifting into a blissful dream.

 Chap 91

    Often we hear that time passes so quickly for those who enjoy their moments, but it feels slow for those who do not. And that applies to dwin. For him, although his beloved wife is not by his side at the moment, time passes quickly because he enjoys every second, minute, hour, day, and week he spends. Serving patients who need his help between the surgeries he usually performs. Completing property design requests that are increasing day by day in his workshop. And he spends his evenings being intimate with his beloved wife even if only via a screen.

    Miss her? Of course, dwin misses his wife very much. If he could-actually he could but via forbids him-dwin wants to realize his intention by resigning from the hospital and joining his wife to settle in Turkey. Getting away from all the oddities of problems, living together, and expressing love every chance they get without caring about other people¡¯s opinions. Like people say when they fall in love, the world feels like it belongs to both of them, while others are just tenants. That¡¯s exactly how dwin feels right now.

    Phoebe? That woman hasn¡¯t given up yet even though dwin has been rough and embarrassed her. Perhaps that woman has already discarded her shame along with the remnants of childbirth blood she once helped with. And as for the private investigator whom dwin hired, to this day Hendrick is still trying to delve deeper into Phoebe¡¯s affairs. The man says he has obtained some suspicious points about Phoebe.

    Just waiting for concrete evidence for execution. dwin hopes it won¡¯t take long to do it. Sometimes he regrets why he didn¡¯t borrow the services of that man since the beginning of his marriage to via. At least if he had done so from the beginning, maybe by now he would have chased that woman away far.

    A month had passed since his return to Kansas. That means via¡¯s pregnancy is now entering the fifth month. Her grandparents threw a party for via, but no family members went back to Turkey because they were afraid Julie would suspect something if Antony and the newly returned family to America suddenly had to go back abroad. Although dwin grumbled, via tried to calm him down.

    Two weeks ago.

    ¡°Honey..¡±

    ¡°Yes, Honey?¡±

    ¡°Earlier, this afternoon, I felt something tickling in my stomach.¡±

    ¡°Really? But my hand wasn¡¯t touching you.¡± dwin teased, making his wife pout.

    ¡°Honey, it¡¯s not because your hand tickled me. But our baby tickled me in the belly.¡± via showed her annoyed expression, making dwin chuckle. His hand now really itched to pinch his wife¡¯s cheeks that were starting to round. ¡°Granny said, she said our baby now has a soul, he already has a life.¡±

    ¡°That means you have to be more careful. Remember, he¡¯s the most beautiful gift from God for us in the midst of the trials we¡¯re facing now.¡±

    ¡°Yes, Honey.¡± via replied again. dwin noticed his wife bowing her head. Surely his beloved was now rubbing her bulging belly. And for God¡¯s sake, dwin also wanted to do the same if he could. ¡°I miss you.¡± His wife¡¯s voice sounded soft, but her head remained bowed. dwin feared it was just his imagination.

    ¡°Honey, did you say something?¡± dwin indirectly asked via to repeat her words. via looked up with a face that dwin believed was blushing and repeated the word longing she had uttered a few seconds ago. Reluctantly, dwin smiled. ¡°I also miss missing you, and our baby.¡±

    via smiled, but her eyes seemed to blink rapidly. As if to ward off the tears that fell. Then her tiny hand seemed to wipe the corners of her eyes slowly. ¡°I want to go home.¡± She whispered again.

    ¡°I¡¯ll stay with you there, what do you think?¡± dwin offered. But via shook her head.

    ¡°Just a little longer. I promise I¡¯ll return there soon. As soon as the doctor gives me permission.¡± She said firmly, which dwin responded to with a nod.

    shback Off

    And now, two weekster. dwin stood at the airport, eagerly awaiting the return of his beloved.

    She looked beautiful in a milk chocte-colored dress that entuated her fair skin, walking between her grandparents who purposely escorted her back to America. Their love for their daughter-inw was immense. dwin vowed that as long as he lived, he would never intentionally hurt his wife.

    Half-running, dwin approached his wife and hugged her tightly. Releasing some longing that he couldn¡¯t even express with just a brief hug they shared.

    dwin kissed via¡¯s forehead, both cheeks, and lips, even if only for a split second before stroking his wife¡¯s hidden belly beneath her loose dress. Let others think he¡¯s being excessive, especially when his tears fell freely as he expressed his longing for those he loved. via cried in his embrace. Though not in sobs, it was enough to move her grandparents as well.

    Ah, dwin almost forgot about the elderly couple. He hugged Arthur and Brianna in turn, which the middle-aged couple returned just as warmly.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    After waiting for the rtively few suitcases, they walked away from the airport area towards Antony¡¯s family home in Manhattan. Yes, the Quirino family still living in America had gathered at Antony¡¯s residence. Including Altezza, Adaline, and their sons and daughters.

    They arrived at Antony¡¯s residential area. The bustling noise from the front door instantly stopped as dwin¡¯s entourage entered. Warm embraces were exchanged. Indeed, it wasn¡¯t just dwin who missed via, but also his parents and siblings. Not to mention the aunts, uncles, and cousins. Considering the time, their parting hadn¡¯t been long. But well, that¡¯s longing for you.

    Unfortunately, via¡¯s best friend couldn¡¯te because she had a photo shoot scheduled out of town. The girl was annoyed because she considered via¡¯s return sudden while she couldn¡¯t break her contract just like that.

    ¡°I missed you so much,¡± via whispered in dwin¡¯s embrace.

    They were in via¡¯s room now. Not on the bed but on the balcony of the room. They sat embracing each other on the sofa on the balcony, watching the pool view at night with the beautiful light of the full moon.

    It was past midnight and everyone had returned to their respective rooms and fallen asleep. But via was reluctant to move even though dwin had been coaxing her. She argued that she had slept enough during the flight.

    ¡°What did the doctor say? Have you had an ultrasound?¡± He asked, rubbing his right hand on via¡¯s belly while his left hand stroked her head and shoulders. via shook her head. ¡°Why not?¡±

    ¡°Later, with his father,¡± she answered shyly. Her beautiful face lifted, and dwin rewarded her with a long kiss that left them both breathless. He didn¡¯t dare to go further for fear of his wife and baby¡¯s condition. ¡°Later, we¡¯ll go to the doctor together. So that his father knows, Baby here is a girl or a boy,¡± he said, speaking to via¡¯s belly again.

    via leaned her head on her husband¡¯s shoulder. While her hands hugged dwin¡¯s waist tightly. ¡®Oh God, this longing truly bes its own trial for us. May You soon remove all our problems. Amen,¡¯ via prayed silently in her heart.

 Chap 92

    Morning came, and everyone gathered in the dining room. ¡°What are your ns next?¡± The question came from Antony, dwin¡¯s father-inw and brother-inw. ¡°Are you going to meet Mama directly?¡± He asked again, looking at dwin.

    dwin shook his head in response. ¡°For the time being, only we know about via¡¯s pregnancy, and I intend to keep it that way. For now and for some time toe, people will still think via has disappeared. It¡¯s cruel indeed, but it¡¯s all for via¡¯s and our baby¡¯s well-being.¡±

    ¡°But, Brother. Mama will definitely be happy to know about via¡¯s pregnancy,¡± ire objected. dwin¡¯s twin sister had been trying to convince dwin to tell their mother about via¡¯s pregnancy, but dwin continued to refuse.

    ¡°Our mother will surely feel happy about via¡¯s pregnancy. But I¡¯m the one who¡¯s afraid if this news reaches Phoebe¡¯s ears. We don¡¯t know what she¡¯ll do, so for the time being, let it remain our secret until I get news from my trusted source,¡± dwin replied again.

    ¡°What news?¡± ire asked curiously.

    ¡°I hired someone to investigate Phoebe. And so far, he has some evidence. It will take a little more time to checkmate Phoebe.¡±

    ¡°I¡¯m d you made that decision,¡± Brianna said, shifting the attention of the people in the room to her. ¡°Join us this afternoon. There¡¯s something I want to give you, consider it as a wedding gift.¡± Brianna looked at dwin with her usual expressionless gaze.

    ¡°Mom?¡± Antony looked at his mother curiously. But Brianna just gave him a tight-lipped smile.

    ¡°I came back here not without reason, Antony,¡± his mother said again. The simple answer somehow sent shivers down the spines of the listeners. ¡°Zio, Francis. Do you want to go out with Granny?¡± She asked her two grandchildren. With enthusiasm, Ignazio and Francisca nodded. ¡°Later we¡¯ll take Falisha and Geremia too. Granny will buy you anything you want.¡± Brianna¡¯s words made Ignazio and Francisca cheer happily. ¡°Now, call Uncle Altezza, tell him we¡¯re picking up Falisha and Geremia.¡± She instructed her grandchildren. Ignazio and Francisca then left the dining table and walked away with their father¡¯s phone in hand.

    ¡°What are your ns while waiting for news from your hired detective?¡± Brianna asked as her grandchildren left.

    ¡°I¡¯ll take via to her house because I¡¯m not brave enough to take her to the apartment. For the time being, maybe Abigail and I will take turns staying there. Just to be cautious in case Phoebe also sends someone to watch over me,¡± he answered honestly.

    Brianna shook her head. ¡°She wouldn¡¯t go that far. I think her financial situation wouldn¡¯t allow her to hire a private detective.¡± She continued. dwin¡¯s forehead furrowed even deeper. He himself was confused by the words just spoken by his mother-inw.

    How much did this woman in front of him know about Phoebe? Why did her impressione off as so mysterious?

    ¡°I¡¯ll take Ignazio and Francisca to Altezza¡¯s house. I¡¯ll contact youter this afternoon. We¡¯ll meet somewhere,¡± he said casually, which was only answered by dwin¡¯s nod.

    After Brianna and Benjamin left, dwin¡¯s gaze immediately shifted to his twin sister. He looked at ire sharply, as if asking for an exnation. His twin sister just shrugged with a t expression.

    ¡°To be honest, I find your mother-inw a bit¡­ spooky,¡± he said, shivering. Antony chuckled while via patted her husband¡¯s shoulder, meaning to reprimand him.

    ¡°Anyway, she¡¯s still your mother-inw,¡± ire interjected.

    ¡°Yeah, I know. But still, the aura she emits¡­ you know, spooky!¡± Then dwin turned his head to Antony. ¡°Actually, what does your mother know?¡± he asked genuinely curious. He hoped his father-inw had an answer. But unfortunately, the fifty-year-old man just shook his head slowly. ¡°Oh God. Seriously, dear. My heart is really racing right now, it feels like I¡¯m about to jump from a five-hundred-meter height.¡± dwin turned his head to his wife, who was giggling at his words.

    ¡°Rx, honey. I¡¯m sure Granny won¡¯t bite,¡± via rubbed her husband¡¯s arm, soothingly.

    Antony cleared his throat. ¡°She won¡¯t bite, but she¡¯s the type of person who would pounce right away,¡± he replied meaningfully. ire gave her husband a stern look, while dwin could only furrow his brow.

    Altezza and Adaline arrived at ten in the morning. They were feeling relieved as the twins went with Brianna and chose to spend time together at Antony¡¯s ce.

    The three couples, along with two toddlers-Rayyan and Meizar-now gathered in the backyard. They sat side by side with their respective partners while the toddlers were under the supervision of their caregivers.

    Their conversation wasn¡¯t heavy; it just revolved around work and politics. Then it shifted to pregnancy and baby-rted matters. via happily conversed with the two women, asking for tips and sharing pregnancy experiences. dwin just listened. Even when his father-inw and uncle-inw urged him to be an alert husband, dwin only responded with a nod.

    He was happier seeing his wife¡¯s usually radiant face. His hands never stopped touching her. Whether it was her head, arms, or the slightly rounded belly of via.

    ¡°dwin is just like you.¡± Adaline nced at dwin and then at her husband, while via and dwin turned to the couple ten years their senior. The couple, in their twelfth year of marriage-which had weathered many storms together-seemed to be deeply in love. The looks and touches exchanged between them were enough to make anyone who saw them envious-of course, those who had partners. Because dwin himself didn¡¯t feel that envy.

    ¡°Why is that?¡±

    ¡°You love to touch and always stick to your wife like a trapped mouse,¡± she replied, making Altezza chuckle.

    ¡°Don¡¯t tease them. Let¡¯s just understand, they¡¯re newlyweds,¡± ire replied casually.

    ¡°But I think I¡¯d rather see dwin than Gian.¡± This time Antony chimed in. dwin smiled to himself at the mention of the other man¡¯s name.

    Antony, Altezza, and Gian were cousins from the same grandfather. The three of them grew up with different personalities. Antony, the expressionless one; Altezza, the friendly and easygoing one; and Gian, the yboy who tended to be lewd. Interestingly, when they fell in love, they became very faithful men.

    dwin remembered how Antony fought to win ire. Despite facing opposition from his mother due to his status as a widower with a child and their fifteen-year age gap, Antony never gave up and even made Abigail and via a part of his n to win Julie Hampton¡¯s heart.

    And what about Altezza Quirino? The man who spread smiles to everyone also had a quiteplicated love story before finally settling on Adaline. He was once secretly married for five years and loved his first wife so much that he eventually proposed a contract marriage to Adaline. But who would have thought that he would forget his first wife and truly surrender to the petite and innocent Adaline. Even the trials that came a few years ago to their family didn¡¯t extinguish their love. Instead, it only strengthened each other.

    And Gian Quirino. The lecherous man who often professed love to every beautiful woman he saw eventually knelt before Joanna, Adaline¡¯s best friend. His struggle was not easy either because Joanna was a stubborn girl who didn¡¯t believe in love and even had a desire to remain unattached. And now-just like thest time they met-they also seemed clearly inseparable from each other.

    That¡¯s what made dwin feel happy to be in this family. Even his wife, the petite via, had loved him since she was a teenager. While other kids their age-including dwin himself-thought it was just puppy love and would easily switch whenever they saw a handsome man, she held onto her love for dwin. And dwin felt touched, proud, and guilty at the same time.

    He could only hope that his love with via would be as enduring and romantic as the love stories of the other Quirinos.

    Returning to the conversation, dwin reached for his vibrating phone and found a call from Brianna. Excusing himself, dwin answered the call. After hearing Brianna¡¯s instructions, dwin asked via to get ready.

    In less than half an hour of travel, they arrived at a mall. dwin led via to where Brianna was waiting for them. Apparently, Brianna had asked the driver to take the children back to Antony¡¯s ce while the elders waited for dwin and via¡¯s arrival.

    dwin and via were escorted to a private area in a Chinese restaurant. Mrs. Brianna, Sir Arthur, and two men were already waiting for them there.

    ¡°Please, have a seat,¡± Arthurmanded dwin and via. They sat at the round table, feeling a bit stiff because the atmosphere in the room itself was inexplicable to dwin.

    ¡°Let¡¯s get straight to the point. Keanu and his partner Timothy are private detectives we¡¯ve known for a long time. They¡¯ve helped us a lot,¡± Arthur referred to the two men who nodded in acknowledgment. ¡°After hearing ire¡¯s story about Julie forcing dwin to marry that obstetrician, we started asking for their help,¡± he revealed. ¡°If only we had heard about this disturbance from the beginning, we¡¯re sure everything wouldn¡¯t have dragged on like this. Unfortunately, Antony, ire, and even you chose not to tell us.¡±N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°To be honest, we were negligent and didn¡¯t monitor you like we did with Altezza before,¡± Arthur continued, making dwin tense up even more.

    ¡°Okay, let¡¯s forget about what has happened. The reason I called you here is this.¡± Arthur Quirino handed three brown envelopes to via and dwin. ¡°We haven¡¯t seen the contents ourselves. But from our conversation earlier, we could already guess what¡¯s inside,¡± he replied.

    dwin nced at Brianna, Arthur, and the two hired men alternately before reaching for the envelopes and opening them one by one.

    A gasp escaped from his wife¡¯s lips. Her face also turned pale as she read the documents.

    dwin read the paper in front of him, and instantly, his stomach churned.

 Chap 93

    via was still lost in thought. She couldn¡¯t believe what she was seeing. She lifted her head when Brianna spoke. ¡°I think all of this is enough evidence for you. But maybe your associate has different news.¡± Her gaze shifted more towards dwin. via nced at her husband, who now looked pale.

    ¡°I never even imagined this.¡± dwin murmured softly. His gaze now shifted to Brianna and Arthur. Meanwhile, the two men Brianna had hired had left without dwin realizing.

    ¡°Sad, isn¡¯t it? Considering who she is and her upbringing?¡± Arthurmented.

    ¡°Darling¡­¡± via held her husband¡¯s arm. Her small hands appeared to tremble. dwin reached for her hand and squeezed it gently, trying to convey warmth.

    ¡°Everything is beyond my expectations.¡± dwin tried to exin. ¡°I already knew the truth about her biological father. I also knew about her selling herself. But this¡­ I truly never thought she¡¯d go this far. As fellow doctors, I¡¯ve always known her as a great Doctor.¡±

    ¡°What should we do after this?¡± via whispered, confused. Unfortunately for dwin, via was the type of person who easily forgave. Actually, dwin himself had intended to forgive Phoebe once all of this was over. He thought if Phoebe was willing to leave them peacefully, he wouldn¡¯t expose her disgrace to others. But this time? Well, dwin himself wasn¡¯t sure.

    ¡°We¡¯ll think about itter, Darling. What¡¯s certain is that all this evidence will make her stay away from us. And for now, that¡¯s enough.¡± dwin replied, stroking via¡¯s belly and kissing the top of his wife¡¯s head with an unexinable fear. ¡°We¡¯ll stick to our original n. Return to Kansas and keep you both hidden for a while until I find the right time to reveal all these facts.¡± via simply nodded in response.

    dwin looked at the two parents in front of him with a questioning gaze, which they both responded to with nods. They clearly left all final decisions to dwin and via. For them, as long as their grandchild was safe, they wouldn¡¯t take any action. And that day ended not so well. via¡¯s and dwin¡¯s minds were filled with all the information in the three envelopes handed to them. ire and Antony, curious about the results given by Brianna¡¯s team, demanded them to speak up because if they waited for them to speak first, ire believed they wouldn¡¯t get any information.

    ¡°Isn¡¯t there anything you want to tell me?¡± ire demanded, looking at dwin and via alternately during dinner. Upon hearing ire¡¯s question, instead of answering, via went to the nearest bathroom in the dining area. ¡°Brother?¡± ire looked at her twin brother in astonishment. dwin just shook his head. ¡°Later,¡± he replied before following via to the bathroom.

    via spent almost five minutes emptying her stomach, barely touched the food she had eaten before finally returning to the dining room. Her nausea still lingered. Although she didn¡¯t actually experience morning sickness, she felt quite uneasy just because of the fleeting glimpse of the contents of the envelopes earlier.

    ¡°Shall I make you some hot tea?¡± dwin offered, which via nodded to.

    ire struggled to keep her mouth shut, refraining from asking her stepdaughter, and decided to wait until her twin brother answered all the questions weighing on her mind.

    The dinner was so quiet, considering Ignazio and Francisca spent the night at the Altezza and Adaline¡¯s house. They would only gather again tomorrow afternoon when everyone would return to Kansas.

    After dinner, dwin asked via to rest, and his petite wifeplied. ¡°Darling?¡± via tried to start a conversation. They were already lying on the bed, lying on their sides with via¡¯s back leaning tightly against dwin¡¯s chest, allowing dwin tofortably stroke her belly.

    ¡°Yeah?¡± dwin responded softly.

    ¡°What are we going to tell Momter?¡± via asked softly.

    ¡°We¡¯ll tell her everything without skipping a single detail. If Mom ends up hating her, it¡¯s not because of our fault.¡±

    ¡°But I really didn¡¯t expect Phoebe¡¯s actions,¡± she said still with her soft voice. ¡°How could a woman who has a child do something so cruel?¡±

    dwin could only soothe her by stroking his wife¡¯s head and kissing the side of her head affectionately. ¡°Don¡¯t think about it, don¡¯t dwell on it. Sleep now, for the baby¡¯s sake. Tomorrow we still have to go back to Kansas, right?¡± dwin tried to calm his wife¡¯s distress. via nodded slowly, and slowly her body turned to face her husband.

    dwin smiled at his wife, hoping she would feel calm. He then kissed her forehead again, gently stroking her cheek before pulling her petite body into his embrace.

    ¡°My wife and my baby, sleep soundly. It¡¯ste, don¡¯t stay upte or you¡¯ll catch a cold. If it¡¯s not a cold you catch, then it¡¯ll be me catching you.¡± dwin teased, making viaugh and yfully hitting her husband¡¯s chest. ¡°Why, Darling? Is our baby asking me to check on them?¡± He teased again. ¡°Not now, okay, my baby, your mom is still tired. Still jegged. Dad is afraid Mom might get sickter. Let¡¯s wait until tomorrow when we get home, Dad will check on you.¡± His persuasion shifted his body downward until his head was right in front of via. via, annoyed, hit her husband¡¯s shoulder again.

    ¡°You, what are you doing? I¡¯m embarrassed,¡± she whispered, although she felt a tingling sensation in her femininity from being amused by her husband¡¯s teasing.

    dwin¡¯s body moved back up and he looked at his wife. ¡°Why should you be embarrassed? I¡¯m just doing what I should do, checking on my baby and making my wife happy,¡± he said again, still teasing.

    Reluctant to answer her husband, via chose to tighten her hug and hide her face in dwin¡¯s chest. dwin justughed and lovingly stroked his wife¡¯s hair.

    One hourter, after making sure via had drifted off to sleep, dwin stepped out of the room carrying threerge brown envelopes in his hand. He knew his sister would still be waiting for him as he knew his twin sister had a very high level of curiosity. And sure enough, as he reached thest step of the stairs, he saw his twin sister still sitting in the family room with her eyes fixed on the TV screen in front of her, although it was certain she wasn¡¯t watching the program broadcasted by the cable TV station.

    dwin chose to sit on a different sofa from the one currently upied by his sister. At the same time, Antony came and sat next to his wife. dwin handed the envelopes in his hand to the couple.

    ¡°These are the results of the investigation by your mother-inw¡¯s henchmen,¡± dwin said with a tongue stiff because he was still not used to referring to Mrs. Brianna Quirino as grandmother.

    ire frowned, but she opened one of the envelopes while Antony opened the others. Frowning, shaking his head, gaping, even shrieking. dwin caught each expression from ire. ¡°Is this real?¡± She asked, looking at dwin with an incredulous look. ¡°You¡¯re not staging a scene from a drama or a crime news, are you?¡± She continued, still disbelieving. ¡°How could all this happen?¡± ire¡¯s forehead creased deeper, her heart pounding very fast while her brain spun trying to digest all the facts she had just read.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    dwin shook his head. ¡°These are all facts. I¡¯ve heard part of the story from Freddie, and part from my henchmen. But this is far more detailed than what I¡¯ve heard so far,¡± he replied truthfully.

    ¡°Are you sure you want to give this to Mom?¡± ire asked again. dwin looked at her, silently asking for her opinion in return. ¡°I think it¡¯s better not to expose everything to Mom. I¡¯m afraid after this, Mom will be stressed out feeling guilty towards via and might even choose to distance herself from via.¡±

 Chap 94

    dwin pondered his sister¡¯s words and knew that what she said was true. However, he was confident that if he only revealed some of the facts, Phoebe could twist them, which would ultimately influence their mother¡¯s decision. And in the end, their mother would still defend Phoebe out of pity.

    ¡°I think it¡¯s better for Mom to feel guilty towards via than to only reveal half of the evidence. If Mom ends up keeping her distance because she feels ashamed towards via, I¡¯m sure it won¡¯tst long because the presence of our baby will make Mom embrace via again, even if it means putting aside her embarrassment,¡± he replied. ¡°What does Dad think?¡± dwin asked for advice from his brother-inw and also his father-inw with a amused expression because he was not used to calling Antony by the term his wife used. His tongue still felt numb to call the man fifteen years older than him with the title of father.

    Antony looked back at him with a raised eyebrow, aware that dwin¡¯s call to him was a mockery. Yes, after all, Antony was dwin¡¯s brother-inw at first. And now his sister¡¯s husband had be his son-inw, which put dwin under Antony. The family rtionship was quite confusing, actually. (You can read Antony-ire¡¯s story in the title ¡°Widowed Billionaire Looking For Love¡± and Altezza-Adaline¡¯s story in the title ¡°Giving Birth to The Italian Billionaire¡¯s Baby.¡±)

    ¡°ire is right. Mom will definitely feel embarrassed and guilty towards both of you, especially towards via because she has been imposing her will on you all this time. But dwin is also right, the guilt will disappear after your child is born. The same thing happened to us, Darling. Do you remember how Mom eventually epted me better after Ignazio was born?¡± Antony reminded his wife, who responded with a hesitant nod. ¡°So I think dwin¡¯s choice is better, justy it all out.¡± dwin nodded, indirectly thanking Antony for his support. ¡°Then what¡¯s next? Are you going to report all of this to the police?¡± Antony now felt curious again.

    ire then snapped her fingers, looking at her husband and twin brother with an enthusiastic gleam. ¡°That¡¯s an even better idea. It¡¯s better if we hand all of this over to the police. Let the police handle everything and let Mom hear the dreadful news from them.¡±

    Rather than agreeing, dwin shook his head. ¡°I¡¯ll eventually do thatter, but if we let Mom hear the bad news from the police, it will only embarrass her more. It¡¯s better if Mom hears it from us first. After our business with Phoebe is settled and everyone knows it¡¯s over, even if the police take action, it won¡¯t affect our family.¡± dwin provided his assumption.

    Antony nodded. ¡°Yes, your twin brother is right, that¡¯s better. At least Mom can defend herself to those who know about Phoebe and dwin¡¯s rtionship. At least the people who know Mom and know that she forced dwin to marry Phoebe won¡¯t be too harsh and won¡¯t me her for her oversight and selfishness.¡±All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    ire slumped back against the sofa¡¯s backrest. She surrendered because her idea wasn¡¯t used at all. But she also couldn¡¯t force it. In fact, what her twin brother and her husband said wasn¡¯t wrong. They were actually protecting their mother¡¯s feelings from falling too deeply into embarrassment.

    ¡°I just hope all of this ends quickly and Mom can ept all the facts without affecting her health. If Mom eventually feels embarrassed in front of her socialite friends because she has been boasting about that woman too much, we¡¯ll just take Mom away for a while. Whether it¡¯s moving her to Manhattan or asking her to take a temporary vacation.¡±

    dwin and Antony simply nodded in agreement.

    The next day, as nned, three cars departed from Antony¡¯s residence simultaneously heading towards Kansas. ire, Antony, Arthur, and Brianna were in one car. While Ignazio and Francisca chose to ride with Altezza and Adaline¡¯s car so they could y with the twins Falisha and Geremia. And dwin drove the car that he and via were in.

    dwin didn¡¯t know where the other two cars went because he immediately took his wife to her house. Not dwin¡¯s apartment or Antony¡¯s house, but via¡¯s private residence known only to a few people. dwin nned to apany his wife there until Abigail returned from her trip.

    On Monday morning, dwin bid farewell to his wife as he had a schedule at the hospital. Despite feeling reluctant, the Doctor¡¯s oathpelled him to prioritize patients over personal matters. But dwin felt reassured because moments before he left for the hospital, Brianna and ire came to apany via.

    The hospital already looked crowded with outpatients. dwin didn¡¯t even have time to exchange pleasantries with Jonas because he wanted to start his work immediately so he could visit the patients under his care.

    At noon, they took a break. As dwin had anticipated, the woman came to his office with a frown on her face.

    ¡°Where were you over the weekend? Your mother tried to reach you, but your phone was off. Abigail couldn¡¯t be reached either. Are you intentionally trying to make your mother panic?¡± She interrogated.

    dwin just stared at her expressionlessly. The woman dared to invoke his mother¡¯s name just to get dwin¡¯s attention. Unfortunately, dwin wasn¡¯t easily swayed. And about not being able to be reached, dwin indeed intentionally deactivated his usual number and chose to use another number known only to via and Abigail, andtely, Brianna and ire.

    ¡°Do I need to answer in detail?¡± dwin replied tly. The woman still stared at him sharply. ¡°Unfortunately, I have no intention of telling you.¡± He replied with a mocking smile. dwin stood up, removed hisb coat, and left Phoebe, who he felt was suffocating the room that wasn¡¯t very spacious.

    ¡°dwin! I¡¯m not done talking!¡± The woman shouted. dwin ignored her.

    ¡°You never are.¡± He replied sarcastically without even turning to look at Phoebe. Jonas, who was still standing in the room, looked at Phoebe expressionlessly.

    ¡°Apa?!¡± The woman eximed loudly, turning back to Jonas.

    Jonas tried to smile. ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Doc. I need to step out and I have to lock this room from the outside,¡± he whispered softly. Phoebe¡¯s nose looked red with anger. With a stomp of her foot, she left the room.

    Phew¡­ Jonas breathed a sigh of relief. ¡®What does Dr. dwin¡¯s mother really like about that woman?¡¯ Jonas monologued. ¡®Her beautiful appearance? Even that woman¡¯s face isn¡¯t more beautiful than Abigail and via¡¯s. Her snobbish attitude? Abigail can be even snobbier than that.¡¯ Jonas could only shake his head as he locked dwin¡¯s office door. It was a habit he had only recently started on his own initiative before eventually catching up with dwin, whom he knew would be in the hospital cafeteria.

    ¡°I think we should stop Hendrick¡¯s investigation,¡± dwin started the conversation.

    ¡°Why, Doc?¡± Jonas asked back, puzzled.

    ¡°I¡¯ve got information from someone else. Turns out, someone else has already taken action. So, we can stop Hendrick¡¯s report. Just tell him I¡¯ll pay him in full.¡±

    ¡°Are you sure everything¡¯s enough?¡± Jonas tried to convince again. dwin just nodded. ¡°Alright, I¡¯ll contact Hendrickter,¡± he replied. dwin nodded again.

    ¡°I¡¯ll transfer hismission directly to his ount.¡±

    ¡°Got it, Boss!¡± Jonas saluted him with exaggerated ir, making dwin chuckle.

 Chap 95

    The awaited time never came for dwin. Somehow, there were so many obstacles to uncovering all these facts. When dwin was about to reveal everything to his mother, she fell ill instead, and therefore dwin had to restrain himself because he didn¡¯t want to worsen her health condition.

    Then, after his mother¡¯s health improved, suddenly dwin had to substitute for a doctor who happened to be unable to attend a medical seminar held in Bali, Indonesia. For three days, dwin had to leave via under Abigail¡¯s supervision again, and during that time, he never stopped feeling anxious.

    Jonas had contacted Hendrick and decided to end their cooperation. Although dwin had requested the investigation to be stopped, Hendrick promised to still inform him if he found anything suspicious regarding Phoebe because the man said he himself was still not satisfied with finding out, and dwin thanked him.

    And in the third week after dwin received the envelope from his grandmother-inw, dwin finally received a call from Julie asking him to have dinner at her house. He, who initially wanted to spend time with his beloved wife, had to restrain himself because he thought this was a golden opportunity.

    Not wanting to waste the opportunity given by his mother, dwin immediately contacted Abigail and asked her toe to Julie¡¯s house while he entrusted via to the care of Antony and ire.

    dwin-as usual when he didn¡¯t intend to stay long-parked his car in the outdoor area of the house. He saw Phoebe¡¯s car already neatly parked in Abigail¡¯s family garage. His assumption was correct; this was an opportunity he couldn¡¯t afford to miss. Greeting, this time dwin entered through the front door feeling happy. Another coincidence made a smile clearly appear on his face when he saw Phoebe¡¯s mother.

    dwin chose to sit in the farthest area from the women he deliberately avoided. Barely two seconds after he sat down, he heard, ¡°I¡¯m really curious. You¡¯ve been married for almost six months, but you¡¯ve never visited my house once. Phoebe¡¯s father even asked me about you.¡± The woman, always identifiable by her bright red lips, spoke.

    ¡°Forgive me, Mrs. Madsen. Lately, I¡¯ve been upied with work matters,¡± dwin replied, causing the eyebrows of the three women to furrow.

    ¡°dwin, Penelope here is your mother-inw,¡± Julie intervened, to which dwin responded with a shrug.

    ¡°So what?¡±

    ¡°You should address her as ¡®mom¡¯ too,¡± Juliemanded sharply.

    ¡°I rarely even call Antony, who¡¯s my real father-inw, ¡®dad,''¡± dwin replied tly. ¡°Besides, if Mr. Madsen really wanted to meet me, why didn¡¯t hee along with you? Why do you alwayse here alone?¡±

    Penelope waved her hand exaggeratedly. ¡°That old man with his stiff attitude never wants to apany me anywhere. Besides, if he came here, who would he talk to? He doesn¡¯t have any friends to chat with,¡± she replied, indirectly referring to dwin¡¯s mother, who was a widow.

    ¡°Yet if Mr. Madsen were here, I could talk to him at the same time,¡± dwin said, causing Penelope and Phoebe to frown with curiosity.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    ¡°What exactly do you need to discuss with Phoebe¡¯s father?¡± Julie inquired. ¡°If what you want to discuss is so important, why don¡¯t you just visit their house?¡±

    dwin responded to his mother¡¯s suggestion with a wry smile. ¡°There¡¯s no need for that; what I want to discuss isn¡¯t that important,¡± he replied again. Just as dwin was about to speak, their house assistant arrived and announced that the food was ready. dwin was slightly surprised because neither his elder brother nor his wife were in sight.

    ¡°Where¡¯s my brother?¡± he asked the house assistant.

    ¡°Your brother and her wife went to an event. They left with the kids,¡± Julie replied. dwin nodded, though inwardly he was somewhat annoyed at having to face the three women alone. Initially, dwin had hoped that with his brother¡¯s presence, he could engage in some banter, but his wish wasn¡¯t granted. And where was Abigail? Why hadn¡¯t she shown up yet?

    dwin was already seated at the end of the dining table. Phoebe, without being asked, deliberately positioned herself next to him. Meanwhile, her mother, Penelope, sat on Phoebe¡¯s right. Julie¡¯s mother sat on a chair to dwin¡¯s left.

    The dinner conversation was dominated by the three women. Although they often tried to involve dwin in the conversation, he onlymented briefly without wanting to continue. He also knew that amidst the conversation, Phoebe was trying to get his attention. She always shed her best smile, offered him food which dwin usually declined, and often attempted to touch him.

    Did she think dwin craved a woman¡¯s touch just because it had been six months ¨C she thought ¨C since he hadn¡¯t touched a woman? It was merely their assumption, unaware that dwin was now living together again with his wife, via.

    As dinner was nearing its end, dwin finally breathed a sigh of relief as the person he had been waiting for finally arrived.

    ¡°Wow, looks like there¡¯s a dinner party going on. Why wasn¡¯t I invited?¡± Abigail muttered with a disgruntled expression, then promptly sat in a chair next to Julie. Abigail turned her te over and began filling it with food.

    ¡°Where have you been all this time? I thought you forgot where your home is,¡± Julie chided bluntly.

    Abigail chuckled with her mouth full. ¡°Grandma, after not seeing you for so long, instead of hugging me, you¡¯re scolding me for no reason. Do you want to know where I¡¯ve been all this time? I¡¯ve been keeping a lonely sugar daddypany,¡± she said, nodding her head towards dwin.

    ¡°If you¡¯re aware that your uncle is lonely, why don¡¯t you tell him to go to Phoebe¡¯s house?¡± The question came out effortlessly from Abigail¡¯s adversary, Mrs. Lipstick.

    ¡°Of course, I¡¯ve been persuading him, not just once or twice but a million times, Grandma,¡± Abigail said enthusiastically. ¡°But what can I do if he doesn¡¯t want to? Every time I tell him to go to Aunt Phoebe¡¯s residence, he always says he only misses via. He misses via and always says that via is his true love.¡± Abigail¡¯s statement earned a snort from Penelope.

    ¡°What¡¯s the point of missing a woman who has been missing for six months?¡± Penelope retorted, her murmurs audible to everyone.

    dwin clenched his hands on the table, while Abigail smirked. ¡°I¡¯ve said the same thing. But fundamentally, my uncle is a cheap man, he has no shame and stubbornly begs for love from a woman who has left him. I even told him to divorce via, but this foolish man still refuses.¡±

    ¡°Why defend a selfish woman like that? He doesn¡¯t want a divorce. He can¡¯t marry another woman. Yet, he himself is gone,¡± Mrs. Lipstick interjected.

    ¡°That¡¯s right. Even though if he had stayed here, who knows, he might have gotten someone pregnant by now,¡± Abigail sneered.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Julie Hampton nced at her granddaughter.

    ¡°What do you mean she¡¯s pregnant?¡± Abigail countered innocently.

    Abigail shrugged. ¡°I mean, if she had stayed here and epted Aunt Phoebe as Uncle dwin¡¯s second wife, maybe by now they would bepeting to get pregnant. And who knows, maybe via would win and get pregnant first.¡± Abigail looked at her grandmother and their two guests alternately. The two guests, in turn, looked at her disapprovingly. ¡°As fellow wives, maybe you could help each other. Aunt Phoebe might be able to assist her with fertility programs. And perhaps, Aunt Phoebe could provide free consultation considering her position as Uncle dwin¡¯s other wife. Just consider it as a token of gratitude for being willing to share a husband. Or a rental fee because via has lent Uncle dwin to her. Isn¡¯t that right, Aunty?¡± Once again, Abigail looked at her two guests, who returned her sharp gaze. It was evident that both women were very angry with Abigail¡¯s opinion.

    ¡°Abigail!¡± Julie scolded, annoyed that Abigail had offended their guests with her words.

 Chap 96

    ¡°Yes, Grandma?¡± Abigail responded in a t tone. ¡°What¡¯s wrong with what I said? You¡¯re the one who said you want grandchildren, but when I discuss it, I¡¯m still med. Why, Grandma? Do you only want grandchildren born from Aunt Phoebe? Don¡¯t you want grandchildren from via?¡± Abigail asked in a sharp tone, making Julie have to pinch her under the table. ¡°Ouch, Grandma. That hurts.¡±

    ¡°You need to watch your mouth. Stop hurting people with your words,¡± Julie muttered angrily. Abigail was equally annoyed; she rubbed her leg which felt hot from her grandmother¡¯s pinch.

    ¡°I learn from the expert,¡± Abigail replied, causing her grandmother to raise an eyebrow. ¡°Besides, I¡¯m better off because I only need to watch my mouth. Meanwhile, your chosen daughter-inw, not only does she need to watch her mouth, but she has to watch everything.¡± She replied irritably.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Penelope and Julie asked simultaneously.

    ¡°Earlier, you told me to watch my mouth, and now you¡¯re telling me to speak. So what should I do? Shut up or speak?¡± Abigail grumbled nonchntly as she continued to spoon food into her mouth, ignoring the annoyed expressions of the older women.

    ¡°Abigail!¡± Julie growled softly once again.

    ¡°Just wait a moment, Grandma. I¡¯m really hungry. I¡¯ll talk after I finish eating,¡± she said with her mouth full. She then quickly finished her meal. Flipping her spoon and fork onto the empty te, she pushed them to the center and folded her hands on the table. Just like an elementary school student ready to go home when the ss is over. ¡°So, what do you want to know?¡±

    ¡°Why did you say Phoebe has to watch everything? What¡¯s wrong with her? What does she have to watch?¡± Julie asked directly.

    ¡°The person you¡¯re questioning is right there, just ask her directly.¡±

    ¡°You started the conversation, Abby. You also have to finish it,¡± Julie reprimanded again. Meanwhile, at the same time, Phoebe seemed silent, wondering what Abigail was about to say.

    ¡°Okay. First of all, Aunt Phoebe, may I ask something?¡± Abigail focused her attention on Phoebe.

    ¡°What do you want to ask?¡± Phoebe¡¯s forehead wrinkled.

    ¡°Who is Gisel¡¯s biological father?¡± she inquired.

    ¡°Why are you bringing up Gisel¡¯s name?¡± Julie was confused by Abigail¡¯s conversation.

    ¡°Grandma, please be quiet. If you keep talking, I won¡¯t say anything else,¡± Abigail reprimanded her grandmother before turning her attention back to Phoebe. ¡°So, who is her biological father?¡±

    ¡°Of course, she¡¯s the child of my ex-husband!¡± Penelope replied coldly.

    ¡°Yes, of course Gisel is the child of my ex-husband. But the question is, which husband?¡±

    ¡°What do you mean?¡± Julie interrupted again. ¡°Of course, from her ex-husband from before. How many husbands does she have?¡±

    Abigail nced back at Julie with one raised eyebrow. ¡°Don¡¯t you know?¡± she asked ambiguously. Julie¡¯s forehead furrowed even deeper.

    ¡°What do you mean?¡±

    Abigail rolled her eyes dramatically. ¡°I thought you paired her with Uncle dwin after knowing everything about her,¡± she said with a snort. ¡°But it¡¯s okay, if you don¡¯t know, I¡¯ll tell you.¡± She grinned at her two guests, who looked at her with tense expressions. ¡°Alright, where should we start?¡± Abigail furrowed her brow as if thinking. ¡°What I know is, Aunty Phoebe wants to be the second wife because to her, Uncle dwin is currently her second husband too.¡± Her gaze shifted to Phoebe and Penelope. Both women instantly appeared tense and pale.

    ¡°What do you mean?! You¡¯re ndering my daughter?!¡± Penelope yelled angrily.

    ¡°Abby! What do you mean by your words?¡±

    ¡°I mean, Aunt Phoebe is practicing polyandry,¡± Abigail stated tly. ¡°And I¡¯m not talking nonsense, Grandma. That¡¯s the truth.¡± Abigail nced at Penelope and Phoebe alternately.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°That¡¯s not true, right?¡± Julie looked at Penelope with worried eyes.

    ¡°Of course, that¡¯s impossible. How could a respectable woman like my daughter do such a crazy thing?!¡±

    Abigail sneered. ¡°Respectable women don¡¯t choose to steal someone else¡¯s husband. Being a mistress is one thing, but having two husbands?¡±

    ¡°Abby?¡±

    ¡°Yes, Grandma?¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re not saying all this because you want to tarnish Phoebe in front of me, right?¡±

    Abigail snorted. ¡°Think carefully, Grandma. If I wanted to tarnish her, I should be talking behind her back, not in front of her. Isn¡¯t that right, Uncle?¡± Abigail looked at her uncle as if seeking support. dwin, who had been leaning back in his chair the whole time, just nodded casually. ¡°See, even your son agrees with my thoughts. So, do you admit that you have two husbands? Or do you actually have more than just two husbands?¡± She asked with a mocking smile. ¡°Isn¡¯t it true that Aunt Phoebe has two husbands? Or maybe even more than that?¡±

    ¡°And, Grandma, your close friend, the mother of your chosen daughter-inw, apparently knows this fact but she intentionally hides it. Why? To gain my uncle¡¯s wealth?¡± She questioned, staring sharply at Penelope. ¡°It¡¯s all in vain because my uncle has already transferred all his wealth to via, his rightful wife.¡±

    ¡°I married dwin not because of wealth!¡± Phoebe eximed.

    ¡°In that case, because of what? Love? I know it¡¯s all just nonsense. If you truly love my uncle, then who is Deryl? Why are you still in contact with him? Clearly, your rtionship is not just an ordinary affair.¡± Abigail¡¯s words clearly made Phoebe and Penelope pale. Their bodies froze instantly.

    ¡°Who is Deryl?¡± Julie asked again.

    ¡°He¡¯s nobody,¡± Penelope replied curtly. ¡°He¡¯s just a subordinate of my husband who¡¯s infatuated with Phoebe. He¡¯s an insolent and ungrateful employee,¡± Penelope answered.

    Abigail smiled. ¡°Wow, Aunt¡¯s mom is really amazing, huh? If she were a director, she would have won many awards for her films.¡± Abigail taunted. ¡°Then what about the fact that she went with that man to a hotel when Uncle and Aunty suddenly disappeared three months ago? And before that, even before Uncle and Aunty got married?¡± Abigail asked.

    ¡°Don¡¯t mess around, you. This could be considered defamation. I know you don¡¯t like Phoebe, but that doesn¡¯t mean you can smear her like this,¡± Penelope said sarcastically. She rose from her seat and grabbed her bag before asking Phoebe to get up. ¡°We¡¯d better leave. I don¡¯t want my daughter to be ndered by others,¡± she said sarcastically.

    Abigail smiled, leaning back in her chair and staring at the woman with fiery lips with a sharp gaze. ¡°Is Aunt¡¯s mom really sure she doesn¡¯t want to know everything I know?¡± Abigail asked coldly. Julie Hampton looked at her granddaughter.

    ¡°What¡¯s this all about, Abby? Don¡¯t beat around the bush; you¡¯re confusing me,¡± her grandmothermanded.

 Chap 97

    ¡°I¡¯m not unwilling to reveal everything; I¡¯m just worried that if I do, you might have a heart attack. But if Grandma is sure she can handle it all, I¡¯lly it all out,¡± she replied casually.

    ¡°Julie, I think we should just go home. I can¡¯t bear to see my daughter being ndered by others,¡± Penelope said, now pulling Phoebe¡¯s arm.

    ¡°Aunt Phoebe clearly had a husband even when she married her first husband. That¡¯s the first point,¡± Abigail didn¡¯t want to give up just yet. ¡°Even then, she was pregnant with Gisel, who turns out not to be her first husband¡¯s child. Nor is he Deryl¡¯s child, the man who is still her husband.¡± She continued. Penelope and Phoebe looked at Abigail with wide-eyed shock.

    ¡°Gisel is the result of Aunt Phoebe¡¯s affair with her own father-inw. Isn¡¯t that right, Aunt?¡± Abigail asked with a sardonic smile. ¡°The second fact, Grandma. All this time, Aunt Phoebe has been prostituting herself under her father¡¯s control.¡± Julie Madsen gasped, while Phoebe and Penelope remained silent. ¡°The third fact, and undoubtedly more painful. Your beloved daughter-inw is a murderer.

    ¡°She turned the clinic where she works into an illegal abortion clinic. And for the past two years, she¡¯s been working there. Investigation results concluded that Aunt has taken the lives of more than a hundred people and billions of rupiahs as profits from those abortions.¡±

    Mrs. Julie held her chest, which might have felt tight. No one interrupted. In fact, Julie Hampton still couldn¡¯t believe the reality revealed by Abigail. Meanwhile, Phoebe and Penelope didn¡¯t expect Abigail to know all their crimes.

    The three women fell silent. Meanwhile, dwin, unbeknownst to them, had left briefly and returned with three envelopes that he always carried. He handed the brown envelopes to his mother.

    Julie Hampton opened them with trembling hands. The first envelope contained the DNA test results of Gisel. The second envelope contained photos of Phoebe with a man named Deryl. Photos of their wedding, and photos of the woman with several other men in positions that could be considered more than just friendly. And the third envelope contained photos of Phoebe in the hospital and some abortion contract documents. Along with photos of evidence of fetal destruction carried out by the woman and her aplices, seemingly done in the backyard of a

    Abigail also found a sh drive inside. ¡°You better not try to open that sh drive. It contains nothing but indecent videos made by one of Aunt¡¯s clients,¡± Abigail said, instantly causing Mrs. Julie to throw the sh drive away as if it were repulsive.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°I-It¡¯s all just edited. Phoebe didn¡¯t do any of that,¡± Penelope was still making her final attempt to defend Phoebe. Meanwhile, Phoebe herself remained silent, frozen with tears streaming down her face. Her expression showed nothing.

    ¡°Perhaps for the prostitution case, Aunt will only be made a victim. While Aunt¡¯s father will be used as a pimp. And for the polyandry case, there is indeed no evidence because you married in secret.

    ¡°As for the abortion case, Aunt knows the punishment herself. Revocation of the doctor¡¯s license and imprisonment will surely await the doctor.¡± Abigail stared sharply at Phoebe, who responded with an equally piercing gaze. Suddenly, the woman smirked sarcastically at Abigail. The smirk gradually turned intoughter. Notughter of joy, but hystericalughter that sounded agonizing.

    ¡°You! What do you know about me?!¡± She shouted. ¡°All this time you¡¯ve only known how to receive affection from your family. But me?!¡± She looked at Julie, then at Penelope. ¡°To fulfill their obsession. To fulfill their obsession, I had to sell myself without getting anything in return.

    ¡°I got nothing but numbness! I couldn¡¯t even love the man I love freely!¡± She whispered at the end of her sentence. Her eyes were directed at dwin. ¡°I love you. Since forever. Since the beginning I knew you. But she underestimated you!¡± Phoebe pointed at her mother again.

    ¡°Just because youe wearing a worn shoes and old clothes. Just because you don¡¯t drive a luxury car. Just because you¡¯re a younger man than me. ording to her, you¡¯re not worthy of me. But I love you!

    ¡°Aku yang lebih dulu mencintaimu daripada bocah ingusan itu!¡± She shouted again. Her face had turned red, and tears flowed freely. Abigail, dwin, and Julie knew that those tears weren¡¯t fake. They stemmed from the torment she had been holding inside.

    ¡°Is it wrong if I want him? Yes! Initially, it was for the money. But I also wanted him for myself!¡± Phoebe emphasized her words towards Abigail. ¡°And you! You ruined everything. You brought all this garbage to me. What do you know, huh?!¡±

    ¡°I indeed don¡¯t know anything. I don¡¯t know your feelings. I don¡¯t know what happened to you. But I know that what you did was wrong!¡± Abigail remained just as cold.

    ¡°Wrong? What¡¯s wrong? I became a good daughter by fulfilling my parents¡¯ wishes. So, where¡¯s the wrong in that?¡±

    ¡°It¡¯s your mindset that¡¯s wrong!¡± dwin spoke up. He, who had been observing silently, now voiced his opinion. ¡°You¡¯re too afraid of being poor; that¡¯s why you did everything. Squeezing your innocent ex-husband and even putting him in jail by framing him just because he¡¯s poor.

    ¡°But that¡¯s not the only reason, right? You¡¯re afraid your ex-husband will tell the whole world that you also served his father. Despite the genuine love he gave you, you rejected that sincerity just because you¡¯re afraid of being poor. And you me your parents?¡± dwin snorted in disgust.

    ¡°You weren¡¯t an innocent child when your father gave you that idea. You could have run to the other side of this country. Or you could have gone to a foreign country where no one knew you. Many uneducated people out there survive. Meanwhile, you?

    ¡°You¡¯re educated. You could seek experiences. But you didn¡¯t think that far. You didn¡¯t do it. Why? Because you¡¯re afraid of being poor! You¡¯re afraid of living in hardship!

    ¡°You say you can¡¯t love the man you love. Then what words did you express to the man named Deryl if not love? You persisted for years being his wife. But you refused to leave with him. Because why? Your parents? No. You did it because you feared he couldn¡¯t meet your needs. Once again, what you feared was poverty.

    ¡°You sold yourself, earning riches that you imed were to satisfy the lust of your parents. Then why did you kill innocent unborn babies? Because why? Because it turns out all the money you earned was not enough for yourself. Not for your family, not for your child. But for yourself. For you and to fulfill your obsession with gambling!

    ¡°Word by word, dwin¡¯s speech only made the woman freeze in ce. Meanwhile, Julie became increasingly silent, not expecting to hear all the facts.

    ¡°It wasn¡¯t your parents who ruined you, but yourself. Yet all you had to do was run, but you didn¡¯t. Because everything you did actually benefited yourself more than anyone else. Money. Sex. And gambling. Three things you enjoyed most. Isn¡¯t that right?¡±

    ¡°Y-you?¡± Julie looked at both Phoebe and Penelope alternately. No words came out of her mouth. The woman only murmured softly as she pressed her chest before finally copsing unconscious.

 Chap 98

    Abigail and dwin are focused on Julie¡¯s condition. The anxiety about something happening to the middle-aged woman causes them to forget and overlook the presence of Phoebe and Penelope. So, without them realizing it, the two women leave with the evidence that dwin had given earlier.

    dwin carries her mother to the car and quickly takes her to the nearest hospital. In less than ten minutes, Julie receives first aid. The results of the EKG (Electrocardiogram) show less than optimal results. However, she is not dered to have had a heart attack.

    Julie Hampton now lies weakly with an oxygen tube under her nose. Her face is pale, and her body is sweating coldly. Even her body temperature is low due to her sudden drop in blood pressure.This belongs to N?velDrama.Org - ?.

    dwin observes the devices attached to her mother¡¯s left and right sides. Watching the graphs and numbers appear on the screen. And she is thankful; her mother is still within what is considered non-rming limits.

    Abigail, waiting outside the VVIP ward, has already contacted ire because dwin saw her twin sister arrive hastily in her husband¡¯s arms. ¡°How¡¯s Mom?¡± she asks, breathlessly.

    ¡°She¡¯s improving. It was worrying earlier. But now it¡¯s gradually returning to normal. The cause was due to blood pressure,¡± ire says, relieved. ¡°Oh God. What have you done to Mom?!¡± she shouts shortly afterward. Her eyes ring at Abigail and dwin. ¡°What if Mom had a heart attack?¡± Abigail just lowers her head. As for dwin? Who knows, her expression ispletely unreadable. ¡°But you seeded, didn¡¯t you? Your efforts paid off, right?¡± she asks again. ¡°After what happened to Mom, I don¡¯t want to hear that your efforts failed.¡± She says angrily.

    ¡°Honey, calm down,¡± Antony tries to reassure his wife.

    ¡°Aunty, if our efforts hadn¡¯t seeded, Grandma wouldn¡¯t be here right now,¡± Abigail replies softly.

    ¡°You didn¡¯t say anything to via, did you? I don¡¯t want anything to happen to her,¡± dwin finally spoke up.

    ¡°No, via doesn¡¯t know anything. She was already asleep when we left,¡± Antony calmly replied, which dwin acknowledged with a nod.

    ¡°It¡¯s better if you two go home. Let me take care of Mom. If via asks about my whereaboutster, just tell her that I suddenly had to undergo surgery at the hospital. I forgot to bring my phone, and it seems I left it at Mom¡¯s house,¡± dwin requested of her twin sister, ire.

    ire looked at Antony, and Antony simply nodded. Initially, Abigail wanted to apany her grandmother, but dwin forbade her because someone had to stay to take care of via at home.

    As the three of them left, dwin pulled a chair and ced it beside her mother¡¯s bed.

    ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Ma,¡± she whispered. Her eyes gazed at her mother¡¯s sleeping face. The face, already filled with wrinkles, seemed even more fragile.

    dwin felt guilty for putting her mother in the current condition. Like a son, dwin loved and admired her mother very much. In her eyes, her mother was a fighter. She was a very tough woman. After dwin¡¯s father passed away, Julie decided never to marry again just to take care of her children. And her children never opposed her decision. However, her middle-aged mother¡¯s stubborn nature often made her sons angry even though they never expressed it.

    Yes, perhaps dwin was the only one who dared to defy her mother to this extent. But dwin fought not because she hated her mother. Not because she wanted to be disobedient. But she fought because she knew that what her mother wanted this time was beyond reason.

    Perhaps her mother was seeking attention. dwin had heard that as people grow older, they feel they need more attention. Especially parents, who often feel neglected by their children because their children are busy with their own lives.

    But did it have to go this far?

    dwin often heard and witnessed arguments between inws and their children. It¡¯s not umon for these arguments to force the child to choose between their spouse or their biological mother. Yet, the issues are not significant. It¡¯s just because the mother often feels jealous that her child pays more attention to their spouse than to her. Or vice versa, because the wife is jealous that her husband pays more attention to his mother.

    But in this case, her mother¡¯s fear stemmed more from the influence of others¡¯ instigation. Because actually, dwin knew that her mother wouldn¡¯t act this way if she relied on her ownmon sense.

    Her mother woke up in the middle of the night. dwin could sense her faint movements. She, who hadid her head by the bedside, straightened her stiff back. Her mother was now gazing at her with a mncholic look.

    ¡°Mom, do you want something? Water?¡± she asked. Her mother nodded faintly. dwin stood up and poured hot water from the kettle, mixing it with cold water until it felt warm before putting a straw into the ss and handing it to her mother. Her mother sipped the drink slowly, then stopped when she felt satisfied.

    ¡°What¡¯s hurting? Do you want me to massage?¡± she asked again after putting the drink back on the nightstand. dwin sat at the edge of the bed, right beside her mother¡¯s right foot. Her hands crept under the thick nket and massaged her mother¡¯s feet gently. Her mother didn¡¯t say much. Her eyes seemed to drift off again.

    dwin knew her mother had fallen asleep again. Perhaps the influence of the painkillers kept making her drowsy.

    At five in the morning, after she came out of the bathroom, she saw her mother already had her eyes open.

    ¡°Mom, do you want to go to the bathroom?¡± Her mother nodded. dwin reached for the IV tube and turned it off before carrying her mother and taking her to the bathroom. After finishing, she brought her mother back to the room, helping her to lie down.

    ¡°Forgive me,¡± Julie whispered. Her eyes now turned red, tears welling up there. dwin approached, sitting near her mother¡¯s hand and gazing at her. ¡°I¡¯ve made you and via suffer all this time. I didn¡¯t know she was like that,¡± she said. Tears now flowed down her aged face. So heavy, full of regret.

    ¡°You¡¯re not wrong. And I don¡¯t need to forgive you. I know everything you did was for my good. And not just you, even I who have known her longer never imagined she¡¯d be like this, let alone you,¡± dwin held her mother¡¯s hand, free from the IV, and squeezed it gently.

    ¡°What about via? Because of my selfishness, she left you. I¡¯ve sinned against her. I¡¯ve also sinned against Antony for making his daughter suffer. Now that via¡¯s gone, where should we look for her?¡± Her mother cried even more. Sobbing with heart-wrenching pain. dwin, hearing her, also shed tears. ¡°I have to apologize to her, dwin. Where should we look for her?¡±

    ¡°Mom, even without you apologizing, I¡¯m sure via will forgive you. You know via isn¡¯t a vengeful person, right?¡± dwin looked at her mother, her mother returned the look and nodded hesitantly.

    ¡°But the mistake I made to her wasn¡¯t a small one. I¡¯ve been cruel to her, I¡¯ve insulted her, and I¡¯ve driven her away from you, the person she¡¯s loved for so long,¡± Julie spoke again. Still with her tears pouring down. Even her voice sounded choked.

    ¡°I don¡¯t know if via wants toe back to me or not,¡± dwin whispered. She saw her mother¡¯s shoulders tense up. ¡°via always fears she can¡¯t give me offspring, and she¡¯s also afraid she can¡¯t make you happy. So, she doesn¡¯t want toe back,¡± she continued. Her mother¡¯s crying grew louder and sounded more agonizing.

    ¡°Forgive me, dwin. Forgive me,¡± the woman repeated over and over. ¡°If only I wasn¡¯t so greedy. None of this would have happened. If only I had listened to you and Abigail. If only I had been patient. Now, how can I redeem myself to via? How can I make here back to you again?¡±

    ¡°Would you truly ept via even if she couldn¡¯t give me a child?¡±

 Chap 99

    Julie lifted her head, wiping the tears from her face and sniffing loudly before nodding like a child asking for something from their parent.

    ¡°I promise, I swear I won¡¯t demand anything from via anymore. It¡¯s enough for me if shees back to you. It¡¯s enough for me if she forgives me. I promise not to pressure her to give me grandchildren.¡±

    ¡°I should have realized that offspring is a gift given by God to us, not solely because of our desires. I was foolish and selfish. I was wrong.¡±

    dwin hugged her mother who still sobbed. ¡°There, there, Ma. Don¡¯t cry anymore. If you keep crying, your wrinkles will look even more and your face will look uglier.¡± dwin teased her mother while patting her back, which made her mother gently hit her back in response. ¡°I promise I will bring via back. I will make via my only wife, and I will make sure she bes the most beloved daughter-inw by her mother-inw,¡± she said. Julie Hampton just nodded in dwin¡¯s embrace.

    The next morning, Julie¡¯s room was filled with visitors. Abigail¡¯s parents came along with Abigail¡¯s siblings. Followed by ire, Antony, Ignazio, and Francisca, while baby Meizar was left at home. Julie looked at Antony shyly. ¡°Forgive me,¡± she said softly, for who knows how many times, as Antony stood beside her.

    ¡°Come on, there¡¯s nothing for me to forgive. Everything has been the path that via and dwin needed to walk through in life. Just like what ire and I experienced in the past. Isn¡¯t it true that facing problems makes us more mature?¡± Antony reassured his mother-inw.

    ¡°Yes. But I have sinned greatly against your daughter, against my granddaughter. Just because of my selfishness, I only added to her wounds. I should have been more mature. I should have embraced her. Supported her. Not pushed her away like that.¡±

    Antony held his mother-inw¡¯s small hand and smiled. ¡°Not everything happens ording to what we want, Ma. What you did to via was what any mother-inw should have done. All mothers always want their children to be happy. I am disappointed, yes, but I can¡¯t do anything else except surrender everything to the Owner of Life. via will forgive you, because you surely know she loves you very much, don¡¯t you?¡±

    Julie nodded. Ironically, because of that, the guilt in her heart grew even bigger.

    ¡°Where is she now? You must know where she is, right? I¡¯ll go after her. If necessary, I¡¯ll kneel in front of her and apologize. I¡¯ll do anything to make here back to me, to dwin. I promise I won¡¯t demand anything from her anymore. Because I know, for dwin, via¡¯s presence alone is enough.¡±

    Antony smiled. ¡°Thank you, Ma. Thank you for epting my daughter with all her ws. via and I are so lucky to have a mother-inw like you.¡±

    ¡°You¡¯re wrong. I¡¯m the one lucky to have inws like you. I¡¯m the one who was too greedy to see your goodness and only focused on your shorings.¡± Antony didn¡¯t say anything more. He didn¡¯t want to further stress and burden his mother. With all the problems she faced, he didn¡¯t want to add more.

    Then the door opened, and Abigail appeared with a smile on her face. ¡°Well, well, well. Is there a family reunion going on here?¡± Her forehead furrowed momentarily when she saw the sad faces of the people in her grandmother¡¯s room.

    ¡°Where¡¯s your uncle?¡± Julie asked Abigail. Abigail sneered in response.

    ¡°The one who should be the main character here is me. Why do you always ask about uncle¡¯s whereabouts? When will you acknowledge my presence? Grandma, I¡¯m the one who has revealed all the facts about your dream daughter-inw. I¡¯m the one who has opened your eyes and¡­¡±

    ¡°What are you talking about?¡± dwin stood behind Abigail, interrupting the girl¡¯s speech and deliberately nudging her shoulder.

    Abigail red at her uncle but walked away. Allowing her uncle to approach the bed where Julie Hampton and Antony Quirino were.

    ¡°Ma¡­¡± dwin walked slowly. ¡°You¡¯ll keep the promise you made to mest night, right?¡± She asked, her gaze fixed on her mother. ¡°You promised that you wouldn¡¯t demand anything from via as long as shees back?¡± Julie nodded firmly, then her eyes widened.

    ¡°You¡¯ve found via? So quickly?¡± she asked in surprise.

    Both dwin, Abigail, ire, and Antony smiled. ¡°via was never lost, Ma. Abigail, Antony, and ire have known where she is all along. They just kept it secret from me and from you.¡± Mrs. Julie¡¯s forehead furrowed even deeper. dwin then shifted her body, and right behind her stood via, who was bowing her head in embarrassment.

    ¡°Via¡­¡± Julie Hampton whispered. Her arms spread wide, inviting the woman into her embrace without words. via walked slowly and dropped her body into the old woman¡¯s embrace.

    ¡°Grandma¡­¡± she whispered. Tears finally fell from her eyes.

    ¡°My dear, forgive me. I promise I won¡¯t ask anything more of you. Please forgive me. Will you?¡± Julie created some distance to be able to see the face of her granddaughter, who was now her daughter-inw.

    via just nodded her head. No words coulde out. For her, her grandma¡¯s eptance of her presence was enough. ¡°Return to dwin and I promise I won¡¯t demand anything anymore. About children, I swear I won¡¯t bring it up again. I truly regret all my selfish behavior all this time. I was evil. I was truly evil.¡±

    via shook her head vigorously, rejecting the old woman¡¯s statement. ¡°No, Grandma. You¡¯re not evil at all. I know you love Uncle dwin, and I also know you love me. If you didn¡¯t love me, you would have treated me badly a long time ago. But that¡¯s not the case.

    ¡°I¡¯m the one who¡¯s wrong here. I¡¯m wrong for leaving Uncle.¡± She said between sobs. Then via reached for her grandma¡¯s hand and ced the old woman¡¯s palm on her stomach, which was wrapped in a loose dress, so her grandma didn¡¯t notice the physical changes.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°You?¡± Julie¡¯s eyes widened. Her old hands slowly caressed via¡¯s belly in a circr motion. ¡°You¡¯re pregnant?¡± via nodded, a happy smile clearly blossoming on her face. ¡°But¡­ this¡­¡± Mrs. Julie was clearly shocked by the size of via¡¯s belly, which couldn¡¯t be called small.

    ¡°It¡¯s been six months,¡± dwin spoke on behalf of his wife.

    Julie eximed in surprise. But then a happy smile formed on her face. She hugged via again and whispered her gratitude in via¡¯s ear, asionally kissing her daughter-inw¡¯s temple and cheek.

    ¡°Forgive me. I truly apologize,¡± she repeated incessantly.

    ¡°It¡¯s okay, Grandma. Everything¡¯s done. I¡¯ve never been angry with you, so you don¡¯t need to keep apologizing like this.¡± She said with a happy smile on her face. Julie could only nod her head.

    ¡°Oh God, forgive my greediness. I can¡¯t believe in Your destiny. I tried to change Your will and impatiently did something that hurt my family, the people I love, and who love me.

    ¡°Forgive me, God. I know that asking for forgiveness and confessing my sins isn¡¯t enough. But I promise, in the future, I will try to be a better mother and grandmother to my sons and daughters, and grandchildren.¡±

    ¡°Grant happiness to our family. Keep us away from wicked people. Those who seek to ruin our happiness. Make me someone who is always grateful. And give me a long life so I can witness the birth and growth of my grandchildren.¡±

    Julie¡¯s prayer echoed in her heart. Her eyes watched her sons, daughters, and grandchildren interacting with each other. The guilt of her selfishness wouldn¡¯t disappear from her heart and mind.

    She, who had acted selfishly simply because she felt entitled as the one who gave birth to and raised her children, had forgotten that everything she had was only entrusted by the Almighty.

    May she not make the same mistake in the future. May God always watch over her. Guard her heart. Guard the happiness of her family. Amen.

 Chap 100

    The roar of children¡¯sughter and shouts was so loud it echoed into the outer area outside the orphanage¡¯s fence. A woman with dark sses could be seen gripping the steering wheel so tightly her knuckles turned white. She gazed at the figures she recognized there,ughing happily. As for herself? She was shattered. Finished. She had nothing left in life to boast about anymore.

    Yes. She was Phoebe.

    A month had passed since that night. The night when she and her mother left dwin¡¯s house with all the evidence in hand.

    Satisfied? Yes, initially she was satisfied and thought all the evidence was gone when she destroyed it by burning. Even then, she immediately contacted her associate at the clinic to shut down the clinic where they had been umting their wealth because she was afraid dwin would take drastic action and report her to the police.

    Of course, the man wouldn¡¯t just sit still, would he? He would certainly seek revenge on her, especially since she had been ruining his happiness all this time.

    And then, somehow everything happened so quickly. Her father was arrested for being caught as a receiver of stolen cars. What surprised Phoebe was that the informant was none other than the person who had been close to her all this time. Who else but Deryl.

    The moment of her father¡¯s arrest, the man divorced her. He cursed her after finding out that Gisel-whom Phoebe had imed as her own all this time-was another man¡¯s child. He was furious and went straight to the police station, bringing all the evidence he had secretly collected about her father. Then the man also used her father of being a pimp and making his own child a victim.

    And Phoebe? She was forced to go in and out of the police station every time she was summoned to testify.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    She didn¡¯t want to lie anymore. She disclosed all the facts to the investigators. After all, she didn¡¯t want her name to end up in the news and tarnish her reputation. Meanwhile, her mother? The old woman could only me her. She said that Phoebe was an ungrateful child who had put her father in prison.

    So what should Phoebe do? The fact was that her father had indeed sold her to men with spotted noses out there.

    And when Phoebe thought that it was all over. Truly over. Another surprise awaited her. The clinic she had asked to be closed down was still secretly operating by her associate. Unfortunately, the police caught wind of their wrongdoing.

    Someone Phoebe didn¡¯t know reported her to the local police station, and eventually, they investigated and caught her associates red-handed along with the patients who were undergoing illegal abortions. Luckily, Phoebe managed to escape the police pursuit. But her unlucky break was that she was now a fugitive. Her associate used her of being the mastermind and owner of the illegal abortion clinic.

    Damn, damn, and damn!

    All of this forced her to live hiding from one small inn to another to evade the authorities. She had to find a way to defend herself so she could escape legal consequences, but once again, nothing was easy. The evidence she thought she had destroyed back then resurfaced. Phoebe learned about it from someone she knew working in the police force, whom she extracted information from by selling her body again.

    dwin! He was the source of her problems.

    He paid former army personnel working as private investigators and handed over all the evidence of her wrongdoing to the authorities. It made Phoebe suffer and live a wretched life like this. And she couldn¡¯t ept it. Because while she was suffering, he seemed happy with his life.

    And that woman. The damned woman who never strayed from dwin¡¯s embrace is back now. She looked so cheerful, happy, and¡­ pregnant? Is she pregnant?

    Phoebe observed the woman¡¯s stomach, which despite being covered with wide cloth, still looked big. She was an obstetrician; she could differentiate between a pregnant woman and a woman who was just overweight.

    Damn it! Again, damn it! What¡¯s with this twist of fate? She should be the one happy over there. She should be the one in dwin¡¯s embrace,ughing happily! Phoebe gripped the steering wheel tighter. She had to seek revenge.

    She drove her car away from the orphanage. In her mind, scenes of revenge against her rival yed out.

    ***

    via and Abigail left the caf¨¦ area at three in the afternoon. via¡¯s increasingly bulging stomach made her less mobile. Moreover, the ache in her lower back made her ufortable sitting too long.

    via¡¯s pregnancy was now seven months along. A few days ago, they even held a pregnancy celebration at the orphanage with dwin¡¯s extended family and her ownrge family.

    It felt joyful to share with the less fortunate children there. Considering how she had been showered with so much love and luxury all this time, she tried her best to share what she had with them.

    Exiting the caf¨¦ area, via saw a burger vendor, and the scent of butter and meat made her inexplicably drool. She asked Abigail to take her to the burger stand and ordered a full meal, and that¡¯s when it all happened.

    Abigail called her name loudly, and a car came speeding towards them. via didn¡¯t know exactly how it happened. She was pulled so quickly, pushed backward so that the back of her body hit the car parked in the cafe¡¯s parking lot, and as via tried to clear her vision, everything looked painful before her.

    An elderly man was thrown quite far from where he should have been standing with Abigail. Where was her friend?

    ¡°Via, are you okay?¡± Abigail? That was Abigail¡¯s voice. via turned and saw her friend trying to rise from the fall, looking at via with surprise. Thankfully, that sentence came out of her mind just like that.

    ¡°Abby, the man?¡± via immediately remembered the man lying on the asphalt road.

    Abigail instantly got up, running and calling out the names of the employees she remembered, which wasn¡¯t necessary because people were already crowding around, running around her, Abigail, and the old man who had crossed the street with her.

    ¡°Get the driver! If necessary, beat him!¡± via heard someone shouting. But she didn¡¯t know why because at that moment, all she felt was the pain spreading from her waist.

    ¡°Abby¡­¡± via gasped suddenly. Her hand held the lower part of her stomach, which somehow felt sore as if her stomach was about to fall. Something from inside her seemed to want toe out. via was sure of it. ¡°Abby¡­¡± she called softly and then sat down on the asphalt. Abigail widened her eyes. She, who had initially wanted to help the man, now turned back towards via.

    ¡°Via, what¡¯s wrong?¡± Abigail asked in panic. via¡¯s face had turned pale, and the small woman¡¯s hands now gripped Abigail¡¯s clothes tightly.

    ¡°The baby¡­¡± she groaned softly.

 Chap 101

    ¡°Oh my God.¡± Abigail was now panicking too. She looked at the people who were now divided into two groups. The first group was those helping the old man. And the second group was a few meters away from them, which Abigail believed were trying to trap the person who tried to hit via.Content ? provided by N?velDrama.Org.

    ¡°Help!¡± Abigail screamed.

    A car was parked not far from them. Some people were seen carrying the old man¡¯s body into the car. And after closing it, they then turned and noticed Abigail and via. Quickly, they helped via. Carrying her and putting her in the front of the car where the old man victim was earlier.

    Abigail then ran into her car, following the car carrying via and the victim from earlier. She didn¡¯t care about the fate of the perpetrator. She entrusted everything to her employees. And then she remembered dwin. No, she had to contact dwinter when it was clear which hospital via was taken to.

    Fortunately, they took via and the victim to the hospital where dwin worked. Several people in all-blue uniforms immediately helped via and the ident victim. Abigail followed suit after parking her car. She didn¡¯t care if she parked her car haphazardly. She would deal with any tickets or anythingter.

    Abigail ran into the emergency department. via was already on a stretcher, and a nurse was examining her. Meanwhile, the elderly man who was the victim was being attended to by a doctor. Abigail didn¡¯t pay much attention to him because her focus this time was on via.

    Oh God, hopefully, they both would be okay. That¡¯s all she could pray for in her heart.

    Abigail reached into her pants pocket, intending to find her phone and contact her uncle. Damn it! Where was her phone when she needed it now?! She cursed inwardly. She couldn¡¯t leave via at a time like this. For God¡¯s sake.

    She ran back to the emergency reception. ¡°Good afternoon, Miss. Is there anything I can help you with?¡±

    Abigail tapped her head. Why did she also forget that her uncle worked as a specialist doctor?! ¡°I¡¯m sorry, Nurse.¡± Abigail scratched her non-itchy head. ¡°Could you please call Doctor dwin Hampton here?¡± she asked the nurse, who now looked puzzled.

    ¡°Excuse me?¡± the nurse repeated. Abigail nced at her name tag; the woman in her thirties was named Mnie Roberts.

    ¡°Nurse, please contact Doctor dwin Hampton. I forgot what specialty he is. But clearly, he has a practice here today. His name is Doctor dwin Hampton. Or maybe as a fellow nurse, do you know Jonas Quill?¡± Abigail rattled off quickly. Hearing the name dwin and also his assistant named Jonas Quill, the nurse finally realized.

    ¡°Oh. Y-yes. Just a moment.¡± As the nurse picked up the phone, someone called Abigail¡¯s name.

    ¡°What are you doing here?¡± Abigail turned and saw Eijaz looking at her with confusion.

    ¡°Doctor. via.¡± Abigail rubbed her face. ¡°We had an incident, and it seems like via is going into prematurebor. I¡¯m trying to contact Uncle.¡± Abigail responded to Eijaz¡¯s question in a daze.

    ¡°Doctor Hampton is on his way here,¡± the nurse Abigail asked for help informed her. Abigail thanked her and returned to where via had been earlier. Meanwhile, Eijaz, the man, disappeared to the other side of the emergency room. It seemed like he was indeed about to receive a patient.

    ¡°The patient is going intobor,¡± a man standing next to via¡¯s stretcher announced. ¡°We¡¯ll see how it progresses if the patient can deliver naturally. If the dtion doesn¡¯t progress, we¡¯ll perform a C-section. Please, where¡¯s the guardian?¡± Abigail raised her hand and approached. ¡°Please fill out the patient¡¯s information.¡±

    Abigail scratched her head again, although it wasn¡¯t itchy. Luckily, dwin appeared at that moment.

    ¡°Doctor Hampton?¡±

    ¡°Uncle?¡±

    Both people in via¡¯s room spoke simultaneously. dwin didn¡¯t respond at all. Instead, he approached his wife, whoy with a pale face and an IV in her hand.

    ¡°Darling, what happened to you?¡± He asked softly.

    ¡°Somebody tried to hit her while she was crossing the street outside the caf¨¦. I don¡¯t know who that was or why they did it. But it seems like the caf¨¦ staff has managed to apprehend them. Uncle, please stay with Via. I need to check on the condition of the elderly man who was also a victim of the ident.¡±

    Abigail felt a slight relief with dwin¡¯s presence. She walked towards the room where the elderly man who had helped via earlier was. A young man was whispering to Eijaz, while the middle-aged man who was the ident victim still had his eyes closed.

    ¡°How is he?¡± Abigail looked at Eijaz and the victim alternately.

    ¡°We¡¯re going to do a CT scan because so far there doesn¡¯t seem to be any external injuries,¡± Eijaz exined. ¡°Judging from the patient¡¯s response, there¡¯s nothing worrisome. However¡­¡± Eijaz pointed to the patient¡¯s leg. ¡°The patient has a broken bone. We¡¯ll examine it further and proceed with treatment. Who will be responsible?¡±

    ¡°Me.¡±

    ¡°I will.¡±

    Both Abigail and the man spoke simultaneously.

    Abigail shook her head. ¡°I¡¯ll take responsibility.¡± Abigail stared sharply at the man. Then she turned to Eijaz. ¡°He¡¯s the one who helped via. We¡¯ll take full responsibility for him.¡± Abigail reassured Eijaz, and the man just nodded.

    ¡°Please handle the paperwork.¡± Eijaz looked at the nurse who had performed the initial treatment on the patient. ¡°Are there any personal belongings of the patient?¡± he asked. The nurse handed a wallet and an old phone to Eijaz. ¡°Use this to document the patient¡¯s information upfront. And Abby, try to check his phone; maybe there are family members we can contact.¡± He said. Abigail nodded and left the room again.

    She returned to dwin. He was sitting beside via¡¯s stretcher, holding his wife¡¯s hand tightly. via still asionally groaned, but her mouth didn¡¯t utter curses or any other magical words except prayers. Abigail admired her for that.

    ¡°Uncle, have you filled out via¡¯s information?¡± Abigail asked. The man looked up and shook his head. ¡°Let me do it. Do I need to contact anyone at home?¡± She asked again, and dwin shook his head.

    ¡°Not now.¡± He whispered. ¡°Don¡¯t make others worry.¡± Abigail just nodded and then walked away again, leaving via¡¯s room.

    Afterwards, he returned to the receptionist. Trying to fill out via¡¯s data application and the victim Abigail knew named Josef. He massaged his forehead again when he found out that the man wasn¡¯t from Kansas.

    ¡°Is there a problem?¡± a man suddenly appeared beside him asked. The man who had helped via and Josef earlier. The man who offered to take responsibility for Josef.

    Abigail thought the man had already left. But apparently not.

    Abigail shook her head in response to the man¡¯s question.

    ¡°Abby!¡± someone called her, and it was Jonas. The young man came hastily with a clipboard in his hand. ¡°How¡¯s via?¡± he asked again.

    ¡°Attempting a normal delivery. Still monitoring her progress,¡± she replied tly. Now Abigail stood sandwiched between two people on her left and right. Jonas, who suspected the man on Abigail¡¯s right to be her acquaintance, suddenly reached out his hand.

    ¡°I¡¯m Jonas, Abigail¡¯s friend,¡± he greeted warmly.

    ¡°Eric,¡± the man replied. Abigail furrowed her brow. The man had helped her several times, yet they hadn¡¯t even been properly introduced, and now Jonas beat her to it. Abigail felt embarrassed. Finally, she turned to her rescuer and extended her hand as well.

    ¡°Abigail,¡± she said politely.

    The man smiled and nodded. His smile was so gentle, momentarily entrancing Abigail. If only her situation wasn¡¯t so dire right now, maybe Abigail could approach the man. But no. Who knows if the man turns out to be someone else¡¯s husband. Abigail chuckled at her own thoughts.

    Abigail turned to Jonas, who was now looking at her with surprise. Clearly, how could the person he suspected to be Abigail¡¯s boyfriend turn out to be another new acquaintance of the girl. But Jonas didn¡¯t dwell on it.

    ¡°Please help me fill out Josef¡¯s form, I¡¯ll fill out via¡¯s,¡± Abigail handed Mr. Josef¡¯s ID card to Jonas while she filled out via¡¯s form. ¡°Could it be possible for there to be an empty VIP treatment room? Don¡¯t let Josef be treated in the public ward.¡± She conversed with Jonas, ignoring the man who was still standing beside her and still watching her.

 Chap 102

    Three hourster.

    Josef had been well taken care of. His broken bones turned out not to be too severe, and the surgery had already been performed. The doctor had applied a cast to his leg, and now he was still sleeping under the effects of anesthesia.

    Meanwhile, via, Abigail¡¯s friend, was now in the delivery room with dwin. Abigail sat alone in the waiting room because Jonas had other matters to attend to in the hospital, but he promised to return and apany her once he was done.

    Abigail was now sitting alone in the waiting room. She was sure that her employees were currently trying to reach her to inform her about thetest condition of the perpetrator, whom Abigail herself wanted to know who they were and why the ident happened. But suddenly she remembered one name.

    Abigail reached for her uncle¡¯s phone and darn, the phone was in locked mode, and she didn¡¯t know the pattern. Did she really have to wait until the childbirth process was over to unlock her uncle¡¯s phone?

    However, Abigail couldn¡¯t go home to inform her family or return to the caf¨¦ to look for her phone either. Because she was sure her phone was missing right now. She remembered clearly that she had just finished a call when the incident urred, and maybe her phone was thrown away when she fell. So, the onlyst option Abigail had was to wait for Jonas.

    Abigail massaged her throbbing head, leaning her back against the wall and tilting her head back to alleviate the pain. Oh dear, why at a time like this was she feeling hungry instead. Her appearance surely wouldn¡¯t be much better either.

    Abigail got up and headed to the bathroom; she would try to tidy up her appearance a bit. But just a few steps into her walk, the phone in her pants pocket vibrated strongly. Abigail pulled it out. The name ¡°my wife¡± blinked on the ck and white screen. Abigail was confused. Josef hadn¡¯t woken up yet, and she herself didn¡¯t know what to say to her ¡°wife¡± over there. She then activated the ¡°silent¡± mode and continued walking towards the women¡¯s restroom.

    Upon returning from the women¡¯s restroom, she saw that the delivery room was already open. dwin stood there, smiling broadly at her, then hugged Abigail tightly.

    ¡°It¡¯s a girl. Beautiful. Just like via,¡± he whispered.

    Abigail¡¯s eyes welled up instantly. ¡®Oh God, thank you. You have bestowed kindness upon our family by saving the innocent baby in via¡¯s womb.¡¯ Abigail whispered in her heart.

    ¡°How¡¯s Via?¡±

    ¡°Thank God, she¡¯s fine. The doctor is taking care of her, and then I¡¯ll take her and the baby to the recovery room,¡± said dwin. The man¡¯s eyes narrowed, still shedding tears of joy.

    ¡°Baby?¡± Abigail furrowed her brow. ¡°Are you really going to name her ¡®Baby¡¯?¡± she asked, displeased.

    ¡°Why, is there a problem?¡±

    ¡°Don¡¯t you forget? I¡¯m the one who¡¯s been fighting here for you. So giving a name to the baby is my right. Beware if you dare to name her ¡®Baby¡¯. Besides, what kind of name is that? It soundsmon and spoiled.

    ¡°She must not be a spoiled child. Beware if you forbid me from giving her a name. Remember, it¡¯s my right,¡± she insisted. dwin could onlyugh now.

    Afterward, he left and contacted his other family members. Not long after, about twenty minutester, via, who had also been moved to the maternity ward area, now had to face the visitors who came to see her and the baby.

    ¡°The baby is still in the PICU, Mom,¡± dwin informed his mother. ¡°Because she was born premature, the baby still needs to be monitored.¡±

    ¡°Uncle! I told you not to call the baby ¡®Baby¡¯!¡±

    ¡°Then what should I call her? You haven¡¯t given her a name yet. Let it be, for now, she can be called Baby,¡± dwin wouldn¡¯t back down. While the others in the room could only shake their heads.N?velDrama.Org owns ? this.

    ¡°Come on, what¡¯s wrong with you guys? Poor via, she must still be tired and in pain,¡± ire intervened.

    ¡°This is all because of Uncle. He¡¯s being annoying,¡± Abigail responded with her ungraceful snort. ire just shook her head.

    ¡°What did I do wrong? Naming my own child, what¡¯s wrong with that? You spinster,¡± dwin taunted again.

    ¡°Uncle! You really don¡¯t know how to be grateful. I¡¯ve been struggling to help you, but this is how you treat me? Have you forgotten that you were also an old bachelor once?¡±

    ¡°That was then. Now I¡¯m settled. I already have a wife, and now I have my own child. What about you? When are you going to get married?¡±

    ¡°Next year!¡± Abigail blurted out.

    Everyone in the room fell silent. Because Abigail had never shown any closeness with any man. So how could she promise to get married next year? With whom?

    But their questions were diverted by a knock on the door.

    Two men entered along with Jonas. ¡°Good evening, everyone,¡± Jonas warmly greeted Abigail and via¡¯s family. They responded to Jonas¡¯s greeting just as warmly. ¡°Doctor dwin, Hendrick wants to give a report,¡± he said again. Abigail and dwin suddenly tensed, as did via.

    dwin squeezed his wife¡¯s hand, kissed her forehead before entrusting her to Julie and ire. He then approached Jonas and invited him to leave the room. But the man named Hendrick who stood behind Jonas remained silent and looked at Abigail.

    ¡°You can alsoe with us, Miss,¡± he requested softly yet firmly. Abigail nodded and followed dwin.

 Chap 103 â€“ End

    dwin, Abigail, Jonas, and the man named Hendrick, along with one more person who introduced himself as Ramon, now stand in the hallway of the hospital, which is starting to empty.

    ¡°As I promised earlier, I didn¡¯t cease my surveince of that doctor until I felt it was sufficient. And earlier, I reported his crimes to the police. They acted promptly, arresting his father caught red-handed selling stolen cars. And the additional charge against him was human trafficking. The evidence is being processed, isn¡¯t it, Ramon?¡± Hendrick got straight to the point. The man named Ramon nodded.

    ¡°We also kept watch on the abortion clinic Hendrick informed us about. After several days of surveince, the woman named Phoebe indeed didn¡¯t show up. But the clinic was still operating under the orders of one of its associates. And we also caught them red-handed when the victim and the perpetrator were conducting a transaction. Meanwhile, the woman named Phoebe vanished.¡± Roni added.

    ¡°And she was just found this afternoon,¡± Hendrick spoke again. ¡°The car that hit Mrs. Hampton turned out to be one of the stolen cars. And you can surely connect the dots?¡± dwin nodded.

    ¡°The woman was apprehended and secured before the mob attacked her. She¡¯s now in custody and seems to have been under the influence of illegal drugs whenmitting her crimes. The police are still investigating the motive behind the drug use. It¡¯s also being investigated whether she was a user herself or if she used it as a way to embolden herself to carry out her brutal actions.

    ¡°But she¡¯ll soon be charged with attempted murder. Considering her motive and the evidence that she¡¯s been surveilling your family all along.¡±

    ¡°Damn!¡± Abigail¡¯s loud curse made the men turn towards her. ¡°She¡¯s not just a devil, but a demon!¡± Abigail no longer cared about her image. Let people think she¡¯s a barbaric woman.

    ¡°What will you pursue after this, Sir?¡± Hendrick looked back at dwin.

    ¡°I¡¯ll hire awyer,¡± said dwin, met with nods from Hendrick and Ramon. ¡°I¡¯ll make sure she gets a heavy punishment. Considering her actions nearly caused me to lose my wife and child for the second time. And yes, let¡¯s not forget the other victim who¡¯s currently suffering from broken bones because of her actions,¡± dwin replied coldly.

    ¡°Of course. We¡¯ll take the best action we can,¡± Roni affirmed.

    After the departure of the two men, escorted back by Jonas, dwin and Abigail sat down in the hallway chairs. They let the silence envelop them. dwin seemed to sigh heavily multiple times.

    ¡°Uncle, you need to see that woman,¡± Abigail finally spoke. She could sense her uncle¡¯s momentary paralysis.All content ? N/.?vel/Dr/ama.Org.

    ¡°For what?¡±

    ¡°Have you forgotten? Your rtionship status is still husband and wife, albeit unofficially.¡±

    ¡°Ah¡­¡± dwin sighed.

    His niece was right. dwin hadn¡¯t decided to divorce her. Not because he wanted to salvage his marriage with that woman, but because he genuinely forgot about it. Furthermore, he never considered her his wife, so he forgot about their status.

    ¡°Tomorrow, I¡¯ll go there,¡± he stated tly, then rose from his seat. ¡°How¡¯s Josef?¡± he looked at Abigail. They should be thankful for his wife¡¯s rescuer, shouldn¡¯t they?

    ¡°He was still asleep earlier. He might be awake by now,¡± they walked together towards the opposite direction of via¡¯s hospital room. They knocked on the door of the VVIP room and entered after hearing a response from inside. They were quite surprised to find Antony and ire already inside, engaged in conversation with the middle-aged man lying on the bed.

    ¡°You guys here?¡± dwin nced at ire and Antony alternately. ¡°Who¡¯s taking care of my wife?¡±

    ¡°Adaline and Altezza just arrived. No need to panic,¡± ire reassured.

    They then conversed with Josef, who had apparently regained consciousness. Abigail mentioned to the middle-aged man that there was a woman iming to be ¡°his wife¡± who called earlier in the afternoon.

    dwin, Abigail, ire, and Antony repeatedly expressed their gratitude and apologized to Josef for the tragedy that indirectly befell him due to the ident. It was because of Phoebe¡¯s vendetta against dwin and via.

    Josef also repeatedly stated that he was fine and that the misfortune that befell him was simply his destiny. ording to him, a broken bone was preferable to losing his life.

    As a form of apology, dwin promised to take Josef¡¯s family to Kansas to ensure Josef¡¯s care while he was being treated. He also pledged to take full responsibility for Josef¡¯s losses. Not only would hepensate for his job, but all living expenses and the capital for a new business would be covered by dwin.

    Josef initially refused, but seeing Antony¡¯s expression and the veiled threat given by via¡¯s father, the middle-aged man¡¯s courage faltered.

    Meanwhile, Antony himself had vowed to provide the man with sufficient financial security so that he could ensure his wife and children¡¯s livelihoods in their hometown.

    After conversing for a considerable time, they all bid farewell and returned to via¡¯s room.

    The next day, dwin and Antony¡¯s personalwyer went to the temporary detention facility where Phoebe was being held. The woman appearedpletely disheveled. She relentlessly cursed dwin, ming him for all her misfortunes. However, dwin didn¡¯tment. He remained silent, letting thewyer handle everything.

    ¡°From now on, we have no rtionship whatsoever. Our rtionship is over, it ends here,¡± was the only statement dwin uttered. And that immediately made Phoebe scream hysterically, almost attacking dwin if it weren¡¯t for the guards restraining her.

    dwin kept his promise. He brought Josef¡¯s family to Kansas. And during his recovery period, he had Josef stay in the rental house that Phoebe used to live in. It would be a waste if the house he had rented for a full year wasn¡¯t utilized.

    In addition to housing, dwin provided facilities that Josef and his family vehemently refused. However, dwin didn¡¯t ept any refusal. ording to him, what he provided was not enoughpared to the lives of Josef¡¯s wife and children saved by the middle-aged man¡¯s presence.

    On the other hand, via, still in the process of recovery, refused to go home until their unnamed baby was allowed to leave the NICU. Three days after observation in the NICU, via and dwin¡¯s baby were finally allowed to go home with the condition that they would still be monitored.

    dwin didn¡¯t refuse when Antony asked him to stay temporarily in his residence. He knew that a woman who had just given birth needed to feel safe and psychologicallyfortable, and being with family was the best thing for via¡¯s recovery.

    Regarding Phoebe¡¯s case, Abigail and dwin still frequently visited the police station to fulfill calls from the authorities, considering Abigail as a witness to the incident and dwin as the victim¡¯s husband. So far, all their reports were well-received, and the evidence they possessed was more than sufficient.

    On one asion, they identally ran into Penelope. The womanshed out at Abigail, using her as the instigator of all the suffering her family was currently experiencing. She even cursed Abigail with words that were unfit to be heard.

    dwin tried to calm his niece down when he saw Abigail paling. They were clearly not the oppressors since they were the ones being oppressed. And the curses they received were highly inappropriate. Evil people should indeed face punishment, shouldn¡¯t they?

    Fortunately, Abigail didn¡¯t stay shocked for too long. By the time they returned home to Antony¡¯s ce, the girl had regained her cheerfulness.

    The birth of via and dwin¡¯s daughter was celebrated with a rather grand party. All family members, both from via¡¯s father¡¯s side and from dwin¡¯s family, gathered at the Quirino family¡¯s estate.

    As per Abigail¡¯s request, she finally named via and dwin¡¯s daughter ¡°A.¡± The name A means ¡°Gift from God.¡± Given the struggles of her parents, the name was indeed fitting for their beautiful daughter.

    Happy smiles adorned the faces of via and dwin. All their struggles had now paid off. Although they knew their journey was not over yet, they were grateful for what God had bestowed upon them thus far.

    If dwin and via were to express their gratitude, then it should be directed towards Abigail. From the beginning to this point, Abigail has always been there for them, helping them. She¡¯s the girl who is so adept at keeping secrets. She¡¯s the one who steadfastly helped fight for via¡¯s love.

    dwin hopes that God will grant her happiness. That He will give her the best match. That He will introduce her to a man who will love and cherish her wholeheartedly.

    dwin prays that all the sadness he and via have experienced will never be experienced by Abigail.

    Life is indeed full of trials. Because every trial will elevate a person¡¯s status if they can face it with effort and reliance on God. Nevertheless, dwin wants Abigail to get the best. Far from disappointment. And may God grant it. Amen.

    Dear Diary,

    A myriad of gratitude cannot adequately express what I feel right now.

    My happiness feels soplete.

    I have regained love.

    Love from my mother-inw that was momentarily lost.

    Something I thought I would never have, I can now obtain.

    So a thousand words of gratitude are not enough to express the fullness of the happiness that now fills my heart.

    Dear Diary,

    Allow us to live our future years with happiness.

    I know our journey is still long.

    He and I have other responsibilities that we will be ountable for in His presence.

    But I hope we can get through it all without any more drama. Without any more suffering.

    Dear Diary,

    If I may ask,

    Now I ask for happiness for him. My dearest friend who loves me so much.

    I hope God hears my prayer and gives him all the love he needs.

    Give him someone who can make him happy like You gave me a lover whom I love so much and who loves me.

    And I hope, in the future, he will have his own ¡°A.¡± Like You gave me mine.

    Dear Diary,

    Thank you for apanying me this far.

    Thank you for being willing to ept all myints.

    And thank you for apanying the lonely years of my life.

    (You can read Abigail¡¯s story in the book titled ¡°Wedding Agreement¡±)

    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and

    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!