Chapter 25
Two years slipped by quietly, and Eliza never missed a week visiting Aiden.
On this particular day, she found herself by his bedside, as usual, with the sunlight streaming through the window, casting a warm glow on her more mature and determined face.
“Aiden, did you hear? Margot’s been sentenced to life. She won’t be coming out,” Eliza said, her voice calm and steady, a far cry from the anger and fear she once felt. “The art awards she stole from me have been rightfully returned to my name. Over these past two years, I’ve been pouring my heart into my painting, held a few exhibitions, and earned a lot of recognition.”
She paused for a moment, then added, “And, I’m getting married. To Dean. He’s been amazing, always there for me, giving me so much warmth and support over these two years.”
Eliza’s eyes drifted away, lost in a sea of memories.
“Lately, I’ve been dreaming a lot. I remember once, in the Newells‘ garden, I fell and scraped my knee, and the pain brought tears to my eyes. The Newells didn’t seem to notice, or maybe they were too busy worrying about Margot. But you, you rushed over, gently helped me up, and with a look full of concern, you said, ‘It’s okay. I will take you to get some medicine, it’ll stop hurting soon.
“Back then, your embrace felt so warm and reliable. It was the first time I truly felt cared for, and naturally, I became attached to you, eventually falling for you.
“But later, I found out that most of your kindness was because of Margot. Do you know how much that broke my heart? I was so angry with you, furious over why you treated me that way.”
Her voice trembled just a little, as if the echoes of past pain still lingered, “But now, it’s all behind me. I’ve let go of those old loves and grudges, and my heart is at peace.”
Eliza took a deep breath, staring at Aiden’s peaceful face, “Aiden, this is the last time I’ll visit you. From here on out, I’m starting my new life, and I hope you wake up soon to live yours, too.”
A single tear slipped from her eye, landing softly on Aiden’s hand. She gently wiped it away, stood up, took one last lingering look at Aiden, and slowly walked out of the room.
Her back was straight and resolute, as if she was saying goodbye to her former self and welcoming the new life that lay ahead.
After leaving the hospital, Eliza returned to the home she shared with Dean.
Dean was busy in the kitchen, whipping up her favorite dinner. When he saw Eliza come in, he smiled, walked over, and wrapped her in a gentle hug. “How’d it go? Did you see Aiden?”
Eliza nodded, leaning into Dean’s embrace, “Yeah, I said everything I needed to. I think it’s time to let go of the past and really embrace our future.”
Dean held her close, “Absolutely, Eliza, we’re going to have a wonderful future.”
Eliza smiled softly, gazing at the crescent moon outside the window. She’s finally having the life she dreamed. A life with people she loved and people who loved her.
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