No one brought up past grievances or broached uncomfortable topics with Leonel.

The waiting seemed interminable.

Marcus eventually broke the silence, offering Leonel a cigarette.

“I quit smoking,” Leonel declined.

With a scoff, Marcus walked away to smoke alone.

Inside the delivery room, the medical team continued to support Alexis.

Once her cervix had fully dilated, the pain intensified, beads of sweat forming on her forehead.

Yet, she clenched her teeth, determined not to cry out.

As the overhead lamp flickered slightly, Alexis was overwhelmed by a surge of memories.

“Alexis, let’s have another baby.

“Alexis, I promise not to hurt you again, and I won’t let Anika or any other woman come between us.

Leonel, it’s

can’t ever erase the image of

Alexis thought to herself.

labor pains, tears

of anguish and resentment, she cried out as the

The pain was intense.

10:10 in the

three kilograms and measured

Like her mother,” remarked the

the nurse handed her

sweat on her brow and the strands of hair sticking

was indeed beautiful,

joy

smiled at her daughter, though her complexion

sheet, her voice shaking as she

She’s hemorrhaging.

she could say more,

Time was critical.

into action, aware that the situation

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

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