Chapter 108: Only One Choice
Five years ago...
"They're twins!" Evangeline exclaimed excitedly, her gaze shifting from me to my noticeably large belly. "I'm so happy! No wonder your belly is this big-it's because there are two of them!" she added, clapping her hands and bouncing slightly like a child.
I didn't know pregnancy could be such a headache. With all the pain I was experiencing-aching body, saggy breasts, constant headaches, stomachaches, and sudden mood swings-I didn't even know where to focus my attention. But despite all this, it was worth it because my child... or rather, my children, are alive.
Evangeline took care of me at her house. She's hiding me for the time being. After my operation, she and Mason immediately brought me here, keeping everything under wraps.
No one knew I was pregnant. Evangeline managed to silence the doctor who found out at the hospital. I don't know how she did it, and I didn't ask.
"Jeez, I can't wait to see a mini-Ash!" she squealed, her grin never fading.
For a moment, it seemed like she had forgotten that Ash was the reason I was in this mess.
Why my life-and even my baby's life-had been in danger.
He shot me, knowing full well it wasn't just my life at stake.
"Stop it, Evangeline," I snapped, glaring at her. "This isn't something to celebrate."
I closed my eyes and draped an arm over my face.
My life was ruined the day everything fell apart, but the lives inside me were just beginning. I'll do everything to protect them, even if it means dirtying my own hands. "Thank you, doc." Evangeline ignored me and turned to the female doctor.
She pulled out an envelope from her Gucci bag-thick with cash, enough to almost tear it open.
The doctor nodded, smiling as she took the envelope and slid it into her bag.NôvelDrama.Org: text © owner.
"Make sure she takes her meds daily. She also needs to avoid stress. Her pregnancy is fragile given her current condition," the doctor said.
I thought I wouldn't survive this, but it seems fate isn't ready for me to die just yet. I swore to myself that I wouldn't leave this world until I've had my revenge.
"I got this," Evangeline replied with a confident smile, making a thumbs up.
The doctor exited the room. Two bodyguards followed her, likely to escort and keep an eye on her.
Evangeline seemed to trust the doctor, but at the same time, she took precautions to ensure she wouldn't spill anything-especially to Simon. If anyone must not know about my situation, it's him. I'm terrified he'd take my child and use them against me.
Just like my mom.
That's why Mason and Evangeline did everything they could to recover my mom's body that day. Thankfully, she was in a private hospital recovering. Although I don't know where she is, I'm glad she's safe.
"How are you? Feeling dizzy?" Evangeline asked as she approached me, sitting at the foot of the bed. "You look like shit, girl."
"I know." I rolled my eyes, making her laugh. She was obviously teasing me.
Seriously, how could I even bother fixing myself up? It's not just about me anymore. I have others to protect now.
I don't care if Ash is their father-they didn't ask for this. I'll never let my hatred for him affect them.
"You look pale. Even paler than earlier," she observed, scanning my face. "Do you feel anything unusual?"
"I feel sick. Almost every day," I admitted, closing my eyes. "And I feel like throwing up... especially because of your perfume. It's horrible." I groaned.
I couldn't even finish my sentence. I felt like vomiting every time I spoke. I tried to push her away to distance myself from the scent, but she didn't take the hint. She just stared at me in disbelief, her eyes wide before pointing a finger at me. "Your sense of smell is just abnormal because you're pregnant! Do you even know what brand this is?" she asked, clutching her shirt and sniffing it. "It smells great! I picked this myself!"
"I don't care what it is," I weakly retorted, feeling like the awful smell was seeping into my veins. "You stink. Get away from me..."
Still, I needed her. And I'm lucky to have her by my side.
AFTER A few months, I gave birth to my twins.
It wasn't easy. I was in labor for almost half a day, and I honestly thought I was going to die.
The pain was unbearable. I'd thought being shot was the most painful experience of my life, but childbirth was far worse.
Gasping for breath, I watched as a doctor and nurse carried my children. A boy and a girl. Even though I could barely keep my eyes open, I still managed to smile as I looked at them. I'm a mom now, and I'm proud to have brought them into this world healthy.
"What's their name?" Evangeline asked as she entered the room.
"It's a secret," I replied with a grin. "You'll find out when I decide to tell you."
She pouted at my response, but I chose to ignore her. Once I recover, I have no plans to stay here. If Evangeline has severe trust issues with people, mine are just as bad, especially with her. She's part of a mafia. If you're loyal to an organization, you'll do anything for it-even kill someone close to you.
I need to gain power as quickly as possible to protect my children.
"How are you?" I hadn't noticed Mason had entered with Evangeline. I must've been too deep in thought.
"I'm not fine. Can't you see?" I asked sarcastically, raising my hand. He winced at the sight of the IV attached to me. Afraid of nothing but scared of needles? Weird.
Mason took a seat beside Evangeline. "You should rest and recover quickly. I have something to tell you."
"Mason!" Evangeline glared at him, making me frown. "This isn't the right time for this!"
"Is something wrong?" I asked, confused.
"Don't mind him, Sapphire. Just rest, and we'll handle everything for-"
"Titania is already in my father's hands."
My eyes widened in shock. I covered my mouth, my fists clenching so tightly that I felt the sting of the IV needle.
I don't hate them... but I hate Simon. Even at the end, he only thinks of his company. He'll use my weak mother for his schemes-schemes I'll uncover soon enough.
"Mason, you should've let her rest before dropping that! You're too harsh!" Evangeline scolded him, but I quickly stopped her.
"It's fine. At least now I know what's happening," I said, silencing her.
I'd rather know what's going on than have them keep secrets from me. At least now I can think and act quickly.
"I'm sorry we couldn't protect her..." Mason apologized, holding my hand. "But we promise to take care of you. At least that much."