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crestfalien · 3 years ago

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The Melting Icebergs Part II

22 September 2022

Their meetings in the drop-off zone of the main building of the National University of Singapore ended up with Anderson taking his daughter into the Rhee Residence, the house which Fransesca grew up and live in for almost three decades before things started to fell apart and they decided that they would live their separate lives without any intervention from each other for the best of their sakes.

This would be her first time stepping inside the house after years and somehow, emotions started to build up inside her heart and it was kinda overwhelming for the expecting mother. She followed her father as she looked around, reminiscing the days she spent here with her father and also her late mother. Everything seemed to be perfect until that day when she found out about Christine’s presence and existence.

“How long has it been?” Anderson asked, in which Fransesca quickly put herself in questions as well. How long? Sixteen years went by after the incident, the same time as when she found out that she’s expecting Christine for three months already. Now, she stepped herself back inside the house, also expecting a child— her second one, but now married to the man she loves the most. The man who also is Christine’s father.

“Sixteen years.”

Fransesca replied but shortly, as she feared that she might say something that might not be to his liking when his heart was at peace, at least for now. She still had no idea what the man would bring up as the topic of their future and upcoming conversation so she kept quiet just like how she always has been. The quiet and obedient Fransesca years ago, when things were much simpler than now.

As she saw how her father gestured her to sit on the sofa, she did it. She sat on the sofa that she never sat on for sixteen years. She gave him a slight smile with a confused stare as she had no idea why the man wanted her to come and follow her. She texted her husband that she’ll be late and let her driver know that she’ll be home with her friend, so he could turn around and stay at home instead of waiting for her.

“Mrs Kingsley, do you want to drink tea or coffee?” “Peppermint tea for her, with no sugar. Coffee for me, no sugar.”

Anderson told his maid who quickly bowed and walked herself back to the kitchen, to prepare drinks for the owner of the house and the guest, who’s also the daughter to the owner. He didn’t let her choose her own, but she quickly realized that the man still remembered her favorite drinks. The drink she would probably ask the maid for several seconds ago.

“I found out that you still remember it.” “How can I forget my own daughter’s favorite drink?”

His response clearly made her confused, once again. He changed so much that she felt like she couldn’t recognize him now. This wasn’t the Anderson Rhee that she knew after the incident. This would be Anderson Rhee before all the things between them happened; when they’re still a happy and warm family with no problems in between.

“What is it that you want to talk to me about, Mr Kingsley? I know that you’ve talked and met my daughter without asking for my permission beforehand.” Fransesca asked as she looked into her father’s eyes for an explanation, yet she still had no idea what he had in mind. He had no idea why the man wanted to talk to her here, when things between them were something that she saw as irreparable after years of ego and anger.

“Us. I want to talk about us and all the matters between us. I’m sorry that I talk to your daughter without asking for your permission beforehand and talk about things that you thought would be harmful for her and those around her.” Anderson said. “But let me do what I need to do after those years of drifting you apart from my life. For those years when I leave you struggling alone with nothing and no one besides you, driving you into the madness of life when I clearly can make a decision that would work better for us.”

“I know that being pregnant out of wed-lock and not wanting to say the name of the man who did it to me back then was also a mistake, but I have my reasons in which you would never understand. I wanted to work things out between me and him but I know you better than anyone else, even than mama. I know how you would act and respond to the information. But really, disowning me and letting everyone know that I’m a worthless child who doesn’t deserve your love and place in this family…? Everyone in the whole country knew how I was ridiculed by people around me for being kicked out by the richest man of Singapore who’s also my father.”

“I’m happy with my life now, with my daughter, my husband, and my baby. I don’t want to fight or be in any kind of drama anymore. If you want to disown me still and let me go, that’s okay. I understand. But please don’t drag me or take my children away from me. I only have Christine in my life.”

“No,” Anderson sobbed when he realized that Fransesca thought he would take her children away from her and Clayton after all these times, the reason why he met his granddaughter for the first time days ago. “It’s not because of that, Fransesca. Never once I want to take them away from you, knowing your sacrifices back in the days just for your child. Being selfless as always and trying your best to keep her happy and safe no matter what you need to go through.”

“I want to apologize for whatever I’ve done to you, Christine, and Clayton. I know that I did something so bad that it broke your heart to pieces. I’m sorry that I acted like trash instead of a father. I want to welcome you back into the family. I feel lonely and stupid now that I realized how I act back in the days towards you. I miss my daughter and I want to try to be a good father and grandfather.”

Fransesca will always be Fransesca. Upon hearing his words, she couldn’t hold her tears back and started to cry. She cried her heart out and let her pain and emotions mixed as one in tears. Anderson moved towards her and hugged his crying daughter tightly, not wanting her to be in absolute pain after those painful years. He wanted to see her happy just like how she always has been these days.

“I never hate you. I’m just… disappointed, papa.” she cried in his hug. He patted her back and cried his heart out as he felt how painful the life his daughter had been. He made her this way. The fragile daughter that he hurt badly yet still able to forgive him for whatever she went through back in the days. He realized how stupid it was for him to kick her out when she needed him the most. The hardest time she went through.

“You treated me like a daughter that never existed in your life for sixteen years and I have no place to go but to stand on my own back then, all these years.” she told him between her cries as she wiped her tears away with her hand. “Do not cry, Fransesca. You’re carrying a baby. You don’t want your baby to be in sadness, right? You want your baby to be well and okay. It’s my fault. I’m sorry for everything that I’ve done and caused you.” Anderson said.

Fransesca nodded her head as she cupped her father’s face and cried again. She missed him just like how he missed her in silence all these time. He missed her so bad that he couldn't even see into her eyes as he knew how he created so many wounds in her heart by today.

“I promise I’ll bring you to the whole family. To Clayton and his parents. I promise I will let them know that my father has always been there by my side, papa.” she said to him between her cries. He hugged her tightly again as he gently patted her back. “Whenever you’re ready. All I want to ask from you today is forgiveness and nothing more, my dearest Fransesca Adelaidine Rhee.” he said.

The father and daughter finally make up for their broken relationship after sixteen years.

END OF THE MELTING ICEBERGS PART II.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

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The Melting Icebergs

22 September 2022.

“Fransesca, where are you?” “I’m currently at the campus, Mrs Kingsley.” “I sent you vitamins and traditional drinks to help you with the morning sickness and to strengthen the pregnancy. The maids received it along with Christine earlier.”

It’s her very first call from Gertrude in a good way; no curses or rude remarks were given to her. Plainly just a matter of how a mother-in-law worries and puts some care into her daughter-in-law who’s currently carrying her third grandchild.

Somehow, things were getting better these days between her and her mother-in-law, Gertrude Henrietta.. After the fights and all the hatred she gave towards her, things between them finally settled down. She indeed, wished that everything would be well between them starting from today. Fransesca has always longed for a presence of a mother around after losing hers due to a reason that she couldn’t say to protect her father, Anderson.

“Thank you, Mrs Kingsley. I’ll make sure that I’m going to drink the medicine and the vitamins well and regularly for the baby.” Fransesca said before the phone call was cut off soon after. A small sweet gesture from her mother-in-law about her pregnancy was enough to make her smile the whole day with excitement and joy.

She missed the days where things were just how it should be and she loved how things went with Gertrude now taking great care of her. If Clayton knew about this matter, surely the man would be relieved as well to know how his mother changed and let the icebergs in her heart melted away as love and compassion started to make its way.

Until today, she still calls her as Mrs Kingsley instead of mama or mother as she remembered how she treated her back then. Though Gertrude started to soften up to her, it doesn’t mean that she has welcomed her into the family as her daughter-in-law or so on. Perhaps, it’s just because of the baby that she’s currently carrying. That she’s currently carrying the next heir to the Kingsley family after Vincent and also Christine.

“Are you going home now, Fransesca?” “Yes, I’m going home now. I have several things to do at home.” “Come on, you have maids!”

The woman smiled. “Well, what can I say? I love taking care of things by myself.” she responded as she gave them a wide smile across her face. “You look happier after marriage and pregnancy. I’m happy to see you doing well and okay these days, Fransesca.” Rachel said.

“Well, what can I say? I’m married to the best man I could ever get myself!” she answered as she winked and walked herself out from the room with her bag on her right shoulder and a file on her hand. Soon, everyone greeted her politely as they saw her walking past her. Surely, she greeted them with a friendly smile as well.

Walking through the main drop off point of the university, Fransesca stood to wait for her driver to pick her up. She’s guessing that her driver would be here in minutes, less than ten. Not too long as they texted beforehand. She just wanted to arrive earlier here so that her driver won’t need to wait for another several minutes in the car.

She saw a black expensive car parked right in front of her. She had no idea who’s the owner of the car but it’s exactly not hers so Fransesca’s guessing if the driver would like to pick up other crazy rich students that studied in this institution as well, thought her guess actually turned wrong. The driver stepped out from the car and opened the back door for someone there before the boss actually left the car and looked at her.

Yes, he looked at Fransesca with teary eyes and the same went for her as well. Fransesca bit her lower lips as she realized who’s the man currently looking at her.

“Fransesca Adelaidine Rhee.”

Fransesca closed her eyes and let tears fall across her cheeks. She had no idea that the man would come to her workplace and surprise her this way. Certainly, this wasn’t what Fransesca ever thought of him. She wiped her tears away with her left hand and lowered her head.

“Y— yes, Mr Rhee?” she answered as she stuttered in between. Trying her best not to do something that would trigger problems and troubles between them. Fransesca tried her best to hide her emotions but she just couldn’t as her tears started to fall down once again, more than before. She’s sobbing as she saw the old man standing right in front of her, taking some steps forward to her, and hugging her soon after.

“I’m sorry. Papa wanted to say sorry. Will you get into the car?” he asked as he whispered in her ears. Fransesca nodded her head carefully as they stepped into the car and sat next to each other. Soon the car left the university and Fransesca could only wish that the conversation that they soon will be having… turns out well.

Because she missed him crazily, more than anything else in this world. She missed her father, though their relationship deteriorated as time went by sixteen years ago. She missed his hugs, his voice, his warm smile, and whatever he always gave to her. She missed his warmth.

She just missed her father; Anderson Rhee.

END OF THE MELTING ICEBERGS.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

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It’s About Time

21 October 2022

After finding out that Christine actually had a conversation with her father, Fransesca was left speechless. She had no idea of how she should respond to the news that she just knew from her daughter. The news about how her father tried to reach her family after years of disowning and throwing her away as if she never existed in his life.

It was a mixed feeling for her, who tried her best to cope with all the things that happened. She’s happy that things between them finally could be settled after years of miscommunication and anger in between. She couldn’t be happier to know the fact but she knew… she knew that something’s up for no reason. It’s very unlikely for Anderson to act that way.

For Fransesca, she found it weird. She found the matter… a rather interesting yet scary thing.

Nobody knew what he would plan after he tried to reach for Christine days ago. Perhaps, he would really try his best to bond with her once again or to take her custody and claim Christine away, just like the nightmare she’s always been having each and every night, driving her nearly crazy as she lived her life in fear.

“Do not stress yourself out, Fransesca,” Clayton told her. “Everything will be okay. Perhaps, it’s time for both of you to reunite and reconcile after years. Almost twenty years apart, I’m sure that your father misses you all these times.” he added.

“Should I feel this way or should I not? Honestly, it gives me anxiety already, love. I don’t know how to react to the news that I just found out from her. Papa… that man wasn’t a mere man. He's been the richest and most influential man in the whole country of Singapore for decades. I know how influential your family and you are, but I don’t know… can we really do something against him if something happens between me or my daughter, or even you and your family?”

“Perhaps, he just wanted to let you in once again, Fransesca. Perhaps, he just wanted to have you around once again after the things that happened between the two of you. Maybe, he realized that all the things that happened in the past were too childish for two grown-up men and women like you and him.” Clayton said as he held her hand tight. “This could be your one and only chance to turn things into a better one, between you and your papa. Do you really think that he could live the rest of his life alone, with no one by his side, only you, who’s drifted apart from him already? I don’t think so.” he smiled at her, convincing her that reuniting and reconciling with her father won’t be a bad idea.

Fransesca lowered her head as she stared at her legs swinging as she sat by the bed with Clayton by her side, trying to calm and convince her from the anxieties of fixing the long broken relationship between her and her father, Anderson Rhee. This was actually one of her dreams, to finally reunite and to let the past be the past but somehow, knowing how Anderson has always been to everyone including her, she doubted it.

“Nothing bad will happen, Fransesca. My dearest, sweetest, sweetheart. I promise you that everything will be well, fine, and okay. I will be there by your side if your father did something to you and our family. I promise to protect you from everything, even if it means that your father would be my enemy. My priorities will be my family, that includes you and our children. Okay?”

Clayton smiled at her as she kissed her on the cheek soon after. “Things will be better. Reconciliation is not a bad thing. It’s a step to a more peaceful life just like what you’ve always wanted to have all these years. I know that the past sixteen years were hard for you but I believe that it is finally bound to cease.” he explained his opinion and side to her.

“It’s about time to forgive each other and start a new chapter in life okay. Your life and your father’s life.”

Fransesca took a deep breath and sighed. “Help me, if I ever lost in the journey to a better and peaceful life I wanted to live in, love. I cannot do things by myself.” she asked him and clearly, Clayton nodded as he agreed to help her. “I will surely do so, my sweetheart. Everything, just for you.”

END OF ITS ABOUT TIME.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

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Gifts for Christine

20 September 2022

It was finally the day that Clayton and Fransesca agreed on to talk about the matters regarding Christine’s high school plans and also to announce the one thing the she has always wanted to have, a younger sibling who she will play with, as what she stated as her reason on why she always wanted to have one after those years being all alone, only with her mother.

Somehow, it wasn’t a big deal but Fransesca became very nervous about announcing the matter to her own daughter, who’s also super close to her as if they’re not only mother and daughter, but also best friends. Or at least, that’s what Clayton and some said when they saw the two together, side by side. The exact splitting image matches each other really well. No fight and so on ever happened; they’re always happy!

“What do you think about it, Clayton? Are you sure that Christine will accept the idea of the second semester instead of moving now?” asked Fransesca, worried that her daughter might become angry over the thing. “Darling, you’re the one who’s not ready to let her go this year. Sending her on the second term became the only choice.” he responded.

“Uh, right!”

Still, she hated the idea of sending her own daughter away to another continent with no one by her side. She did it because she knew that it’s for her future and she wanted to give her the full support that she needed towards the successful future that Christine has been planning for years already.

“Relax, sweetheart. Everything’s gonna be okay. Nothing big will happen. You know how your daughter is! She’s the exact splitting image of a Fransesca Adelaidine Rhee, her own mother who often become selfless and willing to accept anything, sometimes, stupidly.” Clayton tried to assure her but the woman turned her head quickly at him, scolding the man. “Clayton Nicholas Kingsley!”

“Okay, I went too far but it’s all true, darling. Everything that I said about you and our daughter. She’s not that type of child who’ll vent her anger like other kids, messing with things that she knew she wasn’t supposed to do, touch, use, or handle. Christine is a very calm and wonderful daughter. Everyone loves her!” he added, The two then continued their bicker until the young lady of the house sat herself in front of her, on the opposite side of the sofa they’re currently sitting on.

“Mommy,” she smiled at her mother. “Daddy,” she then smiled at her father. “What’s wrong? I’ve never seen both of you bickering like a teenage couple? Why do you call me here?” asked Christine, breaking away the stuff the old couple was talking about.

Clayton cleared the throat as he threw the responsibility of announcing the plan to Fransesca, fully. Surely the woman turned her head at him and bent her brows, as if she’s trying to ask for help from her husband but Clayton acted as if he didn’t see and didn’t want to help her. Joking around just like usual until again, Fransesca hit him on the arm.

“Aw! That hurts, sweetheart.” Clayton said as he turned his head at Fransesca once again, shutting his lips soon after when he saw that deadly stare from her eyes. He knew that he should’ve taken care of the matter today soon after. That was his call. He awkwardly laughed before he changed his attention to his little daughter in front of him.

Shit, I’m dead already in front of her. I need to apologize again to Fransesca. Again, he cleared the throat but this now in a more serious manner.

“So, about your high school request to a boarding school in Switzerland. La Rosey,” Clayton opened up the discussion regarding the topic with her daughter. “I and your mother discussed the matter carefully because again, we want only the best for you and it’s not cheap to study there. It’s a far away land where you’ve never been to and in fact you’ve never traveled outside Singapore but Indonesia, where your grandmother was. The difference in the lifestyle, environment, the climate, weather, season, and so on…” he sighed.

“Your mother finally agreed on sending you to that school but… we will send you in the second term of your tenth grade. She wanted us, the three of us, to travel to Switzerland first and visit the school. To learn more about the school directly, not only from what others said and from the articles on the internet. She wanted to learn more about the curriculum, facilities, how the system of the school actually works, and so on. Remember, your mother and I, is and was a professor, so we wanted to make sure things are just as you planned and as we had in mind.”

The expression on Christine’s face brightened up as she heard about the exciting news that her father just told her. She couldn’t hold back her excitement when she heard that she’s not allowed to study there and they’ll have a trip to Switzerland and to the school itself. For sure, it’s like a dream comes true for the young lady of the Kingsley house.

“Thank you, mommy! Thank you, daddy! So, are we going to travel to Switzerland soon? This year?” Christine asked in excitement, jumping up and down on the sofa. Fransesca nodded her head. “But, if mommy or daddy found that the school wasn’t suitable for you and your future plans, you’ll study in Nanyang All Girls High School like your first term until you graduate, okay?” she finally said something to her own daughter.

Fransesca nodded her head as she agreed on what her mother just told her. Again, she knew that the visit was to reassure them that the school was good enough for her and to let them and her know about everything in Switzerland and all the things around it.

If that’s what makes you happy, then I’m happy as well, Christine.

“Oh, one thing, Catharina Christine Clementine Kingsley!” she reminded her daughter about the most important thing above all. Her daughter quickly tensed up once again. “If you end up studying there, you need to focus on your studies only. I don’t expect straight As or whatsoever, but I want you to take things more seriously. You ask for it, you need to be responsible for it as well. I don’t doubt your smart sexy brain, no, not at all. I just want to remind you that your education is super important. The top list of your priorities now, okay?” Fransesca said.

“We also have another special announcement for you.” Clayton said as he smiled brightly at his daughter. Again, Christine was left confused about the other announcement. She became curious as well with the kind of announcement that her parents would make in front of her.

“What is it, daddy?” asked Christine, curiously. Fransesca smiled slightly as she shook her head, realizing how cheeky her husband was now. She rubbed her stomach in reflex and sighed. “Christine, you got what you’ve always wanted. Mommy is expecting a baby early next year.” she broke the news to her daughter. Christine, as soon as she heard the news, immediately jumped from the couch and looked at her mother in another level of excitement.

“You do? You are pregnant?”

Fransesca nodded her head. “That will explain why your mommy keeps on feeling unwell these days and all the things that happened when we tried to talk about the matter that day.” Clayton explained to his daughter. “How long has it been, mommy?” asked Christine.

“Fourteen weeks if I’m not mistaken.” “Is that the reason why you always wear loose dresses these days instead of those blazers, blouses, skirts, and so on?”

“Guilty.”

“Oh, mommy!” Christine cried in joy and hugged her mother as tight as she could. Fransesca laughed when Christine did so and returned her hug while she patted her back gently. “You’ll be a sister now. Mommy is having some severe morning sickness these days so I’ll certainly need some help with several things. Help me, okay?” Fransesca said to her daughter, which Christine surely replied with nods. “Yes, I’ll help mommy with everything that you need, everyday, all the time, anywhere and any time.” Christine responded.

“So what grandpa asked me turns out to be true. How can grandpa know about your pregnancy already, mommy?”

The question that slipped from her lips became something that shocked her parents. They stop smiling and laughing as they turned their heads at the young girl, who now realized that she slipped something that she shouldn’t, as per what her grandpa asked her— to hide their meeting until all settled already.

“You’ve met him already?” Fransesca asked. “What did you do? What did he do? Are you alright, darling?” Clayton quickly asked as Fransesca was still left in shock, unable to ask any kind of questions to the young girl. She had no choice but to answer the question honestly. Besides, lying wasn’t really her thing. She’s a bad liar and soon her parents will find out about it as well.

Christine could see how her mother became super concerned towards her now. She worried about her but Christine assured her with a smile on her face. A big smile to tell her that she’s okay. Christine knew that her father’s question must’ve been the representation of her mother’s thoughts. They feared that Anderson would do something bad or threatened her in any way, but the smile proved them otherwise.

“No, mommy. No, daddy. I’m okay. He did nothing. He apologized for the years when he abandoned and disowned me and you, mom. He felt guilty for all the things he did to us. He wanted to meet you but he’s still unsure if you’ll welcome him back.”

“Why would he think that way…? Yes, of course I’ll welcome him back. He’s my father, your grandfather! When did you meet and talk to him?” Fransesca replied, now in tears. Clayton wrapped his arm around her and patted her gently on the arm to calm the woman down from the shock.

“When I went out with my friends at malls on Orchard.”

Clayton and Fransesca looked at each other, as her eyes were already filled with tears. He pulled some tissue and wiper Fransesca’s tears away before she cried loud in his hug. Clayton tried to calm Fransesca down first. He winked to gestured Christine to leave them alone and she did. Now, only the two of them left as Fransesca cried her heart out.

This was something unexpected.

END OF GIFTS FOR CHRISTINE.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

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First Meeting

18 September 2022

It’s a beautiful day as the sun shines so brightly up there in the sky. Everyone was busy with their own activities during the peak of the summer season and Christine, who’s spending her holiday before high school starts, had a day out with her middle school friends. They catched up with all the things they missed and to maintain their friendship amidst deciding to go to different schools.

Christine, Anna, Thalia, and Veronica spent their time around Orchard Road, going in and out the malls there. Having brunch and even lunch together as they talk and reminisce about their school lives together. It’s less than a year and they missed each other already. School starts pretty soon for Christine, who had no idea about her parent’s decision to send her to the school she wished to study at in the second semester, so she spent her time wisely though with a disappointment slipped in her heart.

Hours passed by and without the four of them realising it, it’s time for them to bid their goodbye to end the day. To end their meet up and to go back to their home, to their families. One by one, their drivers and parents picked them and the only one left until the last was Christine, who didn’t call the driver or any of her parents to spend some time alone, shopping.

Back when her mother was still a single parent and her father wasn’t introduced to her yet, she never had the chance to do this kind of thing. Fransesca let her buy anything that she wanted to, but she knew to a certain limit only. She knew how her mother was struggling financially to afford her going into a good school and to provide for the daily needs.

She usually spent her money to buy cheap things online or second-hand clothes in good condition back then, available on several online shopping places. But now, things have turned upside down. Her father was a multimillionaire or perhaps even more. He wanted her to spend her money to buy the things that she always wanted to have without the need to ask of anyone. Again, still, though her father gave her a limited card up to $10.000 each month, she became very conscious about the responsibility she bears.

She won’t spend that much each month for sure. Buying designer-brand clothes wasn’t really her type. She’s grateful that now she has more than enough to buy clothes from stores like Zara, H&M, and so on. Just like her mother, how Clayton would explain Christine as, they never like to spend money for things that they don't really need— too conscious over the price tags as they once lived a hard life without it. They really became careful over it and the matter revolves around it.

That also explained why Fransesca was pretty concerned about the school tuition that Christine told her regarding her dream high school; the most expensive school in the world, everyone summed it up.

Alone, Christine walked around just like everyone else while scrolling down her phone screen and replying to some messages she received when she suddenly and clumsily bumped into someone else for not paying attention towards the steps she’s taking and those around her.

“Ah—” it slipped from her lips without her even realising it. “I’m so so sorry!” Christine said as she bowed to the man she bumped into. Hadn’t seen his face but from his clothes, surely it was a man. A tall man. Christine looked up to his face and knew exactly whom she just bumped into.

“No, no! It should be me who apologises, young lady. I’m so sorry for bumping to—”

The man lowered his head to see the familiar face right in front of him, the one he bumped into. He knew clearly, who’s that young lady standing in front of her dressed in casual clothes; white shirt, long jeans, white flat shoes, long layered black hair, and that beauty… that he saw in her. The man shut his lips as he hold back his feelings.

“I… I need to go.”

Christine bowed once again before she tried to run away from the man but he stopped her from doing so by grabbing her hand and smiled at her. “You know who I am, right?” he asked her. Christine, scared of what he might do to her, nodded her head carefully. They never met before, not even once in their entire life. This might be their first, but Christine knew exactly who bumped into her just now.

“No, I’ll not do anything that will harm you. You don’t need to worry about it. Can I… Can I just talk to you about everything? How about a cup of tea in one of the restaurants? Or a meal, perhaps?” he offered Christine carefully. For a while, Christine tried to think about it before she eventually agreed on accepting his offer.

“Mr And— Mr Rhee, lets… let's find a place, then.” “You can call— address me as your… your grandpa.”

The man was Anderson Rhee, the richest man in the country and also father to Fransesca Adelaidine, Christine’s mother and wife to Clayton Nicholas Kingsley. The man is her grandfather, whom she never met before in her whole life but only through pictures, news, and reports in the media. The same goes to Anderson, who never saw her in real life but only through pictures that he received from his secretary.

As if things were fated between them to meet today, the long gone days finally end. They met after not being able to see and talk to each other for their entire life. After fifteen years, as he met her when she’s only a tiny baby on ultrasound pictures that Fransesca showed him back then, he finally met his only grandchild. His only granddaughter.

Anderson's secretary was actually in confusion of what happened between the two and with the sudden change in his eyes. He could only give her a smile and accompanied them to a restaurant in the mall, where they could talk in private and comfortably, not standing in the way of anyone who wanted to shop or to have some time to refresh themselves.

Christine ordered a dessert and a drink as she’s full already from her meal. Anderson ordered a heavy meal and a cup of coffee. Meanwhile, his secretary sat at the other table, allowing them to talk from heart to heart regarding the matter that revolves around their family for years already. Nearly two decades.

“Christine, that’s your name right? Catharina Christine Clementine.” Anderson smiled at his grandchild for the first time. Christine nodded her head carefully as she looked at him with lips shut. “You don’t need to be afraid. Really, I’ll not do anything towards you. It must’ve been shocking as well for you to meet me now, unprepared.”

The little girl nodded her head again. “You’re indeed the copy of your mom. Did she duplicate herself to a younger version back then?” he tried to joke, but he clearly knew that Christine felt uncomfortable being around him as they had never talked or interacted before. She only knew about what happened to her mother back then and everything that he did, causing her mother to be thrown away from the life she lived once.

Anderson couldn’t help but to wonder how beautiful the young lady grew. Just like her mother in her younger days, from head to toe. He heard so much about Christine after the reports given by his secretary; her achievements, her personality, her activities. Everything regarding the little lady. Her face was exactly the same as Fransesca was when she’s around her age as well.

“Christine, I know that I hurt your mother deeply and you, also. I hurt the two of you and caused you both to live a hard life, a difficult life no one ever imagined. Your mother’s mistake back then surely… angered me a lot.” he said in guilt and regret that started to overwhelm him once again. “I know that you both tried your best to live a better life and I caused the hardship and difficulties in your mother’s journey.”

“I realise that everything’s my fault. I disowned her when I could’ve just listened to her a bit. I disowned her from this family and threw her away as if she never existed in my life. I just can’t see the bright side at that time but the ego and the image of the family; I couldn’t see the bright side, that you too, deserve to live a comfortable life. That you also deserve to be born in this world. That you, Christine, deserves everything and as a grandpa, I failed to see that part in the past.”

“I failed to keep my own daughter safe and well. I failed to keep her okay during those times. I failed to save you from all the pain and curses of the public’s eyes and instead of saving the two of you, I was blinded by my ego to save myself from it.”

He started to cry in front of his granddaughter who also cried after hearing all of his confessions. “I regretted my decision to disown the two of you from the family. I regretted my decisions regarding you and your mother in the past. Now, as I’m getting old, I realise that there are so many things that I can actually do to solve the problems. I grew lonely and senile,” Anderson said to Christine as he wiped his tears away.

“Christine, I’m sorry that you need to live that kind of life. I’m sorry that you need to face the bitterness and hardship of life so early.”

Christine shook her head and smiled a bit at her grandfather. “Grandpa…” she called him for the first time with the new nickname. It’s not Mr Anderson or Mr Rhee just like what she addressed him with earlier, it’s a more intimate way to show the relationship between them; a grandfather and a granddaughter.

“Mommy and I live comfortably. You don’t need to worry much about us. We have daddy now by our side so everything in the past stays there. Mommy is now happier than ever and I’m glad to see how she strived only for the best and to provide me with everything that she could.” said the young lady to comfort her grandfather. “I know that you were against daddy and when you find out that mommy is pregnant out of wedlock, you didn’t think twice and properly, venting your anger by disowning her.” Christine added.

“Grandpa, I’m happy that you realise about the mistakes of the past. I’m happy that you finally softened up and tried to reach for me this way, to talk about the things between me, my parents, and you. I’m grateful that at least, after sixteen years, you finally accept me back into the family of Rhee. The family where half of me also belongs. I’ve forgiven you but..” she took her pause as she tried to take a deep breath after taking a sip of a glass of water.

“Meet my mom and apologise to her directly as well. My mom must’ve missed you all these years and she couldn’t do anything knowing that you’ll despise and kick her again from your life. My mom struggled a lot and suffered from the life she never wanted to face. The hard life she’s used to now but not back then.” Christine told him. “That’s my only wish. I want the two of you to settle your problems and become a family once again because it hurts me, to see mommy being outcasted by everyone while she worked herself tirelessly, day and night, just to afford our daily needs.”

“I want her to be happy too. I want you to be happy as well.”

Christine stood up from the chair and hugged her grandfather tightly as she comforted the old man while giving him a big smile on her face. She has accepted her grandfather’s presence in her life now and she wanted the same to happen to her mother as well.

Her mother, Fransesca Adelaidine, who’s been scrutinised by everyone around her because of the past she had. Of being kicked out over her only mistake and thrown away as if she never existed before in his entire life. She wished to see the two reunite and make up their past that keeps on haunting them until today.

“You’re just like her. You’re really her copy, Christine.” he cried as he hugged her tight. Kissing her on the crown of the head again and again, being blessed and grateful over her existence and presence in his life, from now and always. He surely regretted all the things that he did to her and to his own daughter and he’s happy to see how strong they’ve become.

He nodded his head and assured her that things will be well and okay.

“I promise you that I will try to meet your mother and talk about the things between us. I promise to let the world know that you and her will always be a part of my family and I’ll never let anyone step on you, your mother, or your father. I promise you everything that I can do as a grandfather.”

Just like Fransesca, he knew how wonderful Christine would’ve become. Someone sweet, wonderful, beautiful, and full of calm. Their hearts were too sincere to be compared with anything else and their smiles, always able to brighten someone’s day up.

The two enjoyed their meal soon after and talked about things in their life. Christine talked about her life all these times and her future plans. She talked about her mother and father, who’s getting happier each day and how her mother became unwell these days.

“Aren’t your mom pregnant?”

“No, grandpa. Daddy said that they won’t be having another child, as much as I want a sibling.”

Surely, he became confused but then he brushed it off. Perhaps, they hadn’t informed Christine of the matter to Christine yet and he nearly made a mistake if it turns out to be true. Before they parted as he drove her back home, he gave her one of his black cards. He gave one to his precious granddaughter as a gift and also something to have from him, to fill in his part as a grandfather that he failed on for years already.

“Buy things that you like. You don’t need to think about the price or the limits. You can buy whatever you want with this. This is from me to you, as a grandfather. Enjoy the life you’re living now, okay? Be a good daughter and someone your mother can be proud of.” he told her as he slipped the card into her bag. “Grandpa, you don’t need to! Daddy gave me a card already. Ten thousand dollars limit for each month, but it’s really more than enough. I only spent a hundred or more a bit in a month— I don’t really need to buy expensive things.” Christine refused and rejected the gift, but Anderson insisted.

“No, keep it even if you think that you don’t need it. You can use it for anything, I won’t ask. To buy your friends things, to help others, to go shopping, to eat, anything. Grandpa insisted, Christine.”

The young girl gave up and nodded her head. She bowed to him once again. “Thank you, grandpa. I’ll go inside and hide the fact that we met today from both mommy and daddy. I’ll let you know about me and my mother every day through calls or texts.” she said. Anderson smiled at his granddaughter.

Christine walked out from the expensive car and was let in when the front gate guard saw her, allowing her to enter the expensive mansion as she then disappeared from his sight. Anderson smiled before he started to cry once again.

“How I wasted my days in the past and everything just to live up to my ego…” he cried, regretting everything in his life and all the decisions he made.

END OF FIRST MEETING.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Time is Ticking

16 September 2022

Today, Fransesca finally had a day off from work so he decided to talk about the matter once again. It wasn’t an easy topic but he tried his best, especially when it comes to his daughter. Their daughter; Catharina Christine Clementine. She’s been asking him about this one and he knew that they should discuss the matter seriously to give the soon-to-be high school student an answer.

He didn’t want to give her false hopes and let her down if she received nothing from her parents. At least, something clear to be given to the young lady.

“Fransesca, we really need to talk about this matter.”

Clayton said as he tried to bring the matter carefully. He knew how Fransesca was against the idea and her own daughter’s wish to study abroad so he wanted to convince her that everything would be okay if it actually happened. He wanted to tell her that it’s okay and it’s also the time to let Christine fly with her wings, to reach her dreams and future.

“What is it?” Fransesca asked the man as she turned her head to the left, giving him all the attention needed for the conversation that he’s starting to make between them. “About Christine’s high school plan. She told us already about her plans and expressed her wish to be able to study there with Vincent. We need to make a decision and we need to give her proper reasons as well.”

Fransesca let a sigh slip from her lips. She knew that Clayton would bring the matter once again, sooner or later, back then when she felt sick. This topic exhaust her for sure, as she never wanted to let Christine go or study far from her. They’ve been together, all the time, only the two, for the past sixteen years so living a life without the kid by her side would be something hard to deal and be used to.

“I’ve done some research regarding the institution but I’m not convinced, yet.” she told him in full honest mode. She didn’t lie as she really did it a couple times on the internet and even her colleagues. She asked everyone who knew the institution Christine really wanted to study at and wrote down several important notes that should be taken as consideration.

“Still?” Clayton asked. Fransesca nodded her head. “The problem is not only because of how expensive the school is. I know, yes, I can afford her now with you here, but also other things. It’s not only the institution as well, but about our daughter herself. She’s never been abroad nor living alone without my help. I’m worried that she can't adapt or manage well with all the new living arrangements.” she gave her opinion to the man.

“Sweetheart, I know. But I think she’s considered those things as well when she asked us to help her apply to study abroad and to that particular institution. She knew her thing and you know her more than me. You’ve been there with her, all the time, for the past sixteen years. Between you and her, what’s the difference except the age?

You two are exactly the splitting image of each other in terms of personality and even beauty. Not even a bit of difference can be seen from you two. I know how you are able to adapt in certain situations well, I’m sure she’s the same as you too.” Clayton told her, assuring her that things will be okay and there’s nothing to worry about that part.

Clayton could clearly see how worried Fransesca’s expression turned to and he knew he couldn’t help but to feel the same. But again, he’s a father and the responsible one in charge of calming down his wife from any worries or anxieties. He hid his emotions pretty well for the sake of Fransesca and also Christine.

“I know that you’re worried and I’m also as worried as you. But remember, she’ll soon grow up to be a young lady who’ll eventually need to learn how to live and survive this life alone. Just like you, just like me, just like everyone.” Clayton smiled at his wife. “We can’t let her depend on us all the time. Again, remember, for her own sake.”

The real estate businessman could understand why Fransesca felt like Christine wasn’t ready to try to live her life independently, without her parents by her side. She knew how Fransesca had been doting her first daughter so much, she literally did whatever it took back then to make sure that Christine received and experienced only the best thing in her life.

Also, as a mother, Fransesca was very sensitive with this matter as well. She was a single mother too, when he’s not around yet to take over all the responsibilities, burdens, and duties she needed to fill for Christine, there were hundreds of reasons on why Fransesca felt this way of sending her daughter far away from her, even to study.

“I have nothing to say about the institution but the price still concerns me a bit. Sure, we can even pay for tuition worth three students but it’s just… I don’t know..” Fransesca muttered her honest feelings regarding everything around the matter they’re currently talking about.

Clayton took her hand and slipped his fingers between hers, holding them tight as he smiled to the pregnant woman sitting right next to him. He wanted to assure and convince her that everything will be well and they could still research for more if Fransesca felt like the school wasn’t good enough. But one thing for sure, Clayton realized that he needs to tell her that one day, Christine should be able and should try to live her own life without their influence; where she’ll be making decisions for herself and for her future. Where it comes the time as parents, to support and help them with whatever they have, ensuring the right path for Christine.

“Fransesca, let’s just be honest. You can’t let her go, that’s the main reason, right? You realize that living a life without her would be a scary one.”

Fransesca eyes became teary as she heard the truth that Clayton said to her. She couldn’t deny the fact so the only thing that she can do now was to cry. To cry out her feelings of being scared, that Christine would be away from her for years. Visiting them for months only. It’s not easy for anyone, for any parents, but she knew exactly everything was destined and planned for Christine’s future.

“I just can’t let her go. I just can’t be far away from her, love.” she cried as Clayton pulled her into a warm, tight hug. He wanted to comfort her the best that he could, to calm her down from the overwhelming feelings about the topic that they should really bring up. Postponing the discussions will certainly end up with bigger problems.

“We can fly to Switzerland and see the school together this year. To decide and brief Christine about everything that she needs to know about the country, the culture, living abroad, and the studies. We can let her know about the basic things. Then, if we’re done, we can send her after her first semester ends. How’s that sound to you?”

Clayton tried to give her a solution. He also wanted the best only for Christine and to accommodate with all the issues around the topic, he decided that it would be better for them to do what he just said to her. Fransesca wiped her tears away and went silent for a minute or so, trying to think about the plan carefully before she decided to nod her head.

“Good. Now, stop crying. The baby in your tummy would cry as well. I don’t want our little one to cry as well or to feel sad to hear that mommy is crying.”

Fransesca smiled a bit and wiped her tears again with her hands. Clayton hugged her tighter this time and kissed her on the crown. “Everything will be okay. I promise you, Fransesca. I promise you that Christine will always be okay.” he whispered.

END OF TIME IS TICKING.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Uneasiness

13 September 2022.

The news he received about his only daughter and child, Fransesca Adelaidine, days ago from his secretary became the main distraction. He couldn’t help but to feel the uneasiness in his heart. The deepest part of his heart wanted to meet her and make sure that she’s okay, after years of not being able to talk or to even see each other through the glance of the eyes.

Anderson won’t lie, that the incident in the past became the main reason why he felt guilty these days. He couldn’t help but to cry, to be anxious, and to be worried over the fact that Fransesca really did her best to live her own life, with her child, without even a help from him. Not even a penny was given to the young lady back then. She made it today from all of her own hard work.

It was nice to have a daughter who became so independent towards everything that she did in life after all that she left behind out of sudden. He remembered exactly the day when he disowned her from the family after getting pregnant out of wedlock and refused to tell him the name of the man who impregnated her; who now turns out to be the son of his old friend, Clayton Nicholas Kingsley.

No wonder that the Kingsley family started to take some steps back during those days. He never thought that Clayton would be the one who’s responsible for the messes back then but he is. He turned out to be the one. To hear that they finally reunited, solved the problems of the past, and got married sixteen years later, Anderson felt a little bit of relief in his heart.

Now, his daughter could finally live the life she was supposed to be and to have since the day she was born. To also hear the information about her second pregnancy, Anderson Rhee couldn’t help but to feel joy inside his heart. His ego became the only thing that engulfed him to what he became today. Alone, with no one by his side. Not even his wife, whom he killed unintentionally after he hit her in the garage with his car, not even his daughter and grandchildren, nor in-laws.

He had no one else except if he decided to bring her back, which he’s currently contemplating to do. He’s not sure whether this would be the right time or would the lady who once he carried and brought everywhere, anywhere, talk highly and proudly, forgive him for all the mistakes that he did in the past.

Franseca is the only one that he has in life and nothing else. Even wealth meant nothing. All the wealth he has now after years of collecting and working for it meant nothing when loneliness started to grasp him in the old days, just like these days.

Alone, old, and sad.

“You zoned out again. It’s rare to see you like this, Anderson.” “Did I?”

Alvin Dickinson, an old friend of his who is also currently planning another business venture with him, said. He took a sip of his sake and smiled to see how Anderson did not realize that he zoned out several times today during their dinner.

“Something bothers you?” “Yeah, apparently. Something about my daughter.”

The opposite raised one of his eyebrows. “She married that guy, right? The son of David Kingsley. She married well from the start. Her child is also Clayton’s right?” Alvin responded. Anderson could only answer him with a nod of his head. He never met him, his supposed son-in-law, Clayton and it's been five years since he met his daughter for the last time, during her mother’s funeral.

A call suddenly interrupted their conversation. It was Alvin’s, as the notification appeared on his screen. He picked up the call and gestured his hands to Anderson that he would talk outside as it’s a private matter he needed to take care of. So, Anderson let him go.

Left alone once again in the room, Anderson poured his sake from the bottle to the glass and again, drank it in one go. He also reached for his phone to see the pictures that were taken secretly by his secretary earlier this morning: his daughter, smiling brightly with his granddaughter and her husband. He could see that the pregnancy was still in the early stage as she still looked as thin as usual.

Now, after all the regrets, he finally realized that her happiness was what was supposed to matter the most. He never thought that all that he did in the past would backfire this way. Certainly, it was something painful to his heart and he would say, unforgivable.

He also heard a rumor about how his daughter slept with an old businessman just to have some money to buy her daughter, his granddaughter, some food to eat. He wasn’t sure that the rumor itself was true, as he knew that Fransesca won’t do stupid things like that just for money. She’ll do something else to earn money and he knew how Fransesca's personality was— or at least, that’s what he thought.

The urge to pee became the reason why the man then put his phone back into the pocket. He left the room for a while to the restroom and locked one of the doors. After he finished his business and pulled his pants up again, he could hear the voice of Alvin entering the restroom while still talking on the phone with whoever the other party was.

“Hahaha, right? Now that old man regrets everything and he starts to realize that he’s such a lonely, sad, old man. That girl is a gem! Oh God, I can tell you how good she is on the bed. Never thought that she would do such things as Anderson’s daughter.” Alvin laughed, explaining the things he did with Fransesca back then.

He was the man. He was the old businessman.

He’s the man that was rumored to sleep with Fransesca for the sake of money in the past.

“I paid her for like… hmm, I don’t really remember. I think it’s around ten thousand dollars as I pity her. She agreed at five grand, actually. That girl.. Fransesca, so lucky to marry the heir of David Kingsley. You should’ve tried her back then! She’s desperate for money after being kicked out by Anderson.”

Those stupid sentences that escaped his lips angered the man. Anderson Rhee never thought that Fransesca would do things like that. That explained a lot of how the woman was in despair in the past for money to keep herself and her child well. To be able to feed her child food.

With teary eyes and raging fire in his heart, Anderson opened the door and punched Alvin on his stomach and face, again and again. Blood could be seen on the corner of his lips as he punched him mercilessly. He beat the man up until he became a mess. A true mess.

“I never fucking thought that you’ll do that to my daughter!” “I never thought you would backstab me this way, Alvin.” “I’m going to kill you!”

He screamed and attacked his colleague again and again. Who would’ve thought that his old best friend turned out to be the dickhead that slept with his daughter when he could just help her with five grand. Five grand meant nothing for him yet he treated his best friend’s daughter that way.

“Why did you do that? How the fuck did you do that?” “That’s my daughter! No matter how much I hated her back then and disowned her for being pregnant, she’s still my daughter!”

His world crumbled into pieces, again and again. He cried as he hit Alvin to the point where the man would beg for Anderson to stop. Anderson couldn’t explain the pain he felt inside his heart. He couldn’t even form a word that would explain his feelings the best now.

He’s in so much anger that he would kill the man right now, only if he didn’t come back to his conscience. He’ll destroy Alvin’s life just like how he used his daughter for his own sake and for his own pride. He’ll destroy Alvin into pieces just like what he did to his family.

“You could’ve just given her the money. It meant nothing for you to let go five grand to help my child, even a bit of it! Why would you even sleep with her? I help you to become what you’re today. This is what you did to me? To my family? Behind my back?!”

Anderson screamed right in front of his face. He cried again and again, being heartbroken to know that his only daughter was used by people around him. She was used for their sake. She was used for their own satisfaction and needs. She was used, thrown away, ridiculed, and laughed at.

For years, he never thought that Fransesca would live that kind of horrible life. He regretted each of his decisions in the past. He regretted his decision on disowning her back then, that led her to the life she lived before she reunited with Clayton. Everything became a mess. Anderson felt guilty for destroying the life of his own daughter.

He kicked him once again, as hard as he could on the stomach, before he left the restroom and eventually the restaurant. He cried as he sat in his car while telling the driver to drive him back home. He cried as he realized how things were far from a fairytale life for his daughter. He did what he could in the past just for Fransesca, yet he disowned her and threw her to a life full of misery.

Anderson wondered if Fransesca would forgive him for everything that he did.

He wondered how cruel life has been to her when he’s not around back then. How much struggle she went through just to provide a good life for his granddaughter, Christine. Anderson realized that he has been too cruel to his child and grandchild.

The uneasiness he felt deep in his heart was answered by tragedies and bitter facts of reality. He’s a monster in his daughter’s life and he’s now willing to sacrifice anything, just for her happiness. Just for her to forgive him and what he did to her in the past.

END OF UNEASINESS.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Pregnancy Craving

15 September 2022.

It’s been a while since they spent their time together and Fransesca was beyond blessed to know that they’re going to spend a day together at home along with Christine as well. Yes, she missed the warmth of her family after being busy at work all the time. Her work at the university indeed, kept her away from all the family matters for the past weeks.

For Clayton, it’s a good thing to see her home after those busy days. At least, he could spend some time with the woman he truly loved and their baby, growing inside her tummy for weeks already. He’s more than happy to be able to assist her in every single thing that she needs at home, including pregnancy craving, the one thing she had never experienced back then.

“Love,” she called him softly as she opened her eyes, still on the bed after a deep sleep for the whole night. “Can I ask for something?” Fransesca asked the man. Clayton could be seen still asleep right next to her, under the blanket, covering himself from head to toe while hugging the bolster pillow, something they both couldn’t live without.

“Hmm?”

“I want to eat wonton.” “Out of nowhere?” “Uhm.. yes.”

Clayton sighed as he heard the request slipped from her lips. He kicked the blanket a bit so it would come lower, showing his face to the woman and rubbed it with both of his hands to wake him up from the deep sleep he just had. “Do you want the noodles as well? I’ll make a wonton noodle soup instead then.” he told her.

Fransesca nodded her head. “Yes, with the noodles too. Make more for the noodles. I’m craving one badly.” she answered as she gave him a kiss on the lips and a smile curved after. “Anything for my queen, then. I’m willing to do anything for my beloved wife.” he said as he smiled at her and stretched his body, cracking some of his bones.

“Give me more kisses!” he requested.

Lovey dovey just like always, she kissed him again and again on the lips, on the cheeks, on the nose, on the eyes, everywhere. Giving each other the kind of affections they loved to share in between. Fransesca was very happy to be able to marry the man she’ll forever be devoted to. The man who loves her is the same as sixteen years ago, though stories in between differ due to some people involved in it.

The same went to Clayton as well; he couldn’t take his eyes off of her. He felt blessed and grateful to be able to reunite with the woman after all those years of misunderstandings and miscommunications. He felt grateful to be able to wake up to her each morning, kiss her, talk to her, and to marry her. Making the woman as his only one, alongside their daughter, Christine. This was his dream to be able to enjoy the joy of a family of his own. To be able to be with the two people he loved the most in his life. Everything came true and he couldn’t thank God enough for all His blessings and plans, for the kindness He gave to him and to her, to this little family he’ll be forever in love with.

“Let’s have wonton for lunch then? I’ll tell the maids to buy the ingredients first. I’m pretty sure we don’t really have all the ingredients needed. Anything that you also crave for, sweetheart?” Clayton asked as he caressed her gently, stroking her cheek with the back of his fingers. “No. Only wonton soup with the noodle, Clayton. I've been really craving for one since last night.” she said.

“Why don’t you tell me then? I could stay up all night to make one so you can have it for breakfast instead, Fransesca.” he asked. “Well, I know that you’re tired and you should have some good sleep after those busy days at work. So, I decided to tell you when you’re awake in the morning.” Fransesca said as she gave him a smile on her face. “You can always tell me all the time. I have no problem staying up all night just to cook you the best wonton if that’s what you and our little one craves for, sweetheart. Besides, it’s you that keeps on being busy at work and is nowhere to be seen at home. You should be the one who rests and sleeps more at home. Okay?” Clayton responded.

“Promise me that you’ll tell me directly, anytime and anywhere, if you crave for something. I’ll find it or make one for you.”

Fransesca smiled at him as she nodded her head as a response to him. “Yes, I promise, love. I promise to tell you whatever I want.” she said to the man softly. Clayton couldn’t help but to hug her tight while he rubbed her belly carefully. “I can’t wait to meet the baby. I can’t wait to see my second one. I never thought that I would feel this way, I would be able to experience the joy of expecting another child.” Clayton told her honestly.

The woman giggled. “Enjoy the moment while it lasts, Clayton.” Fransesca said to the man, letting him know that this pregnancy would only last for nine months so really needs to cherish every moment of it. Every moment of their second child’s growth.

“We haven’t told Christine yet about the soon-to-come younger sibling.” “Ah.. right. We haven’t told our daughter about it.”

The two suddenly realized that their eldest and only child, as now, had no idea that Fransesca was currently expecting a child she has always wanted to have. A sibling she always asked her father for after their marriage. Christine didn’t have a single idea towards the pregnancy so far and they’ve never talked about it in front of her either.

It’s not that they’re trying to hide the pregnancy for her, they just… it happens. It’s just they never got to talk about the baby or the pregnancy around Triple C and they had no idea on how they should deliver the news to Christine as well. She would be delighted for sure, but Christine would show her worries towards her mother’s condition as well as age.

Not to mention that Clayton once talked about the matter to Christine: about the possibilities, chances, and the risks that followed if Fransesca got pregnant, which actually came true. “Let’s find a time to talk about it to Christine. We need to talk about her high school matters as well, sweetheart. We’re not done with that discussion either.”

A sigh slipped from her lips as she was reminded by the unfinished discussion regarding Christine’s wish to study high school abroad at the most expensive high school ever in the whole world; La Rosey. The school that was located far away in Switzerland.

“Let’s talk about it later after the wonton. Now, please get out of the bed and prepare it for me, Chef Clayton Kingsley. I’m dying for one.”

Clayton smiled and nodded his head. “Will do, my queen.”

END OF PREGNANCY CRAVING.

0 notes

crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Fatherly Instinct

9 September 2022

“Papa! Papa, help me!” “Anderson, do something! Our child is hurting!” “Papa— it’s so painful!” “ANDERSON RHEE!”

The man was suddenly awakened by the nightmare he had. Traces of sweat could be seen on his temples and palm. His eyes shed tears for the first time. It was something he never had before; a dream that felt so real, he never thought he would experience a dream such like that. His eyes were red, again, from the horrible things he had in his sleep.

Quickly, the richest man across Singapore wiped his sweat away and walked out from the bed, straight to the bathroom to clean himself up. Somehow, deep inside his heart, he felt something uncomfortable. He brushed his teeth and looked into the reflection in the mirror. The reflection of himself while questioning what dream he just had.

It was clear that the two women he saw were his late wife that he accidentally killed in the garage, Amarylis Hendrawan and his daughter whom he disowned sixteen years ago, Fransesca Adelaidine. The two that were no longer there, resulting in this feeling of emptiness and a gap he could never be able to explain. The kind of gap that felt so intense these days, yet too shy to admit.

The only thing he couldn’t understand from his dream was why. Why would he dream of them both again after years? The last time he saw his daughter was during Amarylis’s funeral in Jakarta and never again. Why would his late wife and child cry for help? It was clear that Ama, how he called his late wife, was trying to ask him to help their daughter.

“Perhaps it’s only a dream..” he mumbled as he finished rinsing his mouth. He put the toothbrush back into its place and walked out from his bedroom. Dressing himself in formal attire as always. For a man in his seventies, he looked pretty healthy and young indeed. Money talks, that’s for sure.

He sprayed his perfume before finally starting his day with breakfast on the big dining table, all alone. His secretary, Elliot, walked towards the man and stood next to him, ready to inform the man regarding his schedule for the day.

“Tell me, Elliot. What’s for today?” “You’ll have a meeting with the tech company from nine to twelve, a lunch with Mrs Godfrey from one to three, and a visit to the factory from five to six. Just as you asked yesterday, Mr Rhee.”

Anderson nodded his head and continued his breakfast. But, after some spoonful of cream soup, Elliot still stood there. Usually, he left soon after the man continued his breakfast. He turned his head to him and wondered why he looked pretty unsure of what to say next.

“What is it now? Something’s wrong with Mr John again?”

Elliot shook his head. “It’s about your daughter, Mr Rhee. There’s a talk in the hospital yesterday. She came with her husband and mother-in-law, Mr Clayton Nicholas Kingsley and Mrs Gertrude Henrietta Kingsley. I thought this would be a concern to you as well.”

“What for? She’s now settled already with the man she hid from me. Must’ve been nice now to live a great life with the Kingsleys.” Anderson responded coldly but Elliot shook his head. “She fell unconscious as she accompanied Mrs Gertrude for a medical check-up and started to bleed a lot. Her legs were full of blood, they said.” Elliot reported.

Anderson put down his cutleries as he heard the news. He never reacted this way when he heard any news about Fransesca but this time, it felt different. His heart stopped beating suddenly as his mind went blank. The loud ‘clang’ sound from the silver cutleries that hit the table and the plate itself startled Elliot. He paused as he waited to see what the man would say; either he was doomed or perhaps the opposite.

“What did the doctors say?”

“Doctor Lee was there and it was confirmed that Mrs King— I mean Miss Fransesca, had a heavy bleeding from her early pregnancy. The baby and the mother were confirmed to be well after being rushed into the ICU and got treated by the best doctors available.”

So this is what the dream means? She’s sick and suffered from her early stage of pregnancy.

The man sighed as he bit his lower lips. He rubbed his palms nervously against each other as he heard the matter.

Something’s not right. Something is bothering me and I don’t know why. This kind of feeling has never happened before.

Anderson took a deep breath and sighed. “Keep me updated with everything about my daughter. Make sure that you’ll take care of whatever she needs in the hospital. I only want the best and do it in secret. I don’t want her to know that I’m helping or whatever she might call it…”

Elliot nodded before he bowed and took some steps backward, leaving the dining room soon after. Anderson rested his back on the chair and shook his head as he closed his eyes. He never thought that this kind of feeling emerged out of sudden. This fatherly instinct that he had deep inside his heart, he never thought would resurface.

I only wish… this is the best I can do to ease these uneasy feelings I have of Fransesca these days.

END OF FATHERLY INSTINCT.

0 notes

crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Seven Weeks

8 September 2022

Who would’ve thought that all the things that follow after the wedding would turn out to be this way? What Fransesca never thought she could be and what Clayton never thought would happen came true; a child is on the way. As what the doctor said to him and his mother, Fransesca was currently expecting a child, seven weeks long.

The joy in his heart was wiped away with worries. He knew how weak the woman was physically, though he knew how strong Fransesca was mentally. But with the age that has always become the only matter, he couldn’t help but to worry more and more towards Fransesca. He doesn’t want to lose her nor to be apart from her just like how they were the past sixteen years.

He knew how it felt like hell and he knew how he never wanted them to be that way from the very first.

“Fransesca, the doctor told me that you’re currently seven weeks pregnant. But you need to rest more as you’re currently weak. There are several things we need to consider regarding this pregnancy and I’m worried.” he told her the news carefully as he sat next to her bed.

To hear the news itself, Fransesca was taken aback. “Are… are you sure, love? Are you really sure that I’m pregnant?” asked the woman carefully. “We did an ultrasound and I’ve told the doctor regarding your nausea these days. He confirmed everything. I’m.. I’m delighted of course but I won’t lie that I’m super worried regarding you. Are you okay?”

The woman blinked repeatedly before she shook her head, feeling dizzy.

“We should discuss this at home. I’m not feeling well, love.” she replied softly as she massaged her left temple softly with her fingers. “It’s not wise for you to expect another child this age, Clayton. Think about the future and about your wife, if you really care. Perhaps, the child itself isn’t even yours.” Gertrude said.

“Mama!”

Clayton scolded his mother as he heard the last sentence that escaped from his lips. “I know that both Christine and this child we’re currently expecting are my children. Do not make any negative assumptions towards Fransesca all the time. I’ve told you that she’s my wife, whether you like her or not.” he added, not wanting to fight in the hospital, especially in front of his weak wife.

Gertrude rolled her eyes and looked at Fransesca.

“Did you experience any sickness, craving or bleeding such as this back in the days?” she asked. No matter how much the woman hated Fransesca, at the end the motherly instinct inside of her surfaced. Especially with the fact (that she hated the most) Fransesca carrying her new grandchild; her son’s child.

Fransesca shook her head. “No, Mrs Kingsley. I’ve never experienced any bleeding or craving in the past. A slight nausea but not this severe.” she replied softly. “The age must’ve been the main reason. You two should decide whether to keep the baby or not.” Gertrude quickly told the two, especially her own son, Clayton Nicholas Kingsley.

“You know that it’s risky to have a child with the father in the middle of his fifty and the mother herself in the middle of her forty. You should’ve known better and prevented it well before the pregnancy, not now when you’ve discovered the child. What are you two planning next? Killing the next Kingsley line?” said Gertrude in a pretty sharp and painful way to digest by both.

“I’m not going to kill the baby, Mrs Kingsley. I’ll do whatever I can.” “Yeah, sure. How about Clayton? He will do the opposite.”

Fransesca turned her attention to the man she proudly called her husband to ask him whether it’s true or not just from her eyes and she knew… she knew exactly the answer that Clayton would give to her. “It’s just— I don’t want to lose you anymore, Fransesca. Yes, yes I know I shouldn’t kill the baby. But I’m worried about you, truly.” he defended himself.

Somehow, deep inside, she felt a bit of disappointment in her heart.

“I am… disappointed to hear that, Clay. I never thought that you'd do such a thing to our beloved child. Aren’t you also the one that keeps on asking for one?” Fransesca replied. Clayton felt the sense of guilt from his heart. He lowered his head and sighed.

“I’m going to leave both of you. I’m going home in a taxi.”

Clayton stood and bowed while Fransesca lowered her head to bid the woman a goodbye. Apologizing for ruining her medical check-up session that has been scheduled for weeks already, leaving the newly-wed couple alone.

“Promise me that you’ll be okay with this pregnancy? If you’re not, I might need to do the unwanted thing. For everyone’s safety, okay?” Clayton tried to talk about the matter with his wife carefully. “I just wanted you to be safe and okay. If you think that you’re okay with this pregnancy, I’m also okay. I’m delighted with the pregnancy, of course. I’m super excited to have another child and to experience the feeling of becoming a father… which certainly I missed back then. But you’re my top priority.”

Fransesca nodded her head and smiled at Clayton, assuring the man that she’ll be okay just like how her first pregnancy with Christine was. She wanted to tell him that she’ll be fine with the presence of their child and she’s strong enough to carry their beloved inside her womb.

“Let’s talk with an obgyn later when I’m feeling better to discuss this, okay? But I’m certain that I’m not going to get rid of the baby. I know my limits and I’m sure, though the little one came unexpectedly, I’m strong enough. You don’t need to worry much, okay?”

Being reassured by the woman made his heart feel a bit calmer than before. Yes, he knew he’s still unconvinced of how strong Fransesca was or else this kind of thing won’t happen. This sudden heavy bleeding won’t happen. But, he did what he could and he should. To trust her.

“I love you. Thank you, love. Thank you for giving me the most beautiful unexpected gift.” “I love you too, Clayton. We’ll go through this together. We’ll do our best for our baby, okay?”

END OF SEVEN WEEKS.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

An Attempt to Get Closer

8 September 2022.

“Your wife helps with nothing, Clayton!”

Gertrude said as she sat herself on the front seat of the car, next to her daughter. Meanwhile, Fransesca sat on the back. Keeping herself silent and quiet after Gertrude kept on throwing painful rude remarks at her, though less than what she heard back in the days through those phone calls. No, until today, Fransesca had no idea that Clayton knew about it and even confronted his own mother to stop doing things like that towards his wife.

Fransesca was again left clueless.

Clayton did his best to fix the relationship between the in-laws, as Fransesca tried her best to keep herself well and okay despite those painful sentences her mother-in-law gave to her. Meanwhile, Gertrude did nothing to stop herself from doing so.

“What’s the use of having her around at home when she clearly can’t even do any chores? Can’t you see that she’s just sitting the whole day, complaining about her stomach and her nausea? That’s annoying. Don’t even bring her into the house anymore if she won’t help me.” Gertrude said.

“I’m so—” “Bullshits.”

Fransesca bit her lower lips as Gertrude cut her off from her attempt to apologize to the woman. She actually wanted to help but the sudden nausea and pain she felt stopped her immediately from doing those chores. She couldn’t help but to sit instead of helping the old woman as she felt it was pretty intense. Clayton surely tried to let his mother know that it was real and Fransesca wasn’t lying.

But hatred and anger blinded her once again as Gertrude refused to accept the explanation and the reason that both said to her. She prefers to accuse the lady for being lazy and having no sense to even help his in-laws in getting done all the chores in the kitchen, even as simple as washing the dishes.

Clayton knew though, Fransesca wanted to help but she couldn’t. He knew how much the woman was struggling with her health these days, even considering her resignation from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Something he knew she would never do if it’s not urgent. To find her considering the decision itself was something huge already, let alone the resignation itself.

“She tried, mama. She did all the chores back at home. She’s just feeling unwell.”

Clayton explained his mother again as he parked the car in front of the hospital entrance door. “Sweetheart, will you help mama to register herself and to prepare for the general check up?” he asked his wife softly as Fransesca nodded her head. “We’ll get you examined as well. You’ve been pretty weak these days. I’m super worried and concerned.”

“You don’t need to, Clayton.”

Fransesca replied as she stepped out from the black car slowly, opening the front door for Gertrude. When she tried to hold her hand, to help her, Gertrude walked away without even looking at her. As if she never existed or never was around her.

Clayton who saw the situation could only sigh. “Fransesca, bear with it, okay? I’ll do my best to make her like you. I will do my best to convince her about us.” he said. Fransesca nodded her head as she understood that it must be hard for Gertrude as well, to accept her into the family. She didn’t say a word as she followed the old woman inside the hospital.

The Hill International Hospital was founded by her father, Anderson Rhee, when she’s a child. Everyone in the building knew her as the disowned daughter of the most important man in the hospital. Though she’s no longer a part of Rhee, Fransesca was well respected by every single worker there; from doctors, nurses, to even ordinary staff.

“Miss Rhee.”

One of the heads of the department bowed as he saw the woman walking in front of her. “Doctor Lee, how are you? It’s been a while since we met and talked with each other.” she responded kindly. The man nodded his head. “How can I help you today?” Doctor Lee asked.

“My mother-in-law is here for a check up. We made an appointment for Mrs Kingsley, Mrs Gertrude Henrietta Kingsley.” Fransesca answered. Upon hearing the answer from the lady, Doctor Lee quickly gathered the senior doctors to help him with the check up procedure today. “We’ll take care of it for you, Miss Rhee. Did your father know about this?”

Fransesca shook her head.

Doctor Lee nodded his head as he understood that things still were not okay between the woman and her father. They then walked themselves towards Gertrude who’s sitting on a chair, waiting to be called. The doctors assisted the old lady to further check-up procedure as Fransesca was guided to complete the form first. Clayton followed next.

“Everything okay?” “I met a doctor I know. He’s one of the senior doctors here. He took mama to the next procedure so I guess we can wait here. The general checkup can take hours.” “How do you know?” “I did it when I was pregnant with Christine.”

Clayton paused as he heard the sentence slip from her lips. The moment when he’s not around her to help or to assist with things she needs. “It’s been a while but I can remember those things clearly. Now, will you help me to fill in some of mama’s details that I’m not aware of?”

“You should fill another form for yourself first, darling. I’m taking you for a check up as well.”

“No, you don’t need to. It’s just… being exhausted. That’s all.”

Fransesca smiled, refusing his offer as she then sat herself on a bench in the hospital’s lobby. After Clayton filled the form and gave it to the nurse, he sat himself next to his wife and let the woman rest her head on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry that mama brought some kind of pressure to you.” he apologized as he grabbed and held her hand. He kissed her on the crown and smiled at the woman lovingly. “It’s okay. I need to be stronger. I want to try my best so she would accept me and today, it’s not the right time. Maybe next time.” Fransesca replied with a very weak voice.

“You sound so weak, darling. Are you really okay?” “A little stomach ache but I’m okay. Perhaps for skipping my breakfast.” “Stay here and I’ll buy you something to eat, okay? We have another two hours.”

Fransesca moved her head from his shoulder as she sat herself straight and smiled at the man.

“Thank you, love.” “You’re welcome, sweetheart.”

The man left her alone on the bench as he bought his wife some snacks to eat while waiting for Gertrude to finish her procedures today. They should come to the hospital again tomorrow for another check-up procedure. It was divided into two days.

Soon as he came back, Fransesca snacked on a blueberry bread with a bottle of mineral water. She took some bites before she gave the bread back to Clayton. “I don’t like the taste,” she said. “It’s weird, Clayton.”

The man took a bite on the bread and looked at the woman confused. “This tastes exactly the same as the one you eat in the morning, sweetheart. I don’t think it tastes weird.” he responded as he handed her the chocolate bread, one thing that the woman usually avoided. But then, he found her eating the chocolate bread just like how she usually ate the blueberry one. Clayton found it weird.

“You look pale, Fransesca.” “Am I? My stomach is still… in pain.”

Fransesca handed the man her unfinished chocolate bread. He put it inside the plastic bag as he worried about his wife. “Let’s have it checked?” asked the man, which she refused once again.

“Clayton!”

He turned his head and greeted his mother who’re just changed into the hospital gown. “I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Come and accompany me!” she said. Clayton nodded and helped Fransesca to stand up as they walked together, following Gertrude’s steps into the first room for the procedure when Fransesca felt an intense pain in her stomach.

“Ah..” she moaned in pain as she put her left hand on her stomach, leaning her body towards the man she called her husband. Gertrude and Clayton’s steps immediately stopped. Now, her face was as pale as a ghost. Tears could be seen across her cheeks, showing that Fransesca was in a lot of pain.

“Fransesca!”

Clayton quickly wrapped his arm around her when she cried in pain. Stopping her from losing her balance. The man was in panic as he saw how Fransesca was dealing with the pain. He knew that she has a high pain tolerance but to see her this way, he knew how painful it must’ve been for her.

“Clayton… it hurts a lot.” she cried as she shut her eyes. Her body was trembling from the pain she felt. The man nodded and called for help as he shouted. “HELP! HELP! Please help my wife!” he screamed, trying to attract the nurses attention; and Doctor Lee with the senior doctors that followed him happened to notice the commotion.

They rushed themselves from the second floor to the couple.

“Is she pregnant?” “What?” “Clayton, is she pregnant? Fransesca?” “No, why?”

Getrude pointed her finger at Fransesa’s legs, where she saw blood coming down. His eyes dilated when he saw the woman nearly unconscious from the pain, with blood dripping down there.

“Ma, I’m not…” Fransesca answered weakly, at the edge of her consciousness. “Yes! God— how can both of you… don’t even know about it?!” Gertrude responded in panic.

The doctors quickly helped Clayton with Fransesca as the woman was being carried into the emergency unit soon after. Gertrude followed his son before they were stopped to wait outside. He sat himself feeling worried and anxious.

“Ma.. do you really think she’s pregnant?” “My guts says so. To see that blood… and she being nauseous! How long?” “Two weeks already.”

Clayton came to the realization of what just happened. That blueberry and chocolate bread. Her nausea that has been going on for two weeks already.

“Ma, I’m scared. I don’t want to lose her.”

I really don’t want to lose Fransesca, even if it means that I’ll lose the baby today. Only, only if she’s really pregnant. God, what is it? My heart feels uneasy.

END OF AN ATTEMPT TO GET CLOSER.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Christine's Future

7 September 2022

After the discussion between the couple that ended up with a no, Fransesca and Clayton decided to discuss the matter with their daughter together. The sudden wish that Christine told her father regarding her high school decision caused a turmoil of opinions between the husband and wife. Fransesca, the woman who won’t let her daughter go far away and Clayton, the man who allowed his daughter to study abroad.

For Fransesca, the decision was too sudden. Not to mention that she never went to that country, not Christine herself. They didn’t know how the school actually was, the curriculum, the living cost, tuition, nor other supporting details that she should’ve learned about for weeks. She never visited the school, so she’s not convinced with everything that Clayton told her about.

Christine was also her only daughter. She never went far away from the young lady. Fransesca and Christine became a package no one could separate them from. They clicked with each other all the time, and spent almost their whole life with no one but each other. Prior to Clayton’s presence back in their life, they had no one but each other. It was something understandable, that the woman won’t let her go somewhere far, in a different continent from her.

Now, they were seated on the living room’s couch with Christine providing some printed papers full of information regarding the school she actually wanted to go to for years on the table. Clayton could only smile, as he knew how determined the young girl was to convince her mother.

“So, tell me. Tell me with this sudden change of heart? What’s with all the sudden change, Christine?”

Fransesca asked her daughter regarding the issue.

“I always wanted to study there, mommy. But I know that you’re working day and night by yourself and to actually apply yourself in such an expensive and prestigious school, I can’t. I don’t have the heart to see you working harder than you are already, it breaks my heart. So I decided to study at Nanyang Girls High School instead of trying my luck to study there.”

To hear those words come out from her lips, it hurts Fransesca’s heart so much. How she couldn’t afford the things her daughter wanted to have or experience just because of her mistake in the past and all the ego she held. She wanted to cry but she held it inside, not wanting to show her weak side in front of her daughter.

“Now that we have daddy and things are pretty different from the past, I wanted to let you two know that I wanted to study at Institut Le Rosey. I’ve always wanted to study there.” Christine added.

“You’ve never been outside Singapore, Christine. You’ve never traveled far from me. You have never been to Switzerland or the school itself, so tell me why? Why are you so determined to convince us to let you study there?” Fransesca asked. “Switzerland is not a country next door like Malaysia or Indonesia, Christine. It’s in Europe. Far from here.”

“All that you need is to put in some trust, mommy.” Christine said as she showed her all the information on the table, trying to convince Fransesca once again to let her study abroad. “Vincent is also there. I’ll not be alone or whatsoever. I’ll study and make you proud. That’s my only goal. I just want to make you happy and proud with what I achieved and I promise to make you feel that way.”

Clayton exchanged his gaze multiple times as he wanted to make sure that both Fransesca and Christine were okay. He followed every question and answer that both exchanged to each other. The man knew how much Fransesca was hurting from those words that Christine never intended. Christine just told her what she felt and the truth was indeed, painful.

“Mommy, I know that you’ll always see me as a little girl. As your baby. But now, I’m 15. Next year, I’m turning 16. I’m getting older and I want to try to live an independent life as well. Not fully, but step by step. This is the beginning. I have my plans towards my future. I’ve told you about all of it in the past, again and again. I want to follow your steps, as a lecturer. I want to be a professor just like you. I believe Institut Le Rosey could provide me with more opportunities towards the end of my high school days later.” Christine explained, longer than before, emphasizing her plan for the future.

The woman closed her eyes as she felt dizzy. She felt super dizzy for no reason, out of nowhere. The discussion between her and Christine certainly was not the reason, as she felt it came from something much bigger than that. She felt it physically, not from the pressure she felt mentally.

She tried to listen to every single explanation that Christine did to her as she opened her eyes slowly. But then, the light that entered struck her into another phase of dizziness. Her facial expression said it all as Fransesca quickly grabbed her husband’s hand tight. Christine quickly paused and asked her mother.

“Mommy? Are you okay?”

Clayton quickly checked on his wife before he shook his head in worry. “This is why I told you to stop working so hard. You need to stop working, Fransesca. I’ve told you that I can provide you with what you need. All you need is a rest.” he said as he helped his wife to stand, walking her back into the bedroom.

He turned his head at Christine and sighs. “We’ll talk about this later, okay? When your mommy is better.”

Meanwhile, the man took her for a rest on the bed, covering her thin body with a white blanket.

“What is it that you feel?” “Nauseous. Dizzy.” “Did you eat this morning? Last night?”

Fransesca shook her head as she shut her eyes and tried to shoo away the pain from her head. “I’ll make you a cup of warm tea, okay? Rest. We’ll talk about this matter with Christine when you’re much better.”

As Clayton left the room for the kitchen, he felt worried. He became anxious over what happened to Fransesca just now. He’s worried that this would be an effect from her never ending hardwork for the past sixteen years and he knew he should step in.

END OF CHRISTINE'S FUTURE.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

About Christine

5 September 2022

Soon after they finished their breakfast, Clayton and Fransesca went back into their bedroom to talk about the matter that Clayton wanted to talk about with his wife. The matter regarding Christine wishes to study abroad with Vincent, her cousin slash best friend.

“We took a dip this morning.” said the man to his wife as they sat themselves on the side of the bed. “Yes, I know about that, love. You don’t need to mention that part. Can’t we just go straight to the point?” Fransesca replied as she giggled. Her soft hands cupped his face and gave him a peck on the lips. A simple, short, yet freshening for the man.

“You said something about high school. What is the concern regarding this?”

Fransesca tied her hair into a ponytail as she prepared herself to listen to what her husband wanted to tell her about Christine.

“She wanted to go to the same school as Vincent. She doesn’t have the courage to talk about it to you so she sticks with Nanyang All Girls High School instead.” said Clayton as he smiled at his wife. “If she wanted to go there, sure. Why not, love? Is it really expensive?” asked the woman, being concerned about the tuition fee, not being used with the wealth she’s in, once again.

“It is one of the most expensive schools in the world, Fransesca. But you don’t need to worry much about it. I’m positive that I can pay for it. It’s not a lot compared to what we have now so you don’t need to worry. I know that you want the best education for our daughter and it’s my turn now.” Clayton told her softly, as he wanted to convey the news in the smoothest way.

“So, what became the problem? What’s the name of the school?” “Institut La Rosey.” “That sounds pretty french.” “The school is located in Switzerland, sweetheart.”

Now, Fransesca knew the exact problem.

“No.”

“But it’s a boarding school, sweetheart. Vincent will be there as well so you don’t need to worry much about her.”

Fransesca shook her head, showing her disagreement in sending her only daughter to Switzerland. “No, no no no. How can I send her away to a country in another continent, not knowing what the school looks like, in weeks?” she responded. “I’m not going to send her anywhere. Singapore’s education system is more than okay. We don’t need to send her away that far!”

This was the exact response that he already guessed. He knew that Fransesca won’t send her away to a country that she never even visited before. It’s not something easy, so Clayton tried to convince her again and again. “The country is pretty nice and safe. Many students studied there. Fresh air, beautiful view, amazing food, amazing people. It's a boarding school as well and it's pretty hard to take a leave there, so you don’t need to worry much, sweetheart.”

A no is a no, and Fransesca was pretty strict with her daughter.

“I have been there with her since she’s a little baby. Since she’s as big as a peanut inside of me. I’m not going to let her go anywhere, far away from me. Clayton, this is not what I expect from her! She’s too young to study abroad. She can do it later when she gets into university, but I’m not letting her go at fifteen!”

Clayton let the woman paused her sentences. He doesn’t want to upset her more in a way that nobody wanted to as well.

“Fransesca, think about this carefully. She has the privilege to study abroad now, to enter the most expensive and also best school in the world. It would open her path in the future. Harvard or whatever university she wanted to be in.” Clayton spoke out about his opinion regarding the matter. “Please, okay? I know that I want her to be around you. But you can’t keep her around all the time. Sooner or later, you’ll send her away. She’s growing up.”

“I know that she’s wise and mature enough for her age. Her sole purpose is to study and I’m giving her all of my support. Please, put some trust into her, sweetheart. Christine is a smart child, so sending her to that school would be a great decision. You wanted the best for her, right? This could be the best for her.”

Fransesca was unconvinced. Still, she won’t let her daughter study far away from her. “I need to talk to her as well. I’m not convinced about sending her away to Switzerland, Clayton. This is not a simple matter. I want to hear her future plans before deciding. But for now, I’m not letting her go into that school.”

The woman said her words and left the bedroom, upset. He could only smile before a sigh escaped from his lips. He knew this won’t be an easy task, but it is what it is. He'll try his best to make his daughter’s dream come true. Clayton knew, it’s just Fransesca who’s not ready to live apart from her daughter. Not because she doesn’t like the school that her daughter picked.

“A long way to go, indeed.” he mumbled.

END OF ABOUT CHRISTINE.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Small Talks

6 September 2022

The father and daughter decided to spend their time together back at home. With a pool in the backyard of their house, they decided to spend some time there with the presence of Fransesca around. Though, the woman herself was seen busy doing her work in the study room. Observing and reading all the journals on the table.

As one side of the study room was actually made from glass, showing the view of the swimming pool itself, the two could see their beloved lady of the house working so hard and seriously in the room as they played and swam around. It was designed that way, as the swimming pool itself was an infinite one, showing the beautiful view of the country. Clayton wanted a view from his study room as well.

“Daddy, now that you can actually provide us more than enough with everything, can you tell mommy to step down and rest? She doesn’t need to retire or any kind of it, I just want to see her home more. Working less than how she’s been. She works so hard, rarely at home.” Christine asked her father.

“I’ve told her, bunny. But your mother won’t listen. I’ve told her to resign from either NAFA or NUS so she could rest more at home. But I know she loves her work and is used to doing so, thus it would be hard for your mother to adapt with things when she decided to stop working like this.” answered the old man, trying to explain to Christine why Fransesca wouldn’t stop working day and night.

“She’s used to this independent lifestyle, Christine. I can’t blame her if she couldn’t actually stop herself from working like this.”

“But I’m concerned, dad. I’m concerned about her health. She’s not young and it's been years since she worked harder than everyone else,” Christine added. “Please convince her, daddy. Convince her to stop working at NAFA.”

To hear those words out from her lips, Clayton knew how much his daughter worried about her mother, Franseca. He knew how much Christine had tried to convince her mother to stop working day and night without rest but she failed on doing so.

Christine and Clayton then jumped out of the swimming pool to sit on the sun loungers, enjoying the view as they took some time off from the water. Changing their attention from the woman in her study room to the city view in front of them.

“Dad, can I ask for something? Two things actually..” Christine asked.

Clayton turned his head to the right, smiling at his daughter. “What is it? I’ll buy it for you. Tell me whatever you want and I’ll try my best to find it for you, bunny.” he said as he took a sip on his soda soon after. Christine lowered her head before he collected all of her wit to say what she has always wanted to say to one of her parents.

“Can I actually have a younger sibling?”

The question nearly made the man choked himself from the soda he’s currently sipping. Clayton put down his glass to the table between them and looked at his daughter full of questions. “Out of the sudden? Why is it that you want to have a younger sibling when you can be the sole heir to all the love and care we gave to you?” asked the man.

“Because I feel lonely and it would be nice if I could have someone to be by my side. I’m so jealous towards all of my friends who actually have older and younger siblings. They could talk and play with each other while I’m left all alone with nobody else at home if the two of you are busy with work.” said the young lady as she lowered her head again. “I just love kids and I wanted to have a younger one who I can take care of and play with.”

Just like Christine, he wanted to have another one. He wanted to experience the feeling he never got to. Not to say that Christine wasn’t enough to make him feel that way. Clayton just wanted to have someone that he could play and spend his time with. He never got to do things like that in the past for and with Christine herself.

But, being reminded with Fransesca’s age and health, not to mention his age as well, he knew there’s a reason on why the lady of the house decided that it would be the best if they didn’t try for one. It would be best if Christine became the only child instead of the eldest child.

“Christine darling, I know how you feel. I also wanted to give you other younger siblings so you can play with them. I’ve talked about this with your mother days ago and there are reasons why we couldn’t. Why we decided not to have one. I’m fifty five, getting older soon. By the time your siblings celebrate his or her tenth birthday, I’ll be sixty five. Then, your mother. Your mother is forty three, four this year. It’s super risky for a woman her age to give birth to a child. Not to mention, we both know that her health is super fragile. We don’t want to lose her, right?”

Clayton tried to explain all that he could say to his daughter. Their eyes turned to the woman in her study room once again, right when Fransesca put down her journals on the table and rushed herself to the bathroom with her hand covering her mouth area.

“See? That’s why I don’t want her to have another child. You know your mother more than me. You lived with her for the past fifteen years and even grew in her womb. Inside her.” Clayton smiled at his daughter and tucked her hair behind her left ear from his seat.

Christine could only nod, though he knew how disappointed his daughter was towards the decision that her parents couldn’t give her. “I’m sorry, darling. I’ll try to talk about this with mommy later, okay? Perhaps we could adopt a child from the orphanage or sort things out.” the businessman added. The lass nodded her head as she agreed that adoption could be great as well.

“Now, what is the other thing that you want to talk about to me?”

“About high school, daddy.” Christine replied. “I actually wanted to go to Institute La Rosey, the school where Vincent will go to.” she told the man about her wish. “But I know that it’s super expensive. In fact, it is one of the most expensive schools in the world. I don’t want to burden you with the…”

“Tuition? Oh, bunny darling, you know that I can afford to study there. It would be great as well, as Vincent, your best friend and cousin is also there. Don’t worry, I’ll let you study there. Switzerland is a great country as well.” Clayton responded. He’s in fact, delighted to hear that his daughter would love to go to that country so she could study well.

“Daddy, I mean… mommy. Will she allow me to study abroad?”

The question struck him soon after. Right, his wife. Now that he came to his senses, he knew that Fransesca would never allow Christine to study abroad. She’s used to her daughter being around her all the time and as the one who was there by her side, 24/7, since she’s only a second old in this world, Clayton knew that Fransesca would never want to be apart from Christine.

He could see how determined the young girl was to study in that high school. He knew how much his daughter wanted to go there, as she never got to choose the school she wanted to go into since she’s a child. Fransesca took care of all of it, in the best private schools across Singapore. He knew that back then, Christine can’t even choose due to the financial issue but now, she could. Now, with Clayton by their side, Christine could go to any school she wanted to go and study at.

“Ah, yes, your mommy.” Clayton smiled awkwardly. He scratched his nape for no reason as he realized there’s another obstacle that he needs to take care of regarding Christine’s wish to study abroad and he knew it will not be easy. The new academic year was around the corner. “You don’t even think that you can convince her, right?” Christine asked.

“I’ll try my best, Christine. I’ll try my best to convince lov— I mean, your mother, regarding this. Let’s talk about it together tomorrow, okay?” Clayton smied.

Christine smiled and nodded her head excitedly, something he always wanted to see from his daughter. Meanwhile, he became reminded with his wife whom he saw rushing herself into the bathroom.

“Is your mother back from the bathroom already?”

The young lady turned her head to the room where she could see her mother back on the seat again, reading her journals while taking a sip on her warm tea. Christine nodded her head to Clayton before she turned her attention away from her mother.

“Yes, she’s back already, daddy.” “Good. Now come inside and wash yourself. Let’s eat some breakfast with your mother as well.”

Christine nodded. She wore her robe before she walked into the house, straight into her room on the second floor. Wet from head to toe. Meanwhile, Clayton stood up from his sun lounger and looked at the woman in her room lovingly.

As if telepathy does exist, Fransesca lowered her journal and saw the man standing while looking at her. He smiled and waved her hand from inside the room. She put down her journal on the table and stood up. Slowly, she opened the sliding door to the mini balcony of the study room and smiled at the man.

“Good morning, handsome.” “Good morning, angel. Let’s have breakfast in thirty minutes?” “Sure. Go clean yourself first. I’ll be there. Where’s Christine?” “She’s showering upstairs. I want to talk about something.”

“Christine?”

Clayton nodded his head. Fransesca smiled. “Okay, then. We’ll talk about this in our room. What is it about?”

“High school.”

The man replied with only a topic, as he knew bringing the other topic would be a waste of time for now. The high school matter was more urgent than the other one. He knew, he knew that Fransesca would never agree for a second child as well and for him, her health matters the most.

END OF SMALL TALKS.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

The Eyes That Says Everything

5 September 2022

After the confrontation between him and his mother, he went out for some fresh air. To calm himself down from all the anger that exploded before in front of his parents. He doesn’t want to come home with Fransesca walking over to approach him in worry, asking him why he looks like a mess after going into his parent’s house and she would be scared of her mother once again, no.

He wanted to keep it a secret behind Fransesca. He did what he should and could to protect her and their daughter, Christine. It took hours for him until he could finally park his car in the garage and walk himself into the house.

“Daddy!” Christine welcomed him as he rushed from the stairs to hug his father, who just came home from her grandparent’s house. “My sweet, sweet Christine,” he responded. “Is everything okay?” asked the man gently as he caressed her soft, long black hair. Christine nodded her head and smiled at Clayton. “Uhum, everything’s okay. Mommy looks a little bit pale though, daddy.”

The answer caught him by surprise. He raised one of his eyebrows, asking for a further explanation from Christine. “Mommy is in her room. I told her that she looks pale but she didn’t believe me. The maids told her the same as well but she said that she felt nothing. We asked her to rest instead.” Christine explained her father regarding Fransesca’s situation.

Clayton took a deep breath before he smiled at his daughter and patted her back twice. His legs moved towards the stairs, walking up to the second floor. He entered his room but found her nowhere. The bathroom became his only fear, as he ever found her unconscious there before they got married. Months ago when Christine cried for his help in the middle of the night.

“Sweetheart?”

Clayton called but he didn’t receive any answer. He quickly stepped out from his room and opened the door to the room she was previously in, where he found her changing into a long-dress pajama. His heart felt such a relief inside.

“I’m worried. I heard that you’re feeling unwell.” Clayton said as he closed the bedroom’s door and walked himself towards his wife. Helping the woman to change into her long dress, a pajama style that she wears at night. “I’m okay, Clayton. I’m feeling okay but they keep on telling me that my face looks pale.” Fransesca told him.

Clayton slowly turned her body towards him and cupped her small face gently with both of his hands. He looked into her eyes and saw all the pains, secrets, and burdens that she kept quiet there. It was there. It’s just him who never got to realize those things in it. Then, she looked at her face. She was indeed pale. As pale as a ghost!

“You are, sweetheart. You look so pale. Like a ghost. Are you feeling okay or are you lying?” asked the man. He’s super worried that she’s currently trying to act strong and well, just like how she has always been. He kissed her on the lips softly as he then pulled her into a tight hug.

“I’m sorry,” he whispered. “For what, Clayton? You don’t need to apologize for anything. You’re doing great. I’m happy and proud of you.” she answered softly as she rubbed his back gently, softly. Fransesca could feel his warmth wrapping around her body and it felt peaceful. It felt so beautiful, though she’s left confused and puzzled with what he did.

“I apologize for not being able to be with you, by your side, every time. All this time.” Clayton apologized again, which Fransesca could only answer with a nod. “I love you. You don’t need to keep on apologizing. You did well as a husband and father. I’m super proud of you, Clayton Nicholas Kingsley.” she answered softly.

Their eyes met each other again as he kissed her softly on the lips. Not wanting to let her go at all.

“I love you too and I’m super proud to have you as mine, Fransesca Adelaidine Kingsley. Now, go rest, okay?” he said as he helped her to walk to the bed. She lay down in the middle of the bed while Clayton did the same on the left side of her, near the side of the bed. He pulled the blanket to cover their body and hug her tight, keeping his wife warm as she rested.

Soon, the woman drifted into her sleep and Clayton could only hope, could only pray, that Fransesca would be okay. That she would always be well and okay, though things around might go against her.

END OF THE EYES THAT SAYS EVERYTHING.

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crestfalien · 3 years ago

Text

Confrontation

5 September 2022.

Clayton was enraged with what he heard from Henry yesterday. Never once he thought that his mother would terrorized his wife that far. Asking the woman to divorce? Sure. But to call her a bitch and slut just because of her past, to do whatever she could to make sure her daughter could eat and live well, what kind of audacity does the woman have?

He walked into his parents house and saw the two sitting on the couch in the living room together. When David saw his fiery eyes and his red face of anger, he quickly stood up and walked himself towards his middle son.

“Clayton? Where’s Christine or Fransesca? What brings you here?” David asked carefully. He noticed that his son was in fury, for a reason he never knew and he wouldn’t know either if Clayton won’t come and confront his own mother with what she had done.

“Mama!” he called his mother furiously without even answering David’s question. He called his mother straight with his loud voice, nearly crying himself out in front of his parents. Gertrude stood up and walked towards Clayton, but the man refused to even look her in the eyes. Instead, he looked at her in disgust.

“How dare you? How dare you make those terrorizing calls towards Fransesca? Did she do something bad to you? Did she do something that hurt you so deep? Did she try to kill you or whatsoever?” asked Clayton in his high pitched tone, for the first time in his entire life. “I know that you confronted her in the past and told her lies. You told her that I asked you to tell her that I don’t want her anymore! That I’m going to leave her no matter what! That I hate her so much! I’ve never asked you to do so, but why did you do it?”

Gertrude Henriette went silent. She went silent when Clayton confronted her with two things soon after his arrival in this house.

“She told you all those lies? Do you trust her more than me? Do you think I’ll do something as nasty as that? Fransesca is a liar, Clayton! Open your eyes! She told you that I called you just to terrorize her? I’m not that stupid!”

“Then why would Henry be the one who told me instead of her? Why would he tell me lies? Just to break our relationship apart? Nonsense!” Clayton shouted. “He told me that he found her crying in her cubicle, after her teaching hours! He picked her phone when you called and that’s when you called her with all those horrible things!”

At this point, it doesn’t matter if she’s his mother or whatsoever. The fact that the woman dared to lie, did some playing victim, and kept on disturbing his family became the point where Clayton had enough already.

“I had enough, ma! I’m 55 years old, let me do whatever I want in peace. Let me have the family I’ve missed. Let me enjoy my days and experience how love and family is. I wanted to provide my family with everything, including stability, protection, safety, and love. If you keep on meddling with it, how can I do that?”

David turned his attention to his wife, Gertrude. He never thought that his wife would do things as nasty as those things. No, he never thought she would terrorize their own daughter-in-law, mother to their granddaughter, that way. That harsh.

“Do you know what, pa? Mama called her a bitch, a slut, someone who deserved the mud and dirt of a pig cage instead! Mama called Fransesca just to pressure her into a divorce and she said that Fransesca would never be allowed into this family! She called her and told her that she should marry the businessman instead. You should be thankful that your granddaughter is doing well and alive because of her sacrifice!” he screamed in frustration and desperation.

“Gertrude!”

David raised his voice as he heard what his son just told him about everything that she did to Fransesca. “How can you talk and say those things to your own daughter-in-law? That woman bears your granddaughter for months! She’s kicked out by Anderson, her only family, because of our child! She went through all the hardships by herself! So you’re actually the reason why Fransesca drifted herself away from Clayton when she’s pregnant?”

“I never know that she’s pregnant, okay? It might be another man’s child as well!” “Gertrude Henrietta!”

David scolded the woman again. He wanted to slap his wife so bad but he stopped himself from doing so as hard as he could. He tried his best to keep his temper down with Clayton’s rising, on the verge of even hitting his own mother, if he’s not in his right mind.

As a husband, he knew why Clayton became so angry towards the matter. He knew how much he loves his wife and he would do whatever it takes to protect her from anyone, even a backstabbing family member just like Gertrude today. The man threw a vase on the table to the floor to express his anger and fury. To let them know how much it infuriates him as a man.

“No more lies! No more games! Please, mama. Please try to accept her into the family. She’s my wife, whether you like it or not. Fransesca is my wife and Christine is my daughter. No matter how much you hate the idea, you just can’t run away from the facts. That’s the facts!” he emphasized.

“You married me off to Melissa who’s also in love with someone else. I act like I'm a happily married man for the past sixteen years when we’re actually nobody soon after the wedding. We went our separate ways! The past sixteen years felt like hell, just so you know. To act in love with someone when we’re clearly not into each other or whatsoever, we tried our best. You made her life become so miserable! I pity Melissa!”

“Clayton, calm down! Calm down first, okay?” David tried to calm his son down as he stopped Clayton from walking towards his own mother, not wanting any violence to be involved in this confrontation.

Meanwhile, Gertrude was still, standing in her stance. She looked at him with no expression.

“I’ll never accept her into this family! She’s a disgrace, Clayton! You should open your eyes! She must’ve gone through some sorcery or visited a shaman to catch your attention.”

“Gertrude!” “Mama!”

Clayton looked at his father and shook his head. He pointed his finger at his own mother again and again while trying to suppress his anger, as much as he could.

“Papa, your wife made a big mistake. I’m going to prove to her that Fransesca is suitable for this family, whether she likes her or not. I’m going to show her how much I love that woman and how much this woman, who gave birth to me, has betrayed and despised me and my partner so far. I’m going to stand up for my family so please tell her, do not ever call her or terrorize my wife in any way!”

Clayton made his final decision. Clayton did what he should’ve done much earlier. Clayton did it, though if it means that he should put his mother aside. He won’t let anyone touch his family, especially Christine and Fransesca. The two are his world and will forever be that way.

Not even her mother could touch them. No, he won’t allow that to happen again.

“I’m going to make her regret all her words and decisions that she made today.” he said, before he left the house in fury. Slamming the main door in anger while David took his turn to interrogate his wife.

END OF CONFRONTATION.

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