Nighttime – Justin's Room
The room was silent, bathed in the soft glow of the bedside lamp. Justin lay curled under the blanket, fast asleep, a peaceful expression on his face. Beside him, Amber sat quietly, her hands resting gently on the edge of the bed, her eyes staring into the shadows.
Amber: 💔
What's happening here… why does everything feel so wrong? Why does it feel like the world is punishing us in a way it shouldn't? God, please… don't let my fears come true.
Her gaze fell on Justin. He looked so innocent, yet so familiar—an uncanny reflection of his father.
Amber: You're… really a carbon copy of your father, son. 🥲
Her thoughts spiraled. I should have married that playboy back then… maybe then, none of this would have happened.
She looked down at Justin again, her voice barely a whisper.
Amber: Even if you weren't born yet, I hope you were safe… happy… somewhere. I'm sorry, my son… for being the curse in your life. 💔
Her eyes closed, memories flooding back.
Flashback – Mr. William's House
Mr. William: "Don't you dare leave, Amber! Or else I will never see you as my daughter again!" 😡
Amber's face was streaked with blood, a handprint marring her cheek. Her lips trembled, and fury and pain burned in her eyes.
Back to Present
A tear slipped down Amber's cheek, and she felt a warm touch gently wipe it away.
She opened her eyes to see Jonathan sitting beside her, quietly holding her hand.
Jonathan: "Sleep…" 😊
Amber: "I… I can't." 🥲
Jonathan: "Because of Justin's curse?" 😊
Amber shook her head, tears spilling freely now.
Amber: "No… it's because of the past ten years. I haven't slept properly, Jonathan. Not a single peaceful night." 🥲
Jonathan's heart ached at her words. He pulled her close, wrapping his arm around her shoulder.
Jonathan: 💔 "You've carried too much all these years… But you're not alone anymore. Not now, not ever."
Amber rested her head against his shoulder, finally allowing herself to breathe. Her mind was still tangled with regrets and fears, but in that quiet room, with Justin sleeping peacefully, and Jonathan beside her, a fragile sense of calm began to settle over her heart.
The night was dark outside, but in that room, a small, flickering light of hope had begun to glow.
---continue