The Irregular Heartbeat

Chapter 02

Chapter 02: Caught in Transition

     After her check-up, they went home, her mother's concerned gaze following her every move. As soon as Libertia stepped into her room, she let her body collapse onto her soft bed. Usually, she felt drained after these check-ups. But today, an unfamiliar emotion coursed through her, quickening her pulse while scattering her thoughts.

     The intern's image and name kept flashing in her mind. She could almost see his earnest eyes when she closed hers. Her chest felt like a vice grip was squeezing her heart, and she clenched her fists, trying to ground herself.

     A knock on the door pulled her from her reverie. Her mother entered, twisting the knob gently. Libertia rose slowly, her legs feeling heavy like lead.

     "How did it go?" her mother asked, sitting on the edge of the bed, her eyes searching Libertia's face.

     Libertia sighed, rubbing her temples. "It went well. Wade said my ECG looks stable for now. He just reminded me to be careful with things that could trigger arrhythmias."

     Her mother nodded, relief softening her features. "That's good to hear. Did he suggest any new precautions?"

     "Just the usual-stay hydrated, avoid too much exercise, and watch out for fevers. He said I'm doing pretty well so far."

     Her mother cupped her face, her eyes filled with warmth. "That's great news, sweetie. Just remember, we're in this together and will ensure you stay healthy."

     Libertia forced a small smile. "It's still a lot to take in. But thanks, Mom."

     "You can rest after you eat, Tia. You haven't eaten anything yet. Your body needs energy after your check-up."

     She smiled weakly. "Alright, Mom. I'll just wash up."

     Her mother kissed her temple. "We'll be waiting for you. Also, uh... Rias was downstairs and will join us for dinner."

     Libertia's eyes widened in shock. "Nonsense," she gasped, her voice trembling with disbelief and anger.

     "Rias has been gone for almost a year. How can he show up after leaving without a word?" Her fists clenched at her sides, her jaw tightening with every word. The betrayal cut deep-Rias, once a dear friend to Nyx and herself, had vanished when she needed him most.

     "Maybe that's why he's here, to explain his side, Tia. We don't know his reasons, but we can always listen to him. Even if he left without a word, he's still your dear friend," her mother said softly before heading downstairs, leaving Libertia lost in thought.

     In the bathroom, she stared at her reflection, her heart pounding against her chest. Splashing cold water on her face, she tried to regain composure. 'Whatever his reasons, it doesn't change that he abandoned me. He hurt me and was absent when I needed him most,' she thought, her mind a battlefield of conflicting emotions.

     She changed into a white sleeveless chiffon tank top and light beige paper bag shorts, taking deep breaths to steady herself. The cool air of her room filled her lungs as she stepped into the hallway, guided by the distant clatter of dishes and the inviting aroma of cooked meat wafting from the dining area.

     Descending the stairs felt like trudging through molasses, each step heavier than the last. As she reached the last step, Rias appeared before her, nearly stopping her heart.

     "Shit! You almost killed me, you dumbass!" she spat, one hand pressed against her racing heart.

     "Oh, fuck! Shit! I'm sorry. Are you alright?" Rias stammered, panic flashing in his eyes.