Steph's POV:
Upon waking up in the morning, I quickly took a shower and changed. When I stepped out of the room, I saw Mom.
"Where are you going?" I still couldn't look at her, feeling the weight of my conscience for the troubles I've caused. I prepared myself for the possibility of being disowned by the family due to the chaos I created. "Hey! Why are you crying? I was just asking, both you and the baby can be part of our plans," Mom said. I touched my cheeks, not realizing I was crying. I wiped away the tears and managed to smile at her.
"Nothing. Uh... I was about to leave," I hesitantly said. I hoped they wouldn't take back the condo. If they took everything away from me, I'd be nothing.
"Leaving? You're not leaving!" Mom raised her voice. She looked at the bag I was carrying, filled with my important belongings. I left my phone and cards behind because, as I said, I'm nothing without them.
"M-mom..." She took my bag and went inside my room. She saw all the cards, phones, gadgets, and jewelry that she knew I always wore. She looked at me from head to toe. She threw the bag somewhere.
"Are you leaving me too?" She started crying, one of my weaknesses. "Why? I'm not kicking you out. Why are all your belongings here on the table? Why?" She shouted. I started crying too.
"B-Because I don't really own those. I'm sincerely apologizing for all the trouble I've caused. If it weren't for my excessive spoiled behavior, I wouldn't end up like this. You won't be in danger. I'm sorry. Maybe it's better if I just leave. I'm a burden. I don't deserve you, and I won't be surprised if Matthew and the child I'm carrying now also leave me because I'm unlucky. Didn't my parents leave me too? Because I'm a curse to them. I was born unlucky," I tearfully explained. Mom hugged me. We cried together.
Mom gently pulled away from the hug and wiped the tears from my face. She looked at me with a mix of understanding and concern.
"Teffy, my dear, you are not a curse. We all make mistakes, and it's never too late to make things right. I can't promise that everything will be easy, but you are family, and we stick together through thick and thin," Mom reassured me.
"But Mom, I've caused so much trouble, and now I'm pregnant. I don't want to burden you more," I expressed my worries.
She cupped my face in her hands, making me meet her gaze. "Steph, having a baby is a blessing, not a burden. And we are here for you, no matter what. We'll figure things out together. Trust me, you are not alone in this."
I nodded, feeling a mix of relief and gratitude. Mom hugged me again, and this time, it was a hug filled with warmth and reassurance. It gave me a glimmer of hope that maybe, despite my mistakes, I could still find support and understanding within my family.
As Mom and I continued our conversation, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief.
Later that day, Mom accompanied me to the mansion's clinic for a check-up. The doctor assured us that everything was progressing well with the pregnancy. It brought a mix of emotions — excitement, anxiety, and a lingering worry about how stress I am now a days. This would impact not just my life but also the lives of those around me.
Matthew's absence weighed heavily on my mind. I wondered if he How is he? His last text to me was when I was still in the condo. Has he fixed their organization? I'm afraid of what might happen. Mom sensed my concerns and tried to comfort me, reminding me that we'd face whatever challenges came our way together.
The days passed, and I found myself caught between the anticipation of becoming a mother and the uncertainties surrounding my relationship with Matthew. I longed for his presence and support, yet the fear of rejection held me back from reaching out to him And he will probably choose the organization over me and our child.
I couldn't bring myself to contact Matthew, fearing that his enemies might detect me and pose a threat to him. So, I decided to turn off all my gadgets. Despite my strong desire to hear his voice, I resisted the temptation.
"I hope Daddy is okay, baby." I gently caressed my slightly bulging belly.
"That man is too stubborn!" Dada Tharn's voice echoed, making me stand up immediately. He looked at me, and I felt a sense of anxiety.
"What do you mean, Dada?" Mommy Grace asked.
"If you're looking for Matthew, he's in the black room," Dada said. My eyes widened.
"He should be grateful he's still the father of my grandchild. Otherwise, he would have met the devil a long time ago."
"Dada! What did you do?" My heart raced.
"Don't worry, I'm not that kind of person. I just had a conversation with him," he replied, turning away. I hurriedly descended the stairs.
"Stephanie, watch your step!" Mommy Grace and Mom shouted, but I didn't look back, rushing to the basement, where they punished those who committed wrongs against them.
His mens surprised when they saw me.
"Let him in," Dada said. When I opened the door, I couldn't believe what I saw.
And then, as I entered the basement, my eyes widened in shock at the sight before me. There, in the dimly lit room, Matthew was bound to a chair, bruised and battered. The air was heavy with tension, and I could sense the gravity of the situation.
"M-Matthew!" I exclaimed, rushing towards him. The guards stepped aside, allowing me to approach. My hands trembled as I touched his face, and tears welled up in my eyes. He looked up, recognizing the voice. "Oh my god!"
"S-Steph? L-Love?" Matthew's voice was weak, tears welling up as he confirmed it was me. but there was relief in his eyes upon seeing me.
"It's me," I said, holding his face with both hands. I was crying too.
"Dada! What did you do to him? You said you'd just talk to him. Why did you hurt him?" I cried to Dada Tharn.
"Shh... It's okay. I deserve this. It's nothing compared to what I've done to your family," Matthew said with a bitter smile.
"No. This is wrong," I quickly removed the chains from Matthew's hands and feet. He was about to fall, but I caught him, embracing him tightly.
"I'm so sorry, Love," Matthew muttered, his remorse evident.
I, still holding Matthew, looked at Dada with a mix of anger and sadness. "This has to end, Dada. No more games, no more revenge. We need to find a way to stop this cycle of pain."
"I can't promise that my Teffy, once they touch one of you, I won't hesitate to finish them all off. You know me honey," Dada emphasized every words to Matthew, "Even he is my grandson's father." He left them and left the room. I stayed behind and helped Matthew to stand and went out to go to the clinic in the mansion.
In the mansion's clinic, the sterile scent of antiseptic filled the air as Matthew was carefully tended to by a nurse. I sat in a chair, my eyes fixed on him, a mixture of worry and relief etched across my face.
The nurse, focused and efficient, cleaned and dressed Matthew's wounds with gentle precision. The dim lighting cast a soft glow on his features, highlighting the bruises that marred his usually composed demeanor.
I couldn't shake off the guilt that gnawed at me. Matthew had faced danger because of our complicated situation, and I couldn't bear the weight of knowing that he had suffered on my behalf.
As the nurse worked, Matthew met my gaze, offering a reassuring smile despite the pain etched on his face. His eyes conveyed a silent understanding, a connection that transcended words. It was in moments like these that our bond felt unbreakable.
I longed to be closer, to comfort him, but I remained seated, allowing the nurse to complete her task. Each touch of her skilled hands seemed to bring a bit of relief to Matthew, and I couldn't help but silently thank the medical staff for their expertise.
The clinic's ambiance, usually a place of healing, now bore witness to the scars of our tumultuous journey. Yet, amidst the shadows of uncertainty, there was an unspoken determination – a shared commitment to navigate the challenges that lay ahead.
As Matthew's treatment continued, I couldn't help but reflect on the fragile nature of our existence, and the realization that every action had consequences that rippled through our intertwined lives.
"Matthew," I began, my voice soft yet filled with concern. "I never wanted you to get involved in all of this. I never wanted you to suffer because of me."
He managed a faint smile, his eyes reflecting both pain and a depth of emotion. "Love, we're in this together. I knew what I signed up for when I chose to be with you. I won't let anything tear us apart."
Tears welled up in my eyes as I grappled with the weight of his words. "But you didn't deserve any of this. You shouldn't have to face danger and pain because of me."
Matthew gently reached for my hand, intertwining our fingers. "Steph, I love you. And that means being there for you, no matter what challenges come our way. We'll get through this together."
His words brought both comfort and a renewed sense of strength. "I just hate seeing you hurt," I admitted, my voice breaking.
"I'll heal," he assured me, his thumb caressing the back of my hand. "And we'll face whatever comes next as a team. We'll find a way to end this cycle of pain and protect our family."
The sincerity in his eyes melted away some of the worry in my heart. In that small clinic, surrounded by the scent of antiseptic and the echoes of our shared struggles, we found solace in each other's presence, determined to weather the storm ahead.
In Matthew's arms, I felt a mix of emotions – relief, worry, and gratitude. His comforting words and assurances gradually eased the tension that had built up within me.
"But your family? Do they know?" Matthew gently wiped away my tears.
"Dad knows, but the organization is suspicious. I thought Dad had spilled everything, but he didn't. And don't worry. I'll handle it. I'll fix this," he assured me.
As he spoke, Matthew continued to soothe my worries. "Stop crying; it won't do any good for your pregnancy. These are just minor wounds compared to the training I used to go through. And it's nothing compared to what I did to your family before. Mr. Tharn is still kind."
After treating his injuries, I led him to my room. Initially, he hesitated, suggesting he'd rest at his home, but I insisted. He didn't want me to go with him to his house because his father was there. On the other hand, my family and even Matthew were against me going with him due to safety concerns. So, they reluctantly agreed to let him stay in the mansion.
We were inside my room, having our dinner. We didn't go with them because I know they still have hot eyes for Matthew. The children of Dada Tharn and Mama Type are especially complete when they knew that Matthew is here.
Matthew hesitated to let me feed him, given his injuries, but I insisted, asserting my responsibility for him at the moment. He didn't resist, but his expression conveyed a mix of gratitude and reluctance.
"Love, I can manage. You don't have to feed me," he said, shaking his head.
"You're injured. I'll take care of you," I replied with determination. He pouted, and I kissed him, deepening the blush on my cheeks.
"Why is my pregnant wife so beautiful?" he remarked, and I averted my gaze. Wife? We hadn't even labeled our relationship yet.
"You're cute when you blush," he teased, squeezing my cheek. He kissed me again and smiled, placing a hand on my belly.
"I never thought I'd experience being cared for when I'm injured. I feel like I want this all the time," he shared, and I playfully punched his arm.
"You're crazy!" I exclaimed.
"Yes, crazy in love with you," he grinned. I shook my head.
"Alright, just eat!" I resumed feeding him, and we both enjoyed our meal together.
We were both lying in bed, having just finished my shower. I helped him get dressed, mindful of the bruises and wounds he still had. Silence enveloped us as I gazed at him. I never expected to fall for him, especially now that we were soon to become parents.
"What are you thinking?" I asked.
"My world is dangerous, and involving you puts you at risk," Matthew spoke, his eyes filled with concern.
"I knew what I was getting into when I chose to be with you. I won't turn away now," I responded with determination.
He reached out, gently cupping my face with his hands. "You're brave, but I can't bear the thought of anything happening to you or our child. I'll do whatever it takes to keep you both safe."
"I know. And I'm thankful that you're here. And I will do everything to keep you safe too. We will fix any trouble between our families. I don't want our children to grow up in a chaotic world. They don't deserve that."
"And as you said our children.... Can I?" He smiled strangely.
"Show me what you got." And even though he was injured, we went five rounds until I fell asleep.
The next morning, I woke up early and glanced at the person beside me, peacefully asleep. I gently brushed away the hair covering his face. Who would have thought that this seemingly perfect guy, who undoubtedly had many admirers, would revolve his world around someone like me? I caressed his cheek and lightly kissed his forehead and half-parted lips. Carefully, I stood up and went to the bathroom to freshen up. I noticed that I was in sleepwear; he probably cleaned me up before going to sleep. I smiled at his thoughtful gesture. After taking a shower and getting dressed, he was still asleep, so I left him be, unsure of the hardships he might have endured in Dada's black room. I went downstairs to join them for breakfast. Matthew, despite all the tricks we pulled, looked complete and uninjured. You wouldn't think he went through a lot. I found them all seated, and they all looked at me simultaneously. I just smiled.
"Good morning, Teffy!" Nathan cheerfully greeted. For Alex's sake, I would endure that nickname. Without him, I wouldn't witness how happy Alex could be.
"Good morning," I greeted. Alex wasn't there. Surely, there was a misunderstanding. They're so young, yet they outdo married couples. Sigh.
I took a seat beside Mom.
"How are you feeling?" she asked. I nodded.
"Where's that guy?" I immediately turned as Dada Tharn arrived, followed by Mama Type.
"Good morning, Dad. He's still sleeping," I said.
I felt the intense stares from my uncle and aunt.
"Stop those stares of yours," Mom said.
"Make sure your husband doesn't do anything foolish, Teffy. Because I myself will bury him alive with the entire clan," Daddy Gab warned.
"Yes, Daddy Gab," I replied.
I got scolded a bit for what happened, but I knew they were just concerned, especially since I'm pregnant. I quickly ate and prepared a set of breakfast for Matthew, bringing it to our room. As I went up, he was already awake, leaning on the headboard.
"Good morning, mister. How was your sleep?" I greeted him sweetly.
"It was good because I was beside you. But when I woke up, you were gone. Where did you go?" he asked, obviously feeling a bit upset.
"I joined them for breakfast," I said. He just nodded.
"Is Mr. Tharn there?" he asked. "I want to talk to him. Don't worry. We'll talk here, and nothing bad will happen. I just need to tell him something." He read my thoughts. I nodded and once again, I fed him. This time, he didn't protest, and he just stared as I spoon-fed him.
After he finished, he took a shower, and I let him wear some of my clothes that luckily fit him.
We went out of the room, hand in hand.
"Love... Can we..."
"It's okay. Nothing bad will happen. Remember, I'm in your territory, and you're here. Your dad won't hurt me. It's just important for him to know this." I nodded and brought him to the study room. We stood in front of the door, and I knocked. Dada immediately raised his head, looking puzzled when he saw us.
"Da, uh..."
"I want to talk to you," Matthew quickly interrupted what I was about to say. Dada glared at me and at him.
"Leave us for a moment, honey." I looked at Matthew again.
"Please..."
"Don't worry. It's too easy if he dies right away."
"Da!"
"Don't worry. Everything will be okay." He kissed my forehead, not minding that Dada was in front of us. "Remember my promise, let's fix this for everyone. For our future family, for our children." I nodded, and even though I didn't want to leave, I walked out and closed the door.
Inside the study room, Matthew took a deep breath before addressing Tharn.
"Mr. Tharn, I need to talk to you about something important," Matthew began, his tone serious.
Tharn eyed him cautiously, "Speak."
"I know things have been complicated lately, especially with the events that unfolded. But I want you to understand that my intentions are sincere. I care about Steph deeply, and I want to make things right," Matthew explained, choosing his words carefully.
Tharn's expression remained stern, "Actions speak louder than words. What do you plan to do to make things right?"
"I'm willing to prove my sincerity, Mr. Tharn. I want to be a part of Steph's life and your family's life. I know I have a lot to prove, but I promise you, I am committed to making amends and ensuring a better future for all of us," Matthew asserted.
Dada Tharn scrutinized him for a moment, and then he sighed, "You're aware of the consequences if you betray our trust, Matthew."
"I understand, Mr. Tharn. I'm fully aware," Matthew replied, maintaining eye contact.
"Steph is important to me, and I won't let anyone hurt him," Tharn warned.
Matthew nodded, "I would never hurt him, sir. My goal is to protect and cherish him."
Dada Tharn's expression softened slightly, "Actions, Matthew. Prove it through your actions."
Matthew gave a determined nod, "I will, Mr. Tharn. Thank you for giving me this chance to talk to you. I hope, in time, I can earn your trust."
As Steph waited outside the study room, he couldn't hear the specifics of their conversation but hoped that it would mark the beginning of understanding and acceptance between Matthew and his grandfather.
