Torn Between

chapter 36: Sounds of Ecstasy

Caution: Please be advised that the narrative includes mature dialogues. Reader discretion is advised, and responses should be mindful of the content.

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At hospital...

Iris: softly caressing her tummy Baby, your father left me... But I'm here for you, I promise. Please don't leave me too. I love you so much, even though I can only feel you... tears well up in her eyes

Iris's Friend: sitting beside her in the hospital room, gently placing a hand on her shoulder Iris, you're so strong. You're doing everything you can for your baby. We're all here for you, okay?

Iris: nodding, trying to hold back tears Thank you... I just feel so alone right now.

Iris's Friend: You're not alone, Iris. We're all here to support you, every step of the way. And your baby... they'll know how much you love them, no matter what.

Iris: taking a deep breath I know... I just hope they can feel it too.

Iris's Friend: They will. And they'll be so lucky to have you as their mother. We'll get through this together, alright?

Iris: smiling weakly Alright... Thank you for being here, and for everything.

Iris's Friend: Always, Iris. Always.

While Iris is now in Hong Kong... How much he wanted to go straight to the Philippines, he could not resist not seeing Frances even for a while...

Axel: knocking on Frances's door nervously, his heart racing with anticipation

Frances: opens the door, a surprised smile spreading across her face Axel, what a wonderful surprise! Come in.

Axel: entering her flat, feeling a mix of excitement and guilt Frances, there's something I need to talk to you about.

Frances: concerned Is everything alright, Axel?

Axel: takes a deep breath I've been granted a month's leave from work, but... there's an urgent case in the Philippines that I need to attend to.

Frances: disappointed, but understanding Oh, I see... That's quite sudden. Is it something serious?

Axel: nodding Yes, it is. I wouldn't leave if it wasn't necessary. But before I go, I need to see you, Frances.

Frances: softly I understand, Axel. I'm glad you came. Our time together has been... special.

Axel: reaching for her hand, a pained expression on his face Frances, you mean more to me than you'll ever know. I wish things were different, but... duty responsibilities call.

Frances: squeezing his hand Take care of yourself, Axel. And whatever it is you need to do in the Philippines, I hope it goes well. Just promise me one thing... that you'll come back.

Axel: gazing into her eyes, a sense of longing in his voice I promise, Frances. I'll come back to you. You mean everything to me.

Axel: feels the intensity of his desires rise as he looks into Frances's eyes, a flush spreading across his cheeks

Frances: noticing the change in Axel's demeanor, a knowing smile playing on her lips Axel, is everything okay?

Axel: clearing his throat, trying to compose himself Yeah, everything's fine. I just... being here with you, it's... overwhelming.