Regrets

43

Marissa was woken up by a call from Claire early in the morning.

"It's six in the morning, Claire."

"I know, but I had to tell you this breaking news."

"Did Daniel divorce Heather? That's the only breaking news for me."

"Don't worry, that day will come soon. But this is about your ex."

"What happened? Did Alex father a child?" Marissa laughed.

"No, he had a press release. He openly talked about his infertility and, for the first time, discussed your divorce."

"That's not all. He also announced his secret marriage to Bethany Anderson."

"What?" Marissa was fully awake now. "When did that happen?"

"Check your WhatsApp. I've sent you the link to his interview."

"After a long time, it's a pleasure to interview you, Alex."

"Yes, finally, I am back."

"Mr. Alexander Crawford, we heard that you went into depression after your divorce. Was that true?"

"Very much so, but thanks to my now-wife Beth for supporting me."

"Beth, as in Bethany Anderson?"

"Yes."

"Congratulations. When did that happen? It's surprising."

"It was unexpected. We were in Paris and felt it was the right moment."

"We're going to have a lavish wedding soon."

"Hopefully, I'll be invited this time."

"I am married to the love of my life."

"I thought your ex-wife was the love of your life."

"I thought so until I realized my true feelings for Beth."

"Were you cheating on your ex-wife?"

"No, never. Bethany loved me for who I am, with all my shortcomings."

"Could you elaborate?"

"Yes. I wouldn't have spoken about this a few months ago. We always talk about female infertility but never about male issues. Well, you might have guessed it by now—I have fertility issues. It was a huge blow to my ego, but now I understand there's nothing I can change. I might not have children of my own, but that doesn't mean I can't be a dad. Beth and I have decided to adopt."

"Congratulations, Alex."

"Was that the reason for your divorce?"

"Yes, my ex wasn't happy with my diagnosis. She wanted different things, so we divorced."

"Oh."

"She left you?"

"You could say that. But I would like to thank her. Because of her, I found Beth. Beth has loved me since we were children. She taught me what true love is. She was happy for me, even when I married my ex-wife. She supported me as a friend and sacrificed her love."

"She is truly a great woman. I wish you both the best of luck."

"Yes. With this, I would like to announce our partnership with ZJL Pharmaceutical."

"Is ZJL owned by Joseph Crawley?"

"Yes, I have invested in their research. The company is managed by dynamic individuals, and I'm confident they will elevate medical science to a new level."

Marissa was shocked. Why was she not happy with the news? She had no answers. She dialled Alexander's number.

"Hello," she could hear his voice on the other side.

"Who is it? Hello?"

"Alex, how could you marry Bethany?"

"Marissa?" He was all surprised. "What do you want to hear? Yes, I married the woman who loved me unconditionally. I was a fool to go after you. You were the biggest mistake of my life."

She disconnected the call.

"Who was it?" Bethany asked Alex.

"No one important."

"Your face says otherwise."

"It was Marissa."

"What the heck! What does that woman want now? Why can't she see you happy?"

"She's not important. Just forget about her."

Beth stared at his face. Marissa was his first love. She had witnessed his love but never had ill feelings toward him. She distanced herself from Alex to avoid creating any misunderstanding.

She cried the day he married Marissa.

"Beth, that boy is not worth your tears. They are too precious."

"Alex doesn't even know I love him, Mum."

"He's blind not to notice you. Trust me, he will suffer."

"Mum, I wish him all the happiness from my heart."

"Beth, I have met many people throughout my career. These eyes have seen many seasons, and I know how people are. That Marissa doesn't love Alex."

"How can you say?"

"I just know—a lawyer's intuition. Promise me one thing."

"Please don't ask me to date anyone."

"I won't. Just keep away from Alex. Your dad is getting old, and your brother can't manage the business alone. You have a keen eye for finer things. Please join the business."

Years later, Bethany Anderson was a well-known figure in the business world. She flourished in the gold and diamond business, taking it to another level with her brother. Unlike Heather, Beth was not forgiving. She vowed to bring Aaron and Marissa down.

Even Alex, who had never spoken harshly to her, was now talking to her in this tone. He used to follow her like a lost puppy. She was fuming.

She walked into the bedroom, all lost. Marissa looked at the sleeping Aaron. She should be happy that she married him.

Why did everything go against her? First Heather, and now Alex. They were never supposed to be happy. She was sure no woman would marry Alex, but she forgot about Beth.

She threw a glass on the floor. Aaron woke up.

"M, what happened, love? Are you alright? Is the baby fine?"

"I am fine." She composed herself.

She looked at Aaron, admiring his beauty. She kissed his cheeks seductively.

"What happened?"

"You are worth every sacrifice I made."