Tragedy of Love

Secrets Unveiled

As the sun began to set, casting long shadows across the hospital room, the weight of exhaustion and worry hung heavy in the air. Chrissy and Paige sat beside Preston's bed, their faces etched with weariness and concern. I glanced at them, noting the fatigue in their eyes.

"You two should get some rest," I suggested gently, breaking the heavy silence. "You've been here since early morning, right after your flight. You need to take care of yourselves if we're going to be strong for Preston."

Paige shook her head, her expression conflicted. "Denise, you should go home and rest. You've been here longer than us, and you still have to go to work."

"I already called in," I assured them softly. "I won't be going in today."

Chrissy frowned, concern etched into her features. "Are you sure about this? We can stay here. You've done enough already."

"I'm sure," I insisted, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside. "You both need rest. Let me take you home. A few hours of sleep will do wonders."

After a moment of hesitant glances exchanged between them, they reluctantly nodded. "Alright," Chrissy agreed finally. "But promise us you'll rest too."

"I promise," I replied, my heart heavy with the weight of that lie. They needed to recharge more than I did right now.

We left the hospital in silence, the drive to my old house filled with unspoken tension. It was the house I once shared with Preston, now a relic of memories and regrets. I hadn't mentioned to Chrissy and Paige that I no longer lived there; amidst the chaos, it seemed irrelevant.

"Here we are," I announced, masking the ache in my voice. "Make yourselves comfortable. There are guest rooms ready for both of you."

Neither of them questioned my words. They were too exhausted to notice the subtle dissonance. I guided them to their rooms, ensuring they had everything they needed. "Try to get some sleep," I urged softly. "I'll check on Preston and be back soon."

Paige and Chrissy nodded sleepily, their gratitude murmured through yawns. "Thank you, Denise," Paige managed as she headed to her room.

Alone in the quiet house, I found myself drawn to the backyard. The pool shimmered under the fading sunlight, a stark contrast to the sterile hospital environment. I kicked off my shoes and dipped my feet into the cool water, the soothing sensation easing some of the tension in my muscles. A bottle of wine beckoned from the kitchen, and I poured myself a glass, seeking solace in its warmth.

As I sat by the poolside, the soft glow of my phone illuminated the dim surroundings. Kevin's name flashed on the screen, and relief flooded through me as I answered the call.

"Hey, baby," I greeted softly, grateful for his familiar voice.

"Denise, where have you been? I've been trying to reach you all day," Kevin's concern was palpable. "I went to your lecture room and you weren't there. Then I checked your office—it was locked. I got worried when you didn't show up and I brought you coffee."

Guilt pricked at me as I listened to his worry. "I'm so sorry, Kevin. It's been a chaotic day."

"Why didn't you tell me you weren't coming in? What happened? Are you okay?" His questions came rapid-fire, laced with genuine concern.

"My cousin was in a car accident," I lied, the falsehood heavy on my tongue. "He's in critical condition. I had to be with family."

"Oh my God, Denise," Kevin's voice softened with relief. "Are you okay? Were you involved in the accident? Are you hurt?"

"No, I'm fine," I assured him, the guilt of my lie twisting inside me. "Just stressed and worried."

"Thank God," Kevin breathed out. "I wish I could be there with you. Is there anything I can do to help? Anything you need?"