Dr. Alexander's office, a quiet, well-organised space with bookshelves lined with medical books and certificates on the wall. The morning sun casts a soft glow through the window, creating a calm atmosphere.
Dr. Alexander is seated at his desk, reviewing some documents. A knock on the door interrupts him.
Dr. Alexander: (looking up) Come in.
The door opens, and Maxim enters, looking anxious and a bit hesitant.
Maxim: Good morning, Dr. Alexander.
Dr. Alexander: (nods and gestures to a chair) Good morning, Maxim. Please, have a seat. What brings you here today?
Maxim: (sitting down, fidgeting slightly) I wanted to ask if I could speak with Bernadette. I know she might not want to see me, but... I just need to talk to her, even if it's just for a few minutes.
Dr. Alexander: (pauses, looking thoughtfully at Maxim) I understand how important this is to you, Maxim. But you also need to understand that Bernadette's well-being is my top priority right now.
Maxim: (earnestly) I know. I wouldn't ask if it weren't important. I just feel like there are things left unsaid, things she deserves to hear from me directly.
Dr. Alexander: (nods) I hear you. I'll talk to Bernadette and see how she feels about it. If she's comfortable with having a conversation with you, then you can talk. But if she decides she's not ready or doesn't want to, I'm afraid you'll have to respect her decision.
Maxim:(sighs deeply) I understand. I just... I hope she'll give me a chance.
Dr. Alexander: (gently) We'll see, Maxim. I'll let you know what she decides. In the meantime, I suggest you prepare yourself for whatever answer she gives. It's important that you are ready to respect her wishes.
Maxim: (nods slowly) Thank you. I appreciate it.
Dr. Alexander: (smiles kindly) You're welcome.
Maxim: (hesitantly, looking down) Dr. Alexander, please... take care of Bernadette. She deserves better than what I gave her. She shouldn't have to suffer like she did when we were together.
Dr. Alexander: (firmly, but kindly) Maxim, you know as well as I do that Bernadette has always been special to me. From the beginning, I cared for her deeply. But you came into her life, and she chose you. I stepped back, thinking it was best for her.
Maxim: (looking up, a hint of regret in his eyes) I am sorry ..
Dr. Alexander: (sighs, his tone straightforward) I regret giving way because I see now that it might not have been the best choice for her. But that’s the past. What matters now is what Bernadette wants and needs.
Maxim: (softly) I didn't realize how much she meant to you...
Dr. Alexander: (interrupts, gently but firmly) It's not about me or what I feel, Maxim. It’s about Bernadette and what she needs to heal and move forward. If talking to you is something she wants, then so be it. But if she decides she doesn’t want to, we have to respect that.
Maxim: (nodding slowly, accepting) I understand. I just hope she finds the happiness she deserves.
Dr. Alexander: (nods) That’s all I want for her, Maxim.She has been dear to me since childhood... Anyway, I’ll speak with her and let you know what she decides.
Maxim stands up, taking a deep breath, and offers a small, appreciative nod to Dr. Alexander before leaving the office.
At Dr. Alexander’s home.
The living room is cozy and warmly lit, with a comfortable sofa and a few framed photos of Bernadette and Dr. Alexander on the walls. Bernadette is seated on the sofa, a book in her hands, looking calm but pensive.
YOU ARE READING
Embers of Betrayal
AcakBernadette Lacuesta seemed to have it all-a beautiful home, a successful husband, and a life most would envy. With her graceful elegance and a timeless sense of style, she was the picture of a perfect wife, standing by the side of Maxim Cuevas, a co...
