Embers of Betrayal

chapter 45: guilt

Dr. Alexander’s home, late at night. The house is quiet and dark, except for the soft glow of a lamp in the hallway. The silence is suddenly shattered by the sound of a scream coming from Bernadette’s room.

Dr. Alexander is in his study, reviewing some papers, when he hears Bernadette’s scream. He immediately drops everything and rushes towards her room, his heart pounding with fear.

Bernadette: (screaming from her room, her voice filled with terror and anguish) No! No! I’m a murderer! I’m a murderer!

Dr. Alexander bursts into her room without knocking. The room is dimly lit by a small bedside lamp. Bernadette is sitting up in bed, her face drenched in sweat, her eyes wide with fear. She’s trembling, clutching the sheets tightly.

Dr. Alexander: (quickly moving to her side, his voice calm but urgent) Bernadette! Bernadette, it’s me, Alex! You’re safe! It’s just a nightmare!

He gently places his hands on her shoulders, trying to calm her down. She flinches at his touch, her eyes darting around the room as if she’s still caught in her nightmare.

Bernadette: (sobbing, her voice choked with fear) No... no, you don’t understand. I’m a murderer... I... I killed her...

Dr. Alexander: (softly, trying to soothe her) Shh, Bernadette. You’re not a murderer... You are not... Circumstances pushed you .

Bernadette: (desperately) No! I killed her... I wanted them to feel my pain... I didn’t want to kill her... I didn’t…"

Dr. Alexander pulls her into a gentle embrace, holding her tightly as she sobs uncontrollably against his chest. He strokes her hair, his own heart breaking as he hears the depth of her anguish.

Dr. Alexander:(whispering soothingly) Bern, listen to me. It's because of circumstances. The kaw freed you.

Bernadette clings to him, her sobs gradually quieting but still racked with emotion. She pulls back slightly, looking up at him with tear-filled eyes.

Bernadette: (barely a whisper) But in the eyes if Gid?

Dr. Alexander: (gently wiping away her tears) God is merciful... You are sorry, you regret...

She nods slowly, still visibly shaken but starting to calm down. She takes a few deep breaths, her body still trembling slightly.

Bernadette:(softly) I’m sorry... I didn’t mean to wake you.

Dr. Alexander: (smiling gently) Don’t apologise. I’m here for you, no matter what. Whenever you need me, I’ll be here.

He sits with her, holding her hand, providing silent comfort as she tries to find her breath again. The room gradually becomes quieter, the panic slowly subsiding as Dr. Alexander continues to stay by her side, his presence a steady source of comfort in the dark night.

The first light of dawn is just beginning to peek through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. Bernadette has finally fallen back asleep after the night's distress, and Dr. Alexander sits quietly beside her bed, deep in thought.

Dr. Alexander watches Bernadette sleep, his expression a mix of concern and determination. He knows she’s been through so much, and her screams from last night still echo in his mind. He leans back in the chair, running a hand through his hair, his thoughts racing.

Dr. Alexander: (internally) She’s been carrying this pain for far too long. Last night wasn’t just a nightmare; it was her soul crying out for help. She’s trapped in her own guilt, blaming herself for things that were never her fault.

He glances at Bernadette, her face now peaceful in sleep, but he knows the torment she feels won’t just disappear on its own.

Dr. Alexander: (internally) She needs more than just my support. She needs professional help. Someone who can guide her through this pain, help her find a way to forgive herself and heal.