My Enemy's Daughter (Edited)

Chapter 65

The day I was finally discharged from the hospital felt like a dream I'd been chasing for months. I couldn't believe I was actually walking out of there, after what felt like a lifetime of being hooked up to machines and staring at the sterile white walls of the hospital. I felt stronger now, more like myself, and the anticipation of getting back home sent a spark of excitement through me.

As Samuel helped me into the car, a smile tugged at the corners of my lips. I thought about the mansion, the one place I never thought I'd miss so much. The quiet rooms, the scent of the garden, and the warmth of the home I'd built with Samuel. I couldn't wait to be back there, to feel the comfort of my own bed and finally move past this whole ordeal.

It was a little strange that my mom and Ethan weren't there, though. I had expected them to be waiting at the hospital to take me home, but I understood. Mom had been through so much with me these last few months, and Ethan had his own life to get back to. They'd both done more than enough, and it was time I stopped being the center of their world. Besides, I knew they cared about me, and I'd see them soon.

Samuel had been... different lately. There was this underlying tension between us, a tension that'd been building for weeks. Every time we shared a heated kiss, I could feel the restraint in him. He always pulled away just when things were about to get too intense, leaving me frustrated but also strangely patient. I'd told myself to be understanding, that maybe he was just worried about my health, but I'd be lying if I said I wasn't counting down the days until we could reconnect in that way again.

So, as I was being discharged, I decided to ask. Shyly, I turned to the doctor, my cheeks flushing as I stumbled over the words. "Um, I was wondering... would it be okay for us to... you know, um, have those activities again?"

My voice was so small, especially with Lyle and Bruno in the room. I felt like a schoolgirl, and the amused looks from Lyle don't help. Bruno, ever the reserved one, doesn't say much, but I caught a knowing smirk on his face.

Samuel, ever the gentleman, stepped in before I could embarrass myself further. "I'm sure the doctor would recommend Fiona avoid any unnecessary stress." He was trying to sound serious, but I saw the corner of his mouth twitch.

To both of our surprise, the doctor smiled and said, "Actually, Fiona's in the clear for any marital pleasures. Just be mindful, and stop if there's any pain."

The grin that spread across my face was impossible to contain. I glanced at Samuel, and for a second, I saw a flash of relief cross his face. He'd been holding back just as much as I had. Lyle burst out laughing, slapped Samuel on the back. "Looks like you've got your marching orders, boss!" he joked, while Bruno nodded approvingly.

We left the hospital in a much better mood, and I was practically bouncing in my seat during the car ride home. As soon as we pulled into the driveway of the mansion, I let out a joyful scream. "I'm home!" I yelled, throwing my arms in the air as we approached the front door.

Samuel walked beside me, his hand steady on my back, guiding me inside. But as soon as we opened the door, I was met with an unexpected sight. The entire house was full of people-my mom, Ethan, Dina, and what looked like half the church, along with Samuel's workers. There e a huge banner across the entryway that read, "Welcome Home, Fiona!"

"Oh my God," I gasped, spinning around to look at Samuel, my heart swelling with joy. But when I turned, I saw Samuel on one knee, holding a small box in his hand.

I was confused for a second. We were already married. What was he doing?

"Fiona," he began, his voice soft but strong, "I want to give you a real proposal this time. One that comes from my heart, without any pretense. You came into my life and changed it in ways I never imagined. I love you, and I would be honored if you agreed to spend the rest of your life with me, again. This time with God at the center, and you as my entire world. I'll spend every day making up for the mistakes I've made, but most of all, I'll make it my mission to ensure you're always happy."