The Carlidia Renaissance- Cable Girls Reimagined (LCDC)

Chapter 13

Lidia's POV

I am faintly aware of my legs carrying me across the white line, as the screeching alarm has overwhelmed my senses and I can't think straight. I just focused on the path ahead and what was waiting on the other end.

After what seemed like a long time, I made it to a circular vent.

"Anyone out there?" I said, my heart thumping in my throat as I awaited a reply.

"Lidia?" A familiar voice said. It must be Francisco. "Just use the crowbar to pry open the vent from your side, we'll help you by pushing it from the outside" the voice instructed.

I took a deep breath, and, resolved, put down the torch so I could grab the crowbar with both hands tightly, wedged it between the side of the vent, and pulled with all my might. As I pulled, I noticed several holes at the side of the vent, where I presumed screwdrivers used to hold the vent intact. In fact, it wasn't long before the vent started to creak and move inwards, until it completely detached and fell onto the stone ground with a loud clatter.

My path now unobstructed, I ran outside to be greeted by three silhouettes in black, wearing black ski masks so I had no idea which one was Francisco. But I didn't have to wonder for long. The one on my right took off his mask and opened his arms in invitation. I immediately went to hug him enthusiastically, so overjoyed at being reunited with him. "Thank you, I owe you one." I said. "I think you owe me more than that," I heard him chuckle, and I smile tugged at my lips in reply.

After we stopped hugging, I turned to the other two figures left who helped in my escape. The second figure then took of his mask, and an unfamiliar face returned my gaze.

"Lidia, this is Luca," said Francisco. "He was instrumental in formulating the plan for your escape."

I smiled at him and offered him my hand. He returned it and shook my hand in reply.

Which then left me to wonder, who was behind the final mask?

"Lidia, before you see the other person who helped me out today, please promise that you won't get mad at me for not telling you the whole truth. You have to know that I did it for his and your own safety." he said while imploring my eyes, willing me to understand. My eyebrows knotted in confusion "What did you not tell me then?"

And instead of hearing his reply, the final figure took off his mask to reveal the face I never thought would see alive again.

My eyes widened at the sight as a shiver ran through my body, and I took a step back from Francisco. "No, it can't be" I breathed whilst shaking my head in denial. I was rooted in place, unable to move, and I pinched myself to make sure that this wasn't some sick dream.

"It's really me, Lidia", Carlos said in the old familiar voice. "I really am alive, but I wouldn't be if it hadn't been for Francisco and Luca."

At this, my eyes brimmed with tears and spilled as I took off running and he caught me with his arms. I sobbed in his shoulder as I hugged him tightly "I thought... I thought you were really gone" I choked out "I feared I would never... get to see you again..." I trailed off between sobs.

I finally let him go, and glimpsed that smile which I so loved. He held my face in his hands as he reassured me "I'm here now, and I'm not going anywhere, I promise you." he said, as he caressed my cheekbone with his thumb. My mouth blossomed into a wide smile as I hugged him again, but this time with overwhelming joy.

I never anticipated that it was possible to feel this happy right after I got out from that hellhole, but it was surely a pleasant surprise.

Francisco's POV

As I observed my childhood sweetheart and my old business partner embrace with a half-smile on my face, I was sure of one thing. Lidia still loved him. And Carlos her. I was ready to bless their marriage a few years ago, but then everything changed and me and Lidia had another shot. He would always be the biological father of her daughter, and I respected and understood that.

But it was time for me to face reality, I thought sadly. Me and Lidia are a thing of the past.

--- Sorry for the late update guys, but I wanted to get this chapter just right. Carlidia are finally reunited! But is Francisco right in his presumptions? Will Carlos, Lidia and Eva become a family again, only this time without the intrusiveness of Doña Carmen? You'll find out very soon. This book is nearing its end, I hope you enjoyed the journey so far and that you'll stick around to the end. Don't forget to vote if you liked this chapter and comment as you wish. -B ---