HEALING THE SCARS

CHAPTER 28

3 months later

PENELOPE

I finally graduate from the short course, though graduation feels more like an afterthought than a triumph. I am four months pregnant, and despite my fears, my bump is still subtle, only noticeable if someone is paying close attention. I dress carefully, choosing clothes that conceal my condition as much as possible.

I've managed to avoid any contact with Dylan. Whenever he shows up at school, I miss my classes, hiding away from him. I imagine he's trying to deliver divorce papers or something similar, but even if that were the case, he could have sent them by mail. Once, he even tried to force his way into Joey's place to see me, creating a scene that left me shaken but relieved when he finally left.

Dylan and Mabel have been supportive, and I'm grateful for their help. I assist them whenever I can, though their needs are rare. My pregnancy is progressing well; I visit the clinic regularly, and the baby is healthy. Despite the circumstances, I feel a strange attachment to the pregnancy. It gives my life a sense of purpose, even as I remain isolated from everyone else.

Joey and Mabel are engaged, and I'm genuinely happy for them. Their engagement party is this Friday, and they have extended an invitation to Dylan. Joey believes it's important for him and Dylan to mend their fractured friendship. He says Dylan has been drinking heavily and losing control, and that he needs someone who cares about him.

Friday arrives, and the house is beautifully decorated. Guests arrive in elegant attire, adding to the festive atmosphere. Mabel is nervous, so I stay with her in their room, trying to calm her as Joey mingles with the guests.

"You have to calm your nerves, Mabel," I say, trying to lighten the mood. "It's just a party. You'll have plenty of time to be nervous at your wedding."

"I know," she replies, a hint of anxiety still in her voice. "I just can't believe it's actually happening. I'm so happy. I want you to be happy too." She places a gentle hand on my belly.

"My happiness will come in a few months," I say with a small laugh.

Once Mabel feels ready, I let her leave and retreat to my room. I take a long, relaxing shower and then curl up with a novel. The mansion is large, and I figure that if Dylan comes, he won't be able to find me easily. I lock the door and drift off to sleep.

A knock at the door wakes me, but I assume I'm dreaming. The knock comes again, more insistent this time.

"Who is it?" I call out groggily.

"It's me, Monica. I've brought your lunch."

Monica is the head cook and oversees the other staff. Joey has instructed her to bring me food. I appreciate her help and have even gained a little weight. I open the door, but Monica is not alone. Dylan stands behind her, his expression unreadable. My heart races and my breathing quickens in shock. I instinctively step back, but he strides into the room, ignoring my surprise

"I am sorry madam Penelope, he threatened me if I didn't bring him to where you were," Monica says in a panic.

"You can leave now Monica. Thank you for being such a dear."Dylan says. 

Without a word, Dylan closes the distance between us and presses his lips against mine. I want to push him away, to tell him to stop, but I'm paralyzed. My hands and mouth go numb, and I find myself kissing him back with equal urgency. He lifts me and lays me gently on the bed, his kiss growing more intense. I know I should stop him, but my desire for this connection is overwhelming. I momentarily forget my worries, feeling only the weight of his body and the urgency of his kiss. I adjust my position so that he is hovering above me, still kissing me.