Within that week, suddenly the heart machine attached to Steph started whining. Ric, who was pronounced fine, as were the others, ran to the room but the doctors had got there before him and had locked the door. All he could do was to wait until they came out.

It was around 30mins later that they emerged, all looking sad and tired. Ric jumped up, concern written across his face. The head doctor shook his head. Ric broke down and screamed. He collapsed against the wall, sobbing brokenly. The group surrounded him and comforted him.

They didn't notice a lone figure standing a fair way from the group. Ric suddenly sensed someone else. He stood up and slowly turned around, but whoever had been there had gone. He did however spot something lying on the floor.

He ran to it, and picked it up. It was a red rose and had a white ribbon tied to it. He put it to his nose and inhaled its scent. The scent was strong and the rose was fresh.

There was only one person who left a red rose tied with a white ribbon. Steph. It was her trademark. Suddenly Ric noticed a rolled up piece of paper surrounding the stem and being held on by the ribbon. He gently removed it and read it. His face went from hope to despair. Cassie, seeing his sad expression said "She faked her own death and isn't coming back is she." Ric nodded silently not trusting himself to speak.

Cassie removed the letter from Ric's hands and quietly read it to the group.

My darling Ric,

When you get this, I will be gone. Not from this world, but from your life. I know when im not wanted. You have Matilda and the baby to think about now. I was just a fill in.

I have only one request. That you have a funeral for the person they brought in as me and forget I ever exist after that is over. Do not hold a memorial service. I would rather be forgotten than continually remembered.

I should never have let myself trust again. I kept telling myself that but when I was with you, I let it lapse.

Im sorry to have to leave this way, but it's for the best. Maybe we will meet again some day.

All my love,

Stephayni De Walscott.

As Cassie finished reading, Belle broke down as did Mattie. She never meant to hurt anyone, just to have Ric involved in his child's life. Beth had told her it was a bad idea to go around to Ric's house expecting a warm reception.