Happy New Year to all of you, and welcome to the final installment of ABA! It has been a long and at times tiring journey getting to this point, but we've finally made it. Turns out being a doctor means you have even less time for doing fun activities you enjoy. Who knew? To everyone that has ever messaged, emailed, or reviewed this story, thank you. You were the driving force of my inspiration. I am sad to see this story end, but it is time. I hope you enjoy it, and I wish you all good health, prosperity and happiness for the New Year!
Chapter 28
Collecting himself, Brian quickly masked his concern with a soft smile. There was a sinking feeling in the pit of his stomach that was getting heavier by the second.
"Nothing's wrong. I was lost in thought for a moment."
Keeping his eyes on her he quickly walked around to the other side of the bed, ignoring the questioning looks that Darien kept sending his way.
"Trista, I'm going to ask you a few questions to assess your mental status. Is that okay?"
Trista's gaze warily traveled between her husband and the physician to her left. Something was off. What were they not telling her?
"Why? Is something wrong? I feel just fine."
Brian plastered on another fake smile and sat down on a nearby chair.
"I don't doubt you are. You've had an extremely traumatic experience and I'd just like to assess where you are right now mentally compared to your baseline. I'm sure as a physician yourself you can appreciate my intentions."
She gave an apprehensive nod, and Brian internally sighed with relief. She had unknowingly passed his first test. At least she remembered that she was a physician herself.
"Okay. Let's begin shall we. What is your full name?"
"Trista Setsuna Meioh-Shields"
"Excellent. And how old are you Trista?"
"31."
"Good. Where are you right now?"
"A hospital I guess?"
"Do you recognize the hospital?"
Brian held his breath as she slowly nodded her head.
"It's vaguely familiar. I feel like I've been here before."
He searched in her hazel orbs again for any sign of recognition. They had met, and shared many memorable times at this hospital. He briefly closed his eyes against the pain that was forming in his chest. How could she not remember?
Clearing his throat he pushed his personal feelings aside. Right now she needed him as a doctor.
"What year are we in?"
"2010 if I'm correct. I'm not sure if that has changed since I've been asleep."
He couldn't help but smile as she looked up at him for affirmation. She looked so cute all confused like that.
" You're correct. Still 2010. And the month?"
"Um, last I remember it was the summer. Maybe around June or July? "
"Yes, your accident was in June. It's December 28, 2010 today Trista."
Her short gasp echoed around the quiet room. Brian knew that she must have had countless questions. He would willingly take as much time as she needed to answer them all, but right now he needed to continue his assessment. He needed to know exactly what they were facing in the upcoming days.
"I can imagine how much of a shock this is for you. You've missed the last six months of your life."
Trista nodded, and Darien gently squeezed her hand as he noticed the glimmer of unshed tears in her eyes.
"Hey, it'll be okay. We'll be sure to fill you in on everything that you've missed. It'll be like you were here the whole time."
Brian ignored the twinge in his heart as he saw her smile at Darien's words. Clearing his throat, he interrupted the tender moment that the couple seemed to be sharing.
"Would you like to continue? We could stop if-"
"No, it's ok. I know the importance of this examination. I'll be fine. Please, continue."
" Very well. Who is the current president of the United States?"
"Barack Obama."
"And the four presidents before him?"
"Bush Jr, Clinton, Bush Senior, Reagan I believe."
Within a few more minutes Trista had completed the exam. Brian was beyond relieved. Cognitively, she seemed to be suffering from some memory impairment but was otherwise her usual astute self. It was now time to assess just how much of her memory was missing. He took a deep breath to calm himself. This part was going to be hard on everyone in the room.
"That was very good Trista. You did great. My only concern from your exam, as I'm sure you've recognized yourself, is a few gaps in your memory. You're showing signs of some retrograde amnesia. I'd like to take the time to explore that some more if that's ok with you?"
Trista nervously bit her lip. She had been racking her brain for the last few minutes trying to remember the events that had brought her to the hospital, but there were only blank images in her head. What if she didn't remember as much as they initially thought?
"Okay."
"I'm just going to ask you a few questions about your personal life. No pressure, no sweat. If you don't know or remember, it's perfectly acceptable to just say so, alright?"
Feeling more relaxed she couldn't help but return the warm smile that the doctor was sending her way. He was a very kind and understanding man. She was happy to have him serving as her physician. They briefly held eye contact, and she had a fleeing feeling that they had done so many times before. Had they worked together before? Were they friends? She pushed those thoughts to the back of her head for questioning later on as he began his interview.
"Alright, first off, what do you do for a living?"
"I'm a cardiac surgeon."
"Excellent. And where did you go to medical school?"
"John Hopkins."
"Who is the man on your right?"
A soft smile covered her face, and Brian held back the urge to frown.
"That there is Dare. He's my husband."
A small smile made its way to Darien's face as she grabbed his hand. Brian cleared his throat and continued with his questioning.
"Do you have any children Trista?"
"Yes, yes I do! Darien where are the girls?"
"They're right outside. They've been here to see you almost everyday. I'll go bring them in if your doctor says it's okay?"
Brian gave a brisk nod.
"I don't see why not. We'll just cover a few more questions first if that's ok?"
"Yes of course."
" What are the names of your children?"
Trista's eyes sparkled with unshed tears as she spoke.
"Kailie and Kayla. They're identical twins."
"And how old are the girls Trista?"
"They're six, or probably seven right now aren't they Darien? "
Darien smiled as he stood from her bed. He needed to finally reunite the girls with their mother.
"Yes, their birthday was three months ago."
Brian nodded, and couldn't help but smile himself. Seeing Trista alive and happy with that spark in her eyes again was a beautiful sight to behold. He wished he could keep that smile on her face forever, but he unfortunately needed more information.
"Besides your pregnancy with the girls, have you had any other pregnancies Trista?"
Trista's confused and inquisitive gaze settled on the unreadable eyes of Dr. Tomei.
What in the world type of question was that? Wasn't this a neurology examination? Why had Dr. Tomei ventured into her obstetrical history?
Beside her, Darien involuntarily held his breath.
"Uh, no. As far as I can remember I'm a gravida one. I've only been pregnant once, and that was with the girls."
Brian swallowed the lump forming in his throat as he fought the overwhelming emotions that came with Trista's response. So she did not remember that they had likely conceived a child together. Though Trista had not given any indication that she remembered their relationship, a small part of him had been hoping that she would have at least remembered the child that he knew with every fiber of his being had been his.
Darien watched the scene unfolding before him, confusion marring his tired face. He didn't know who's response to that question was the most concerning. Trista didn't remember the accident or the fact that she had been pregnant with their child, but Dr. Tomei's reaction had caught him totally off guard. It was the first time he had ever witnessed any genuine form of emotion in those expressionless eyes. What in the world was going on here?
"Is everything okay ? Is there- is there something I need to know?"
The soft sound of Trista's voice drew both men from their thoughts.
Darien studied the usually well-composed doctor as a soft blush covered his pale cheeks. His usual suspicion of the man had all but quadrupled in the last minute.
"I'm sorry Trista. I've been so distracted today. No, there's nothing of concern. I'm just going to wrap up with a few more questions okay?"
"Okay."
Clearing his throat, Dr. Tomei glanced in the direction of the only other, and very quiet occupant in the hospital room. As he connected with the intense stare that Darien Shields was sending his way, he couldn't help but feel uneasy. In a rare moment of weakness he had allowed his emotions to get the best of him and was hoping that Shields had missed the entire ordeal. His current expression was troubling, to say the least, but he would have to deal with that later.
"Alright Trista. Where do you live?"
" Up at the Shields Estate in New Haven."
"And work?"
"At the hospital. I'm sorry, but the name eludes me at the moment."
" That's okay. It's the Emerson Hospital Trista. Do you remember how long you've worked at the hospital?"
"Um, maybe a few years? Two or three?"
Brian gazed at the familiar but confused face of the woman that would forever hold his heart.
"It's been a little longer than that Trista, but don't fret. We'll figure out exactly where the gaps in your memory are and work to help you remember. Let's wrap this up so you can see your girls. Do you remember the accident that brought you here?"
Brian watched with a heavy heart as tears collected in those beautiful hazel orbs.
" I've been trying to, but it's like a big black hole in my head. I just can't seem to remember anything."
Before he realized what he was doing, he had taken her small hand within his own. Trista gasped at the familiarity of the soft contact. This was not the first time had grabbed her hand in such a manner. What type of relationship had they had before the accident? Had she been his patient? Were they colleagues? Friends?
"Hey, that's okay. It's not extremely uncommon to have lapses in memory after the head trauma you've endured. You're just getting out of a coma. It'll get better with time. Please, don't cry Trista."
Trista stared down at the soft thumb that was caressing her own. There was sincerity in 's voice that made her stomach flutter. Her gaze shifted to his very peculiar, almost violet colored eyes. It was as if seeing her cry was almost too painful for him to bear. This man, whatever their previous relationship, truly cared about her. A genuine smile made it's way to her face.
"Okay . I'll remember that."
"Please, call me Brian."
"Alright. Brian it is."
The pair shared another smile.
Darien looked on, a frown adorning his face. Did the good doctor have such excellent rapport with all his patients? Why did he suddenly feel like he was intruding on an intimate moment between his wife and her physician?
Dr. Tomei cleared his throat and retracted his hand. Trista glanced in the direction of her husband and couldn't help the blush that covered her cheeks at his expression.
"What's the last thing that you do remember Trista?"
Brian's voice did nothing to alleviate the sudden awkward atmosphere in the hospital room.
"I remember being at work. I had just finished seeing my last patient. Oh, and I remember being upset, but I just can't remember why. Everything after that is a complete blur."
Brian silently studied her. Should he push her? Was it too early to try and jog her memory? Deciding on a course of action, he turned in the direction of Darien Shields. He would wait until they were in private. There were things that could not be said with Shields present.
"Alright Mr. Shields, I think we'll stop here for now. Those girls have waited long enough to see their mother. Why don't you bring them on in? Trista, do you have any questions for me?"
Darien gave a wary nod and moved in the direction of the door. His brain was working in overdrive mode. Something was just not right with this entire situation. He paused in his step as his wife's soft voice sounded through the now quiet hospital room.
" Medically, a ton. But those can wait until I've seen my babies. Dr. Tomei-Brian, did we, did we by chance know each other before my accident? Did we work together? I just can't shake this feeling that I know you somehow."
In took all of a second for Darien to turn around. He really wanted to hear this response as well. One second later his eyes widened in clarity as he took in the distraught expression that Trista's innocent question had brought to Dr. Tomei's face.
Brian stared back at the woman he considered his soul mate and could not utter a sound. He was afraid to speak, because his voice would surely give away the heartbreak he was feeling at the moment. He thought about how he had first met Trista, all the lives they'd saved together, the few they had lost, the tears that they shared in the aftermath, the countless hours and nights they had spent speaking about any and everything, and he simply could not make a sound. He heard her laughter, the excitement in her voice as they discussed ground breaking medical interventions, her sweet sighs and moans as they made love, and her heart warming confessions of her love for him. He had always been known as a calloused man. It was exactly how he had felt his entire life and it quite suited him; until Trista walked into his life. She had made him feel, made him human, made him whole. She made him love. There was nothing in the world he would not do for her. And though a part of him already knew it to be true, she had just verbally confirmed his worst fear. She had no idea, no memory of who he was or what hey had shared. It was too much to swallow.
"Daddy?"
All occupants of the silent room turned in the direction of the now slightly ajar hospital door. Kailie's big blue eyes innocently searched for sights of her father. He had told them to wait and she didn't want to be bad, but he was taking so long and she was scared. Quickly scanning the room, she went deathly still as her eyes connected with hazel eyes that she had known since her entrance into the world.
"Kai stop! Daddy said to wait. We're gonna be in big trouble if-"
Kayla immediately stumbled in behind her sister. Kailie had always been the more impulsive and adventurous twin. She somehow always convinced her to do exactly what their mommy and daddy told them not to do and constantly got them into trouble. When Kailie decided to barge into their mother's hospital room she had followed after her to stop her. Daddy had told them to stay on the chairs. She hadn't expected her twin to immediately stop moving amidst her entrance through the hospital door and crashed right into her back. The girls stumbled onto the floor as the three adults looked on in surprise.
"Oh girls!"
Darien was deaf to the concerned plea of his wife as he bent to pick up their daughters.
"Oh Pumpkins are you ok?"
Ignoring her father's helping hand, Kailie immediately sat up and searched to confirm what she thought she had seen. Was she seeing things?
Kayla followed suit and immediately followed her sister's line of vision. She gasped as tears immediately filled her eyes.
"Mommy?"
Across the room a soft sob escaped from Trista's lips as tears of joy flowed from her hazel orbs. The twins had gotten taller.
"Oh my babies. My sweet, precious girls."
"Mommy!"
That was all the confirmation that Kayla needed as she raced into her mother's welcoming arms.
Kailie slowly stood, tears silently streaming down her face as she took in what was happening before her. Her mother was awake and hugging her sister. She'd thought that she would never hear her voice again. She wanted to run into her arms too, but her body did not want to move. She had thought their mommy was going to heaven like her friend Leah's mother. The kids at school had said so. Was she really back? Would she be leaving them and daddy all alone again?
Hazel eyes connected with her teary blues causing her heart to skip a beat, but she still couldn't find it in herself to move. Trista slowly extended her arms. The uncertainty and sorrow that she saw in Kailie's innocent eyes tore at her heart. She did not want to imagine the suffering that her children must have endured over the last six months. They were only seven years old and did not deserve to be faced with the possible death of their mother for that length of time. She would have to slowly ease Kailie's fears away. She had always been the tougher twin where appearances were concerned, but it was evident to anyone who really knew her that she was a very emotional child that deeply loved her family. Kayla had always been more forth coming and open with her emotions and displays of affection. Trista smiled at the paralyzed child through her tears. She wanted back her carefree little tomboy.
"Kailie, honey. Mommy's okay. I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry I was asleep for so long. You must have been so afraid my brave, brave, girl. But I'm awake now, and I am never leaving you again. I promise baby. "
Kailie silently whimpered but paused as her father's hand gently touched her shoulder. She looked up at his smiling face, and warmth exploded in her chest as she took in her father's confirmatory nod. Looking back at her mother, a soft sob finally escaped her lips. Her mommy was really back.
"Mommy!"
In the next second she was dashing to the bed. Trista frantically grabbed her daughter to her chest. Oh God. She could have been lost to her children; her sweet little girls.
Darien looked on, tears collecting in his own eyes as he observed his family. Trista was alternating between placing kisses all over the girls' face, and Kailie and Kayla seemed to be holding onto their mother for dear life. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt that at peace. The girls had their mother back.
Before he knew what he was doing he found himself near his family and pulled them all into a hug. The girls squealed at being sandwiched between their parents. All four members laughed as Kailie announced that she couldn't breathe and that 'daddy needed to lose some weight'. Lost in the moment, Darien smiled as his eyes connected with those of his wife above their children. He leaned in and gently placed a kiss on her lips. Both adults laughed as the girls sounded off with loud 'eeewwwws'.
The girls started to fill in their mother on everything she had missed. So engrossed in their conversation, they did not notice Dr. Tomei's silent departure from the hospital room. Darien however, was very aware. Taking one final look at his family he exited the room and followed after the fleeing physician.
"Dr. Tomei!"
Brian stilled mid stride through the busy hallway as he heard his name.
He frowned, not wanting to deal with Shields at the moment. The girls' entrance had been his saving grace. He had literally been on the brink of breaking down and making a complete fool of himself when the girls stormed into the hospital room. He should have left earlier, but Trista's reunion with her children had been so touching he couldn't help but stare. Seeing her and the girls that happy had warmed his arctic soul. He had grown quite fond of them over the last few months. But when Sheilds joined in on the party, reality slapped him right across the face; hard. Trista had no recollection of who he was and probably felt like she was reuniting with her loving husband. That had been his breaking point. He had silently left the room in an attempt to regroup. No such thing as luck.
Turning around he faced the man he loathed like no other. He made no attempts to remove the frown on his face but reminded himself that he was a professional.
"Yes Mr. Sheilds?"
Darien took his time as he approached the rather annoyed looking man ahead of him. He had not forgotten what had transpired before the girls joined them in that hospital room. Suddenly, everything just seemed to finally click. The words of his private investigator echoed through his racing mind.
'This person seems to be a professional with ties to the hospital.'
Of course. All this time. Dr. Tomei, the good, helpful doctor that had gone out of his way to provide Trista with only the best from the very beginning. He suddenly recalled his first meeting with Tomei. Trista was still in surgery at the time. He remembered now. He had seen Tomei, anxious as he had approached Trista's surgeon after the surgery. He had always been right under his nose. It was now evident that the surgeon harbored strong feelings for his wife. What had been the extent of their relationship? Had he sent those pictures? What part did Trista have to play in all of this? Had she also been having an affair?
He reminded himself to keep his anger at bay as he stopped a foot from the shorter man, but it was proving to be a challenging task. All the late night pages to the hospital, the dinners where he consoled the girls after their mother's departure, the long call schedules that she insisted she had no control to change… Were those just excuses she had used to sneak off to her lover? How long had this been going on? Images of Serena in her hospital bed flooded his mind, and despite the extreme peace of mind that Trista's awakening had provided just moments ago, he couldn't stop the anger that was now geared towards her as well. Though his actions had inadvertently led to the mess they were all in, Trista's reckless and compulsive behavior had cost them the life of their unborn child, had almost cost them her own life, the suffering of their children for months, and Serena, Serena could have been killed. Good God. Had the baby even been his?
Violet eyes stared up at him with contempt, and his fists reflexively clenched at his sides.
"Why did you do it?"
Brian's frown deepened as he regarded the younger man. There was no doubt in his mind as to what Shields was referring to. Unfortunately, he wasn't in the mood for small talk. And Sheilds had no proof that he had done anything.
"Why did I do what Mr. Sheilds?"
Darien took a step forward, placing him inches from the seemingly bored expression covering Dr. Tomei's face. He was not in the fucking mood for this bullshit.
"Don't fucking play with me Tomei. Why did you send those pictures? And what's your relationship with my wife?"
At the mention of 'his wife', Brian couldn't help but glare at the man before him. Had she been 'his wife' when he had been fucking Serena Charles? What about when he impregnated her? Had he not been her husband then? God he needed to keep his cool before he lost it and said something he would regret. He had made a promise to himself not to bring any more trouble into the lives of those little girls, but by God if Sheilds didn't stop pushing him…
"What pictures? And as for my relationship with Trista, we're colleagues and that's all you need to know."
And eerie smile made its way to Darien's face.
"You're colleagues huh. Tell me , are you this concerned about all your 'colleagues'? Would they all receive this exceptional treatment? And oh, in the rare circumstance that they got into an accident and couldn't remember your working relationship, would you also look like you had just lost your mother?"
The reminder of Trista's amnesia was another slap to his face. Brian reminded himself to mask his emotions, but the pain is his heart was very real. He would never give Sheilds the satisfaction, but he was done playing nice guy. He wasn't going to just stand there as a punching bag. It wasn't in his nature. Time to fight fire with fire. He forced a smile to his own face.
"Why does that matter to you? Let's not pretend here Sheilds. I watch the news too. The whole island knows of your relationship with that poor young girl on your basketball team. To think of the things you've put that poor girl, her family, and your own family through because you just couldn't keep it in your pants. "
At the mention of Serena, Darien's anger returned anew.
"How dare you. You have no idea what you're talking about."
Brian couldn't help but chuckle.
"Don't I? I know way more than you think. You should be happy that someone is taking the time to look out for 'your wife'. Cause you clearly aren't fit for the job."
Darien unexpectedly released a short laugh.
"Ah. And let me guess? You're more fitting? "
Placing his hands into his pocket he started a slow stroll around the still physician.
"Man, it must really suck to be you. No wife or kids of your own per your profile if I remember correctly. How long have you been lusting after my wife? Months? Years? How did it feel when you saw us together just now? How about in all those magazines? And on the news? Yes, you do watch the news. Tell me, how does it feel to lose to me every, single, day?"
A sinister look overpowered Bryan's face. He knew that he was being baited, but fuck this. Trista didn't remember who he was. He had nothing left to lose.
" I've fucked 'your wife'more times than I could ever count in the last four years."
Darien ceased walking and held eye contact with the enraged physician. He reminded himself to control his own building anger. Somehow, he knew that Dr. Tomei was speaking the truth. Trista, after all these years of trying to make their sham of a marriage work on his part, had been sleeping with another man for four years? He needed to keep calm enough to collect the information he needed. He needed to ignore that very animalistic part of him that was urging him to rip Tomei's throat off. Taking a calming breath, he smiled at the shorter man.
"Of course you have Dr. Tomei, of course you have."
Brian returned the cold smile.
"Indeed, I have. Over and over again. In her office, in my office, hotel rooms, my house, several hospitals. I can go on and on. What? You don't believe me? You insult me. I am far above making up lies about sleeping with women Sheilds. I can have my pick. Trista, Trista though, she is a special one. That little diamond shaped birthmark on her left thigh just adjacent her vagina drives me wild. Oh, and the way she always bites her lips when she orgasms, how she loves it from behind? And that little trick she does with her fingers? Pure talent. "
No sooner had the words left his lips Brian was consumed with regret. He had portrayed Trista to be some cheap fuck, and she was anything but to him. She was his everything.
Directly across from him, Darien placed his clenched fists into his pockets and reminded himself to continue breathing. Those intimae details Brian had just shared about Trista were indeed very accurate. He knew exactly what 'trick' she performed with her fingers. It was blatantly clear what Dr. Tomei was trying to do. But what was even more evident was the fact that underneath his bullshit of a façade, he had true feelings for Trista. This affair had not just been four years of random sexual rendezvous. Tomei was not fooling anyone but himself.
"Maybe you have done all those things to my wife, or, maybe you just have one hell of an active imagination. Either way, you still haven't answered my question. How did it feel seeing her run back to me time and time again? You stand here and tell me how much you've fucked her, but what you really need to be saying is exactly how you felt every time she would tell you that she had to go home to her husband and her children. What you really need to be saying Dr. Tomei, is how it feels to wholeheartedly want someone else for such a long time knowing that they had no intentions of ever really being yours. You were nothing but a piece of ass on the side for her pleasure."
Brian's reaction was instantaneous. No sooner than the last syllable had left Darien's lips, he found himself mere centimeters from the taller man, teeth bared. A low growl emitted from the back of his throat.
"You know nothing!"
Time seemed to pause as the angered tone of Tomei's voice echoed through the now still hallway. Onlookers stopped in their tracks and finally registered the stance and proximity of the two very powerful men.
"You think Trista actually still loves you? Then you're a bigger fool than I ever gave you credit for being."
The warmth of the good doctor's breath on his face alerted Darien of his own subconscious shift towards the shorter man.
"That's a lot coming from a man who willingly slept with a married woman for four years hoping she'd leave her family for him. You're disgusting. And desperate. That's why you sent her those pictures, didn't you? Were you hoping it would finally give her cause to leave me for you?"
The change in Dr. Tomei's expression lasted for all of a millisecond, but it was enough time for Darien to see the truth as clear as day. He unexpectedly erupted into a boisterous laughter that eventually brought tears to his eye. Struggling to catch his breath, his laughter caught in his throat as he took in the now enraged face of Dr. Tomei.
"My God. Does the irony of this entire situation not amuse you? You send my wife pictures hoping to end my marriage, but instead she gets hit by a truck, goes into a coma, and has absolutely no recollection of who you are six month later. Karma, man, karma is a bitch. Isn't she doc?"
Darien looked down at the older man, all traces of his amusement completely gone. Tomei's selfish actions had caused irreversible damage to the people that were the closest to his heart. He would never be able to take away the suffering that his children endured for the last six months. Trista and Serena could've both been killed, and over what? Getting his adulterous wife, who he would've gladly left had he known of her infidelity, to leave him? He was absolutely furious.
Darien's words felt like knives piercing through Brian's now fragile heart. He hated to admit it to himself, but Shields had definitely struck him where it would hurt the most. He hadn't meant for things to play out the way that they did. He hadn't wanted anyone, most of all Trista, to get hurt. He just wanted her to see reason. Her 'perfect' husband wasn't as perfect as she thought. He wanted her to see that it was time to move on, possibly for both their sakes. But his actions had indeed almost led to her death, the death of their child, and now the best four years of his life ceased to exist within her memories. He felt the tears forming at the sides of his eyes, but try as he might, he could do nothing to stop them. He didn't know how to deal with regret. It wasn't an emotion he had frequently experienced in the past. Collecting himself, he stared Sheilds square in the eyes.
"You don't deserve her. She's the most amazing, gifted, intellectually driven, and loving woman I have ever met in my life. And she deserves so much more that the likes of you, trying to stifle her growth. You will never understand Trista the way I do; you can't. She's priceless. And no woman, not even that young slut you were fucking, will ever measure up to her."
"You keep her out of your fucking mouth!"
Brian released a short gasp as the force of Shield's hand, now securely wrapped around the front of his shirt, pulled him forward. A sinister smile formed on his face as he looked up into stormy blue eyes. Anger, now anger was an emotion he was very familiar with.
Darien's voice was threateningly low.
"Don't you ever, ever, speak about her that way. Or by God I'll-"
"You'll what? It's very interesting that I stood here and explained to you in explicit details the numerous times that I've fucked your wife, and you didn't lift a finger towards me. But now, one mention of your little mistress and you're—oomph!"
He heard the scream from one of their many spectators before he felt the impact of the blow that Darien had aimed for his right eye. The pain was so intense it left him stumbling backwards as he tried to regain his bearings. As the bright lights started to subside and he looked passed the throbbing pain, he realized that another fist was now heading for the left side of his face. Brian's fight or flight response was instantaneous.
With speed and strength he didn't know he possessed he avoided the incoming blow and proceeded to tackle the taller man to the floor. Darien, completely fueled by anger, trapped Tomei within a headlock as they fell to the floor. Around them, a small crowd had gathered as someone called for security.
Spectators looked on, camera phones in hand as both men struggled for dominance of the fight. Brian internally roared as his fist finally connected with the left side of Shields' face. He had wanted to do that for a very, very, long time.
Darien managed to finally pin the smaller man beneath him and begun swinging in blind rage. He thought of his girls and the nightmare they had been living for the last six months. He thought of Trista's infidelity and her nonchalance to their marriage over the last few years. He thought of the lost baby he had mourned, who in all reality was probably not his own. And as they always did, his thoughts lingered on Serena. He had almost lost her forever. She could have died, he had ruined what should have been a happy college graduation for her, her reputation, and both their happiness. And all for what?
"Mr. Shields stop! You'll kill him!"
The cloud of red over Darien's pupils slowly lifted as he was pulled off the body of the battered man beneath him and away from the enclosing crowd. Strong arms grabbed his torso from behind and he couldn't help but struggle to break free. He wasn't done with Tomei. The bastard had a lot more coming to him!
Brian shrugged off the assisting hand of the security guard and struggled to his feet. There was not a single spot on his face that did not hurt. The coppery taste of blood overwhelmed his taste buds, and he bitterly spat out a mouthful of the red fluid. He was absolutely mortified. Sheilds would pay for this.
A few feet away Darien welcomed the satisfaction he felt at seeing the severely bruised and bloody face of the man being held back in front of him. The flashing of lights in his peripheral vision finally alerted him of the rather large crowd that had gathered, camera phones in hand. He was beyond caring at the moment. He ceased struggling and stared down the glaring physician.
"You are no longer a member of my wife's medical team. You will have absolutely no contact with her while she is here in this hospital. When she has clearance from her neurologist, I will have her transported to the states for further treatment and follow up. And I will be repaying the hospital a large donation in the sum of all her medical expenses since the accident. We don't want nor need your 'generosity'."
Brian charged forward but was held back by the large man shadowing him.
"That is not your call to make! Trista is perfectly competent and can make her own decisions about her medical care. And neither you, or this entire fucking hospital can keep me from her!"
He angrily swept away some of the blood exiting from his mouth on his sleeve.
"I damn well can and I will. Just fucking watch me Tomei."
He turned to leave but was stopped by the enraged voice of Tomei behind him.
"You have no fucking idea who you're dealing with Shields. On my mother's grave, you have not seen nearly the amount of destruction I can bring into your life and the life of your little slut!"
Darien blindly charged forward, but was successfully retained by the two men behind him. When he had finally calmed he again faced the shorter man.
"I assure you, I see you for exactly what you are. Your threats don't scare me. And I give absolutely no fucks about anything that leaves your fucked up mouth right now. You know why? I'm going to leave this hospital with my wife, knowing that she has absolutely no memory of who you are. Ponder on that tonight while you're icing what's left of your face."
With those words he shrugged off the hands of the men detaining him and turned in the direction of the hospital room that contained his family.
"I'm warning you Sheilds! I know things! Things that you don't even know! Don't fucking test me! Don't fucking test me!"
Darien looked back as Dr. Tomei was again restrained, a crazed expression covering his face.
As quickly as he had looked back, his head again turned in the direction of Trista's hospital room. He was done with Tomei and his empty threats. It was time to get his girls home.
Around him, the blinking red lights of the camera phones kept right on blinking…
Across the island…
"Momma!"
Irene Charles had been in the process of peeling potatoes for lunch when the distressed sound of her daughter's voice reached her in the kitchen. In the next instant the potato in her hand was forgotten as she raced toward Serena's voice. With her due date two days away, they both knew the baby could come at any moment.
"I'm coming honey! Mommy's com-"
She stopped in her tracks as she took in the rather amusing position she found her daughter in. Serena was lying on her bed, struggling to sit up against her very huge pregnant belly. She couldn't help the few giggles that managed to escape her lips.
Serena disapprovingly looked up at her mother.
"This is not funny! I've been trying to sit up for the last five minutes!"
Irene gently grabbed her daughter's arm and waist and guided her into a sitting position.
"Of course not honey. I wasn't laughing. I was uh, clearing my throat."
She ignored the glare that Serena was sending her way.
When she was comfortably seated in the upright position Serena released a sigh of content.
"Thank you. I don't know how much longer I can take being like this. I'm tired all the time, my back hurts, my feet are swollen, and I feel like a hippo. Little man is too comfortable in there for his own good."
Irene soothingly rubbed her daughter on the back.
"I know honey, I know. Believe me, those last few days can be some of the toughest on your body, but when you finally see your little prince, it'll all be worth it. I'm sure he'll be here any day now."
She pulled her into a tight hug, which Serena really appreciated. She was forever grateful for the support of her mother and her friends, but no one could fill the void that Darien's absence created. She had decided that it was in his best interest to keep the pregnancy away from him for the time being. Trista hadn't shown any signs of waking up since she had been at home. Darien's position essentially had not changed since they had made their agreement. As much as she wanted him back in her life and involved with their pregnancy, it would not be a wise move at this time.
The warmth of her mother's body slowly pulled away from her.
"Do you need me to help with anything else before I get back to lunch?"
"No Momma I'm fine. Lunch smells delicious. I can't wait. Well, he can't wait."
They both laughed as the baby's kick caused Serena's belly to protrude beneath her shirt.
Irene lightly kissed her daughter's cheek and headed back to the kitchen. She had been praying non-stop for a safe delivery and healthy baby. She worried for Serena. The need to be discrete had kept her indoors way more than she would've liked, but they couldn't risk her pregnancy being discovered. She would be happy when she could go out undisguised and enjoy herself with her friends again.
Back in her bedroom, Serena was in the process of walking to the bathroom for the hundredth time that morning when her phone sounded off on her bed. Turning around she picked up the device. Her caller ID showed that Raye was calling. They were supposed to meet up to watch movies with the girls later on that day.
"Hey Raye, what's up?"
"Serena turn your TV to channel five right now!"
"Why, what's going on?"
"Just do it and you'll see!"
Picking up her remote she turned her television to the local channel.
She stared at what appeared to be a video recording of two men fighting.
"Raye, I don't get it. Why-"
"Just keep watching!"
She watched on as the brawling men were pulled apart from each other. In a moment of clarity, Darien's face finally came into view and she couldn't help the gasp that escaped her lips.
"Oh my God! That's Darien! Raye, what's going on?"
"Turn up your TV!"
Following instructions Serena turned up the volume of her television set and moved closer to the screen.
" Yes, what you thought you just saw is indeed real! Video footage of Darien Shields, multi-millionaire and local celebrity crush engaged in physical combat with whom we have now identified as his wife's physician. According to our sources and witnesses at the scene, Shields discovered a long-standing affair between his wife, who has finally awakened from her coma, and the renowned Dr. Tomei this morning. Tune in to "What's the Bizz?" at 7pm tonight for more details on this developing story! We've got witnesses, anonymous sources, audio, and so much more in store! You won't want to miss out!"
Serena continued to stare at the television screen, the images and words she had just heard playing over and over in her head.
"Serena?"
Trista was awake.
"Serena?"
Trista had been having an affair.
"Serena!"
Darien found out about the affair and decided to fight the man?
"Serena oh my god are you okay?"
The concern in Raye's voice finally roused her from her dream like state.
"I'm sorry Raye. I'm okay. I'm just a little shocked."
Raye's response was sympathetic. On top of everything Serena had been dealing with over the course of the last year, she didn't need any additional stress so close to her due date.
"I can understand that. I didn't mean to call you like that, but I wanted you to hear it from me first. It's gonna be all over the island in the next few hours."
"I know. And thank you for calling me."
The soft tone of Serena's voice left an unsettling feeling in the pit of Raye's stomach.
"Serena, I know this is a lot to take in. Please talk to me."
Serena slowly descended onto her bed. What was she thinking? What wasn't she thinking?
"I'm not sure where I should start Raye. I'm very happy that Trista is awake. Darien and the kids must be so relieved. I'm relieved."
Raye remained silent, hoping that Serena would take that as a cue to continue.
"I'm just very surprised. Trista supposedly having an affair herself is unexpected. I mean, her marriage with Darien wasn't the best, but I never imagined she was seeing someone else herself."
"I know. This is wild."
"Yeah. Darien isn't a violent man either. I'm not sure what to make of the fact that he decided to fight that doctor. He must've been pretty upset."
Raye found herself nodding on the other side of the phone. Serena's reaction made a lot of sense. If she were in her place, she would be questioning just how deep Darien's feelings for his wife ran too.
"I'm sure there's a lot more to this story than we know. You know how sketchy 'What's the Bizz?' can be. It'll be interesting to hear the entire story tonight."
"Yeah, it will be. Hey Raye I've gotta go. My bladder is about to explode. Thank you for calling me about this. I'll see you girls later."
"Alright Serena. If you ever need to talk, I'm only a phone call and a few miles away, okay?"
"I know Raye. Thank you. Bye."
After she had voided her bladder of its contents Serena found herself on her balcony, gazing out at the ocean in deep thought.
She was truly happy and immensely relieved that Trista was awake.
Though she had not been the one to initiate the fight, she had been consumed with guilt every day since the accident. The thought of those girls possibly losing their mother had haunted her for months. No child should have to go through life without its mother. She was very happy for both their sakes and Darien's.
Darien's reaction to this alleged affair however, produced feelings within herself that she wished she could've stifled. It was understandable that he would be upset, but to publicly batter the man? Maybe he wasn't as prepared to let go of his marriage with Trista as he thought. She clearly still meant a lot to him. In light of the fact that they had been having an affair themselves, his reaction was highly hypocritical. It was also rather hurtful.
She sighed, annoyed with the tears that were threatening to build within her blue orbs. Damn pregnancy hormones. They had made agreements to cease all contact while Trista was still in the coma, but now that she was awake, they seemed even further away from ever being together. The public was going to tear this new information apart. This was all so much. Did he even want to be with her anymore?
She shook her head against those unwanted thoughts. Of course he did. He was taking care of his family as any respectable man placed in his predicament would. It was one of the many reasons why she had fallen in love with him to begin with. He was very committed to the good welfare of his family. His reaction to this entire situation was hard to swallow, but she loved him and would always give him the benefit of the doubt. There was probably a lot more to the situation than they all knew.
Her eyes connected with her very pregnant abdomen. Except, they had their own family now. At any given day their son would be making his entrance into the world, but his father would not be there to greet him. And she was more torn than ever over her decision not to inform him. Knowing Darien, there would be no separating him from his son as soon as he became aware. And more than anything in the world, she wanted him there to share in the birth of their child. Their son, this wonderful little person that they had created together that would forever connect them to each other. She sighed as the warmth of the mid afternoon sun dried up the few stray tears that had managed to escape down her face. When were they finally going to get their break?
Later that night 'What's the Bizz?' experienced record high ratings as the citizens of the island tuned in for the long awaited details on the Shields fiasco.
Serena sat amongst her friends, their eyes all glued to the television screen as the commentators revealed the specifics surrounding the events from earlier that day.
She watched with a heavy heart as Darien pounded Dr. Tomei into a bloody pulp.
The promised "audio" was for the most unintelligible, but the brief pieces that were translated definitely suggested that the men had been arguing over Trista. Dr. Tomei, whatever his relationship with Dr. T, seemed to really care about her and really despise Darien.
Spectators at the scene who were interviewed gave accounts of the words they believed were being exchanged between the two men. One man reassured with 100% certainty that while the argument had stemmed from a newly discovered long-term affair between the two physicians, Tomei's derogatory language towards Darien's "other woman" had led to the actual fight. This of course led to a whole new array of speculations and questions that had Serena sinking further into her seat.
What other woman? Were they talking about her? Had Darien been seeing someone else?
The host expressed her uncertainty in believing that Darien had begun seeing someone new. The media had kept close tabs on him and his family since the accident, and as far as everyone knew, he had remained committed to taking care of his family while his wife was comatose. In addition, there had not been any reports of outings with any women. Serena internally sighed with relief. Of course, this would probably lead people to believe that this alleged woman was indeed still her, but she would take that versus finding out that Darien had been seeing someone else any day.
She couldn't help the flutters in her chest as she watched him adjust his clothing while walking away from the tattered physician. He looked so confident and dangerous. God she missed him.
Dr. Tomei's crazed expression and threats left her terribly uneasy. It suddenly dawned on her that he might have been the source of the pictures that led to her confrontation with Trista. It really made perfect sense. He had a motive and the means to have someone follow them even across the Caribbean. Under those circumstances, Darien's reaction to the entire situation was much more justifiable. Or so she convinced herself, because the alternative was a much harder pill to swallow.
The publicity from the fight unfortunately meant that the Shields family was again the hot topic around the island. This meant extended media coverage and a lack of privacy. Serena shuddered as she recalled the first few weeks after the accident. They had all been under constant surveillance. Given her current condition, she prayed that she would not be pulled into the limelight this time around. With her due date so close and no signs of labor, her doctor had informed her that there was a possibility her labor would need to be induced. An induction would have to happen at the hospital, and that was the last place she wanted to be at the moment.
After the show her friends had huddled around her with concern. She expressed her concerns with possibly having to go to the hospital, but reassured them that she was otherwise in good spirits despite the recent developments. She opted not to reveal her speculation about and the pictures because she honestly had no proof was just too tired. They had come too far and sacrificed too much to give up now. She would deal with all the additional drama later on. Her son would have a normal, peaceful delivery away from the eyes of the wandering public. She would do everything within her power to ensure it.
The following evening…
Brian Tomei slowly trudged down the barren halls of his home in deep thought. He had been pacing non-stop for the last hour. The last 36 hours had been absolute hell. The media had been absolutely unforgiving since his fight with Sheilds. After leaving the hospital he had been questioned and followed like a hawk. The medical director had even gone out of his way to 'recommend' he take some time off. Ha. They both knew that there was no telling him to do anything he didn't want to do. His influence and power within the hospital was just too great. If he decided to leave, the hospital was essentially doomed and they both knew it. Nonetheless, he decided that taking some time off to regroup and formulate a new plan of action was not a bad idea. Plus, he had needed to tend to his wounds. He winced as he lightly made contact with his swollen right eye. The pictures of his wounded face were probably still circulating the Internet.
He paused in his step as he took in the broken materials loitering his kitchen floor. Racking his mind, he could not remember a single moment in his life where he had been angrier than he was when he had first stepped into the private walls of his home. And he had unfortunately chosen to take out all that bent up anger on the expensive china within his kitchen. No matter. China was easily replaceable.
He had just gotten off the phone with his good friend, who just happened to be Trista's chief neurologist. Per his final assessment, Trista seemed to be suffering from some sort of retrograde amnesia. Her ability to form new memories was completely intact, but many of her old memories, and curiously many of the memories associated to and leading to the accident just weren't there. He also proposed that Trista's brain might have chosen to suppress the memories surrounding the traumatic experience. Overall, he was about 65% confident that she would regain her memories, but it would take time and a gradual reintroduction to some of the things she did not remember. There was danger in pushing too much too soon onto her as her brain continued to recover.
Pondering on this new information, he tiptoed around the shattered pieces of china in the kitchen to pour himself a glass of whiskey. Sipping on the amber liquid had always helped the flow of his thoughts. The way he saw it he currently had two major problems. The first one circled around Darien Shields and his recent assault. If he chose to take the bastard to court he was fairly confident that he would win. But there were things, such as his role in sending those pictures to Trista, that he simply did not want revealed within the judicial system or to the public. If Shields chose to fight back with all that he had, which he suspected he would, his own reputation could suffer. And if Trista were to learn that information, it would be from him and no other source. At most Shields would be charged with some senseless fine, and he had no desire for his money. What he wanted was for the bastard to hurt in the worst way possible. And Serena Charles was the key to accomplishing that goal.
He was certain given Shields' reaction during their fight he was still very much in love with the young woman. Brian shook his head in frustration. There was no way to know with 100% certainty that the child had been Shield's, but he was fairly confident. However, he had no information available on her current status. Had she chosen to keep the child? And if yes, where were she and the child today? Was Shields aware of all this? Somehow, he highly doubted it. The man he had seen almost on a weekly basis in the hospital for the last six months was not a man expecting a baby with a woman he loved, despite Trista's condition.
Realistically, he could easily get his private investigator to figure out the girl's whereabouts. But there was a tiny part of him, that one area of light within his dark heart that questioned if he really wanted to know that information. Was he truly malicious enough to feed that young girl and possibly a newborn to the wolves again just to get back at Shields? She had almost lost her life after Trista's assault, which he had indirectly played a role in orchestrating. And there was now the possibility of another innocent child that he would involve in this mess. Seeing the twins struggle with the state of their mother and the harassment from the media over the last six months had truly tugged at his heart.
There was also the small possibility of losing his license if the releasing of the girl's pregnancy was ever traced back to him. Violating a patient's privacy in that matter could be the end of his career.
He sighed as his thoughts drifted back to Trista. She had made him want to be a better man. There were things he had done before she entered his barren life that he never wanted her to know about. In her eyes, he saw her open love and admiration. If she ever regained her memories, would she ever forgive him for committing such an atrocious act? Would her eyes still hold those feelings for him?
The grandfather clock within the dining room sounded off in the distance. Brian glanced down at his phone, surprised at the late hour. It was already 12:00 am and he had no desire to sleep. He needed to clear his mind and there was only one person in the entire world that could help him with this task. Picking up his keys, he headed over to the Emerson hospital...
He had always preferred the hospital at night. Walking down the quiet halls of the ward that would lead him to Trista, he found comfort in the almost melodic sounds of the various patient alarms. As he approached the room he took note of a lone figure standing outside the door. Shield's threats from earlier surfaced in his mind, and he couldn't help the smirk that covered his face. So the bastard actually thought that placing a security guard outside her room would be enough to keep him away?
Adorned in his white coat, he stopped in front of the rather large man.
"Good evening, I'm one of the physicians taking care of Dr. Shields. And you are sir?"
"Wilson. I'm with Spartan Security."
Brian fought not to wince at the slightly painful handshake.
"Good to meet you Wilson. I had heard there would be new security detail with Dr. Sheilds. I just wasn't aware that it would be starting so soon. I'm Dr. Rivers, one of her neurologists. I noticed some unusual activity on her monitor and decided to come check on her."
Wilson's skepticism was blatantly displayed on his face. He removed a piece of paper from his pocket that he quickly scanned before readdressing the physician in front of him.
"I'm sorry, but you're not on the list. Mr. Shields has left a list of physicians, nurses, physical therapists and other hospital personnel that may enter his wife's room. I can't let you enter. Boss's orders."
And just like that Brian's non-existent patience dissipated. He had been tried one too many times for one day.
"Listen you oversized baboon. You will let me enter this room to see my patient right this minute. You have no idea who you're dealing with. I will make whatever measly bit of change you're making from this job look like a fortune after I'm done with you and you can't gain any employment on this damn island. I really advise you to reconsider."
Wilson chuckled as he stepped forward.
"Judging by the looks of your face, I'd wager that mouth of yours gets you into trouble quite often. And I'm no fool Dr. Tomei. Yeah I know who you are. I was just playing along for the ride. I saw that video of Mr. Shields whooping your ass just like everyone else on this island. Seems like you haven't had enough, but I'd be glad to pick up where he left off. I don't take lightly to threats."
Being reminded of his earlier confrontation with Sheilds only fueled his anger. He pushed forward towards the towering man.
"I'm not going to ask you again. Move."
"Why don't you make me?"
"Fine. Have it your way you-"
"Dr. Tomei! I mean, Brian. What a pleasant surprise. I thought I heard your voice out here."
Both men turned in the direction of the now ajar hospital door.
Wilson was the first to move.
"I'm sorry Mrs. Shields. Did we wake you?"
Trista adjusted her hospital robe. She had lost so much weight that everything seemed just too big on her. Brian watched, transfixed by the swinging of her hair as she gently shook her head.
"No. I've been asleep for the last six month. I've had absolutely no desire to sleep since I woke up. "
She smiled at the 'gentle giant' as she had come to call him in her mind since their first meeting the day before. Wilson couldn't help but smile back. He quite secretly adored Trista Shields.
"Well that just makes perfect sense to me. "
Her hazel eyes slowly shifted over to Dr. Tomei.
"Now Brian. What brings you to these parts at this late hour?"
Clearing his throat he took a small step forward.
"We didn't get the opportunity to follow up after your initial assessment yesterday. I was on call and decided to see if you were awake."
Trista smiled, seeing right through the good doctor's lie. She had actually been looking forward to seeing him again and had been very disappointed at the end of the day.
"Well I am wide awake. I'd love to follow up. Please, come in."
Stepping into the hospital room she signaled Brian to follow. Wilson immediately moved to block his passage.
"I'm sorry Mrs. Shields, but your husband gave clear instructions that only certain physicians were allowed to see you. Dr. Tomei is not one of those physicians. I can't allow him entrance to your room."
In the blink of an eye Trista had again exited the hospital room. Wilson fought not to cower under her reprimanding gaze.
"Wilson, do you consider me to be an incompetent person?"
He couldn't help but take a few steps backwards.
"Of course not Mrs. Shields. I think you're a very intelligent woman. It's just that Mr. Shields insisted-"
Trista smiled up at the large man.
"Do you see Mr. Shields anywhere around here Wilson?"
"Well no, but-"
"No buts. I appreciate you doing your job, and I would never do anything to jeopardize that. But I am a grown woman, and quite competent according to my neurologist. "
Wilson nervously looked away.
"Tell you what, if you don't tell him anything, I won't. Do we have a deal?"
After a brief surveillance of the area and a frown to Dr. Tomei, his gaze resettled on hers.
She knew she had won him over.
"I don't like this, but okay. If I see anything or hear anything funny, he has to leave. And he gets one hour. "
Soft hands gently settled on his forearm, and Wilson couldn't help but blush under the warm smile of the woman before him.
"Deal. Thank you Wilson. I really appreciate you doing this for me."
Brian watched, enthralled with the entire ordeal. It was somewhat comforting to know that he was not the only man under Trista's spell.
"Well? You heard the man . We've got one hour. Come on in."
Roused from his thoughts, he followed her into the lavish hospital room, pausing for a millisecond to scowl at the brute of a man.
When Trista was comfortably seated on her bed, her attention returned to the rather awkward looking physician sitting on the chair across from her. She fought not to giggle. He looked cute all nervous like that.
" So I had a rather intricate conversation with Dr. Rivers today and he told me all about my test results, scans, his assessment, and prognosis of my retrograde amnesia."
Brian couldn't help but smile. She had always been very straight and to the point.
"Good. I hope he was able to address all your concerns."
Her frown was instantaneous.
"Not nearly. However, I think he did the best he could with the information he had available. You know what I've been thinking all day though?"
"I haven't the slightest clue."
Placing her elbows on her knees she leaned forward, unsuccessfully ignoring the flutter in her chest at seeing the soft smile on the face of the mysterious man in front of her.
"I've been thinking that you may be the one with the answers."
Brian shifted in his chair.
"What makes you think that?"
"Let's not kid each other here Brian. I find out that you've been one of the lead physicians on my case since the accident, but the day I wake up you're no longer on my team? What in the world is going on between you and Darien? Why doesn't he want you involved with my care?"
Leaning back onto the bed she decided she wouldn't include the part that she just couldn't help feeling like they knew each other very well, that she had been getting butterflies in her stomach every time her eyes set sight on him.
"All good questions. You were always so perceptive. I'll answer your questions to the best of my abilities. I promise. "
The warmth within her stomach radiated as he focused those beautiful violet eyes on hers with another smile.
"But first, tell me about your first day back with the living."
The melodious sound of her laughter traveled through the room and permeated his very heart.
"Back with the living? Really Dr. Tomei? I wasn't dead."
"Brian Trista. Call me Brian."
"Right, Brian."
One last giggle escaped despite her best efforts, causing a few strands of her hair to fall on her face. She instinctively tucked the loose strands behind her ear.
"It's gotten so long."
She barely heard his soft whisper. When she looked up he was seemingly transfixed on the hair she was softly stroking with her fingers.
"It has, hasn't it? It's down to the back of my knees now. I'll have to call my hair stylist to come into the hospital at some point tomorrow. I don't like to wear it any longer than-"
"Your lower back. I know."
They connected eyes in the dimly lit room then. She wanted to ask how he knew such an intimate detail about her, but a part of her felt like she already knew the answer to that question. And the other part, well it was afraid to find out. Clearing her throat, she decided that answering his question was an easier course of action.
"It's been a pretty good first day back. I spent the entire day with the girls. They had so much to tell me. They even spoke about you."
"Did they now? I hope all good things."
He listened attentively about the details of her day. Every now and again they both erupted into laughter on the twins' account. Brian silently admitted to himself that getting to know the twins over the last six months was perhaps the only positive thing that came from Trista's accident. He had always wanted to meet the dynamic duo. Trista's stories about them had left him intrigued, but it had been impossible to formulate a stable relationship with them while they had been having their affair.
Afterwards she spoke of her visits with her various doctors and her time with her physical therapist. As expected, she was rather weak. Her muscles had atrophied after six months of no use, but they would work to get her back to normal strength. When she expressed her distress at having a wardrobe full of designer clothing that could no longer fit and how 'horrible' it would be to go shopping for a brand new wardrobe, he couldn't help laugh out loud. He knew better than anyone else that she was a true fashionista at heart. God bless anyone who got in her way during that shopping spree.
Glancing down at his watch, he realized with some dismay that 30 minutes had already passed. When spending time with Trista the clock seemingly always went into an accelerated mode. Her voice suddenly drew her from his thoughts.
"And that pretty much wraps up my day. Now, your turn. You didn't answer my question from earlier yesterday either, so you can start there. What's our deal?"
"Our deal?"
"Yes, our deal. I may not be a genius here, but it's not hard to piece together that there is more to our relationship than meets the eye."
Brian should not have been caught off guard with the frank nature of Trista's questioning, but he was. This was a very delicate issue that was still very painful. But a promise was a promise. He would answer her within reason, but she was not mentally prepared for the full truth on the nature of their relationship. It would be too much too soon. In time, as her memories hopefully returned he would tell her everything.
" Don't sell yourself short my dear. You are every bit a genius."
Her cheeks blossomed with a red hue at his words, causing him to smile.
"As for 'our deal', we met over four years ago during a consult. I don't know, we just really clicked."
"We just clicked huh..."
"Yep. We work well together in the OR and get along great outside of it. And let me tell you, I can count on less than five fingers the number of people in this hospital I can even tolerate being in the same room with, so that's saying a lot. "
She laughed.
"Somehow that's very believable. You seem like a bit of a loner."
I was before I met you.
"I kinda am."
Trista ignored the soft confession. There was something about Brian Tomei admitting that he lived a lonely life that made her want to reach out to him.
"So I get that we've got a great working relationship. Please forgive me if I in any way or form insult you with this question, but uh, was that it?"
It took everything in him to hold back the smile forming on his lips.
"What do you mean, 'was that it?' "
Her eyes immediately fell to her hands.
"Well, I just can't shake this feeling that you and I know each other rather…intimately for a lack of a better word. Then there's the whole situation with Darien not liking you, and it's like everyone tenses up when I mention your name. I mean, it's all rather confusing. I'm still married and I love my husband, but if I didn't know better I would think that – "
She paused in her tracks and momentarily connected eyes with the now very focused physician.
"You would think what Trista?"
If she didn't know any better, she might've believed that her heart stopped beating in that instant. The intensity in his eyes and voice as he asked that question was overwhelmingly electrifying.
"Um, nothing. I think I'm still just trying to reorient myself. Everything is still so hazy. I just suspected that we were close friends. Seems like I was right."
She forced a smile to her face then, a smile that Brian could not find it within himself to return. His hopes had just been crushed for the hundredth time that day.
A soft knock at the door drew their attention. Wilson did a quick onceover of the room before curtly informing the pair that it was time for Dr. Tomei to depart. As quickly as he had come, he exited the room. Trista couldn't help the sadness that filled her then, and she wondered if the man before her was feeling the same. She was not ready for him to say goodbye. She wanted to know more about the mystery that was Brian Tomei. He intrigued and fascinated her.
"I guess I should get going before King Kong comes back in here to drag me out."
Her soft giggles made him smile.
"King Kong? Really?"
"What? You don't see the resemblance?"
Shaking her head, she tightened the robe around her as she prepared to step off the hospital bed.
"No, I don't. He's a very nice and handsome young man."
"Who you've already got wrapped around your pinky finger."
Her grin widened then.
"I have no idea what you're talking about. Come on, I'll walk you out."
Lost in the playful moment she hopped off the hospital bed, forgetting for that split instant that her musculoskeletal system was still rather weak after six months of no use. Before she knew it her knees had buckled beneath her, and she braced herself for the imminent fall against the hard floor.
But the impact never came.
With just mere centimeters separating her face and the floor, she gasped as strong arms encircled her torso.
Brian tightened his arms around the familiar, but small body like his life depended on it. He had foreseen her fall and acted on instinct. Before he knew what he was doing, he was cradling Trista within his arms. The fear that had consumed him at the thought of her possibly hurting herself, especially with another blow to her cranium, had been terrifying. Quickly pulling her upright he settled her on her feet, giving her a quick once over as he tightly held onto her shoulders.
"Are you alright Tris? Does it hurt anywhere?"
Trista stared back at the concerned eyes in front of her, almost in a state of shock. In those beautiful violet eyes she saw genuine concern and immense fear.
'Tris?'
A fleeing memory flashed before her eyes. She saw herself standing in front of a beaming Brian. He looked genuinely happy as he flipped through a patient's chart. Sensing her distraction his eye settled on hers. He exuded a warm aura that practically radiated through her. 'Tris, you're not listening to me are you?' She watched the image of herself in confusion as she playfully tried to lie her way out of the situation. But he just laughed. It was a melodious sound that made her hearth clench.
A gentle nudge drew her from the memory, and concerned violent eyes again appeared before her.
"Trista please answer me. Are you ok?"
Regaining her focus she forced a small smile to her face, knowing it would comfort the man before her. And a part of her desperately wanted to see him comforted, though she was unsure why.
"I'm okay. This will take some getting used to. Thank you for catching me. How in the world did you move so fast? You're not part cat are you?"
Brian chuckled as he regretfully released the soft shoulders he had been holding on to.
" No, not part feline. I actually have you to thank for my cat-like reflexes. I'm not sure if you remember this, but you're a tad bit of a klutz. Let's just say I catch you often."
The blood rushed straight to her face.
"I am not!"
He laughed then, a genuine laugh that made her stomach flutter. Who was Brian Tomei? Who was this genius of a man with a personal nickname for her that 'caught her often'?
Crossing her arms along her chest, she put on her best angry pout.
Brian stopped laughing, his smile growing as he observed her 'upset' expression and body language.
"Aw, you look so cute all pouty like that."
Purely out of muscle memory, he reached forward to gently tuck a few loose strands of her soft hair behind her ear. The action brought them within centimeters of each other, and the playful atmosphere in the room was instantly a thing of the past.
Trista found herself even more confused at her body's instinctive reaction. She felt the acceleration in her heart rate, the anticipatory feeling that radiated from the core of her lower abdomen, and the sense of complete awareness as she watched the fast rise and fall of Brian's chest. Finally gathering enough courage, she looked up into smoldering violet eyes. Subconsciously her tongue shyly slid out of her mouth to moisten her dry lips, an action that she was unaware she had always done right before the man before her had claimed her lips within his own.
But Brian did notice. And his body was very aware. He fought not to groan as he felt himself harden at the sight. He would give anything in the world to just grab her face and show her just how much he had missed her over the last six months. But he reminded himself that while her body may remember him, her mind did not. Making the wrong move this early could ruin any potential relationship with her. But still…Her desire was blatantly displayed in those confused hazel eyes as she starred up at him. His eyes drifted to her slightly parted pink lips. They looked, so soft, so moist, so… kissable. He subconsciously leaned forward. Her ragged breathing engulfed his senses. God he needed this. And somehow he knew deep down, she did as well. Eyes locked, he gently cupped the side of her face. Her breathing quickened, but she made no move to stop him. Taking that as affirmation his right hand gently pulled her flush against his body.
This time, he couldn't hold back the low groan that escaped his lips. Trista audibly gasped at the unexpected contact. The fire that had been simmering in her stomach was set aflame and raged through her body. She was burning everywhere that their bodies touched. She couldn't think. She was on a delirious high. How was this possible? She didn't know it could be like this. God who was this man?
Brian groaned as she leaned her soft body further into his solid frame. Without a second thought he leaned down and gently captured her lips in his own. He was a lost man. Lost in the euphoria that was Trista Shields. Her taste engulfed his senses, and he drank of her like a man that hadn't drank anything for days. Pulling her closer his hand slipped into her soft tresses. She purred in approval as her arms wound their way around his neck, putting the pair into even closer contact.
Their heads moved in synchrony as they expressed their desires for each other in the heated moment. Brian had always marveled at how in tuned his body had been with Trista's, and it was very evident that her body had not forgotten. She was his. She would always be his; even when she didn't even know it.
Every electrifying brush of their tongues, every caress, every heated moan left the pair closer to the edge. Without parting from the kiss, he took two hasty steps forward, bringing the back of Trista's legs in contact with her hospital bed. Still on the euphoric high, she slowly allowed her body to fall back onto the soft surface. Deep down in her heart she knew she should've stopped him, but she felt completely powerless to do. There was something about Brian Tomei that had drawn her in from their first encounter. It was now very apparent that there was a lot more to their past than the good doctor had led on. This, all of this, felt extremely familiar. They had done this before, perhaps many times given the ease in which their bodies moved with each other.
The need for air forced the pair to finally separate. Trista welcomed the pause as she struggled to catch her breath. She needed to know the truth. Staring into his violent eyes she cupped the side of his face, effectively fixating his gaze on hers.
"Who are you Brian? What are we? Please, tell me the truth."
He had never been able to deny her anything, and this time would be no exception. With a deep sigh he lifted himself off the warmth her body was providing and pulled her into a sitting position. Afterwards he sat besides her, contemplating the best manner to answer her question truthfully. He only hoped that it would not drive her away.
"Where do I start Tris? We-"
Knock knock knock
"Is everything okay in there Dr. Shields? Do you need me to come in?"
The physicians simultaneously looked towards the door before quickly placing some distance between their bodies. They had both forgotten Wilson standing at her door. Trista wondered if he had overheard anything. It was odd that he opted not to enter the room this time around, but she was thankful.
"I'm okay Wilson. Everything is fine."
"Yes ma'am. I'm sorry but he has to leave now. I don't want any trouble."
"Understandable. He was just on his way out."
"If he's not out in the next two minutes I'll have to escort him out of your room."
"That won't be necessary Wilson. Thank you. He will be departing shortly."
Taking that as his cue, Brian stood and quickly straightened out his clothing. He extended a hand to Trista and gently pulled her into a standing position.
"I guess it's time for me to go. I will stop by tomorrow and explain everything. You'll just need to pacify your guard dog out there again. You should get some sleep tonight. "
"I won't be here tomorrow. I'm sure you've heard that my father is very ill. I'm being air lifted to Maryland in the morning. I'll continue treatment there so we can be closer to him during the little time he has left."
His disappointment was blatantly displayed on his face, and despite the despair she felt at the imminent passing of her father, Trista found herself wishing she could stay.
"When will you be back?"
"I'm not sure. He's been in the ICU for a week now. At this point his prognosis isn't looking very good."
"I'm sorry Tris."
She looked up at him at the mention of her nickname.
"It'll be okay. Look, I don't know the exact details of our past relationship, but it's very obvious we weren't just 'colleagues'. "
"Very perceptive."
"My family needs me right now Brian. I've been in a coma for six months. My father is dying. My girls are still traumatized by this entire ordeal. And Darien… I-I have to put them first before I figure all of this out. This is all so much."
Soft fingers gently lifted her head to meet his gaze.
"I understand Trista. I truly do. Whenever you are ready, I will be waiting. I will not elaborate on what we are, but you should know that you are my everything. You are my world. I will wait forever if I have to."
With those words he leaned in to place a soft kiss on her cheek. Following the chaste kiss he promptly exited the room. She watched him go, trying to come to grips with the fact that she had likely been cheating on her husband. Were things that bad between her and Darien? Did he know? How long had this been going on? She hoped her memories would return soon. She needed details on what had transpired between her and both men. Regardless of whether her memories returned or not, she was confidant about one thing. Brian Tomei was not a man she would likely forget anytime soon.
As he walked down the silent halls of the hospital for the second time that morning, Brian felt a sense of peace that he hadn't for the last six months. Trista's amnesia was still a very troubling factor, but he now knew deep down that he would get her back. Her body certainly remembered, and her mind would be sure to follow. He was sure of it. Trista Shields was still, and would forever be, his.
One week later…
There was only so much that one man could take. Only so much, and Darien Shields was sure that he had passed that mark months ago.
The fading sunlight settled like a warm blanket over the grounds of the Meioh estate, and he watched in silence as the world fell into darkness. Within the mansion behind him his family slept, exhausted from everything that had transpired over the course of the last 24 hours.
They had arrived in Maryland just six days before. Mr. Meioh's condition had been as bleak as the doctors had explained over the phone. When they first saw him he was still unconscious and attached to more wires and tubes than Darien had imagined possible. His pale and thin body did not at all resemble the energetic man with a love for expensive cigars that they had all grown to love. Trista's mother had practically fallen over at first sight of her daughter conscious and in good health again. His heart went out to her. Having the lives of both her husband and only child on the line had seemingly aged her 10 years within the last year. The reunion had been heart breaking, and even he could not help the tears that threatened to collect in his blue orbs at Trista's sorrowful reunion with her father. Mr. Meioh's condition unfortunately only continued to worsen. By their third day, he was constantly receiving medications to keep his blood pressure and heart rate within normal ranges.
On day four, to the surprise of everyone his eyes had opened. In what could only be described as a miracle, Mr. Meioh seemingly did a complete 180. His lung function even improved to the point that he no longer required the ventilator. Though he was still weak, the old man had cried tears of joy himself at seeing his family collected at his bedside. When he was finally able to speak again, he spoke like a man aware of an imminent end. Darien had watched in silence as he seemingly said goodbye to the girls. When Trista finally approached her father, she tried to convince him that he was going to be okay, that he was going to outlive them all, but somehow he had known differently. Mr. Meioh had expressed with unrestrained tears how proud he was of his only child. Trista was his life, and he encouraged her to look after her mother after his time had come. Afterwards, they had all exited the room to give Mrs. Meioh some alone time with her husband. Fifteen minutes later she emerged from the hospital room, her eyes failing at holding back tears as her body silently shook with restrained grief.
At the old man's insistence Darien had been the last person to enter the room. As he expected, Mr. Meioh instructed him to take care of the family. He was now 'the alpha male', as he phrased it. Though he wanted to laugh and remark that they would soon be on a sailboat somewhere sharing a cigar, the solemnness in his voice had left him grounded. He gave wholehearted promises to take care of Mrs. Meioh, Trista, the girls, and the family businesses. His declaration seemed to appease the old man, who finally relaxed back into his bed. Tear filled hazel eyes connected with stormy blues, and for the first time Darien's own tears cascaded down his face. Cold clammy hands connected with his own, and Mr. Meioh' s raspy voiced had cracked as he reiterated how proud he was to call Darien his son. The action had left Darien immobilized as his own tears had increased. Mr. Meioh announced that he needed to rest, and the family silently exited the room after he was asleep.
That was the last time they would all see him awake. They had stayed within the confines of the hospital that night. Somehow, they had all know. At 2:00 am that morning his heart monitors alarmed, indicating that he had gone into cardiac arrest. Try as they might, the medical team simply could not resuscitate the old man. It was a traumatic scene to behold. After 20 minutes of CPR he was declared deceased. That was two days ago.
A sigh escaped his lips as he sat down on one of the plush balcony chairs. Once again, their worlds were saturated with sadness and grief. The girls were surprisingly handling the situation a lot better than he expected. Maybe he should've given them more credit for understanding the severity of their grandfather's condition. Kailie had surprised everyone at breakfast earlier in the day after commenting on how grateful she was that her grandpa was no longer having any pain. Indeed, his girls were growing up right before his eyes.
Mrs. Meioh on the other hand was every bit the grieving wife. It was blatantly obvious that she had not slept or eaten much since the passing of her husband. She consumed her time with arranging the funeral Mr. Meioh had requested. They all worried about her and tried to assist with the planning, but she insisted on planning every detail on her own. In some ways, he understood. This was the last task she would complete for him as his wife, and she deserved to do it all if she desired.
Trista now, was an entire different ordeal. She was coping just as bad, if not worse than her mother. She had always been a daddy's girl and it would be hard going forward knowing that her father was no longer there. Knowing that she had missed the last six months of his life was a hard pill to swallow. Even more so, her memories of their last few years together were still very hazy. He often found himself watching her, though his thoughts were always scattered. He fulfilled his duties as the man of the family and her husband to the extent that he could tolerate. But every time he looked at her, his mind was flooded with images of Brian Tomei and their infidelity.
Four years, four long years of living a lie. He had been cautioned by her neurologist not to reintroduce her to too much to soon. It could be 'detrimental to her recovery' he had said. And now her father had passed. He was angry, so angry, but he was not a heartless man. He would wait until the time was right to confront his adulterous wife. And this was unfortunately not the right time.
Thankfully she had been keeping her distance, which he had attributed to her grief. He didn't know what he would've done if she had attempted to be intimate with him. The girls had practically been glued to their mother's side since her awakening and now slept in their bed. It was the perfect excuse he gave for why he was sleeping in the spare bedroom. 'They have a lot of catching up to do with you', he had told her with a fake smile. She had easily bought into the excuse, causing him to wonder just how much she remembered about their marriage. One would think she would've argued that she needed to spend time with him as well, but whatever the reason for her lack of interest in him, he was thankful. This was not the appropriate time for addressing those issues. She deserved to grieve her father in peace. And there was no fucking way in hell he was ever touching her sexually again.
There were so many thoughts and restrained emotions in his head. He was so tired of the dismal state of his life. Trista's return to consciousness was supposed to be a happy transition for everyone. Never in a million years would he have guessed she had been having an affair, but in retrospect, it all made sense. He had been a trusting fool.
Picking up his phone, he leisurely scrolled through his contact list before stopping on Serena's name. It was perhaps the hundredth time he had done that action since acquiring her new phone number through his private investigator, but he always stopped himself before pressing the green call button. He had made a promise to her that he desperately wanted to keep. But it was now going on nine months since he had last spoken to her and life just kept throwing more obstacles in their way. Most importantly, he was at his breaking point. If something didn't change really soon, he would lose it all. It would be disastrous. But the only person he could think of that could reel him back was the one person he had promised he wouldn't contact until he was a free man. He tried to imagine the soothing sound of her voice and found himself frowning when he couldn't. Perhaps a quick call just call to hear her voice wouldn't be such a bad thing?
His finger slightly shook as he pressed the call icon and slowly lifted the phone to his ear. The tightening in his chest alerted him of the rapid rate of his heart. He felt like a schoolboy calling his crush for the first time. With the first ring, his palms started to sweat. What if she didn't want anything to do with him anymore? At this point he was sure she knew of the drama surrounding Trista and her affair. She was probably so thankful not to be involved in the mess that was his life anymore. With the second ring his fingers subconsciously started to dig into his thigh. And what in the world was he thinking trying to draw her back into this mess? His hand awkwardly moved to remove the phone from his ear and end the call before any damage was done, but his breath caught in his throat as a soft voice, one he would recognize to his dying day, echoed from the other side of the phone…
Back on the island…
Taking the deep breaths she had been taught by her midwife, Serena slowly lowered her body to her bed. She temporarily stalled as yet another contraction caused her abdomen to tighten. She was now two days past her due date. Her doctor had counseled her that if she hadn't naturally gone into labor by 41 weeks, she would have to be induced. Inductions happened at the hospital, which they had been trying to avoid at all costs. She would be at 41 weeks in just five more days. The anxiety was overwhelming. Earlier that morning however, she had thankfully started having persistent regular contractions after two torturous weeks of irregular contractions that would come and go. A visit to the clinic had confirmed that she was now four centimeters dilated and finally in the latent phase of labor. She had just returned from the early morning visit and the midwife was en route to the house. They all knew that she had a long way to go before her little man made his entrance given that he was her first baby.
Although she was thankful they would be avoiding the hospital, it also meant that she would not have the luxury of an epidural or the additional safety of a hospital setting. Her contractions were currently eight minutes apart and not overly debilitating, but she knew they were going to get a lot worse and more frequent as the baby's head descended. The girls were all excited and would be making their way to her house in the next few hours. And her mother, well she was just ecstatic and had been checking on her every two minutes. She chuckled as she made herself more comfortable in her bed. Hopefully she would be one of those lucky women whose cervix dilated quickly. Overall she was just praying for a safe delivery and healthy baby boy.
Her phone sounded off on her nightstand, and she frowned at the number she did not recognize. With a quick swipe of the screen she brought the device to her ear.
"Hello?"
Silence greeted her on the other side of the line.
"Hello? Can you hear me?"
Removing the phone from her ear, she took a quick glance at the screen to verify that she hadn't accidentally muted her phone, which she hadn't. Bringing it back to her ear she decided to try one final time. Whoever was on the other line was starting to piss her off. She didn't have time for this.
"Hello? Who is this?"
Again she was met by silence. With a deep sigh she moved to remove the phone from her ear when a distant familiar voice caught her attention.
"Hi."
Every muscle fiber in her body froze. She would recognize that voice anywhere. Perhaps it was the pregnancy hormones, but tears immediately clouded her vision. It had been so long since she had heard his voice outside of her dreams.
"Darien?"
"It's me Sere."
The thin barrier holding back her tears disappeared then. A feeling of warmth engulfed her entire chest, causing her baby to kick in response. A soft smile formed on her lips.
"Hi."
"Hi yourself."
The phone line was temporarily silent. She reveled in the soft sound of his breathing through the line. She didn't know what to say. There was so much to be said.
On the other side of the phone Darien nervously ran his hand through his hair. He was excited and anxious all in one. Her voice was as soothing to this soul as he now remembered. Something inside of him seemingly gave a huge sigh of relief. He couldn't remember the last time he had felt that feeling of internal peace.
"How have you been Serena?"
With a quick swipe of her hand the tears were removed from her face. Trying to control her building excitement she settled her body back onto her bed.
"I've been ok. How about you?"
"Meh, I've had better days."
"I can totally believe that."
He chuckled despite himself.
"And what exactly does that mean?"
"Nothing! I'm just saying that some of us live pretty eventful lives and some of us, well we're just regular ol' boring folks."
He laughed then, causing her chest to tighten once more. There was something about Darien's state of happiness that would forever make her heart sing.
"You? Boring? When did that happen?"
Her lips tightened as another contraction took her by surprise. Taking a deep breath she tried to gain control of the pain. Of all the times to finally hear from Darien, it just had to happen when she was in labor with their son. She was treading in dangerous territory. If Darien became aware or suspicious of her current predicament, she'd have a whole lot of explaining to do.
"You'd be surprised. Life circumstances can take the excitement right out of even the most intense adrenaline junky."
"Oh? And how has life been for you? Don't tell me you've lost your edge."
"What? Never. You know I live on the wild side."
His laughter emitted from the phone again, causing her to smile. She missed being the reason behind that joyous sound.
"Ah, oh yes; Serena the invincible. So how is medical school? Is it everything that you dreamed it would be?"
She released a very un-lady like snort.
"It's everything I dreamed and 75% less sleep. Like, I never knew it was humanly possibly to be that exhausted."
"Wow. Really?"
"Listen Dare, I asked myself what in the world had I been thinking going into medicine practically every other day."
There was a slight twinge in his heart at her effortless use of his nickname. Ten minutes into the conversation, he found himself slightly out of breath with laughter as she recalled the poor fate of her classmate whom passed out in the cadaver lab.
" Are you serious? He fell face down into the bowels?"
She giggled as the timeless image resurfaced in her mind.
"Darien I laughed so hard I was in tears. This guy is like 6'5 tall and 250 pounds of pure muscles. And at the first sight of the abdomen's contents he passed out cold. That's going to follow him throughout the rest of his medical school career."
He released a few chuckles of his own.
"I can imagine. It's hilarious just thinking about it. Can't say I blame the guy though. I am not one to tolerate the sight of blood too well myself."
"Aw, is big bad Coach Shields afraid of a little bloo-"
Her breath caught in her throat as her body was rocked with yet another contraction.
"Hey, are you okay?"
"Oh yeah I'm fine! Not to put out too much information, but it's my lady time of the month and these cramps are killing me. So if I pause for a few seconds you know why. My Motrin hasn't' kicked in yet. But like I was saying, I forgot that you're afraid of blood. And here I make it worse by mentioning my period."
She clenched her teeth as the remainder of the contraction slowly subsided. It was become rather difficult to continue speaking at this rate. They were occurring more frequently.
"Afraid? I'm not afraid. It just makes my skin crawl but I can tolerate the sight of it. I stayed awake and involved for the entire birth of the girls I'll have you know. I was really proud of myself too. Didn't think I'd make it a couple times."
A deep ache formed within her chest, causing her to close her eyes. It did not surprise her to find out that Darien was involved and present for the entire birth of his children. He was the type of man who wouldn't want to miss a second. And she was about to deprive him his right to be present for the birth of his son. Her friends and family would be present, but she also knew that their presence could never equate to Darien's by her side while she was in labor. A lone threatened to escape her blue orbs. Why did things have to be this way?
I'm so, so, sorry Dare. Please, forgive me.
Realizing the down trending slope her emotions were leading her towards she decided a change of topic was in order. She needed to spend less time talking and more listening. Darien had provided the perfect digression with the mention of the girls.
" I bet that was a sight to see. Tell me, how are the dynamic duo?"
He began his recollection of the girl's life for the last year. At numerous parts of his story she found herself near tears as she listened to what Kailie and Kayla had lived through during the last few months. Her heart went out to Darien most of all. No one person should have to go through all of that stress and sorrow alone. And for the umpteenth time since they last spoke to each other in person, she found herself questioning if they had truly made the best decision in deciding to part from each other. She was shocked to learn that Trista's father had passed away. Perhaps the tabloids had not gotten their hands on the news as of yet, or perhaps she had just not been paying much attention these last few days, but she was very surprised. She had no idea he had been that terminally ill.
"Oh God Darien I'm so sorry to hear that. My condolences to you and your family."
"Thank you Sere. This last month has been hard on everyone. The girls have actually been handling the situation a lot better that we expected. But Mrs. Meioh isn't doing too well and Trista is heartbroken. They were inseparable."
Serena absentmindedly realized that was the first time Trista's name had been mentioned throughout the entire conversation. And all she felt for the woman was empathy.
" I can understand that. I'd be a mess if I lost my father. Hopefully she continues to hold strong. How has she been doing otherwise?"
Darien paused as he contemplated how to respond to the innocent question.
"We've had a couple obstacles. I'm sure you've heard about the events surrounding her coming out of her coma."
She pushed down the old feelings of hurt and betrayal that threatened to resurfaced as her mind traveled back to Darien's altercation with Trista's physician and alleged lover. The tone of her voice softened with her response, which did not go unnoticed by Darien.
"Yeah, I did. It was all over the news for days. Is it- is it all true Darien?"
Darien released a deep sigh as he sat back in the recliner. He supposed that this part of the conversation was inevitable, but he hated to bring up a subject that he knew would hurt her.
"So it seems Sere, so it seems."
"Wow. Can't say I saw that coming."
"That makes both of us. I had my investigator do a more thorough search after shit hit the fan. Turns out she had been having that affair for the last four years or so."
"Oh wow. I'm sorry."
"Why? Don't be. But it gets better than that. Since the surgery, she has what her doctors are calling "retrograde amnesia". There are huge gaps in her memory surrounding certain aspects of her life for the past five years. Like, she remembers some things completely, some partially, and others she has absolutely no memories of. Can you guess one of the things she has no fucking recollection of?"
Serena paused as she allowed another contraction to subside. It was pretty evident that in addition to being hurt, Darien was also very angry. And given the tone of his voice, she almost knew with 100% confidence what Trista could no longer remember.
"She doesn't remember the affair…"
It wasn't a question. It was a statement. One that made her heart sink even further into her chest. If Trista didn't remember her affair, she must be under the impression that her marriage with Darien was as it was five years ago. Peachy Perfect.
"Bingo."
The silence was heavy.
"Oh…"
Darien released a deep sigh as he sat up in his chair. Somehow, he felt the need to reassure her that his heart was still hers. They had completely avoided any conversation surrounding their relationship thus far. He was hoping that he would not cross a boundary with what he was about to say, but it needed to be said.
"I don't know if your feelings for me have changed Serena. I'm praying with everything that I am that they haven't. I just want you to know that this doesn't change my plans. You still mean the world to me, and I'm going to do everything within my power to see us back together. "
The tears began to fall. It was as if those words released the final barrier that had been keeping them at bay since her phone rang over an hour ago. Darien would never know how much those few lines meant to her. There had been so much doubt on her part over the last few months, and hearing his declaration gave her a renewed sense of hope.
"Oh Darien, you have no idea. I-I'm-"
Further attempts to formulate words were futile as the tears continued to shake her petite frame.
"Please don't cry baby. I hate it when you cry."
"I'm ok. It's just… I didn't-didn't know if you-you still wanted me anymore. I didn't- I didnt-"
The tears were relentless. Darien ignored the ache in his own heart as he tried to console the woman he loved above any other.
"Oh Serena. I will always, always love you. And you should never doubt for even one second, whether or not I want to be with you. Until you are beside me as my wife, that will always be my goal. Don't you know you mean the world to me? I don't know how to live without you Sere. I've learned these last nine months that life has no meaning if you're not there to share it with."
Her heart exploded with warmth at his words.
"I love you too Dare. And I'll wait forever if I have to, but please let's not wait that long. I miss you so much. I don't want to continue living like this."
Darien found himself encompassed with feelings of helplessness on the other side of the phone. He so desperately wanted to hold her and kiss those tears away. He wanted to reassure her with every ounce of certainty that he was hers, and they would be together. But he felt powerless as he sat on the phone listening to her declarations of love and the conveyed pain of her tears. She deserved so much better than everything he had put her through.
"I promise you Serena, I will be coming for you soon. I'm only still legally married to Trista because she is mourning her father and it would be heartless of me to broach the topic of a divorce right now. As soon as her father is laid to rest and she's recovered from the coma to the point that I'm comfortable leaving the girls unattended in her presence, we will have that discussion. I should've done this a long time ago. In retrospect we both may have been a lot happier over the last few years if we had been open and honest with each other. I have no intentions to continue my life without you in it Serena. You are my soul mate."
Serena's entire being was enveloped in a feeling of immense warmth and security. Perhaps sensing her emotions, her son rewarded her with a brisk kick. Rubbing her abdomen she was again engulfed in that glove of security. A small smile formed on her face as she realized with utmost certainty, that feeling was love.
"And you are mine Dare. My one, my only, my forever."
Darien's eyes involuntarily closed at Serena's soft declaration. He was reminded in that instance just how much of a fortunate man he was. All the stressors from the last nine months seemingly disappeared as he was filled with a feeling of peace. What he had ever done to deserve the love of a woman such as Serena, he would never know. But he was grateful. And he would spend the rest of his life showing her just how thankful he was.
"Wait for me my sweet, beautiful girl. I can't...I can't wait to hold, and kiss you, stare deep within your beautiful blue eyes as I show you just how much I've missed you. You're my world Sere. "
"I—"
knock knock knock
"Serena honey your-"
"Just a second mama!"
And just like that the cloud of hearts and rainbows within her vision disappeared. She audibly groaned out loud as she was unexpectedly hit with another contraction.
"Hey are you sure you're okay?"
Darien's concerned tone was another bucket of ice water to the face.
Shit.
Being caught off guard she had not mentally prepared herself for that contraction.
Shit.
Her mother was outside her door and likely with news or concerns regarding her current physical state of being. She didn't want to go. It was impractical, yes. She was about to have the baby of the man on the other side of the phone and did not want him aware. But she also had no idea when she would hear his voice again. One hour just wasn't enough after eight months.
"Honey, are you okay?"
"I'm fine mama. Just a minute!"
Her voice did not hide her disappointment.
"I'm sorry Dare, but I have to go. Promised my mom I would accompany her to a meeting tonight and I think she's ready to head out."
"Oh, ok. I should probably go in to check on the girls myself."
"Right. Give them a kiss for me."
"Will do. I guess this is goodbye until next time, huh."
"Yeah, I guess so."
There was an awkward pause. They both weren't prepared to say goodbye, but Serena realized with some dismay that she had to go.
"Well don't be a stranger. I'll be praying for your family during your time of grief."
"It's much appreciated. I love you Serena."
"I love you too Dare."
"I'll see you soon."
"I will be counting the days. Goodbye Darien."
"Bye."
She was staring at the blank screen of her phone when her mother entered her bedroom.
"Honey? Is everything ok? I had to come in. You had me worried."
Ilene quizzically stared at the odd smile covering her daughter's face.
"Well you certainly don't look like a woman about to give birth to a child."
Serena released a short laugh.
"I just heard from Darien."
"Oh! Well that's unexpected. How did that go?"
"It was…everything that I needed mama."
Ilene sat beside her daughter and leisurely started to rub her lower back as another contraction rocked her tiny frame. When it had passed, she gently pulled her hair from her face.
"Well I'm happy for you both. Somehow I just know he feels the same. Did you tell him about the baby?"
Her blonde locks stubbornly resumed their position in front of her face with a gentle shake of her head.
"No, I decided it was not the right time. Trista's father recently passed away."
"Oh no, that poor family. I'm sorry to hear that."
"So was I. They're going through funeral planning and everyone seems to be having a hard time. He should be there to provide support for his family. If I told him about our son, he'd be on the next flight here. Believe me, I know Darien. I didn't want to put him in that position of having to choose between families. "
Ilene pulled her daughter into a brief hug.
"Well that was very selfless of you. I know you would prefer to have him by your side right now."
"I would. But at least I have you, Daddy, Sammy, and all the girls. He will be disappointed, maybe even a little angry later on, but I think this is best for everyone."
"You've matured so much over the last year Serena. I'm just so proud of you."
Despite her best efforts, Ilene's vision clouded with unshed tears.
"Aw, don't cry mama."
She lovingly smiled at her only daughter.
"These are happy tears honey. But you're right! This is a time of happiness! We're about to have a baby! Which reminds me, I came to tell you that the midwife is here!"
Serena laughed, but immediately groaned as she was hit with yet another contraction. When it had subsided, her mother helped her into a standing position.
"Okay, I'm ready. Hopefully my cervix has made some change. I think I'm contracting every three minutes or so. Let's go meet our little boy."
12 hours later…
" Ohhhhh God! I can't do this anymore. I just can't. I'm so tired…"
Ilene lovingly placed a cool cloth on her daughter's forehead. Her heart broke with every soft sob that escaped from Serena's chapped lips. She had personally had epidurals for the birth of both her children, so she could only imagine the pain associated with a natural birth. After 11 painful hours of labor Serena had finally dilated to 10 centimeters. They had all been ecstatic. Though the midwife had continuously reassured them all that her course of labor was perfectly normal for a first time mom, they had all kept praying for an expedited labor. It was pure torture seeing her in that much pain and not being able to help. After 45 minutes of pushing the baby had finally began to crown, but it was evident to everyone present that Serena was exhausted. If she could take the pain in her place, she would gladly do so. Since she could not, she had been trying to motivate her past the finish line.
She leaned in and placed a gentle kiss on her forehead.
"Yes you can honey. The worst is over. You're so, so close. I see more of his head with every push. Your baby boy will be here any minute now. I know you can't wait to meet him. Just a few more pushes baby."
"Your mother is right Serena. I'd give it one, at the most two more sets of good pushes, and I think we'll have your baby. He's very, very close. "
She looked up at the warm smile her midwife was sending her way. Throughout the madness of the last 13 hours she had consistently maintained her calm and sweet personality.
"I don't know if I have two more sets of pushes left. I'm just so drained. "
Her voice cracked despite her best efforts. She had always considered herself an individual with an otherwise high pain tolerance, but she could have never imagined the pain that was to come with natural labor and delivery.
She turned in the direction of the cool hand that settled on her right arm and stared up at the violet eyes of Raye.
"You're one of the strongest people I know Serena. I think about everything you've been through just over the course of this year and I'm honestly amazed at your strength. You can do this. I know you can. We all know you can."
"Yeah Sere, you've got this girl! Home stretch! I just can't wait to see him! Given his hunk of a dad, he's gonna be a total babe!"
The occupants of the room couldn't help but chuckle at Mina's characteristic comment. Even Serena found herself rolling her eyes before the pain of an upcoming contraction interrupted her.
"I'm having another one. Oohhhh..."
The room moved in synchrony. She looked on in a semi-dazed state at the movements around her. Within seconds her mother was holding back her left leg while Raye held back her right. Her midwife positioned herself to deliver the baby as Mina squealed on in excitement while overlooking her shoulders. She heard the anxious voices of her father and brother outside her bedroom door. Amy, Beryl and Lita were absent due to school and work obligations, but she felt their spirits around her. For a split second everything was silent.
The people who meant the world to her surrounded her, but that constant void in her heart that grew into existence with Darien's departure from her life was now suffocating. She desperately needed his presence, his love, his strength, his warmth, and his support more than ever. She tried to imagine what he would say. He'd probably tell her that she was amazing and that he was proud of her. So proud that she had carried and was about to deliver their first child, his first and only son into the world. He'd probably tell her how much he loved her, that she was invincible, that he believed in her. Then he'd kiss her and promise her a burger with fries and a vanilla milkshake after the delivery. A lone tear slid down her face, and she reminded herself that she had made the choice to keep him oblivious. Her emotions were trying to get the best of her, but she would not fail. She would make him proud. When she reopened her eyes, the quizzical gazes of her family and friends greeted her.
With a strained smile she assured them that she was fine.
"Okay, I can't hold back anymore. I have to push."
"On your lead Serena. If you give me three really good pushes we'll have your baby."
With a brisk nod to her midwife she began to bear down with new vigor. The pain was excruciating. At some point during her second push she began to scream. She despairingly looked up at the excited faces above her.
"His head is out honey! Just one more push! One more push!"
The excitement was contagious. She wanted to see her baby too. She could do this. With one final push she gave everything that she had left within her to give. In the aftermath she laid back on her bed completely spent, unable to move a single muscle if her life depended on it. She watched in a dream-like state as the midwife bundled up the tiny body into a blanket and began to dry him off. Shouts of excitement and accolades seemingly exploded around her. Just seconds later the high-pitched cry of her son reached her ears. The emotions swelled within her chest and her vision clouded. She was really a mother. She had a son. They, had a son.
"I did it Darien."
In a moment she would remember to her dying day, her son was gently laid against her bare chest. As if sensing his mother, he immediately ceased his crying and instinctively moved his head in the direction of his next meal. Serena silently wept as bright ocean blue eyes finally opened and connected with her own for the very first time. The connection was unexplainable. It was love at first sight.
"Hello there. God, you're so beautiful. "
As if in a trance from his mother's voice, the newborn looked up in wonder at the figure above him. Her fingers lightly traced over his little body, counting ten fingers and ten toes. Tiny fingers delicately grasped her pinky finger, causing her chest to explode with warmth. He was absolutely perfect. She found herself slipping into sadness as Darien's absence struck a cord within her heart for the hundredth time that day. She had deprived him his right to be present for what was the most beautiful event of her life. Forcing back the guilt, she focused instead on the positivity around her. Darien had promised they would be together soon. Hopefully 'soon' wouldn't be for much longer and he would not miss too much more of his son's life. Deep down she still believed that she had made the best decision for everyone. Hopefully, he would understand her reasoning.
Her family and friends surrounded her and cooed at the infant within her arms. There wasn't a dry face to be found within the four walls of her bedroom. Warm kisses and hugs surrounded her. Mina and Raye scooped in for brief hugs before pulling out their camera phones in excitement. The warm lips of her parents briefly connected with her wet cheeks. She looked up at her father with a warm smile, surprised to see the tears flowing from his hazel eyes. The initial news of her pregnancy had been hard on him, but he had slowly grown to love the baby as they all did.
"I'm so proud of you baby girl. He's beautiful."
"Thank you daddy. I guess you're a grandpa now."
"I guess I am. "
Clearing his throat he stepped away from the bed and allowed his son to take his place at the bedside.
"Wow. Way to go Meatball Head! Who knew you could create such a cute little guy!"
"Sammy!"
Sammy smirked at the prompted response from his parents.
"What? I was just kidding! But seriously, I'm proud of you sis; especially going all-natural and everything. Totally badass. I can't wait to spend some man to man time with my nephew."
He leaned in and placed a kiss on her forehead.
"Thank you Sammy. I'll disregard the first comment."
"You know what, you should. I take it back. He looks absolutely nothing like you so you shouldn't get that credit. He's like Shields' twin. Jesus. "
Sammy's comment compelled everyone to take a closer look at the infant who was now attempting to nurse. Indeed, with his few streaks of dark hair, almost navy blue eyes, nose, and ears that were practically identical to Darien's, it was questionable if Serena had contributed to his genetics at all.
"Well I think he's got my lips."
Everyone leaned in for a closer look and enthusiastically nodded in agreement. No one dared to voice that the baby's lips were clearly his father's.
After more than 12 hours of labor Serena deserved to see herself in her son in any manner that she wanted.
"Oh yeah he does! Well that's something! Man, he is going to be such a heart breaker one day! Good thing he'll have Aunty Mina to teach him about the ways of women!"
Huge sweat drops formed along the faces of everyone present. Clearing her throat Raye decided to end the awkward moment and gently caressed the baby's head.
"You haven't told us his name Sere. Which did you settle on? Michael? Logan? Darien Junior?"
A soft but secretive smile formed on her face. Pulling her son closer to her chest, she sighed as she inhaled his sweet baby scent.
"His name is Aiden. Aiden Charles Shields."
She made eye contact with her parents, pleased at the look of surprise and pride she saw within their eyes.
"Aiden will be infamously known as a Shields to the world, but he will always be a Charles as well. And he'll forever have the name to remind him of that. "
Ken Charles found himself speechless and near tears for the second time that day. He had not anticipated his grandson carrying on the family name in any fashion. Ilene dabbed a few stray tears from the corners of her own eyes and pulled her husband close.
"They're beautiful names honey. We're very humbled."
Raye couldn't help but smile at the warm moment.
"I agree. You chose well Meatball Head. How'd you come up with Aiden?"
"I kinda stumbled on it. I was manipulating the letters of Darien's name and realized that if I removed the 'r', Aiden could be scrambled. It was love at first sight. "
"It's a lovely name Sere."
Serena smiled at her non-biological twin.
"Thank you Mina. Now, who wants to hold the baby first? "
The room erupted into chaos.
"Okay! Never mind. Sorry I even asked. We'll start with my parents and rotate. Sheessh."
Ilene excitedly stepped forward and raised the wrapped infant to her chest. Behind her arguments resumed on the order of holding their new bundle of joy, but she was deaf to it all. With every look into the beautiful ocean blue eyes of her grandson she felt herself falling even deeper in love.
"Well hello there Aiden. I'm your grandma Ilene. But you, you my sweet little boy, you can just call me grandma."
One month later…
Trista slowly walked down the familiar, but still somewhat unfamiliar halls of the hospital that was her current place of employment. They'd returned to the island a few days ago after spending an additional three weeks in Maryland with her mother. Needing a distraction, she had decided to begin her transition back to work as soon possible and had returned to the hospital the previous day. Her department had welcomed her back with open arms and a small celebration that had left her in tears. Though she was still under the watchful eye of her chief, it felt good to be back within her comfort zone.
Given her recent amnesia her medical knowledge and skills were appropriately being monitored. Her operating privileges were temporarily on hold, but she was just thankful to have something to do throughout the day other than physical therapy. Following up with her patients in clinic was plenty, and it was a huge relief to realize that her medical knowledge for the most part was fully intact. There were a few shady areas, but nothing that would require additional training to get her back up to speed. Her personal memories however, were a completely different story.
Over the last month she had begun having random memories that would flash through her mind when she least expected them. For the most part they tended to involve random scenes with herself, Dr. Tomei, or Darien. She had confirmed that her marriage had been on very bad terms, but the details still eluded her. More significantly, there was no longer any doubt as to whether she had been having an affair with Dr. Tomei, but she had no idea how and when it started and where they had left off. Given her father's passing she had chosen to keep her newfound memories from Darien. It would do no good to go down that slope while the family was still grieving the death of its patriarch. Kailie and Kayla deserved better than their parents at each other's throat when they were mourning their grandfather. But the memories just kept coming in bits and pieces. She was at the point of utter frustration and just wanted all her memories to return.
She sighed as she continued her journey down the pristine hallway. Hopefully, her surgical skills would still reflect her level of experience when she finally made it back into the operating room.
She smiled at an elderly gentleman who nodded at her in passing. His salt and pepper hair and warm smile reminded her of her father, causing a familiar ache to form in her chest. Images of her father's funeral immediately ran through her mind.
It had been a perfectly gloomy and overcast day to match their moods. They had all been surprised at the huge turn out to the ceremony. Indeed, her father had been a very loved man. The service was nothing short of beautiful. The testimonies had left her proud and in tears. She really had had no idea the extent of the impact her father had made on the lives of hundreds of thousand of people. The girls recited a story about a park outing with their grandfather that they would always remember, brining the entire church to tears. During the reading of the eulogy even Darien had wept. She had a new found appreciation for the relationship that had existed between the two men. Her testimony had been straight from the heart. She had always been a daddy's girl. Her father had always been her knight in shining armor and she would always mourn his absence in her life. Her mother had opted not to give a testimony during the ceremony, which everyone had been empathetic to. They capped off the day with a lavish reception that had truly reflected her father's personality and taste. Many of his favorite foods and pleasures including his favorite cigars had been made available. In the end, it had felt more like a celebration of his life, and they had all enjoyed the amusing stories from her father's closest friends.
But the day ended and they had returned home knowing they would never hear his boisterous laugh again. Her mother's close circle of friends had kept her occupied with frequent visits and tea parties. The house was stocked with enough home cooked food for the next month. After spending an additional week in Maryland, they had felt more comfortable returning home. Her mother had insisted they returned so the girls could resume school. She had repetitively reassured the family that she would be fine. Grieving was a natural part of death, and she would be grieving for a long time to come. But life had to go on. It was her husband's desire that she enjoy the rest of her life, and she would try her best to uphold his wishes. She promised to visit the islands within the next few months, which left the girls very excited.
Returning home had been bitter sweet. Of course, the media had gotten hold of news of her father's death. Surprisingly, the public reaction had been nothing but supportive. For the most part they had been allowed privacy and time to grieve in peace, which the family really appreciated. The girls returned to school two days after returning back home. They were happy to be reunited with their friends, but in their absence Trista found herself at home with a husband that she wasn't sure she still knew. She was no fool. Darien had been avoiding intimacy with her as much as she had been trying to avoid it with him. Given the passing of her father, she was not surprised that he had yet to open discussion about the current state of their marriage. He had always been a very caring and considerate man. It was one of the reasons she had fallen in love with so many years ago.
After dropping the girls off for their first day at school they had met with their teachers and formulated plans to help them catch up to the rest of their class. Kailie and Kayla were excellent students, and there wasn't a single doubt that they would be able to catch up within a few weeks. After study plans and assignments were formulated the couple had walked back to the car in silence. Trista felt the dread of her upcoming car ride alone with her husband creep into her very bones. Since she had awoken from her coma they hadn't really spent any time alone together. The girls, her mother, or her health care team had always been present. In addition, her father's illness and death had provided a temporary distraction. But there were no more distractions to be found. It was time to return to real life and she was dreading the conversation that was to come. She had been failing miserably at burying the guilt over the heated moment she had shared with Brian Tomei prior to departing the island. How exactly did one even begin a discussion about the mess that was their current relationship?
Thankfully, Darien had been called to the office that very day. His attempts to make small talk during the awkward car ride had felt forced. After she was dropped off at the house he drove off to work without sparing her a second glance. Two hours into sitting in the empty house she called the hospital and asked to return to work the following day. Her chief insisted that she take more time to grieve and heal as she needed, but she declined the offer. Healing required resuming her normal life, and that included returning to work. After a few phone calls to the neurologists she had been seeing in Maryland she was cleared to return to work on a part time but supervised basis. Stepping into the hospital and placing on her white coat the following day was the most excitement she had felt since… well, never mind.
She had yet to see him. She knew through the grape vine that he had been away from the hospital the previous day, but she couldn't deny her excitement and nervousness at possibly running into him again. Looking up at her surroundings she found herself within a very familiar wing of the hospital. Retrieving her keys from her pocket she opened the door to her office and settled her bag on her desk. The IT team had thankfully reestablished her network privileges the previous day. Dust particles flew into the air as she gently ran her fingers along the familiar keys of her keyboard. A nostalgic smile formed on her face that was immediately cut short as another memory flashed through her mind…
*Flashback*
The door to her office drew to a close with a gentle nudge. Trista subconsciously took a few steps backwards and found herself pressed against the cool wooden surface of the door. She looked up into the violet eyes of the man above her. Want radiated from Brian Tomei in a way that was practically visible to her naked eye. They had been in the middle of a routine mitral valve replacement when things started going down hill. The patient's heart rate had sky rocketed while his blood pressure tanked in the opposite direction. When the anesthesiologist begun having difficulty with keeping his vitals stable, she started to panic. Brian had remained his cool, calm, and confident self throughout the entire ordeal. Through his guidance she discovered a laceration to an artery that she had somehow missed. He had talked her through the entire repair and had not belittled her for her errors. At the end of the case her patient had been wheeled back to the PACU in stable condition. It was then that the adrenaline from the entire case had hit her like a ton of bricks. With a silent glance to each other they had begun walking back to her office.
Within seconds of entering the private space, she found herself pressed against the door and looking into the eyes of the man above her.
"I could have lost him just now. "
Brian gently cupped the sides of her face.
"But you didn't. We all make mistakes. We're human. What's more important is your ability to correct them. And you did that Tris; all on your own. I didn't have to lift a finger. You're an amazing surgeon."
Her vision clouded.
"I'm really not. I don't know what I would've done without you in there. I was about to loose it. When his blood pressure dropped-"
"But, you didn't. I'm always going to be there Trista; in any form that you need me to be. But I don't think you need me in the OR. You should give yourself more credit my love."
Soft fingers gently wiped a few stray tears from her face.
"You're so beautiful, so talented Trista. As someone who has worked with most of the surgeons in this department, I can tell you you are top of the line. And I'm not just saying that because I'm madly in love with you."
As usual, her heart melted with his confessions of love. Brian Tomei was undeniably one of the greatest men and surgeons she had ever known, and his heart was hers. As hers, was undeniable his. She found herself wishing for the hundredth time that they had met at a different time in her life. Even with a husband and kids at home she had failed miserably time and time again to stay away from him. It was wrong, so wrong, but it felt so right. They couldn't stay away.
"I love you too Brian."
Brian leaned forward and connected his lips with hers. All the adrenalin that had built up within the last three hours immediately manifested into their physical urgency for each other, and she gasped as she was lifted off the ground. With her legs securely wrapped around his waist he carried her over to her desk, never ending the heated kiss. Her palms pressed into the cool surface of her desk as her scrub bottoms were quickly removed. Within seconds he was also naked from the waist down. They both groaned as his hard length swiftly entered her body. There was no need for foreplay. With every deep thrust her fingers dug further into the polished keys of her black keyboard. They both knew that they wouldn't last very long. The buildup had started within the sterile walls of the operating room. A few minutes later she felt the familiar sensation of her incoming orgasm building within her lower abdomen. With one final look into hooded violent eyes her body exploded around her and she escaped to the land of euphoria…
*End flashback*
Her vision cleared, revealing polished red fingernails lying on the dusty black keys of her keyboard. A beautiful red hue covered her usual pale cheeks. With a quick glance around her office she reaffirmed what she had just seen. Indeed, everything was exactly where it had been. That was no daydream.
Long fingers grasped her temples as she leaned back in her chair. This was all so much. Brian Tomei had not just been some random affair. She had suspected this much to be true since their encounter in her hospital room. But how could she have done this to Darien? He was her first love, her husband, and the father of her children. What in the world happened to them? As far as she could remember they had still been madly and blindly in love with one another.
She sighed as she bounced back in her chair. After some research regarding her accident she had encountered a few articles online accusing her of assaulting a young girl that had allegedly been named as Darien's mistress? But she knew her husband. There was no way he would ever engage in adultery. And the idea of her assaulting another human being was preposterous. It simply wasn't her. She had taken a sacred vow to heal and comfort that was very dear to her heart. Yes, she had her temper. In her younger years she had suffered with jealousy over the women constantly throwing themselves at her husband, but she had long since grown past that. She frowned as she felt a headache forming at her temples. God, she just needed the missing pieces of this ridiculous puzzle.
Glancing at the clock above her office door she realized with some dismay that she had an entire two hours to spare before her first clinic appointment. Her eyes lingered over the contents of her office, familiarizing herself with her possessions. She eventually resettled on the keyboard in front of her, and in the split second it took to make up her mind she had picked up her keys and was out the door. There were two people on the planet that could reliably close the missing gaps in her memory. One, was coincidentally just a few halls away if her memory served het correctly. She was going to get the answers she wanted, and she was going to get them now. With a newfound determination she quickly made her way through the busy halls of the hospital towards the office of the esteemed Brian Tomei. It was time they picked up their conversation where they had left off.
She found him lost in thought, gazing out at the distant ocean from his back office window. Perhaps she should've knocked, but something within her told her she had entered this space on many occasions without that courtesy and had always been welcomed. Taking advantage of his temporary distraction, she observed the space around her with some degree of satisfaction. It was everything she imagined a man like Brian Tomei would possess in his personal space. Exquisite cherry wood furniture and numerous frames encasing documents of his many accomplishments filled the spacious room. The lingering smell of oak and something more, something very familiar, lingered in the air.
Her eyes refocused on the physician in the center of the room. His glasses were carefully laid on the desk behind him. A small smile formed on her face at the sight. With his glasses gone and his entire body relaxed he appeared five years younger than he did the last time she had seen him. There was much satisfaction she realized, in just standing there and observing the man that already had her heart rate increasing. But she had come for a reason. With a gentle push the door drew to a close, alerting the distracted physician that he was no longer alone.
The black chair turned in the direction of the office door. His initial surprise was quickly replaced with a welcoming smile. Trista ignored the flutter in her chest elicited from the act. Brian was out of the chair and walking towards her before she had barely blinked.
"Trista! What a pleasant surprise. I didn't hear you come in."
He stopped just a few inches short of her. For a split second he leaned forward as if about to hug her, or perhaps kiss her cheek in greeting before halting his actions and placing his hands into his pocket. Trista smiled despite her disappointment. A part of her wondered if they had customarily greeted each other in such an intimate manner.
" I know. You seemed very lost in thought. I almost feel bad that I interrupted you. Almost. "
He laughed, and the joyous sound pulled a smile to her face despite her best efforts at trying to keep her facial expressions impassive.
"Ah, always the sensitive one. I was actually thinking about you. Heard that you were back at the hospital. Are you sure you're ready for all this? Seems a bit rushed given everything you've been through Tris. "
There was that nickname again. She leisurely walked in the direction of the window and the picturesque view of the distant ocean before turning her attention back to the concerned appearing physician.
"It's actually the best thing that's happened to me since I woke up from my coma. I needed to be back here. I just needed something to help me feel like myself again Brian."
He moved in her direction and gently leaned against the windowsill beside her.
"I can understand that. The hospital is certainly where I feel like I'm in my element. I just thought you'd want the extra time off given your father's passing.
How was the service?"
She smiled in remembrance, her eyes still focused on the calm ocean in the distance.
"It was as good as could be expected; maybe even better. I learned so many things about my father that I didn't even know. It feels good knowing that so many people will miss him; like I always will."
Her hazel eyes connected with his own.
"He was the perfect father, but I had no idea he was such an amazing man. "
"I have no doubts that he was Trista. He had you for a daughter. That alone speaks volume. "
She fully smiled.
" That's very sweet of you to say. "
"It's the truth."
Tucking a few strands of her long hair behind her ear, she turned away from the smiling physician and towards the ocean view in an effort to hide the blush she knew was creeping up her face.
"I'm doing as well as can be expected otherwise. The girls are back in school and happy to be back with their friends. I've actually got my last session of physical therapy today. Strength wise I'm just about at my baseline, but I've still got quite a bit of weight to regain before I really look like I did before the accident. "
"That's excellent news. "
" It is. I'm really starting to feel like myself again. And as for work, my operating privileges are on hold, but I'm just thankful to be taking care of my patients for the time being. "
She was blinded by his smile.
" Well we're very happy to have you back. It's not the same without you here. And I'm sure your OR privileges will be reinstated in a heartbeat. Have you had any improvements with the amnesia?"
"It's funny you should mention that. Oddly enough, my medical knowledge is almost fully intact. I can remember everything from prescription dosages to detailed surgical steps. I mean, there are occasional gaps but they always come back to me. My personal memories on the other hand, are a complete mess. I've been having flashbacks of things that I think really happened, but I'm not sure. I'm actually starting to wonder if there may be some sort of psychiatric component to this. It almost feels like I've suppressed a specific subset of my memories that revolved around my relationships with both you and my husband. I came here today hoping you would help me fill in some of the missing gaps. We never got to finish our uh - conversation."
A soft smile covered his face as he directed her towards the plush sofa at the opposite side of the room. They never finished their conversation indeed. Trista followed suit and accepted the cold bottle of water handed to her before sitting on the couch beside him. Violet eyes seemingly locked into her very soul.
"I figured you would approach me whenever you were ready. I meant every word I said. I was skeptical about telling you too much too soon, but from what I can gather you're recovering better than even I expected. What would you like to know Trista? "
She took a quick sip of her water, allowing her a few seconds to collect her thoughts. When she was finished her eyes reconnected with the curious violet eyes in front of her. She hated to admit it, but she was actually rather nervous.
"Alright. I guess we can start from the beginning. I know that we were having an affair. How did it all start? And how long?"
Brian nodded before beginning his tale of the couple's origins. Trista attentively listened to every word, her face stoic. When he was through she finally blinked, and a look of disbelief covered her face.
" Are you telling me we had an affair for almost five years? That, that doesn't even make any sense. "
Brian straightened himself in his seat. He was actually rather nervous himself. He had promised her whatever information she desired from him, and that likely included the events surrounding the accident. If Trista asked, he would have no choice but to tell her the role he had played in the events that almost ended her life. He never wanted to lie or keep anything from her ever again. Recent events had taught him life was entirely too short and precious. He could only hope she would understand why.
" I can completely understand why you would feel that way. Five years is a long time Trista. But you weren't ready to end your marriage with Shields. I've tried to convince you for years. You were too concerned about the girls, and you, you just weren't prepared to let him go. I never quite figured out why. I knew you loved me. I just never understood why a future with me wasn't enough for you to walk away."
Her throat was suddenly dry, and she forced down another gulp of water. She had hurt him. She saw it as clear as day. And she had no way to explain herself. She didn't remember or understand why she had chosen to stay in a marriage that clearly had not been going too well. And this man, who she knew with every fiber of her being that she loved, had chosen to stand by her side in the dark for five years waiting for her to let go.
Hazel and violet met.
"I'm sorry. I wish I could remember more. I wish I could explain why, but I honestly can't. "
Brian nodded and provided her with a reassuring smile.
"Don't be sorry. I've lived with this for quite a few years. Maybe it was all meant to work out this way. What else would you like to know my dear? "
She nodded in appreciation for the change in topic. That conversation wasn't over. Not by a long shot.
"What do you know about what happened the day of the accident? And these rumors claiming I attacked that poor girl, are they true? "
He shifted uncomfortably in his seat.
"I can tell you as much as I gathered at the time. I was in the hospital when I heard the news. Apparently after you found out that Shields himself had been having an affair with the girl you confronted her. Her name is Serena Charles. She was the star player on your husband's basketball team for the last three years. No one is quite sure how it happened, but the two of you ended up having some type of dispute in the middle of the street. It was on that blind corner near Park Avenue. By the time the driver turned the corner and saw the both of you, it was too late. She had a couple injuries herself, but they were minor; a few fractured ribs and the like if I remember correctly. And you ended up in the OR with multiple potentially life threatening injuries. It was the scariest day of my entire life."
Trista was momentarily at a loss for words.
" There's more Tris. On the day of the accident I tried to scrub into your surgery but I was denied access. While in the OR I found out –"
He paused. This was a particularly difficult topic for him as he was fairly confident that baby had been his.
"You found out what Brian?"
His mouth was suddenly dry. Violet eyes met hazel.
"You were pregnant at the time of the accident; likely early first trimester. You miscarried while on the operating table. "
A soft whimper escaped her suddenly motionless body. Tear filled eyes looked back at him in questioning.
" Had I known? Was it yours?"
"I'm not sure. You never mentioned the pregnancy to me, but I'm pretty sure the baby was mine. You and Shields weren't on the best of terms three months or so leading up to the accident, but we had been sleeping together again on a regular basis at that time. "
He briefly wondered if he should also mention the undisclosed pregnancy of Serena Charles, but opted against the idea. For all he knew she may have electively terminated or miscarried the child. He had not seen anything in the news or tabloids to suggest she had kept the pregnancy. There was no need to stir any new drama if it served no real purpose. Trista had enough on her plate. In any event, he had made a promise to stop causing havoc in the lives of others the moment he realized that Trista was still intrinsically his. His hatred to Shields aside, he had nothing against the young girl. His only focus was the woman sitting beside him who was still trying to digest all the information she had just heard.
"I don't remember a pregnancy. I'm sorry Brian. I can't imagine willingly placing myself in harm's way knowing I was pregnant, but it seems that I may have. "
He reached out and captured her left hand within his own.
" It's okay. I place no blame on you for what happened. I guess it just wasn't meant to be. If we're meant to have a little one, we will. "
She gave an appreciative smile but on the inside she was in turmoil. A baby? No one, including her physicians had mentioned a pregnancy.
" Thank you for being so understanding. I still can't believe all of this really happened. And the story just keeps getting more complicated."
He soothingly ran his thumb along her fingers in a comforting caress.
"I can only imagine what all of this must be like for you. I'm here to help in any way that I can Trista."
Grabbing a nearby Kleenex he gently dabbed away a few stray tears from her face.
"Thank you. I'm still trying to make sense of how we even got to that accident. Are the rumors true? Darien really had an affair with one of his players?"
It pained his heart to see the hurt in her eyes, but he could not deny the satisfaction he received at hearing those words from her lips. It was about time she found out her husband was no saint.
He nodded in affirmation, all the while reminding himself to keep his expressions stoic.
"Yes, apparently he did. Seems like a good kid too. A shame what she had to go through because of all of this. "
Across from him, Trista found herself loss for words. Darien had cheated? And with one of his players at that? It was hypocritical given that she had done the same, but she was honestly shocked. It was still hard to believe. Darien didn't cheat. He just wasn't the type.
" But I don't understand. How do we know these rumors about Darien are true? How did I find out about this? "
Brian sighed as he leaned back into the plush cushion. He had anticipated this question, but hearing it still made his heart skip a beat. But a promise was a promise. He stared into the rolling depths of her hazel eyes.
"You received a package containing pictures of them in otherwise very intimate positions. "
Trista was immediately on her feet.
"Oh my God! Were they pictures of them having sex?"
He shook his head, and his heart sunk just a little bit further South.
"No, they weren't having sex. They were walking and holding hands, dancing in clubs, that sort of thing. "
" Given your descriptions I'm guessing you've seen these pictures as well? "
A brief nod was his only response.
" Oh dear God were they released to the public?"
"No, not exactly. They weren't made public. "
There was an awkward pause. Trista stilled in her movements and directly addressed the powerful physician. There was a feeling building within the very pit of her stomach she wasn't sure she liked.
"How exactly did you gain access to these pictures Brian?"
It took everything within him, but he straightened his body and stared directly into her eyes. He would not cower when he admitted the cascade of events leading to her near death that he had orchestrated. It would have been easy enough to sprout some lie, like he had gotten access to the pictures through his connections with the police department, but she deserved the truth. At the very least, he would grant her that.
" I didn't need access to them Trista. They belonged to me."
The silence was heavy.
She was the first to blink, breaking the tension. The idea that Brian could have sent those picture wasn't hard to believe. Given her relationship and the hurt she had caused the man in front of her, it wasn't difficult to formulate reasons as to why he would do what he did. But what caught her completely by surprise was the hurt. The limited memories she did remember were enough to remind her of the deep and true love she had shared with the now concerned looking man in front of her. His actions felt like utter betrayal.
" Trista, please say something. Anything. "
"How long had you known that Darien was having an affair?"
A long sigh escaped his lips.
"I found out maybe a few weeks before the accident."
"How exactly did you 'find out'? "
" I hired a personal investigator. I just wanted some type of dirt on him; something that would finally convince you that he wasn't the Mr. Perfect you've always made him out to be. I didn't expect to find what I did."
"So you found out he was having an affair with one of his players, and you felt in more appropriate to send me unlabeled pictures rather than tell me in person? "
He stood and began walking in her direction, but halted when she slowly began to back away. The betrayal he saw in her eyes was almost too much to bear.
"I was afraid you wouldn't believe me, that you would think I was deliberately trying to break apart the family you had been trying to keep together for years. I was afraid this would drive us further apart. Please Trista, I only did this as a last resort. I've waited almost five long years for you. I didn't know what else to do, but if I could go back in time I would take it all back. I'm sorry for everything. "
The tears slowly began to run down her face, ruining the 30-minute effort she had placed into doing her make up that morning. She suddenly remembered receiving those pictures. The shock, the hurt, the anger; everything was slowly starting to come back.
" I received those pictures from you and saw her on my way home to confront Darien. I remember."
He nodded again, taking a few cautious steps forward.
"I don't understand how someone can claim unrelenting love for someone else and do what you did Brian. I just don't. It was deceitful and backstabbing. You should've trusted me enough to tell me what you discovered to my face. I'm making no excuses for my own actions, but maybe I would've responded differently if we had had a conversation. Maybe I would've seen this as an opportunity for all of us to move forward with our lives. Maybe I wouldn't have acted like a complete fool and attacked that young girl. Maybe my children wouldn't have lived through the hell that was the last seven months. Maybe I would've been alive to enjoy my father's last few months on this earth. And maybe, just maybe, we'd be holding a healthy baby right now and moving on with all our lives. "
Brian desperately stepped in her direction, his own vision now clouded with unshed tears. He was on his knees and hugging her around the waist before she had the opportunity to step away.
"There isn't a single day that has gone by since your accident I haven't regretted my decision. You're absolutely right. I should have been man enough to tell you in person. I should've trusted you, trusted our love. I was a desperate fool. Please forgive me Tris. I was lost."
She looked down at the giant of a man on his knees in front of her. Her tears landed on the tousled strands of his brown hair. The feelings of betrayal and the pain were still too fresh. This was a lot of information to process. She needed some space. She gently grabbed his arms and attempted to push him away from her body. Brian initially resisted but gave in and slowly got to his feet.
" Our actions have caused so much pain and suffering. There are so many wrongs I have done that I have to right. I need to find Darien. I need to set things right with my family. I need to set things right with Serena. I'm not pointing any fingers. We are both terribly wrong. But I have to try to fix this in any way I can. Darien and I need to have a real conversation about our marriage. When that's all said and done, we can talk about a future or lack there of a future between us. "
"Trista, please. "
"I have to go Brian. My first appointment will be here shortly. I'll…I'll be in touch. Thank you for your honesty. "
And with those words, she was out the door.
Brian helplessly wondered if she had also just walked out of his life forever…
Later that day…
"Girls? Dare?"
Placing her keys on the kitchen counter Trista Shields headed into the vast living area of her home. The house was entirely too quiet given the six o'clock hour. Heading up the stairs she sought out her family. Her mind was still a whirlwind of thoughts. On her way home she had taken a quick detour to the location of her accident. After sitting there for thirty minutes an image of herself approaching Serena Charles had flashed through her mind. She remembered the girl's reluctance. She had tried to walk away. But she couldn't see past her anger. God, what had she done?
She was still trying to process everything she had learned from Brian a few hours earlier. What happened to her over the last few years? When exactly had she turned into an adulterer that physically assaulted people?
At the top of the staircase she turned in the directions of the girls' room and was greeted with the sounds of laughter.
With a brief knock she poked her head into the space they had labeled 'the land of pink', pleased to see the girls sitting around their dollhouse with two other girls. Sensing her presence all eyes turned in her direction.
"Mommy!"
As they had done since she woke up from the coma, Kayla and Kailie greeted her with tight hugs. She smiled down at the beaming faces of her daughters and gently ran her fingers through their soft hair. It was hard to swallow that her reckless behavior could have deprived her children of a mother's love for the remainder of their lives. She forced away the incoming tears.
"Well I see you girls have been busy. Who do we have here?"
Kailie excitedly stepped away and pulled the two young girls towards her mother.
"These are our friends from school Alex and Vicky. Daddy said it was okay to have a play date tonight! Their mommy is going to pick them up after!"
Trista presented the two children with a warm smile.
"Well hello Alex and Vicky. Welcome to our home. It's very nice to meet you two."
The girls shyly smiled up at the tall woman.
"Hi Kailie and Kayla's mommy."
She laughed at her title amongst her daughter's friends.
"Well I can see you guys are very busy with your dolls. Let me know when you ladies are ready for a quick snack, okay?"
"Alright mommy, bye!"
Without sparing her a second glance they were gone and back within the gigantic dollhouse that she quite clearly remembered Darien purchasing for the girls. She watched them for a few minutes, warming her very soul. It felt so good to see them happy and with their friends again. Kailie was slowly turning back to the carefree child she once remembered, which made delighted her beyond words. With one final smile she gently shut the door and headed in the direction of her bedroom.
The sterile white walls of the bedroom she shared with her husband greeted her as she entered the familiar, but cold space. Since their return from the states Darien had been sleeping in the adjacent room at night but had chosen to keep his belongings in their room. She hadn't questioned why. She knew. He knew. It was just a matter of who would broach the topic first. He had been patient because of her situation. This, she also knew. But it was time for them to talk. Though all of her memories hadn't returned, she now remembered enough to have the conversation they desperately needed to have. Further more, her recent conversation with Brian Tomei really helped to fill in many of the missing gaps surrounding her personal relationships with the two men.
Stepping through French doors she made her way onto the balcony and was greeted by the warm evening breeze. She found him leisurely leaning against a pillar, hands within his pockets as the breeze gently blew his hair across his forehead. His eyes were focused on the now setting sun on the horizon, but he was clearly lost in thought. So lost in thought, that he didn't even flinch as she walked in his direction.
Resting her body against the adjacent post she took the opportunity to observe him one final time. Indeed, Darien was an Adonis of a man. She didn't know exactly where their marriage had gone wrong, but he had always been a good man, husband, and father. And despite the decision she had already made, she would always miss him.
"A penny for your thoughts?"
Finally realizing that he was no longer alone, he turned in her direction.
Stormy navy blue eyes greeted her with an accompanying smile.
" A penny? I'd say my thoughts are worth a whole lot more than that. Bump that up to five hundred and we've got a deal."
The gentle evening breeze carried the soft sound of her laughter.
" Five hundred dollars for your thoughts? Who do you think you are? Ms. Clio? "
They both laughed.
"No. Not even I could pull off that scam. When did you get home? I didn't hear your car pull up."
"About ten minutes ago. I saw that the girls are entertaining a few friends tonight. Funny, I don't remember agreeing to a play date. "
A sheepish grin covered his face.
"Well, I picked them up from school and they practically begged. Then Alex and Vicky's parents were okay with the idea, so I gave in. Thought they deserved some fun after everything they've been through lately. "
She gently shook her head.
"You never could tell them no. But in this instance, I agree. They both needed this."
The couple shared a silent moment of understanding. Darien was the first to speak.
"So how was day two at work? Feeling like your old self again?"
She lowered her body onto a nearby lounge chair and Darien followed suit. They hadn't really taken the time to sit and have a conversation since returning to the island.
"It's wonderful. Saw three of my old patients today and they each brought a small gift. Oh, and guess who's officially done with physical therapy?"
"Are you really? Well congratulations. That's a huge step forward."
Her smile was a genuine one.
" Thanks Dare. It feels great to physically move like I used to. I've still got a little weight to gain, but that will come with time."
He released a short laugh.
"Bet you never thought you'd hear yourself say those words. Any progress with your memories?"
Trista readjusted herself in the lounge chair and turned to face her husband. Funny that that sentence would elicit the same response from both the men in her life.
" Actually, I've made quite a bit. I've been having flashbacks of random memories for the last month or so."
Darien pulled himself into an upright sitting position. This was news to him.
"Oh? That's great news. You never mentioned anything. I had no idea. "
"I know. There was just so much going on with Daddy and everything. And I wanted to piece together as much as I could before I brought it up."
"That's understandable. I can't imagine just losing five years of memories. This must be very hard on you."
" Not nearly as hard as life must've been for you these last five years."
His breath caught in his throat. He had not anticipated that response. Just how much did she remember?
"What makes you say that Trista?"
Trista lifted her body off the lounge chair and walked towards the balcony railings. The need for fresh air was suddenly suffocating. When she arrived at her intended destination she enjoyed two very deep and calming breaths of the ocean breeze before turning back to her husband.
" I say that because it's the truth Darien. I don't need every single memory back to know that I have committed so many morally wrong acts against you these last several years. You didn't deserve any of that from me. I'm so, so, sorry. "
He was at a loss for words. What exactly does one say after discovering that their wife had been sleeping with another man for the last five years of their marriage and she apologizes? After the daily struggles on his part to keep their marriage alive with her half assed efforts, what exactly was he supposed to say? Temporarily closing his eyes, he reminded himself to stay calm. He was no saint in this situation either.
"Why did you do it? "
The beautiful view of the horizon became a blur as her vision clouded with tears. The shame and the pain were almost too much to bear.
"Why did you do it Trista? You had everything you could ever want with me. We have two beautiful loving girls, a beautiful home, wealth, great careers, prestige, and above all else I loved you. You've been my best friend since we were kids. What exactly does Brian Tomei have that made it worth the risk of losing all of that?"
For the second time that day Trista Shields found her face drenched with tears. It took everything within her to do so, but she finally made eye contact with her husband.
" You may not believe me but our family means the world to me Darien. I honestly can't remember all the details of why I started relations with Brian, but from what I gather I guess I felt intellectually confined in our relationship. He shares my love and passion for medicine. I felt like I could spread my wings with him. "
Her confession was a stab to his heart.
"Trista, I've always supported your choices to further your career. During your residency I practically raised the girls myself. When we moved here, I said nothing about your horrendous hours because I understood it was necessary for you to mov up the ranks. The only thing I asked was that you be present for the everyday events of the girls' lives and consider having another child with me. You know I've always wanted more children."
"This wasn't the time for having more children Darien! I could never quite get you to understand that. I was on my way to being chief of my department. I love our daughters, but another baby would've set me back God knows how many more years. "
Despite his best efforts to keep calm, Darien's anger began to boil.
"And what's a couple years compared to the rest of our lives Trista? Medicine is always going to exist; your fertile years, not so much. Speaking of which, was the baby mine?"
His unexpected response was another staggering stab of shame that left her sobbing. First Brian, now Darien. God what had she done?
"I- I honestly don't know. From what I can gather, it likely wasn't. I'm so, so sorry Darien. I never meant to hurt you. "
Breathe. Just breathe.
He repeated the chant over and over in his head. This was a particularly hurtful and equally infuriating topic. He had mourned that baby. Honestly, he was not entirely surprised that the child had not been his. He hadn't been sleeping with his wife very often in the months preceding the accident. Hearing the words out loud from her mouth however, intensified the anger a thousand fold.
"Why didn't you tell me?"
" I can't remember. Honestly Darien I don't know if I even knew. Maybe I was ashamed or afraid. Maybe I was planning to tell you. Until my memories return I can't say."
A sad smile made it's way to his face.
"I guess none of that matters at this point huh. I can't help but wonder if you were more worried about how the baby would affect your precious work. After all, the needs of this family have always been second to the needs of your job."
Trista angrily wiped away a few stray tears.
" That is not true Darien! What's happened is a tragedy, but I have placed this family above my work countless times! How many prominent job offers abroad have I turned down because you wanted the girls raised in your hometown? And I've never once complained about that! You give me absolutely no credit for the things I've sacrificed for our family. You're not the only one who has had to compromise in this marriage!"
Forcing himself to take a calming breath, he took a step in her direction.
" I'm sorry you feel like this marriage has stifled your career Trista. I truly am. I'm sorry we've spent the last five years in what was clearly a meaningless marriage. I should have ended this façade when I first noticed your distance all those years ago. But instead I subjected our daughters to the constant disappointment of missed recitals and games, pages during dinners, and a mother that was part time. "
Trista was not to be intimidated.
"I may have distanced myself from you, but don't you dare minimize my relationship with my daughters. I would do anything in the world for Kailie and Kayla. "
His voice was a low whisper.
" You're right. You do love our daughters. It's just me that you don't love. That's why you've been sleeping with another man for the last five years. At least now I know why we didn't have a sex life. I really thought it was me for a while."
A soft sob escaped her lips.
" I've always loved you Darien. It's part of the reason why I haven't been able to leave our family. I should've never slept with Brian, but let's not pretend you've been completely faithful in this marriage yourself. Did you love her? "
He locked eyes with her hazel orbs.
" I've never stopped loving her. I don't know how. I don't ever want to know how."
Her arms wrapped around her body in an attempted move to provide comfort. Darien's words suddenly left her cold. It would have been easier to accept a relationship based off of lust or loneliness. But the passion, the love that he had for Serena Charles was quite easy to see. Love was an entirely different monster.
"How long?"
A deep sigh escaped his parted lips. She was being completely honest and deserved the same from him. He was not proud of his actions, but if he could turn back the hands of time, he would fall in love with Serena over and over again.
" We first became involved about three and a half years ago. She left for a year after a few months. Said she wanted to give me a fair chance at making our marriage work. When she came back the following year, I tried. I really tried Trista. We both did. But I couldn't stay away. You and I were doing… better, but at that point I was living a lie. My heart was already hers."
The slight nod of her head was the only indication she had been listening. He knew his words must've been difficult for her to hear, but he felt the need to explain himself. He needed her to understand. He did not break their sacred vows for superficial reasons.
" I'd forgotten what being in love felt like. Before Serena came into my life I had settled for the happiness of the girls. But she reminded me my happiness matters too. When I'm with her, I feel more alive and happier than I've been for a very long time. "
She nodded in understanding. As much as it pained her to hear the words, she truly understood. Everyone deserved happiness and she had failed him by providing that as his wife. Blue and hazel connected across the quiet balcony.
" I shouldn't have attacked her like that. I had no right. I was just so angry and I felt betrayed. The details of my relationship with her still elude me, but I guess I'd come to see her as a bit of a mentee. That said, my actions were entirely unwarranted and hypocritical. I wish I had taken the time to think before I acted. Then maybe we could've all avoided all the pain and heartache of the last year. How is she doing?"
His frown was instantaneous.
" I wouldn't know. As you can imagine it's been difficult for her and her family with the public since the accident. We decided it was in the best interest of everyone to stay apart until things settled. I haven't seen her since shortly after your accident. "
Her eyes widened in surprise.
" I'm sorry to hear that. I hope she is in good health."
He nodded in appreciation.
"You and I both. "
He walked towards the edge of the balcony. It was almost surreal that he was finally having this conversation with Trista. Everything was finally out in the open. His anger from earlier aside, he felt more at peace. His marriage was over. He was thankful the conversation had been a civil one. It was more than he had expected. The actual topic of divorce had not been mentioned, but they both knew it was on the horizon. Hopefully, he would be able to keep his promise to Serena and find out how she was faring for himself really soon. Their reunion was long over due.
Trista followed his movements, and her heart suddenly ached for the man she had once loved more than life itself. In addition to her medical condition, the girls, and her father's deteriorating health, Darien had essentially been prohibited from seeing the one person who could've provided him any measure of comfort over the last nine months. His sense of obligation and dedication to those he loved was unparalleled. And Serena Charles was a very lucky woman to have captured his heart.
He had shouldered all their crashing worlds on his shoulders for the last nine months. It was time someone took the initiative of taking care of him.
She cleared her throat, drawing his attention.
" I think you'll agree with me when I say that it's probably time we all stop living these lies. It's time we all move forward with our lives Darien."
Despite his anticipation of the statement, his chest tightened at her words. Trista had been his first love, his best friend, and was the mother of his children. Indeed, they had grown apart, but they had a lifetime of memories together. And there was a part of him, he silently admitted to himself, that would always miss her.
"Are you sure? We can wait until you have more of your memories, until you're fully back at work if it'll make this easier for you. "
Her smile was a sad one. The pain in his chest grew just a bit more with the gentle shaking of her beautiful dark locks.
"No. We don't know if I'll ever get all my memories back. And I've already begun my transition back to work. I think we both know that there is no mending this marriage at this point. Divorces don't happen overnight. There's no reason to delay starting the process any longer. We've done that for far too long. "
He nodded in understanding.
" The girls will be torn apart by this. "
" Yes, they will be initially. But in time they'll understand. They're very bright girls Dare. They would want us both to be happy. And of course, we'll have shared custody."
A deep sigh escaped his parted lips. It would be hard not seeing his munchkins on a daily basis. Kailie and Kayla's happiness had been the driving force keeping him married to Trista. He hated to break apart their family, but he was hopeful they would all find happiness this way.
"Will you move away?"
"No, not for at least the next few years. I'll admit I had my apprehensions about moving here, but we've taken some incredible strides in improving health care quality and accessibility on the island. I'd like to continue what I've started."
He smiled in gratitude.
"Thank you."
" No thanks necessary. I'd also hate to uproot the girls after everything they've been through this year. We'll all be fine right where we are. I'm assuming you're going to try and mend things with Serena?"
The thought drew another smile to his face.
"Yes, that's the plan. Though I don't see this being easy. She's still my ex ball player. People are still going to accuse her of ending our marriage, though we both know that's far from the case. No solid evidence of our uh, relationship has surfaced to the public eye, but people will continue to speculate. I just don't want to drag her into anymore of this drama, you know? She's already been through so much on my account."
Trista nodded in understanding. It was a strange feeling seeing such emotions within the eyes of her husband as he spoke of another woman.
"And what about you? Are you planning to go back to Brian Tomei? "
It took everything within him to utter that sentence without an expression of pure disgust on his face. It wasn't fair, he knew. He had just admitted his plans on going back to Serena. But Brian Tomei was a weasel of a man that he simply did not trust.
" I honestly don't know. My memories are limited, but I do know that I once cared deeply for him Darien. And I still do. He's made some terrible choices, but then, so have we. He's a good man. I hope you'll come to see that with time. As for our relationship, I just need some time to get things straight with our family. Then I'll focus on Brian. He understands this. "
Her plan was a reasonable one. He reminded himself of that fact. He also decided not to comment on the fact that she had clearly already spoken to the despised physician before they themselves had had a chance to talk. But the choice was hers to make. As he had chosen Serena, she had the freedom to be with whomever she pleased. Perhaps Trista was right. Perhaps under different conditions he and Brian Tomei could come to some sort of understanding. He would award her the benefit of the doubt.
" Okay."
" There's one last thing Darien. I know that we've all contributed to the mess of a situation that we're in, but I can't help but feel like the bulk of our problems came from the accident, which I initiated. "
"Trista No- "
"Please, let me finish. If I hadn't lashed out so irrationally we may have had this conversation nine months ago. I've read and now heard about what you and Serena have had to deal with. I don't want a repeat of that moving forward. I owe you both that much."
Darien was on edge. Where was she going with this?
"Trista, I appreciate the concern, but there's no way to avoid it. They will talk."
"Yes, they will. But I plan to give them something to talk about. I've arranged for a one on one interview with 'What's the Biz' next Tuesday. "
In three long strides he was standing a mere three feet from her.
"What? Trista, I don't know if you remember the show, but they're just after the juiciest story. They're going to try and expose you in all of this."
Determined hazel eyes stared up at him.
" Yes, they will. But I'm going to use that to all our advantages. I'm going to tell our lovely island community that we've been separated, but living together for the last few years or so. You know, for the sake of the girls, our family businesses and our image. Then I'll admit to a relationship with Brian, which you were aware of and we've all kept hidden. You've also had a relationship with an undisclosed woman, but things didn't work out. And Serena, who has been the completely supportive family friend,/babysitter has been inappropriately accused and treated throughout this mess. "
He was temporarily dumbstruck.
"Oh, and of course the allegations of my attacking her are completely false. We were walking, I tripped, she reached out to help me and we both ended up in the middle of the road. We've decided that in light of recent events life is too short and precious to continue living a lie. So we've finally filed for divorce and wish nothing but the utmost happiness for each other. "
She presented him with a wide grin.
"Well, what do you think? Brilliant right?"
"Um, it's quite the story. I'm impressed you thought up such a tale."
"I know! It's brilliant!"
"It's good, but there are still a few open areas. For example, how does Serena transition from 'family friend/sitter' to the now love of my life? Still kinda makes her look bad."
"And I have thought about this. Since the accident she's been your shoulder to lean on, she's kept you on your feet. And through all the pain the two of you fell in love. It's a helplessly romantic story. And she's no longer a college student or your basketball player. They're going to love it. "
For the second time in the last two minutes he found himself at a loss of words. Trista had truly placed a lot of thought and effort into this story. The scary part was, it was just about crazy enough to actually work.
"Say something Dare. I'll make it really good, really sappy. I'll talk about my difficulties since the accident and my father. Even 'What's the Biz' has their limits. They won't push beyond what I'm willing to give. I promise you there won't be a dry eye in the –"
Strong arms securely wrapped around her thin frame. Her face gently leaned into broad shoulders that she would forever remember. She took in his smell, the wonderful combination of the ocean breeze and his own unique scent that he always harbored. They would not share many more moments such as this one. They both understood that and silently savored the moment for everything it signified. When Darien finally pulled away she was consumed with regret. For the first time since making her decision, she questioned whether she was making a huge mistake in letting him go.
But as he slowly withdrew his body and she witnessed the unshed tears of hope glistening in his eyes, her doubt disappeared. He gently grabbed her hand and lifted warm fingers towards his face. She watched mesmerized as he placed a light kiss on her knuckles, causing shivers to run down her spine.
Stormy blue eyes finally caught her own. The intensity of the emotions she saw there left her breathless.
"Thank you. You didn't have to do this. I can't begin to express how much this means to me."
"But I do Darien. I need to do this for all of us."
He nodded in understanding.
"Please let me know if there's anything I can do to help. I'm willing to go on with you, or - "
"No, please. You've done more than enough. I've got this, okay? "
A soft sigh escaped his lips. The last thing he wanted was to turn this into an argument.
"Alright Trista. If you change your mind at any point, don't hesitate to let me know."
Catching him by surprise she leaned forward and gently connected their lips in a chaste kiss. The moment was over before he had a chance to fully process what he was feeling or react. He stared down at her hazel orbs in wonder.
" I will. Thank you for everything you've done for our family Darien; everything you've done for me. I am eternally grateful. I pray that one day you'll find it in your heart to forgive me. As I have already forgiven you. I hope that we'll be able to recapture the friendship that we have always shared."
"As do I Trista."
"Okay, I'm gonna run inside and check on the girls. Go ahead and give Julian a call so we can start with the divorce proceedings in the morning. I'll see you at dinner in a few. I'll order us some take out."
And just like that she exited through the wide balcony doors and back into their home. He didn't see when the first lonesome tear slid down her pale cheek. Calloused fingertips gently settled on his lips, where a slight tingle still lingered. It seemed like ages since his body had reacted to his wife's touch in that manner. He wondered briefly if they were rushing into making this decision.
A brief image of Serena's face flashed through his mind, causing him to smile. No, it was their time. After practically a lifetime together, a goodbye kiss would elicit such emotions from anyone. He truly wished her nothing but happiness. It was what they all deserved. Picking up his phone he sought out the contact information of a man who had never let him down. He needed the address of Serena's current place of residence. It was time he paid her a long overdue visit.
Two weeks later….
For the third time in the span of sixty seconds, Darien glanced down at the address written on the paper within his hand. His gaze then traveled to the large red door beyond metal gates a few feet away. Indeed, the address on the house matched the address within his hand. Not that he actually needed to confirm it for the third time, but he just wanted to be absolutely sure.
Releasing a long sigh he placed the document within the pocket of his blazer. The letter had arrived from his PI one week ago and contained information regarding Serena's current place of residence. He took in the small but homey appearing house and smiled. It certainly fit Serena's personality and matched the style of the other houses in the small Cuban community. He could definitely picture her choosing to live in the building.
After his conversation with Trista the divorce proceedings began the following day. The girls had taken the news as hard as he had expected and were still coping, but he was hopeful that they would come to understand in time. Trista was currently still staying at the mansion until she found a new home, but they were no longer sharing a bedroom. It was an odd, but comfortable existence. Her interview on 'What's the Biz' was still fresh in his mind.
He had been completely caught off guard at her sincerity during the hour-long segment. Though she had altered the tale of what had actually transpired, there were numerous times during the interview where she had completely opened up to the small community. At the end of segment there wasn't a dry eye in the building. He made his own surprise appearance at the end of the show, reinforcing her story and showing his support regardless of their decision to part. It was an action she had greatly appreciated and the show producers had chewed up. They had previously opted against a live showing and were heavily advertising selected clips from the interview. The show was scheduled to air in two days, and the small island community was buzzing in excitement and curiosity of what was to come.
He pressed against the iPad within his blazer, reassuring himself that it was still there. The show had granted him access to the interview footage on request. Serena deserved to see the video before their entire hometown found out she was in a relationship with him.
His gaze lingered to the small house one final time. Taking a deep breath he opened the metal gate and walked up to the large door. He hesitated for all of a millisecond before raising his finger to the adjacent doorbell. The melodic ring sounded off within the house and after a few seconds footsteps could be heard within moving towards the door. His anxiety grew with each step. He felt like a young boy walking up to his date's house on prom night. It had been just over a year or so since he had last seen Serena, and though he was unsure why, he was a nervous wreck. What if she'd had a change of heart since their conversation? What if-
" Back so soon? Well that was - ".
Blue met blue.
"Darien."
The shock left her staggering in her steps. Acting on instinct, he moved forward and securely wrapped his arm around her waist, stabilizing her slender frame. Despite the chivalrous nature of his actions, his senses became engulfed by her scent, by the softness of her skin beneath his fingertips, and by the wonder in her big blue eyes. Forcing his thoughts to concentrate on her, he ignored the more animalistic side of his brain that was urging for him to take her on the spot. He silently reminded his growing body that there would be time for that at a later time.
"Are you okay Sere?"
Serena looked up in pure astonishment at the man standing above her. Strong hands were still securely wrapped around her waist, rooting her to her spot. To say that she was surprised was an understatement. She was probably in shock. At the moment she wasn't sure if she wanted to cry from happiness or complete fear. Their eyes met again, and this time the proximity of their current positions did not escape her.
Darien had pulled her flush against his chest while his arms were wrapped around her torso. She could smell the familiar and intoxicating scent of his cologne, his skin. She palpated the firm pectoral muscles beneath her fingers where her hands had naturally settled on his chest. Her eyes roamed over straight and symmetrical facial structure, soft lips, and glossy black hair. He was as beautiful as she remembered. It was hard to believe an entire year had gone by sine they had last had the pleasure of each other's company. Tears collected within her beautiful orbs.
"Sere?"
His voice drew her wandering eyes back to the current look of concern on his face.
"I'm…fine. Just surprised. You were the last person I was expecting to see when I opened that door."
His hands cupped the side of her face, and his thumb gently removed a stray tear that had managed to escape. She leaned into the touch, reveling in the comfort it provided. She had missed him so.
"Are you disappointed?"
Their eyes met, and she was caught off guard by the concern she saw emitting from his own beautiful spheres. Her fingers gently cupped the rugged surface of his face.
"I don't think I've ever been happier in my entire life."
That was all the confirmation he needed.
"God I have missed you baby."
In one swift movement he closed the door behind them and tightened his arms around her body, bringing their upper halves into contact with each other. She released a short gasp with the movement, giving him open access to his next intended destination. Soft lips gently connected and closed the remaining gap between their bodies.
A soft whimper escaped her lips. Her head was spinning and her legs were weak. Shocks and waves of pleasure traveled through her small frame and seemed to pool at her very core. The hibernation was over and her body seemingly sprouted to life. She'd forgotten how soft his lips were and the control he had over her body. He tasted…heavenly.
Darien was a drowning man. He was drowning, and the only person who could save his life was the woman he had wrapped within his arms. His hands traveled to her soft golden tresses, changing the angle of their heads and allowing him access to deepen the kiss. Her taste, her smell, the softness of her hair; it was all driving him insane. Her responses to his actions were sending him over the edge. He had damn near taken her against the wall when she released that soft whimper. His hands traveled lower, needing to feel her, needing to reacquaint their bodies. The urge to become one with her was overwhelming.
He urgently pushed his lower half against her pelvis, making his desires known. She groaned at the movement, fueling his actions even more. Finally breaking the heated kiss, his lips refocused their attention to her slender neck. He tasted the sweetness of her skin, leaving a row of kisses in his wake. His hands continued their exploration, sliding down hips that he absentmindedly realized were wider than he remembered. Grabbing her ass cheeks within his palms he lifted her off the ground and pulled her flush against his erection, releasing a guttural moan of his own at the electrifying contact. Her back settled against a nearby wall and she stared up at him in her dazed state. There was something, something important, but for the love of her she couldn't formulate a single word in that moment if she tried.
Using one hand he kept her steady while his other hand got to work with removing the yellow t-shirt she was wearing. Serena deliriously complied, lifting her left arm as he removed the sleeve of her shirt. His actions ceased with first sight of her creamy mounds. They appeared bigger than he remembered. He cupped the exposed left breast within his hand, confirming his suspicions. Not really giving this new discovery second thought, he pushed aside the black bra and closed his mouth around her erect nipple.
The familiar sensation of her incoming milk removed all traces of desire from her dazed eyes, and reality hit her like a bucket of ice-cold water in that instant.
Aiden.
"Darien wait. "
She urgently pushed against his chest. He stilled in his movements and locked eyes with her blue orbs.
"I'm sorry. That was probably too much too soon. Please forgive me. "
He quickly removed her from the wall and settled her body back onto the tiled floor of the corridor. Serena took the opportunity to quickly readjust her clothing and gather her thoughts. She felt the wetness of her milk against her bra immediately after. How Darien had managed to make her forget the very important fact that their son was on his way back to the house she would never know, but her body had always belonged to him in that manner. When she was properly clothed she gathered the courage to look him in the eye.
"Don't apologize. Please. I just needed a second. You did nothing wrong."
He nodded, but his facial expression spoke volumes of his doubt.
"Honestly, I just needed a second to get my thoughts together. I'm very happy to see you Darien. Please, come in. "
Making a quick assessment she decided that the dining room was probably the best location to sit and talk. The house was very reflective of the fact that it contained a newborn infant, and until she understood the purpose of Darien's visit, she had to keep Aiden's existence a secret. The room was rarely used and incidentally contained the least baby products.
He followed after her in silence. Honestly, her reaction had surprised him. It seemed like they had both wanted the same thing until she went as pale as a ghost on him. Maybe there was someone else?
When they were seated around the wooden table she presented him with a smile he knew was forced. This was not the reaction he had been expecting after a year apart. Something was off.
"So, what brings you to Cuba. And how rude of me; would you like anything to drink? We have soda, juice, water, or wine?"
He stared at her inquisitively. She appeared nervous, but why?
"No thank you, I'm alright. And I came to see you of course."
"Oh? Is everything okay at home?"
He forced a smile of his own.
"Yes, everything is fine. There have been a few recent…events. I wanted to inform you in person. And - "
He paused as he was suddenly overcome with feelings of vulnerability. Was he about to make a fool of himself? Serena's behavior was odd to say in the least. He would not be able to handle her rejection.
"And what Dare?"
Soft blue eyes settled on his own. A genuine smile covered her face then, causing his heart to race. She was so exquisitely beautiful.
" I came to keep my promise to you. Trista and I have filed for divorce."
Time seemed to still. She was overwhelmed by a combination of emotions, which left her unsure of how to react. Searching Darien's face, she sought for a hint, some clue as to how he was feeling that would guide her in making her response, but his focused expression gave nothing away. She wanted to cry out in joy. After three and a half years were they truly finally getting a real chance at having a relationship. At being a family? But she was simultaneously filled with feelings of sadness. The twins must have been devastated. How was Dr. T handling this decision? The inner turmoil drew tears to her eyes. There was no appropriate response. What was she supposed to say?
"Sere? Please, say something."
He reached out and grabbed her hand within his own. Her responses left him baffled. Was she on the brink of tears because she was happy, or was it the opposite?
"I'm sorry. I honestly don't know how to react. There's the hopeful side of me that wants to run around this table and throw myself into your arms. This divorce may signify that we finally get to be together, but I don't know how you feel about all this. How the girls and Trista feel. "
"The girls are hurt, as expected, but Trista and I both agree that this is best for everyone. She actually proposed the divorce before I had a chance to. We have spoken about this in length Serena. It's what we both want. Right now, I want you to tell me what you want. For once in your life forget about everyone else. I'm here because I want nothing more in this world than to be with you. I am a free man, and I am yours if you will have me. The choice is entirely yours."
The tears finally broke through their barrier and cascaded down her face. It was almost too good to believe. She thought about their journey for the last three years. Everything that had transpired from their first kiss on the cliff, to her year away, her return home and their failed attempts at staying away, the accident, the drama, the pregnancy, the longing, and finally the birth of their son. It was hard to believe that they were actually getting their happy ending.
"Oh Darien, of course I'll have you. I love you. I love you so much."
Standing from the table he walked around and protectively pulled her within his arms. She silently sobbed against his chest, and he soothingly ran his hand through her tresses. His eyes drew to a close as he pressed his face against her head. The relief was indescribable. Serena was still his. They would finally have their chance at happiness. He softly kissed her temple before gently pulling back her body.
"There's more."
She listened attentively as he gave his account of Trista's 'What's the Biz' interview and their plans going forward. She was temporarily at a loss for words. It was more than she had ever expected. She would have to personally thank Trista Shields one day.
"I have the footage on my iPad. I brought it so you could see for yourself. We can look at it -"
"Serena honey we're home!"
For the second time in the last hour she was sure her blood pressure had approached stroke levels. Seiya had landed on the island two days ago and her mother, who was currently staying to help out with the baby as she transitioned back to school had offered to take him on a stroll through the market with Aiden. She had remained at home to get some studying done. Looking at the clock they were right on time, a factor she had forgotten given her recent discussion with Darien. Quickly wiping the tears from her face she dislodged her body from his and looked him square in the eyes. Darien looked back in the direction of the door in wonder before refocusing his attention to her.
"Who's that?"
"It's my mom. Look Darien, there's something you should know. I should have told you earlier but I thought it was best I didn't until things had settled. We, well I-"
"There you are! Oh, you have company. Who's your guest dear?"
He turned around, surprised to see Seiya Kunn standing beside Mrs. Ilene Charles, who carried a wrapped infant within her arms.
"Oh Mr. Shields! Well this is a pleasant surprise."
He smiled at the elder woman. He had always adored Serena's mother.
"The pleasure is always mine Mrs. Charles. It's nice seeing you again. Seiya."
Seiya nodded in acknowledgement and glanced past the body of Darien Shields to Serena, whose face was doing nothing to hide her current anxiety.
"Shields."
"And who might I ask is this?"
The room was silent as Darien walked towards the newly arrived trio. He stopped a few feet from the infant whose familiar blue eyes stared up at him in wonder. He couldn't help but feel like he had seen the child before, but he simply could not remember from where.
Glancing up at the adults in the room he realized with growing concern that no one had answered his question. He attempted eye contact with Ilene Charles and Seiya, but they avoided his gaze. There was an unsettling feeling growing in the pit of his stomach, and he slowly turned around to face Serena.
"Serena?"
Serena's mouth began the process of forming words, but nothing came out.
Ilene took the opportunity to step forward and gently handed the infant to his mother. She pulled her daughter into a quick hug and whispered a few words of encouragement in her ear.
"He is a good man who loves you. He will understand honey. Don't fret."
She kissed her temple before turning towards Seiya.
"I just realized that we actually forgot to pick up the ingredients for dinner tonight. Come Seiya, I'll need help with the grocery bags. I hope to see you at dinner later Mr. Shields."
With that sentence she placed the baby bag on the table and ushered Seiya towards the door. He stilled mid stride and addressed Serena.
"Sere?"
She saw the concern in his eyes and finally found her voice. Forcing what she hoped was a smile of reassurance to her face she tried to appease his concern.
"We will be fine. I'll see you guys a little later. "
He nodded in understanding and exited the small home at the insistence of Ilene Charles.
When the door had close behind them, Darien refocused his attention to Serena and the infant who was currently making smacking noises at her.
"Serena? "
She was smiling down at the child in her arms. Taking a deep breath, she connected eyes with the man who was now standing a few feet from her.
"His name is Aiden. He's your son Darien."
Of all the things he had expected to find on the island of Cuba, a child didn't even make the list. His eyes traveled from the infant to Serena and back to the infant again. Suddenly the child's familiarity made sense. He had never met the child before, but his image was the splitting image of himself as a child. He thought of the baby photos lining the walls of the mansion and released an audible gasp. God in heaven he had a son. His chest was tight, his throat heavy. He didn't trust himself to speak.
"How? When?"
The infant started to fuss. He watched in a mesmerized state as Serena released the strap of her brassiere and presented the child with her nipple. His cries immediately ceased, and he suckled at his mother's breast in content.
Serena ran her fingers through the silky strands of her son's hair. As he always did when he nursed, his eyes were locked on hers. It was their own special time of bonding she had grown to love. She gave him a warm smile before addressing his father.
"Well, I don't think I need to explain how. You know that part. I found out two weeks or so before the accident."
She gestured for him to follow her into a nearby room and he complied. His suspicions from earlier were confirmed as he observed the swell of her hips from behind. Her breasts were also significantly larger. Those two factors aside, there was no physical evidence that Serena had recently carried a child. He remembered running his hand along her flat abdomen. She certainly wasn't as toned as she used to be in that area, but he had attributed that to her likely lack of regular exercise with her schedule.
She settled on a rocking chair within a quaint bedroom that also housed a crib before readdressing him.
" He's six and a half weeks today. I'm sorry you had to find out like this Darien. I had every intention to tell you."
He sat on the bed adjacent the beautiful wooden chair.
"When were you planning to do that Serena? You knew back in the hospital, and again when we met with the attorneys. Why didn't you tell me? "
The tears collected despite her best efforts.
"You had so much on your plate Dare. I didn't want to place you in a position where you would have to chose between me and your family."
He was on his knees in front of her in the next instant. Placing a finger beneath her chin, he lifted her gaze to his.
"Serena, you're also my family now. We created a life together. I feel terrible knowing that you've gone through the burdens of a pregnancy on your own. I should've been there with you every step of the way. I feel like I've failed you, like I've already failed my son."
" You can never fail me or Aiden. I knew that if I told you you'd be there. The girls and Trista needed you back at home. And I wasn't alone. My parents, the girls, Seiya, everyone was very supportive."
"It's not the same Serena, and you know this."
She nodded. There was no denying the truth in that statement.
"I won't pretend that there weren't times when I really wished you could be there instead, but I was supported. Please don't be mad. "
"Mad? I can never be mad at you for this Serena. I feel terrible knowing that my situation placed you in a position where you felt it was necessary to make that decision. You should've never had to make that call. I'm sorry. "
He looked away in shame. Soft fingers gently cupped the side of his face redirecting his gaze to hers.
"You have nothing to be sorry about. We both knew that there would be obstacles when we started this relationship. Some, like Aiden, we never could have expected. We've both acted selflessly in doing what we thought what would be best for each other. I am so, so sorry that you missed the pregnancy and birth of your son. We can't get back that time or the first six and a half weeks of his life, but our sacrifices will allow him to have a life where his parents can be together as they chose. I think he will really appreciate that one day."
Leaning forward she gently connected her lips to his. He was overcome with emotion. He had the love and acceptance of his soul mate, and between them laid their newborn son. He didn't deserve such great fortune. His hand cupped the back of her head and he eagerly deepened the kiss. He desperately wanted to convey what he was feeling; his gratitude, his humility, his love.
A soft coo rose from between their bodies, causing the couple to break from the heated embrace and focus on the infant in Serena's arms.
Aiden Shields stared up at his father in wonder. Darien gently ran his fingers along the baby's soft cheeks. He moved his little body in excitement, causing his father to release a short laugh.
" This seems like a dream. I can't believe we have a son."
Serena's heart bubbled with warmth. Her family was actually complete.
"I know. I still wake up some nights when he cries thinking that it was a dream."
" Our resemblance is unbelievable. He's the splitting image of me when I was a baby."
They stared at the young child, who was ecstatic to have the attention of both his parents.
"Is he? I'd love to see those pictures. You'd really think I didn't contribute to his genetics at all. He looks nothing like me or my family."
"It's those Shields genes. Can't say I'm surprised. The girls favor my family too. Oh my goodness they'll be so excited to have a new baby brother!"
The idea of Kailie and Kayla playing with their baby brother brought a smile to her face. That would be a delightful sight to behold.
" I know we can't get back the time we've already lost, but I want to hear about everything. I'm talking from the time you found out you were pregnant to today. "
She released a short laugh.
"Okay Dare. I'll tell you everything. Promise. Would you like to hold him? He needs to be burped."
"I thought you'd never ask."
He stood on his feet before leaning forward and securely grabbing the infant within his hands. Placing his son against his chest he began tapping on his back.
Serena watched the scene with tears in her eyes. Removing her phone from her pocket she snapped a couple shots of the priceless moment. A few moments later Aiden rewarded his father's attempts with a loud burp.
Darien repositioned the infant within his arms, and his heart melted just a little more. Hooded eyes struggled to remain open, but eventually closed in sleep.
Serena leaned against his arm and smiled at the slumbering infant.
"You're pretty good at this. Didn't take you long to knock him out at all. Here, let me put him to bed."
After she had secured the infant within her arms she walked across the room and placed him in his crib. He stirred for a few moments but resumed his slumber with some soft rocking movements from his mother. Darien watched the scene with newfound content. He didn't think it was humanly possible to feel as happy as he did in that moment.
With the baby securely down for at least another hour, Serena turned towards his father. The sun was setting on the small island community, filling the room with an orange glow.
There was a comfortable silence in the small space as the two occupants silently regarded each other.
"Are you planning on staying over there? I promise I won't bite."
Her face heated at the suggestive phrase. It was good to know that Darien's ability to make her a bundle of nerves where intimacy was concerned had not disappeared.
" Come here Serena."
She obeyed his order without hesitation and walked over to his towering frame.
Her gaze focused on the photo of Aiden across the room, successfully avoiding eye contact with the source of her anxiety. It was truly ridiculous that he still had the ability to make her feel this way.
Darien turned her face in his direction and pulled her body close. The movement brought his erection into contact with her lower abdomen, and she bit her bottom lip in an attempt to withhold a moan. His fingers ran down her scalp and through her soft tresses, causing her eyes to close in content. When she reopened her eyes, smoldering navy eyes were watching her in wonder.
"You are so beautiful Serena. So very beautiful."
His fingers lightly traced over her lips, which left her squirming in anticipation.
" I can't begin to explain how happy I feel right now. I have so much I want to say, so much I want to ask. I have missed you Sere. So much that it hurts just thinking back on all those months were all I wanted was to hear your voice or see your face. Where I wanted your reassurance that everything was going to be okay."
His fingers continued their journey along the bony contours of her face.
"I have never known a love like this. You have me in my entirety. I am yours now and forever. I love you."
She was breathless. Darien's confession accompanied by his gentle exploration of her body left her dripping with want.
"I love you too Darien. You are… my everything. I would wait an eternity for you."
Her words moved something within him, and he desperately pulled her closer. Serena took the opportunity to grind her lower half against his, trying to convey the urgency she was feeling. Her actions were rewarded with a low moan.
" You are never going to be alone ever again. I promise you. I will always take care of you and our son. Starting now."
His lips descended to hers, locking the vow with a kiss. Strong arms gently lifted her off the ground and unto the adjacent bed. Not missing a beat their lips resumed their timeless dance. Serena sighed in contentment as Darien's powerful frame settled on top of hers. Her fingers desperately sought the bottom of his shirt, needing to feel his skin against her own. It had been far, far, too long.
Over the course of the next two hours the couple would revisit the euphoria they had once shared on several occasions. Aiden Shields unknowingly granted his parents some much needed bonding time and blissfully slept through it all.
In the aftermath they lay spent, Serena securely wrapped within Darien's arms as he laid chaste kisses along her exposed skin. His gaze traveled to the slumbering form of his son before settling on the now napping love of his life within his arms. He was indeed blessed beyond measure. As the haze of sleep settled over his body his arms tightened around her slender frame. They had faced and overcome impossible circumstances, reinforcing his belief that they were fated to be together. He was right where he was meant to be, and he was never, ever, letting go.
Fin
A/N: Thank you all for your encouragement, your love, and your constant support of this story over the last five years. It has been my esteemed pleasure to share my writing with all of you. Epilogue? Stay tuned. Veggie Out!
