The Heart Never Forgets

Chapter-13

CHAPTER-13

Hearing Tina's call, Lucas and Billy from the next room came into the dining room.

Lucas: Did you call us, Mom?

Tina said, "Hmm, Billy, give me those pictures of Della." Hearing Della's name on Tina's lips, Lucy approached her like an obedient girl and stood nearby. She whispered to him...

Lucy: What pictures?

Tina meticulously spread out a selection of photographs featuring Della across the table, fully conscious that it was Billy who had taken them. Just the day before, Billy had followed Della and Ethan discreetly on their excursion to the mountains, capturing spontaneous and heartfelt moments between the two of them amid the breathtaking natural scenery. As Tina showcased the images to Lucy, she couldn’t help but notice the fury bubbling beneath the surface in Lucy's expression, her eyes locked onto Billy with a fierce intensity. An uncomfortable silence enveloped the room, thick with unspoken words as Lucy shot daggers at him, clearly battling a whirlwind of emotions. After what felt like an eternity, she finally shattered the tension with a pointed question that hung heavily in the air, demanding answers.

"Were you following them around? Were you spying on them? Shame on you, Billy."

Billy seemed a little embarrassed.

He was about to say something, but Tina stopped him.

Tina: Hmm, Billy was following, but he was doing it at my request.

Lucy: But why? They are friends, you can see, right? Is there any blame for that?

Tina: For the longest time, there was nothing to hold against them; it felt like everything was just going along as usual. But now, it’s become clear that they are secretly becoming closer. Have you seen the photos? They show a level of intimacy between them that’s hard to ignore. It’s almost as if they’re in their own little world. If Billy hadn’t been around, I couldn’t help but wonder how much more those pictures would reveal about their connection. It’s like they’re trying to hide what’s really happening, but the evidence is right there for anyone to see.

Lucy: Shut up, Tina, this is too much. Now let me tell you something. First, are you spying? Second, are you trying to blackmail me?

Tina: Not at all, I am just trying to protect our son's future wife.

Lucy: What future wife, what protection?

Tina: You can forget everything, but I can't forget.

Billy: Excuse me, everyone, can I go now?

Tina and Lucy said together, "Yes, go. You shouldn't have these family matters."

Lucy: Listen, Tina, Della is now grown up and has the right to live her life as she pleases. I can't force you.

Tina: You said all this now! When you were in danger, you didn't dare to say these things. Now the danger is over!

Lucy took a deep breath and looked earnestly at her friend. “Listen, I want you to understand something. You are someone I truly care about, and our friendship means a lot to me. Remember how Maurice and Della's father were inseparable back in the day? They shared countless memories and made promises to each other, vows that held significant weight. But we both know that times have changed, and the world is not the same as it used to be. Della has matured; she’s not the little girl we once knew. She has every right to explore her own path and make choices that reflect who she is as an individual. We need to support her on this journey, as difficult as that may be.”

Maurice leaned against the wooden doorframe, his arms crossed and a serious expression on his face. “Look,” he began, his tone firm but measured,

“I understand that the idea of marrying Della to Lucas isn’t appealing to you. But we need to talk about the bride price. You know you have an obligation to pay the sum you’ve earned, and I’m afraid it may not be as straightforward as you think. Given your current situation, I doubt you can provide the full amount we’re expecting.”

He paused, allowing his words to sink in, gauging the other person's reaction.

Lucy took a deep breath, her expression shifting from confusion to clarity. “I see it now,” she said, her voice steady. “I understand your intentions clearly. You should have realized what I was implying when I arrived here. If you truly come to assist those in need during a time of crisis, you’ve rightfully earned your place and your fortune. But know this—I will not let myself be taken advantage of. I will seek refuge in the law and stand my ground. You cannot deceive us any longer.”

Maurice: Your signature will not be false anymore. If we show it to everyone, you will have to leave this region with your mother and daughter. You will lose everything. Honor and wealth. Is that what you want, Lucy? Will you take the crooked road instead of the straight road? My son and our wealth will fall at your feet only if you want it.

Lucy looked at Tina and Maurice with disbelief. Her eyes were filled with tears. She did not know that the friends of danger would turn into enemies of her daughter's life like this.

Tina seemed to be relieved by Maurice's words. This is what Jaya wanted to explain to Lucy, but Maurice was able to explain it well. Tina looked into Lucy's eyes with satisfaction...

Lucy: You are making a big mistake, Tina, Maurice. It's time to get out of this way. Fear fate.

Maurice went to Lucy and said

Take two days to think about it. Will you make your daughter's life like a queen, or will she wander the streets like a beggar!!

Lucy just looked at Maurice once and then ran out of the house. Her eyes felt heavy for him. Her stomach was bursting, and her liver was slowly coming out. Everything was getting messy in an instant. What should Lucy do now? How will she get her daughter out of this trap?

She is so alone and helpless.