Shadows Between Us
682 Words
Maya had adjusted to Swedish life faster than she expected. People were kind, helpful, and curious but never intrusive. Her pregnancy, once a source of quiet fear, was now met with warmth wherever she went. She had the sweetest neighbours, who could always make sure she had enough fruit for the day.
She was never alone cause people felt she had run away from home since she was young and her London accent wasn't much of a help either. Maya decided it was time to register with a local hospital and check on the baby. The moment she stepped into the sleek Swedish clinic, she felt a surprising sense of calm.
"Hello! How can I help you?" a tall, kind-faced man greeted her.
"I... just need to register," Maya said, trying to hide her nerves.
"I'm Dr Damien," he said with a soft smile. "Don't worry, we'll make everything smooth. Come, I'll handle the paperwork."
Maya followed him, amazed at how effortlessly he made the registrations. His calm demeanour, the way he explained every procedure, reassured her.
Dr. Damien ..... Maya Bennett right
Maya turned facing him ... yeah Bennett .. Bennett even though she didn't know the reason for her to be repeating herself.
Can I get your Email or number so I can send your appointment schedule ... Damien said softly.
Mara yes of course she said as she requested his phone and typed her number. By the time she left, she had appointments scheduled, her records filed, and a quiet hope blooming that here, she could truly start over.
Meanwhile, in Italy, Lucas Thoreau stepped off the private jet and into the grand halls of his parents' estate. His mother's excitement was palpable, her hands fluttering with delight as she led him to the sitting room.
"Lucas! It's so good to see you!" she exclaimed.
His father, however, was far less welcoming, his eyes cold and calculating. Lucas froze as Sophie appeared, leaning against the doorway, smiling in a way that made his stomach twist.
"Your fiancée says she's pregnant," his father said, voice sharp, disdain dripping from every word.
His mother was so excited and said ... I am happy she is free from all the ridiculous allegations placed on her.
Lucas shouted .... mom!!! allegations..., ridiculously wow slapping his hands together someone died in these ridiculously allegations.
Lucas turned his gaze to Sophie, eyes hard. "Whatever you claimed ,unclaim it. That baby isn't mine."
Sophie's lips curled, a dangerous mix of defiance and memory. "It is yours. I will never forget the way you shoved your lips onto mine."
Lucas's jaw tightened, disgust coiling inside him.
"You were drunk the night Maya went to prison. You used me as a shield how can you forget the night we formed this fruit?
Before the tension could escalate further, his mother stepped between them, guiding Sophie towards the room. "Enough! I will not have this argument go on further" she said firmly.
Lucas sank into a chair, silent, his thoughts heavy. He had wanted to call Maya, to check on her, to ask if she was okay. But how could he reach her?
How could he even begin to tell her that her worst fear has happened?
The words stuck in his throat. He could not, would not, break her peace with the truth just yet.
Back in Sweden, Maya was invited to dinner at Damien's family house , she carefully prepared dinner at Dr Damien's family home. She adjusted the dress she had chosen, smiled at herself in the mirror, and ran a hand over her stomach. The baby kicked softly, as if in approval. It felt good to smile again. To feel excitement instead of dread. To feel life moving forward.
She stepped into the kitchen and picked up the dessert she was bringing for dinner.
As she stepped out through the door, Damien was already waiting, standing next to his car. She smiled sheepishly saying ......... ohh I brought desserts.
Damien nodded his head with approval as he
opened the car door for her to enter.
- Writer
