LICENSE TO LOVE

6: LOVE AND DESPAIR

"Blaire darling, is that you?"My father's voice reverberates in my ears. I was engulfed in my own thoughts. He reaches out to me as if his very existence depended on it.

Drawing closer, I grasp his hands. "It's me, Dad. I simply had a challenging day today. Nothing more. And please disregard whatever rumors they spread in the media, alright?"I implore with trepidation in my gaze.

"What news, my dear? Is everything in order? Are you receiving the medical assistance from the government?" He inquires. I couldn't bring myself to confess that I had utilized all the funds to settle his outstanding debts.

"Nothing to worry about. Everything is under control. The government is diligently overseeing all aspects. Trust me," I reassure him.

His focus then shifts from me to someone else - a sight that prompts me to turn and observe. Before they could discern my presence, I hastily depart, leaving my father behind. Departing with hollow assurances.

***

Craig's POV.

From the instant Tom and I arrived at the hospital, a sense of unease enveloped me. I couldn't pinpoint the cause. Approaching the nurse, she directed me to Blaire's location, yet I encountered a middle-aged man instead. Retracing my steps, I caught a glimpse of a figure fleeing upon my turn.

Not long ago, I was informed of her admission to Pine Woods Hospital. Urgency compelled us to rush here, only to find ourselves in this situation.

Tom nudges me, prompting a swift response from me. I spot the same figure dashing away and realize it's Blaire - clad in a blood-stained yellow gown with disheveled blonde locks.

Although her face remains concealed, I am certain of her identity. She is clearly avoiding me, that much is evident.

"She's evading you," Tom states the obvious.

"I am aware, Tom. I acknowledge my culpability. I had orchestrated her demise. I am relieved she is still among the living," I confess, running my fingers through my hair.

"What is your next course of action?" he inquires.

"I will provide her with what she requires. Time. And space," I declare, striding towards the doors — a gesture I had been eager to make for her, had she arrived unscathed. Regrets are futile now. I exit.

***

Blaire's pov

I spent two days slumbering without venturing outside. My phone remained untouched for over a week. Here I am, gazing at the ceiling, contemplating how I found myself in this predicament, pondering if I am superior to a shattered cup of coffee.

I exhale deeply and shift position. The end of July is swiftly approaching, yet my upcoming birthday holds minimal significance amidst my concerns. I yearn for someone to converse with. Rising from my bed, I retrieve a bottle of wine.

After consuming half its contents, I return to bed. Unconsciously, I dial a number that may turn into a nightmare. It takes a while, but he eventually answers.

"Hello, Blaire. How are you faring?" His voice offers a fleeting sense of solace.

"Hi, Ken. It has been a while. I have missed you immensely and hope to reunite soon. I trust you have not forgotten my upcoming birthday,"I express cheerfully.

He hesitates before responding, "Yes, of course. I believe I will be visiting soon."His words carry a hint of uncertainty and confusion. "Are you well, Blaire? You sound somewhat intoxicated."

"No, darling. Do you doubt me now?" I giggle, "There is only one thing that can elevate my spirits, and that is you..."

We converse for a while longer before I drift off to sleep.

***

"Are you joking, Blaire?!" Carlos' voice reverberates in my room as I pace with one hand on my hip and the other on my forehead.

This morning, I awoke to discover I had called my ex-boyfriend, Ken Evans. The mere thought compelled me to rush to the bathroom and expel the contents of my stomach. Absolutely not! He may be attractive, but our past is precisely that - the past. I have no intention of revisiting it.

I contacted Carlos earlier, and we have been conversing on the phone ever since. "I was inebriated. I already informed you. My 'lover' nearly led me to my demise. I subsequently checked myself into the hospital. Physically, I am fine now, but my mental state is fragile,"I conclude.

"Understood. What did Ken say?" Carlos inquires over the phone. I shake my head.

"He mentioned he will be visiting in a few months. I... I have unwittingly invited a new complication into my life, Carlos. What am I doing?!"I query, more to myself. "Carlos, you must offer me guidance, there must be a solution, right, my friend?"

"Well..., are you prepared for this task, Blaire Juliette Roberts?" He probes cunningly.

I smile and theatrically toss my hair. If only he could witness me, "I am ready,"I affirm. "But what precisely is expected of me, Carlos?"

"Drive, Blaire... drive Craig Winchester," he responds slowly which gave me chills in turn