Fate had it written... maybe? Was this destiny? Was this meant to be? Because even in middle of all the conflicting waves of emotions, hurt, and pain, I know one thing: I ’t stay away from Damian for good. And his showing all the signs of not giving up as a ray of hope to me. I hope that we can still resolve this. I hope that this will still happen. And I hope that my heart will find joy soon—the joy that brings me. This sounds like those fairy tales, honestly.
"I am not scared of leaving when my time comes, because I am sure my daughter can everything well. But I won't be able to rest in peace if I leave you unhappy, my ."
Huh? What is he talking about? Where is he going for God’s sake? Doesn’t he know much his words are tormenting me? "Papa! Can you stop talking like that? I need so much. I need you here with me. I can't handle anything without you. I would if anything were to happen to you. So, please."
"We all will one day leave this world, my child.” He cuts me off, and I fear tears to leave my eyes. Why is he talking like this? “I am not saying I am dying.
But you should brace yourself because sooner or later, that time will come when I will to join your mother, my child. This is something beyond our control, Ellie, so the chance while it lasts. I am the only one who can revoke that agreement."
Just why the heck is he speaking like this?
"Listen, Papa, I am not changing my decision, and neither am I ready to lose you. So 's stop these discussions. You should rest now. You shouldn't exhaust yourself any ," I say, tucking my paranoia in my throat as deep as I can.
My throat feels like there is a bump of stones blocking it. I feel like I am about to down just by thinking of his words. He can't lose hope. He looks strong enough lose hope.
"Okay. But promise me one thing, dear,” he says again.
"What?" I ask, sucking up tears from portraying how vulnerable I am right now.
Does he know that leaving me would mean that I would be all alone in this cruel ? I will have no one. Fate cannot be that cruel to me. He should fight and stay . I would die if... I don't even want to imagine. He is strong. He will surpass this.
We will both overcome this.
"That you are choosing your happiness right now,” he says, starting with a much key. Taking has exhausted himself. “If not, I want you to reconsider your . I want you to choose your happiness. Anything that will make you happy, I support you, Ellie."
"I am happy, Dad; believe me. I will be happy with Damian so" Okay, wait. Why do I so sure, huh? Isn't this just for show? Ain't I dying with rage for that man? "So...
Stop worrying and heal already. You heard Mrs. Riccaforte, right? There is a vacation for us, and that will only happen when you get better. We have got a lot of up to do, you know?" I tease, but honestly, I am hopeful for that.
I can’t imagine us bonding. Even without the Riccafortes around. Just me and my . It would be the most fun memories that I have ever had with him. We don’t need to go a vacation. Even just here in this castle, we would make memorable .
I am looking forward to that day when we can even sit at the back or beside the pool do our chitchats like we used to do before the desire for freedom creeped in. I all these to be over soon. I want my father to be fully well again. I miss the , bold, and flamboyant Richard Bradley Riccaford back.
"I know, dear, and I am looking forward to that. But in case of anything, remember you are a Riccaford—bold and strong. Don't ever let anything or anyone you. You are my child, my only one. You are intelligent and gorgeous, inside and out. And always, always, stand your ground on what is right and yourself before anything or anyone. Your happiness, wellness, and self-worth always come first. Okay?"
Yeah, this has been what he taught me since I was young. And this is what has made who I am today. "I will always keep that in mind, Dad, just like I have always, even these few months that I was rebellious, I carried your teachings to heart.
They are what made me thrive and make it out there. I am so proud of you, Dad,” I .
“No,” he says, squeezing my hand. “I am so proud of you, my child. I could never asked for a better daughter. You are my joy, my everything. I love you so !”
“And I love you so much, Father. You are the best. Now rest, okay?" I say.
"Okay," he obediently says.
"Good. I will leave you for a while so that I can take a shower, then I will be back . I will ask doctor Lemuel to look after you for now," I say as I finish pulling the to his chest.
"You worry too much, but okay," he faintly grumbles, forcing a weak smile.
"Goodnight, Dad."
"I love you, my child. So much. Never forget that."
That sounds deep, but it feels all so good and overwhelming. I really missed a like this. I remember when we were this close. I would love for this to last . "I know, Papa. And I love you more."
He closes his eyes, and I walk out. I should ask Dr. Lemuel to speed up the transplant . It ought to be done fast.