Emotional Scar
Episode 1
Nikki stared out the window, her eyes taking in the beautiful scenery of the bright blue sky, and it's white puffy clouds that flew slowly by as the car sped its way to the orphanage. She heard a huff and then a harsh sound as finger nails kept repeatedly hitting a screen. Nikki turned her head back to the person seated next to her at the back seat of her car, her eyebrows going up as a frown etched on her lips. Her husband kept huffing at his phone, scrolling and typing away.
She called, but he was a little too engrossed in his own issues.
Nikki felt agitated by her husband's behavior. These are one of the rare times when she's able to get ahold of him to accompany her to visit the sick and lovely children who she cherished dearly.
She called again, this time her voice climbing a little. She made sure to lace her disappointment in it.
Von snapped out of his daze and turned sharply to peer at his wife, pausing his lips in a thin line as his fingers hovered over his phone screen.
Nikki Pearce
Can't you leave whatever you're doing and just enjoy today?.
Nikki asked, folding her arms over her chest.
Von sighed and flipped his phone off, setting it aside and giving his wife a forced smile. He wasn't going to lie about not hating this whole thing. Not like he was against showing sympathy for the needy and helpless, but the idea of seeing a few dislocated bones or even the smell of medicine made him want to grab the wheel and go back home.
He'd rather spend his day reviewing company files than follow his wife on her lovely visits. It did not make sense!
Von Tesla
What a hypocrite.
His subconscious screamed.
He reached out and unfolded her arms, pulling her body close to him and wrapping his long hands round her.
Von Tesla
Relax. My secretary was just giving me updates.
Nikki rolled her big black eyes. She was starting to regret funding the creation of the so-called company her husband has become addicted to. There was no doubt that Von is a workaholic. Even when she met him back then in her 20s, and even though he was just fresh out of college with a master’s degree in engineering but no job, he still worked his ass off at mechanic shops without any break.
Von is a handsome light skin man with the most beautiful green eyes she's ever seen. They were forest green and nature was one of Nikki's favorite. It was love at first sight for Nikki, and she later found out that Von is in fact a control freak with maybe a bipolar disorder. He loves to control everything and the slightest disobedience will make him become a wild animal. One that would devour you without leaving any traces.
Nikki raised her head to stare at him, and he flashed her his million dollar smile, showcasing sparkly white teeth. She chuckled at his behavior and elbowed him playfully.
Nikki Pearce
I hate you sometimes.
Von frowned at her words and grabbed her a bit too forceful which caused her to yelp in pain as his fingernails dug into her delicate skin.
Nikki shot him a surprised look, and he groaned out.
Von Tesla
Don't ever say that.
She trembled under his icy glare and carefully begged.
Nikki Pearce
Von let me go.
He still held on tightly, and she was beginning to feel her hands burn from his grip. Surely, he was going to leave a bruise.
Nikki Pearce
Von you're hurting me!
Von immediately let go, gasping at the red marks on her arm.
Von Tesla
I'm sorry. I didn't mean to -
The driver who has been carefully watching them through the rearview mirror decided to finally announce their arrival.
Nikki hissed at her husband and adjusted the pink scarf round her neck. She grabbed her handbag and threw the car door open, stepping out in a hurry. She hated his little tantrums. What had she even said to deserve a bruise?
Von got down with his hands in his pocket. His face was neutral, and he went round to where his wife stood, her eyes closed as she sniffed in the cool September air. Her beautiful brown hair danced with the wind, a few strands coming to her face and she brushed them back, tucking them behind her ears in vain.
Von tried again and this time, Nikki gave him a quick look and nodded, turning back to face the entrance of Hope Foundation.
Nikki had a passion for interior design, but even with the certificate in hand, she decided to instead help those in need. Her father had died and left them a fortune just after her graduation. Her mother fell ill after loosing her husband and without much thought, Nikki used her share of the money to try and nurse her mother back to life and also build this place where she now calls home.
It wasn't an easy job gathering donors to help sponsor her dream. To Nikki, helping those in need should always be top priority. And her favorite people are children.
Sometimes when praying, she bombards God with questions like;
Nikki Pearce
Why did God deprive me of having my own children? *thoughts*
Her love for children was great, and she always dreamt of having her own. Her own precious babies running around and calling her mommy all day. But no, she was barren.
Everyday she rescues children from abusive homes, others roaming the streets and some were languishing in poor homes, sick to the bones. Everyday new malnourished children are admitted into the orphanage.
Nikki Pearce
Why would God give a child to someone who doesn't appreciate it?. *thoughts*
Nikki Pearce
Why have unprotected sex if you don't even want a baby?. *thoughts*
Nikki Pearce
And, why am I wanting a child the most barren?. *thoughts*
Nikki couldn't help but scoff as she stared at the building. Von already knew what was going through his wife's mind.
He has tried his best to make her feel complete even if he knew that was practically impossible. Of course he too wanted a child. A daughter to be particular. But deep in his heart, he believed God's time is the best.
Nikki snapped out of her daze when Von laced their fingers, caressing the back of her hand with his thumb.
Von Tesla
Ignore the voice in your head. It's going to be alright.
Nikki wanted to open her mouth and protest, but she gulped down whatever she had to say and simply nodded. Hand in hand, the two walked into the building, wide smiles plastered on their faces.
orphanage workers
Good morning, Mr and Mrs Tesla.
Nikki nodded at them and Von took his time to answer each and every one, some he even extended his hand for a shake.
Mrs Yang
Oh Nikki! Are you here to see the kids?.
One of the caregivers, a Chinese woman, came forward, throwing her hands open as she engulfed Nikki in a warm motherly embrace. Her hair, jet black and lustrous, falls in a sleek, shoulder-length bob. She often adorns it with a delicate hairpin, intricately designed with traditional Chinese motifs, adding a touch of elegance to her appearance. This is Mrs Yang.
Nikki appreciates her so very much for she has been with them from the beginning. Nikki patted her back softly and chuckled, breaking the hug.
Nikki Pearce
Always so beautiful, Mrs Yang.
The woman blushed at the compliment and covered her mouth as she giggled.
Mrs Yang
Oh stop it, you!. *smiles*
Von joined in on their laughter.
Von Tesla
Hello, Mrs Yang.
He greeted and she proceeded to hug him too.
Nikki Pearce
Yes, i'm here to visit the children.
Mrs Yang nodded and pointed at Von.
Mrs Yang
And, I see you brought him too. I must say I'm surprised to see you, Von.
Von Tesla
I'm just choked at the office but I try to make time for the kids.
Mrs Yang led them down to the big hall where the children were currently doing some art projects. They all roared with excitement and abandoned their drawings when the three stepped in.
orphanage children
Mama Nikki!
They chorused, all running into her arms and almost knocking her down. Nikki laughed and tried to wrap her arms around them all, tapping their heads in appreciation.
Nikki Pearce
How are you all doing? *smiles*
orphanage children
Fine, thank you.
Von watched his wife smile so bright, and he felt his heart melt. She only ever smiles that smile when she's around the children. Finally, they noticed him too and even though his visits are rare, they showed their appreciation by greeting him.
orphanage workers
Ok ok now go back to your drawings. Mama Nikki and her husband will be coming round to see what beautiful artwork you've created.
Another helper instructed, and they cheered, running back to their tables where they sat in groups of 5.
Nikki loved the look of things. Most of the children were down today. She saw some having crutches to aid their walking and others dragged their injured feet. Some had bandages wrapped around their head and with those who were once malnourished, she noticed how slightly fleshy they had become.
Mrs Yang
The others who couldn't come down are upstairs in their rooms with their helpers. I made sure they also participate.
She smiled and walked up to a group of beautiful girls.
Nikki Pearce
Hello ladies.
She chuckled, pulling the baby chair and sitting down, making sure not to leave all her weight on it.
Melanie
Mama Nikki! Look what I drew!
A chocolate girl wearing a stripped jumpsuit with her beautiful black hair nicely braided exclaimed, shoving her art in front of an amused Nikki.
Von stood a few tables away, engaged in a cute conversation about airplanes with another group, this time mixed with both boys and girls.
Nikki Pearce
Wow, Melanie!!. You drew this?.
It was a beautiful drawing of the beach. The little girl had perfectly colored the sky, and ocean with a shade of blue. Light blue for the sky which she drew tiny little birds with crooked wings on and a deep blue for the sea which looked a bit rough. The waves crashed against a small rock she drew at the side, and on the yellow sand people sat gazing at the sky. Melanie had struggled to draw a better picture of a man and woman and so she drew stick men, hugging each other as they gazed at the sun whose rays she remembered to reflect on the sea.
Nikki praised, and little girl smiled widely.
Melanie is 7 years old, and she ran away from home after her mother cruelly bathe her with boiled water. The girl's left leg was badly roasted, and her skin had peeled off, and they had found her crying at a police station.
Nikki handed the book back and the girl took it, bragging to her friends who each took turns to show their own drawings.
Nikki then excused herself and went up to the second floor where a certain boy who she was most fond of was confined. Stepping out of the elevator, she grinned when her eyes fell on the wooden door with the number 7 crafted on it. She walked towards it, her eyes lighting up with joy when she opened the door and her eyes fell on Gael.
His foot was up in a cast, inclined on the edge of his bed and his left hand was in a sling. Gael lost both his parents in an accident which landed him a broken foot and arm and a head injury. The doctor said he developed permanent amnesia and even though he might recover his memories, but the chances were thin.
Nikki paused by the door and watched him as he struggled to color with his right hand while painfully holding the book with his injured arm.
She called, and he shot his head to the sound of her voice, his lips curling up in a smile as he absentmindedly tried to leap up and run to her.
He cried, his smile faltering when the pain soured through him. Nikki rushed to his side and gently adjusted him on the bed.
Nikki Pearce
Come on dumpling! I told you to not get too excited when I show up.
The six-year-old giggled painfully.
Gael Bellamy
I can't help it when you're so pretty.
Nikki rolled her eyes playfully.
Nikki Pearce
Such a flirt.
She gently ruffled his strawberry blonde hair and his blue eyes shot up to glare at her, as his free hand came up to slap hers away.
Nikki's attention was snatched by the drawing in his hands
Nikki Pearce
Who are these?
Gael drew a family of three. Mother, father and a lovely young boy all smiling with a flower in hand.
Gael Bellamy
Me, you and daddy Von.
He shrugged his shoulders, pushing the book in her hands.
Unlike all the other kids at the orphanage who Gael saw as hypocrites, he was proud to say he did not like Von at all. The man was just too ugly, or maybe it was because he took frowning as a daily job. Once when they visited him, back when he was mute and still fighting for his life, Gael noticed the disgusted look Von threw him when he saw all the stitches on his body.
Sometimes he thought that maybe the one who should be in a bed with a bandage round her eyes should be Nikki.
Gael Bellamy
After all, she fell in love with a very bad man.
Gael stiffened for a moment.
Nikki gestured at the drawing, and he blew out a breath of relief. For a moment there, he was scared that maybe he had thought out loud.
Gael Bellamy
*nods* I want you to adopt me when I can finally walk. I know right now you don't want a cripple for a child, but when I can walk, run and jump like a normal person, will you please adopt me then, mom?.
Nikki's heart melted and she smiled, her eyes tearing up as she stared at the lovely kid.
Nikki Pearce
Did he just call me mom? *thought*
Episode 2
WARNING ! !
This chapter contains mature themes which may not be suitable for all audience. Proceed with caution!
The Pearce couple, Mr Noble and his lovely wife Gemini Pearce gave birth to two lovely daughters. Nikki Pearce as the eldest by 5 years and her mother's replica, and then her indecisive younger sister Liliana Pearce who couldn't choose which parent to exactly look like.
Nikki and Liliana grew up in a strict home, one that values education paired with dedication to one's religion. The Pearce family are Christians.
The couple doted on their children and provided them the best life one could imagine. They weren't exactly well off, but they were financially stable to live in a beautiful modern house with a pool and a small garden at the back where Gemini Pearce spent her time watering her precious flowers.
Mr Pearce was an accountant and his wife a stay-at-home mom.
The two daughters each had their unique personalities. Liliana is seen as the materialistic one and as their father used to say "worldly fool."
She is also the extrovert who gathered as many friends and would sneak out to night parties, using a stack of pillows as a cover for her.
Nikki on the other hand was the quiet nerd whose nose was always stuck in a book. She had the wildest imagination even back when she was a child. Even though everyone pointed fingers at Liliana for being the wild goose, Gemini knew deep in her heart Nikki was the real danger.
Nikki and Von started dating Von when they were still in college. She was a freshman and he was a senior. Even though their relationship started early, Nikki avoided mentioning him to her family.
Von was on scholarship. His parents were deceased, and he was a lonely orphan passing from one relative's door to another in search of desperate help.
Nikki's parents had everything planned out for their two daughters. They will marry a rich man and settle down, have kids, travel the world and live the life of their dreams all while spreading the gospel. But that dream seemed far-fetched when, almost about to finish her college education, Nikki their eldest daughter brought home a fine young man who reeked of fearful poverty.
When Von stepped into their house wearing a stained jean trousers and a faded shirt with his tousled black hair and captivating green eyes, they immediately frowned. His appearance wasn't like one who came to see his in laws. He looked like a poor beggar.
Mr Pearce almost died from a heart attack when he learned that his daughter was planning to settle down with a mechanic. A man who made a living by rolling underneath cars.
Liliana had fought back a laugh when she saw his open shoes, laughing back at her. Von was thrown out immediately with a warning to never be seen near their house. He was just only a poor mechanic back then and there was not even a single glint in his future.
Nikki refused to accept their decision, and so she rebelled. She turned a blind eye to her father's threats and continued seeing Von.
Nikki stuck by him and the constant shouting Mr Pearce did to change his daughter's mind caused him to suffer a heart attack and die. No one knew the old man had an existing heart condition.
Her sister Liliana was sent abroad to complete her studies and Nikki sponsored Von's dream of having his own company. The two got married a year later and Nikki also started Hope Foundation.
Von ran a frustrated hand through his hair, pulling at a few strands as he mentally scolded himself for tagging along.
He loves children, but they sometimes ask questions that he found strange and frustrating.
Andrew
Daddy Von, how far is the moon from Jupiter?.
This one came from a four-year-old with big chocolate brown eyes and loose front teeth. He hugged a teddy bear to his chest with one hand, using his other hand to awkwardly scratch his butt.
Von Tesla
Where is Nikki when I need her the most? *thoughts*
Von Tesla
Hey little man. Do you want chocolate?
Von tried to change the subject, but the kid shook his head .
The boy smiled, opening his mouth once again to ask the same question when Nikki interrupted them. Von sighed in relief, rushing to his wife's side.
Von Tesla
Thank God *whispers*
Nikki Pearce
*squints eyes*
Von chuckled nervously and scratched the back of his neck. He jerked his chin at the little boy who kept staring at them, finding their actions odd.
Nikki read the room and smiled at the boy who returned the gesture, shyly waving at her.
Nikki Pearce
Oh hello sweetie.
Nikki crouched down to his level, cupping his cheeks.
Nikki Pearce
I don't think I've seen you around. What's your name?.
Andrew
I know who you are. You are mama Nikki. I saw you earlier! *hugs Nikki*
Nikki giggled and caressed his back.
She later held his hand and led him back to the hall. He slipped out of her hold and ran back to his friends just as Mrs Yang joined them.
Mrs Yang
So, did you do your rounds?. What do you think about the workers?
Mrs Yang questioned, waving her hands around them as they walked to the entrance.
Nikki Pearce
It's all perfect. I checked the cooks in the canteen and I must say, I'm proud. They're professionals who strictly follow sanitary rules.
Mrs Yang
I'm glad you're pleased with everything.
Nikki Pearce
Now, let's talk about the children. How are they doing? Are there any concerns or issues we need to address?
Mrs Yang thought for a moment.
Mrs Yang
Well, overall, the children are doing well. They've settled into a routine, and we've been able to provide them with a stable environment. However, there are a few challenges we're facing.
Nikki Pearce
What challenges?
Mrs Yang
Some children are struggling with their studies. They've had a difficult past, and it's affecting their ability to concentrate and catch up academically. Just like Andrew.
Von raised a brow and Nikki hummed.
Nikki Pearce
She's talking about the kid who just left.
The trio turned to look at the four-year-old giggling with his peers.
Mrs Yang
Yes. He was rescued from his abusive stepdad. According to neighbors, his mother ran away with another man and the kid was blamed and tortured for it.
Von added, recalling their earlier interaction.
Von Tesla
I understand them. I suggest providing them with additional tutoring or counseling?.
He raised his brows at Nikki, and she nodded at his suggestion.
Nikki Pearce
Yes, we should start a tutoring program, and also look into partnering with local volunteers who can offer counseling services. We want to give these children the support they need to succeed.
Mrs Yang
That's wonderful!
Mrs Yang
I got a phone call from Brazil. They scheduled a date for Peter's operation. His brain tumor seems to be getting out of hand, and they don't want to delay. So they want us to fly with him over there very soon.
Nikki clasped a hand over her mouth.
Nikki Pearce
Oh my God. When do they want him there?.
Mrs Yang
Maybe next week?.
Von commented and looked at Nikki. He already knew his wife was going and nothing he says or do will change her mind.
The main reason Von was initially against the opening of the orphanage was because of Nikki's absence. She always had to run out of the country because of one of the children had an operation.
He groaned remembering that she had just come back from India, and now she's going to leave again.
Nikki Pearce
I'll be there. Can you please send his details to me. I need to make sure we're dealing with the best doctor.
Nikki Pearce
We'll head home now.
Mrs Yang
Ok dear. See you tomorrow then.
Mrs Yang smiled knowingly and Nikki giggled.
Von held the door for her and she slipped into the backseat, relaxing her body as he closed the door and walked over to his side, occupying the seat next to her.
The driver started the vehicle.
The glass was raised and they started down the road.
Nanny
Welcome back, madam. Sir.
The maid greeted the couple as they stepped out of the vehicle, both sighing in relief. They had a long yet adventurous day at the orphanage.
Nikki Pearce
It's ok, I'll handle it.
Nikki waved the lady off when she tried to take her bag. She brushed her hair to the side and walked into the house, kicking off her heels as soon as she was in the comfort of their bedroom. She put them aside and roughly discarded her bag on the bed.
Von asked, smoothly unbuttoning his shirt.
Nikki glanced at him and shrugged, Gael's words replaying in her mind. Von slipped out of his shirt, and she shamelessly gawked at his toned chest. He smirked at her, as his tongue glided across his lips.
Von Tesla
Like what you see, huh?
He teased and she scoffed.
Nikki Pearce
Oh yeah?. I've seen better.
Von's eyes darkened at her words and she felt the excitement drain out of her body. He looked dangerous, like he wanted to bite her
She blinked and gasped when she saw his face now inches from hers, his ragged minty breath fanning her face. Von's jaw ticked with anger, her words had gravely angered him. He knew she was teasing him, but whenever there was even a slight mention of a third party, he felt himself burning with anger.
Then his eyes fell on her smooth pink lips.
His eyes roamed her body and he felt angrier that she was still fully clothed. Her skin was so smooth and delicate and his hands burned to touch her. Images of him ramming into her and her moaning out his name clouded his vision and he felt his dick harden.
Nikki gulped and licked her patched lip, an action that added to Von's growing desire.
Nikki Pearce
W-we need to talk!.
Nikki squeaked, pressing her finger into his chest.
Von titled his head and licked her neck, making her take in a harsh breath. Nikki felt the wetness between her legs.
Von kissed her neck, sucking on her sweet spot, and she moaned softly.
Nikki Pearce
I-i-ts i-important.
She babbled and he hummed.
He said undoing the zipper of her dress at the back. He slid the hands down her shoulders and she willingly let him help her out of her dress. Nikki gasped when her back hit the soft mattress. Von pinned her hands over her head, hovering over her with lust filled eyes.
Von Tesla
Your eyes are beautiful.
He smiled, staring at her.
Von leaned in and kissed her passionately, his hands playing with the strap of her bra.
He moaned against her lips and a minute later, she was butt naked, except for a red lace panty she was willing to watch him rip off.
Von took her left boob in his mouth while his other hand kneaded the other softly, pinching her nipples.
Nikki Pearce
Von *bites lower lip*
Nikki moaned out his name and he hummed, licking her hard and pink nipple. Nikki bit her lower lip seeing how adorable he was pleasuring her. Men look so adorable when sucking boobs.
He repeated the same action on her right boob before trailing kisses down her belly button, and then he kissed the side of her thighs, not breaking eye contact.
Nikki was startled when he bit her soft flesh, living a hickey on her thigh His thumb rubbed against her pussy through the panties and he could feel how wet she was. Nikki arched her back when he slid off her pant and got lower for a better view. Von kissed her core and she bit her lip, batting her eyelashes in anticipation.
He brought his tongue out and licked her clit, the first lick sending her in a frenzy. Her eyes rolled to the back of her head when his tongue toyed with her clit. Von separated her pussy lips and licked her slit, looking at her as he devoured her.
Nikki felt herself getting close and she grabbed her boobs, moaning softly. Sensing her body tense up, Von stopped and she cried.
Nikki Pearce
No. Please. Don't stop.
Von Tesla
Should I make you cum?
Nikki squeezed her thigh together to apply pressure on her throbbing pussy.
Von asked and Nikki gasped when she felt his finger massaging her once again.
Nikki Pearce
YOU!. OH MY GOD!
Nikki cried and he sucked on her clit. Nikki squeezed her eye shut and she came in his mouth, mumbling gibberish.
Von drank her juices and raised his head, wiping the excesses on the corner of his mouth and sucking it off his fingers.
Episode 3
Von sipped on his green tea, softly clicking away on his laptop as he scrolled through multiple business files. He could feel his middle finger going numb from rolling hours on the touchpad.
He heard a groan and then a soft sigh causing him to glance at Nikki who was finding another comfortable sleeping position.
Nikki kicked her feet apart, burying her left cheek deeper into her soft pillow, a calm expression washing over her face.
He made his way to the bed and covered her with the duvet, laying a gentle kiss on her forehead and she smiled in her sleep.
Just as he was about to continue his work, a vibrating sound from the nightstand caught his attention.
Von Tesla
Thank God we always put our phone's on silent at night. *thoughts*
Von glared at the machine as the ringing became persistent. Just as he was about to reach for it, the ringing stopped and the caller's ID flashed on the home screen showing 6 missed calls.
Von muttered to himself, raising a brow in suspicion.
He had almost forgotten about his wife's bratty little sister who was thankfully shipped to Spain before their marriage.
He was unsure why she was calling, but then, the sister's never really lost touch. However, mere thoughts of her brought him great discomfort.
Von is not a fan of Liliana, because just like everyone else, she was against he and Nikki's relationship.
Von ran a hand through his hair and fixed his eyes once again on his laptop.
Nikki was so tired from yesterday's activities, she slept till 12pm.
Von had already left for work after eating breakfast. He instructed the nanny to draw the curtains in their room at 12pm as a way to wake Nikki, if she was still not up by then.
The woman crept up to her madam's room and smiled at how scattered the young lady was on her king-sized bed. Nikki lay on her back, her legs and hands thrown apart and her chest rising and falling as she breathes.
The woman obeyed instructions and pulled the curtains apart, the view of their beautiful garden coming to sight.
Sunlight seeped into the room and finally the rays fell on Nikki's face, making her skin glow. Nikki's eyes twitched and she brought her hands up to block the rays, groaning when the light penetrated her eyes.
Nikki slurred flustering her lashes apart, a frown on her face. She winced and squinted her eyes, trying to adjust them to the light.
Nanny
Good afternoon madam.
Nikki took a few minutes to register her words and then when realization dawned on her, she shot her eyes wide open, the size of saucepans.
Nikki choked out, sitting up on the bed. She leaned her back on the headboard and yawned, stretching her hands over her head.
Nanny
Yes ma'am. Master already left for work but he instructed me to wake you up. Should I prepare your bath water?
The woman gestured at the bathroom door.
Nikki scratched her eyes, trying to get rid of the sleep.
Nikki Pearce
Why is Von so good at what he does?. *thoughts*
The maid noticed this and giggled.
Nanny
I'll be on my way then.
Nikki waved her hands at her, and she scurried out of the room, closing the door softly
Nikki tilted her head to the side, twisting her neck this way and that till a popping sound was heard and she smiled relieved. Her neck always felt stiff when she wakes up and this is now her daily routine.
Nikki grabbed her phone from the nightstand and flipped it on, her eyes going wide when she saw 6 missed calls from her sister.
Nikki Pearce
I wonder what this is about...
Nikki quickly dialed her sister's number, and she sighed when Liliana answered after the third ring.
*Somewhere in Madrid, Spain*
Liliana Pearce
Nikki! Are you seriously tired of your little sister?. Why did you keep ignoring my calls?.
Nikki started, massaging her temple.
Nikki Pearce
There's a huge time difference between us, or have you forgotten?.
Liliana Pearce
Right!. How did I forget?
Nikki Pearce
I'm sorry I was unable to answer your calls, I was sleeping. I had a long day yesterday.
Liliana Pearce
Are you ok sis?. I still can't believe you went ahead with the orphanage thingy...
Nikki Pearce
Is that really what's surprising you?
Liliana bit her lower lip.
Liliana Pearce
Well I was thinking it would crash.
Nikki Pearce
Of course not
Nikki Pearce
How are you? Need some cash or anything?
Liliana Pearce
*rolls eyes skyward*
Liliana Pearce
You think I only call when I need money, huh?
Nikki Pearce
Of course not. So, how are things in Spain?
Liliana thought for a minute before breaking into a smile.
Liliana Pearce
Good. I'm graduating next week you know, and then I'll come back to the US to find a decent job and also take care of you.
Nikki Pearce
oh shut up. I'm no old lady, in fact, I'm getting younger.
Liliana Pearce
Yes I know. I miss you so much sissy.
Nikki Pearce
I miss you too brat.
Nikki Pearce
When are you coming back?
Just as she was about to speak, Liliana was interrupted by a hoarse male voice in the background.
Mauricio Ricci
Mi amor. ¿Con quién estás hablando?
[My darling. Who are you talking to?]
The man spoke in a thick Spanish accent, his words coming out foreign and confusing to Nikki.
His voice is so soft and so calm and whatever he said rolled smoothly off his tongue, making Nikki feel like blushing. Nikki pressed the phone to her ears to catch whatever possible gist.
Liliana whipped her head behind and forced out a smile when her eyes fell on her tall and chubby Spanish boyfriend, Mauricio.
Mauricio flashed her a genuine smile, revealing slightly yellowish teeth as a result of too much tobacco intake. He has beautiful blue-gray eyes and a heavy stubble beard which Liliana hated.
Mauricio joined her on the couch and gave her a kiss on the side of her head, closing his eyes as the lovely smell of Lavender engulfed him.
Mauricio proceeded to bury his nose in the crook of her neck, sniffing in her scent.
Liliana Pearce
No ahora Mauricio. Estoy en el telefono.
[Not now Mauricio. I'm on the phone]"
Mauricio detached himself from her quietly. His eyes held so much disappointment, but he still gave her a genuine smile.
Liliana felt bad for being harsh. She smiled at him and gestured at her phone, placing her hand over the speaker to prevent Nikki from hearing her next words.
Liliana Pearce
Estoy hablando con mi hermana. ¿Por qué no vas a preparar la cena?
[I am talking to my sister. Why don't you go prepare dinner?.]
He knew she wasn't the old Liliana who had fallen for him even if he was 22 years older than her.
She wasn't the same loving raven haired girl he had fallen in love with, after all, she now had strands of red hair.
Mauricio Ricci
Me leave you be then.
And he left for the kitchen. Liliana gulped down her guilt and stared at his retreating figure.
Nikki Pearce
*clears throat*
Liliana Pearce
Uhm, sorry about that.
Nikki giggled like a little lovesick girl.
Nikki Pearce
And who is this Mauricio?. He must be really hot, because that voice. Oh lala.
Liliana glanced at the little door leading to the kitchen, the sound of kitchen utensils clashing , bounced on the beige walls.
Liliana Pearce
*rolls eyes*
Liliana Pearce
Well he's ok
Nikki had a feeling that something was wrong. Liliana's tone was a bit harsh, and so she prodded.
Nikki Pearce
You didn't answer my question.
After their father's sudden demise, Liliana was sent to study in Spain. With the fortune her father left for them, her accommodation and tuition fee were easily handled and all she had to do was face her studies for the next 3 years and she'll be back home with a master's degree in Nursing.
Once in the romantic land, Liliana was swept off her feet by the light skinned man with a sexy voice and loaded pocket.
Mauricio is filthy rich!. He only had his mother and grandmother alive, as his father had died in a motorcycle accident when he was just a child.
It was an unfortunate and unexpected thing for the family. When Mauricio turned 18, all his family's businesses were handed over to him, the rightful heir.
Now he's the proud owner of a multibillion company and also one of the town's prominent boutique, Ropa Fiesta.
Mauricio has houses scattered all over the country, with the family mansion situated in the best parts of town.
Liliana Pearce
He's my boyfriend...?
Liliana said but it came out more like a question.
At first she thought dating an older man wouldn't be so bad, but even though he lavished her with expensive gifts and even bought her an apartment, she still couldn't help feel disgusted by him.
Her friends had young boyfriend's, ones that they could proudly introduce in public. But how was she supposed to showcase her 42 year old man with a protruding stomach?.
Liliana Pearce
Ugh!. Let's not talk about him.
Liliana shivered with disgust, the mere thought angering her spirits. She did not want Nikki to ask about his age or even how they met.
Nikki Pearce
And isn't he listening in on our discussion?.
Nikki stretched her legs and yawned.
Sometimes, she just can't understand her sister.
Liliana Pearce
No. He's that type who never took English seriously in school. He's struggling with the language.
Liliana's eyes roamed around her luxurious apartment bathed in the sweet color of beige.
Nikki Pearce
You sound mean to him though. I could sense how much he loves you.
Nikki Pearce
But, won't your Mauricio be sad about your leaving?.
Liliana Pearce
I haven't told him yet.
Nikki Pearce
Ah. I'm sure he'll be displeased with having a long distance relationship. The poor boy.
Liliana cringed at her sister's words and gulped.
Liliana Pearce
you don't have to think about that.
Nikki Pearce
You crazy brat. Why am I only finding out about your boyfriend?. Only God knows what else you're keeping from me.
Liliana Pearce
I'm not pregnant.
Nikki Pearce
You better not be. Mom clearly said it's children after marriage.
Nikki immediately regretted her statement. Liliana had decided to leave her home country because of the tragedy. She suffered the most after their parent's demise.
Liliana Pearce
I miss them
Nikki Pearce
I'm sorry. I shouldn't have mentioned that.
Liliana Pearce
It's fine sis. I feel like I'm starting to forget how they looked like, and it scares me. Furthermore, I don't want to forget mom and dad Nikki. I don't want to ever forget the glint in their eyes whenever they saw us. Or the smiles on their faces when we hugged them. They shouldn't have died.
Liliana's voice started breaking and Nikki blinked back the tears.
It was just like 4 years ago, when their parents died. She knew Liliana was trying to remind her of her sin.
Liliana Pearce
It's not your fault. I'm not blaming you. I hope you understand.
Nikki Pearce
I know that Ana. I know that you miss them. Likewise, I miss them too. And you're wrong, it's my fault they died. I-
Liliana Pearce
That's enough.
Liliana Pearce
Just make sure you come to my graduation. I want to have my family with me.
Nikki swallowed the bile in her throat.
Nikki Pearce
Of course. I'll be there to cheer you on.
Liliana Pearce
And bring presents.
An awkward silence fell, and the two listened to the sound of each other's breathing. Liliana kept biting her lip, waiting for her sister to say something.
Nikki Pearce
When do you plan on coming back?
Liliana smiled and stroked her cheek, squinting her eyes as she thought of a perfect date. Her graduation is next week, or better said next month, since there were only 4 more days left in September.
After pondering for a while, Liliana clicked her tongue and answered.
Liliana Pearce
I'm coming back home next month, maybe.
Nikki Pearce
Ok next month sounds good. I'll have them prepare your room.
Liliana Pearce
Will your husband be okay with that?.
Nikki Pearce
Of course he'll be fine. You're my sister Liliana and this is our home. I know that Von is my husband, but I won't allow him to stop or make you feel uncomfortable.
Liliana Pearce
Oh my God Nikki, I should have recorded that!. So heartwarming.
Nikki Pearce
Oh, shut up you little brat.
Nikki Pearce
I love you Ana.
Liliana Pearce
I love you too sis. You'll always be my big sister.
Nikki Pearce
And you'll always be my precious little sister whom I'll protect with my life.
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