Chapter 65

I spent a week staying with my family after I got out of the hospital. My dad requested that I should stay for a bit and spend time with them.

Silena was released more than a week ago. She was in a wheelchair for the meantime because of her leg.

When Nile dropped me off at my dad’s house, before we got in, he told me the news that Jacob was dead. I didn’t ask him how or whatever the details were because I felt elated about it. It felt like my freedom was back and I was so so relieved about it. Not only that, my family and I are okay now.

I was silent when he brought out the news because I was internally soaking it all in. After what he did to me, my friends and now my family, I wanted him gone badly. And this news was everything to me.

Nile didn’t mind my reaction. He usually understands me a lot so I knew he felt my relief.

We had a feast when I arrived home. They prepared a lot of delicious food to welcome me and also celebrate Silena and I’s recovery. Colton and Nile were our special guests of course.

It didn’t cross my mind that things would be awkward since they took turns to visit me everyday in my ward. I had one thing in my mind, that was to tell Silena the truth. Although I hated her before, she still didn’t deserve what happened to her.

I have put past my grudge towards her when I saw how my dad had real genuine feelings for her and how she came after me that day for my dad.

I was fine if he remarried and that for his happiness but their relationship back then was for all the wrong reasons.

What I saw that day changed everything. When my dad took her hand, I knew I instantly forgave them.

All I needed now was to ask for Silena's forgiveness. When Colton and Nile went home, with my father and my brother both resting in their respective rooms, I figured that was the time to talk to her.

I didn’t manage to tell her after she woke up. Besides the fact that I was hospitalized myself, whenever they visited, dad and Dilan were always with her. I needed to talk to her alone.

We sat in our backyard while drinking tea. She asked me what I wanted to talk about. She was patient and calm. There was a constant smile on her face.

She looked motherly which made it even more obvious that she’s changed completely for the better. I was happy about it honestly. Heck, I was proud of her.

I didn’t beat around the bush and told her exactly what happened. Though I told her Nile and Colton’s version of the story. I couldn’t afford her telling my dad about it. I still didn’t want to risk his health now that he’s feeling better. Our reconciliation was part of the reason he’s getting better.

The doctor said he was improving. I let him have his regular checkup whenever he visited me back at the hospital.

She was solemn when she listened to me. Of course, whatever her reaction may be, I will take it. After all, I was the reason why she ended up like this.

I was surprised when her reply to my confession was an apology. Sorry for what exactly?

“I’m sorry that you had to face something so horrible. I’m relieved to know that despite you being harmed, you’re still here with us, fine and healthy. Your dad would be so devastated if he loses you completely.”

I stood abruptly from shock. She was surprised at my sudden gesture.

“Sorry? Silena, it was my fault why you’re sitting in a wheelchair right now rather than walking here freely. You should’ve been mad at me.” I exclaimed.

She gave me a small smile. “I don’t think I have the right to be mad at you, Kura. After all, I was the reason your father abandoned you.”

I didn’t know what to say. I felt confused about her answer. I just stared at her in agape.

“I deserve this, you know. I practically forced you out of this house and took everything you have while you were out there facing the world without the support of your family. To be honest, I’ve been feeling guilty throughout the decade, especially when Dilan came into our lives. I don’t think I could do to him what your father and I did to you.”

I was speechless. I didn’t expect this kind of reaction from her. My shoulders slumped, seemingly gotten rid of the burden.

“Perhaps we should start afresh.”

Honestly, I was exhausted with the drama constantly coming in and out of my life. I just want peace. I want a life without always worrying about something.

Silena was stunned at my suggestion.

“After everything that’s happened to my life, I know I deserve happiness, Silena, and so do you.”

She smiled. “Well… I guess this is the first time we agree on something... my daughter.” She teased. I smiled at her in return.

After that, we continued talking about what we did during the ten years we’re separated. She mostly asked about my situation. My college life, my achievements and of course, especially love life. She is obviously most interested in that.

She finds Nile to be very dashing. The first time she met him, she was speechless of how attractive he was. She was literally in a daze. My stepmother was no exception to Nile's spell. Which is why our conversation ended up how Nile and I met until we formed a really unique relationship.

Silena was near my age so when I talked to her, it felt like I was talking to my sister rather than my stepmother.

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A week later, Nile came to get me. I was surprised when he didn’t visit me within that week. I was pretty sure he’d come everyday just to see me considering Nile Veselov was undeniably clingy. Instead, he let me rest and bond here with my family.

Sadly, I could only stay here for a week. I needed to go back to Runner Studios. I have been gone for a long time and I was now free to go wherever I wanted or needed. First thing I needed to do was get back to work.

A huge burden was lifted off my shoulder and I’ve never felt so relieved and happier. Especially now that my family and I are okay. To be honest, I’ve spent more time with my shy little brother than my dad and Silena.

There was something about the kid that drew me in. His shyness was cute. Somehow it was his charm. My dad felt ecstatic knowing we were getting along well.

One time, we went to the mall and I instantly bought him whatever he wanted. After that, we ate a lot of sweets. Even though I disliked it, I wanted him to show that I loved it the same way as he did. We then went to the arcade and played a lot of games. We went home pretty late that day.

Dilan was crying while holding his teddy bear. He didn’t want me to leave. I hugged him and reassured him that I will visit him whenever I could.

My dad was staring at Nile with no hint of emotion. Nile only stood still, uncomfortable with his penetrating gaze.