SENTIMENTAL TALK

Fate had it written... maybe? Was this destiny? Was this meant to be? Because even in the middle of all the conflicting waves of emotions, hurt, and pain, I know one thing: I can't stay away from Damian for good. And his showing all the signs of not giving up serves as a ray of hope to me. I hope that we can still resolve this. I hope that this betrothal will still happen. And I hope that my heart will find joy soon—the joy that he 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 handle everything well. But I won't be able to rest in peace if I leave you unhappy, my child."

Huh? What is he talking about? Where is he going for God's sake? Doesn't he know how much his words are tormenting me? "Papa! Can you stop talking like that? I need you so much. I need you here with me. I can't handle anything without you. I would die 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 threatening 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 have to join your mother, my child. This is something beyond our control, Ellie, so take 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 let's stop these discussions. You should rest now. You shouldn't exhaust yourself any further," 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 break down just by thinking of his words. He can't lose hope. He looks strong enough to 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 world? I will have no one. Fate cannot be that cruel to me. He should fight and stay alive. 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 lower key. Taking has exhausted himself. 'If not, I want you to reconsider your decision. I want you to choose your happiness. Anything that will make you happy, I will support you, Ellie."

"I am happy, Dad; believe me. I will be happy with Damian so" Okay, wait. Why do I sound 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 waiting for us, and that will only happen when you get better. We have got a lot of catching 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 father. It would be the most fun memories that I have ever had with him. We don't even need to go a vacation. Even just here in this castle, we would make memorable memories.

I am looking forward to that day when we can even sit at the back or beside the pool and do our chitchats like we used to do before the desire for freedom creeped in. I want all these to be over soon. I want my father to be fully well again. I miss the vibrant, bold, and flamboyant Richard Bradley Riccaford back.

"I know, dear, and I am looking forward to that. But in case of anything, remember that you are a Riccaford—bold and strong. Don't ever let anything or anyone intimidate you. You are my child, my only one. You are intelligent and gorgeous, both inside and out. And always, always, stand your ground on what is right and choose yourself before anything or anyone. Your happiness, wellness, and self-worth should always come first. Okay?"

Yeah, this has been what he taught me since I was young. And this is what has made me who I am today. "I will always keep that in mind, Dad, just like I have always, because 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 say.

'No," he says, squeezing my hand. 'I am so proud of you, my child. I could never have asked for a better daughter. You are my joy, my everything. I love you so much!"

'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 quick. I will ask doctor Lemuel to look after you for now," I say as I finish pulling the covers 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 moment like this. I remember when we were this close. I would love for this to last forever. "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 process. It ought to be done fast.