What a bastard!
As thoughts of Harlan’s unspoken words crossed my mind, a sudden realization dawned upon me. It became apparent that Caleb had engaged in a private conversation with Harlan, which explained why Harlan had ridiculed him in that manner. The reality unfolded before me, revealing the truth in such a disappointing manner.
Overwhelmed by disappointment, I took a few steps back.
In doing so, I accidentally bumped into the trash can.
The clattering sound instantly drew their attention to my direction.
“Who is it?” Caleb questioned, his tone wary.
Choosing not to answer, I swiftly made my way to the door, opting to flee instead.
Nevertheless, as I reached the door, Caleb swiftly closed the distance, hastening to me.
“Debra?” Caleb exclaimed in surprise as his eyes landed upon me.
I resorted to pretending that I had just arrived, saying hurriedly,
“Thank you for allowing my daughter to visit me today.”
Caleb furrowed his brow, fixating his gaze upon me for a few seconds before asking, “What’s the matter? You don’t look so good. Are you all right?”
“I’m fine,” I answered perfunctorily.
I’ll ask Brian to check up on you.”
As Caleb reached for the phone, I quickly shook my head and declined his offer. “No, thank you. I simply wish to return and have some much-needed rest.”
Slowly, I made my way back to the ward, each step filled with a mix of weariness and unresolved emotions.
This time, Caleb chose not to follow me.
I couldn’t discern whether Caleb’s reluctance to follow me stemmed from a sense of guilt regarding the boy mentioned earlier or from his concern that I might have overheard his previous words. Neither possibility brought me any happiness.
I lay down on the bed, my gaze fixed blankly upon the expanse of the white ceiling.
Caleb’s words continued to replay in my mind, serving as a constant reminder of my naivety and foolishness.
Throughout it all, I had held on to the belief that Caleb would change.
However, it became evident that I had been deceiving myself all the time.
He truly revealed himself to be a self-centered individual. He was undeserving of being compared to someone as compassionate and selfless as Zoe. Indeed, Zoe’s honesty and kindness were remarkable traits that set her apart. She would never conspire against an innocent child like
Caleb had done.
Caleb’s intense possessiveness towards me left me questioning whether it could truly be labeled as love or if it was something entirely different.
