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"What happened?"
I explained everything that had happened while she listened in silence.
.
"I understand that you want to take this step in your career, Olivia, but you must remember the impact it will have on Ben and Chloe," Dr. Williams said. "They care about you deeply, and keeping this secret might cause more harm than good in the long run."
I took a deep breath, trying to steady my emotions. "I know, and I don't want to hurt them. But I'm afraid of how Ben will react. What if he's not ready for another child? What if he thinks I'm abandoning them?"
Dr. Williams paused for a moment before replying gently, "Olivia, you can't make assumptions about how he'll react. You have to talk to him openly and honestly. Trust in the love and bond you both share. Relationships are built on communication, and this is a crucial moment to strengthen yours."
Her words resonated with me, and I knew she was right. I couldn't keep my pregnancy a secret forever. I needed to face my fears head-on. But that was easier said than done.
"I don't think I can," I said.
She paused again, before asking, "Would focusing on your career help you make a better decision?"
"I guess so," I replied. "But haven't I already made the decision if I choose to focus on my career?"
"No," she replied. "I'm sure that this decision you're about to make isn't the final one. You still have your doubts about Ben's feelings for you. And your feelings for his daughter as well. If you go, you'll finally understand what I mean."
"So… I can go?" I asked.
"Yes," she replied, "Good luck."
"Thank you. But I have a favor to ask…."
"Don't worry, I won't tell Ben," she said. "We don't talk that often."
"Thank you," I said.
"It's fine," she replied before hanging up.
I was torn between my career and staying behind. Leaving without a word was going to cause a panic. I knew it wasn't the best way to handle the situation, but I couldn't bring myself to face them in person. I wanted to spare them from the pain of seeing me leave.
With trembling hands, I began to write:
"Dear Ben and Chloe,
I don't know where to start, but I need to tell you something important. I have been offered an incredible opportunity to work in another part of the world; after a lot of thought, I have decided to take it. I know this decision will come as a shock to both of you, and I am truly sorry for any pain it may cause. Please know that this is not a decision I made lightly, and it's not because I don't love you both.
Ben, you have been a pillar of strength and love in my life, and I will cherish the memories we shared forever. You and Chloe brought so much happiness into my life. I will always be grateful for that. But I need to take this step in my career and focus on my professional growth. I hope you understand that this is not about running away from us or abandoning you; it's about finding my own path and becoming a stronger person for our future together.
Chloe, my sweet girl, you have a special place in my heart that no distance can ever change. You brought so much joy into my life, and I will miss you more than words can express. I promise to stay in touch, and I will be back to visit whenever I can. You have made me a better person, and I will carry the memories of our time together wherever I go.
I know it's hard to understand why I'm leaving, and I wish I could explain it better. But please believe me when I say that I love you both deeply, and I will carry you in my heart every step of the way. I hope that one day, when the time is right, we can find our way back to each other. Until then, please take care of each other and know that I am only a phone call away if you need me.
With all my love and gratitude,
Olivia
With tears streaming down my face, I sealed the letter in an envelope and placed it where Ben and Chloe would find it. I knew it wasn't an ideal way to communicate my decision, but it was the best I could do at the moment. As I left the house and made my way to the airport, my heart felt heavy with sorrow and uncertainty. I was scared of the pain I had caused them and afraid that I had made a mistake.
I had written that this was for our future together without even thinking. Maybe my subconscious state wanted us to reunite again. I shook off the thoughts and tried to convince myself that I was going to be saving lives in Maryland. I was careful not to mention where I was going.
I didn't want Ben looking for me. It was better this way.
Chapter twenty
