Chapter 645
Jennifer’s words replayed in Jonathan’s head, a vicious loop.
He stared at Teresa’s number on his phone. The digits were burned into his brain. His thumb hovered and then pressed “call.”
A flat, automated voice answered. “Sorry, the number you have dialed is not available…”
Jonathan’s hand dropped to his side. A dark, unreadable shadow fell over his eyes. He got in his car and drove away from the hospital.
Jennifer was about to go upstairs when Gary suddenly stepped in front of her, blocking her way.
Gary demanded, “What did you say to Jonathan? He left in such a hurry.”
“None of your business,” Jennifer said coldly. “Out of my way.”
Gary said as he stared at Jennifer’s back, “I was just with Grandpa. He told me Teresa’s moving to Gorthany. That’s ridiculous.
“Just a few days ago, Teresa was telling me how much she wanted Mike to start preschool here in Nareigh, to have a normal life. No way she’s leaving.”
Jennifer whipped around, her patience wearing thin. “Look, this is a family matter. Even if Teresa decides to go to Gorthany, that’s her own choice. It has nothing to do with me.”
Gary snapped. “Nothing to do with you? You expect me to believe that? The truth is, you’re scared. You’re scared Teresa is going to tell Jonathan about Mike, and all your dirty little secrets will come spilling out.
“So, you’re forcing her to leave, right? How can you be so cruel? You’re making her travel across the country with a three-year-old child. Don’t you care about them at all?”
“My mother is in Gorthany. She’ll take care of them,” Jennifer snapped.
The final piece clicked into place for Gary. “So, Teresa never wanted this. You’re forcing her to leave. You’re running her life for her, and that’s not fair.”
Jennifer took a deep breath. “Think whatever you want. I’m not fighting with you about this. Donald’s waiting for me. He needs me now."
Gary demanded. “Do you really love Donald?”
Jennifer paused for two heartbeats. Then, she looked him straight in the eye and said firmly. “Yes, I love him. More than my own life.”
Gary let out a bitter, mocking laugh, his face filled with scorn. As Jennifer turned and walked away without another word, Gary slumped against the wall and let out a heavy sigh.
Back in the break room, Jennifer collapsed into a chair. Suddenly, she was so tired she could barely move. Every muscle in her body gave up, like someone had pulled her plug.
The door swung open, Jennifer’s head snapped up, and when she saw Donald, she flew to her feet. She choked back a sob as she instinctively wrapped her arms around his waist, clinging to him. “Donald, promise you won’t leave me.”
Donald stared down at her, totally lost. “Babe, what’s going on? Why would I leave?”
“I don’t know. I keep having these nightmares lately,” she said, her voice shaking. “I dream you walk away, that you decide you don’t want me anymore.”
“Don’t be silly, babe,” Donald murmured, stroking her hair. He sighed. “We’re married now. I’m not going anywhere."
“Okay,” she mumbled into his chest, holding him tighter. “Thank God I have you. Always be right here with you.”
Donald felt how wrecked she was and sighed again. “Jennifer, there’s something I’ve been thinking.”
“What?” Jennifer asked.
Donald said, “The department head position… I think maybe you should let it go. I hate seeing you under so much pressure, barely eating or sleeping properly."
“No.” Jennifer pulled back, her voice like steel. “I’m getting that promotion. I have to get the department head. Mr. Foster gave me this shot. I’m not going to run away.”