He Gave Her My Eyes A Story of Final Sight novel Chapter 10

Turns out, the treatments never stood a chance. She didn't have corneas. There was nothing for them to fix.

Theresia put on a smile. "Just a friend."

Janetta, ever gentle, ran her hand through Theresia’s hair. "You’re so talented, Theresia. If it weren’t for your eyes, you’d already be a famous artist by now. My poor, sweet girl. You’ve really been through so much."

For a moment, Theresia's chest tightened, but she brushed it off. "It’s okay. I’ll get better. It’s just a matter of time."

Janetta didn’t say anything else, but the sadness in her eyes said enough.

Theresia had always been gifted, winning an international painting competition at seven. Even before elementary school was over, top artists wanted her as their student. But everything changed when Patti showed up. Suddenly, she had to fight for everything, even her art.

Leila smashed her easel just to keep Patti from losing to her. Felton threatened to break her hands if he ever caught her painting again.

And then Theresia went blind. The world’s colors disappeared for her forever.

After a little more small talk, Theresia stood to go. Janetta needed her rest.

Before she left, Theresia lingered, her voice soft and full of care. "Grandma, please take care of yourself. Eat on time, take your medicine. I brought you a whole year’s worth this time, so you’re set for a while."

Janetta chuckled. "It’s not like you’re never coming back. Why bring so much? Anyone would think you’re trying to get rid of me."

That hurt. Theresia almost told her the truth, that this was goodbye. But she couldn’t say it.

Holding back tears, she smiled. "How could I ever leave you? You’re the person I love most."

…

After gently closing the door behind her, Theresia wandered, searching for a quiet corner to breathe.

As she passed one of the rooms, she stopped. A woman’s breathless moans floated through the air.

Lawrence’s breath was ragged, lipstick still smudged at the corner of his mouth. "Patti, we’re both married. We can’t keep doing this. It’s not right."

Patti, wrapped in a champagne vintage dress that hugged every curve, looked up at him, eyes full of disappointment. "I’m sorry, Lawrence. I don’t know what came over me. Things have just been rough for me lately. But you don’t have to worry, I won’t cross any more lines. I’ll make sure Theresia never finds out. I’m going now."

She turned and left.

Lawrence stood there, brow furrowed and face clouded over.

He never really loved Theresia. But when he married her, he never planned on leaving her, let alone cheating. And she was carrying his child. The thought that he’d be a dad in nine months softened something inside him.

Downstairs, Theresia was moving fast, trying to get away. She’d just reached the landing on the second floor when someone grabbed her arm, stopping her in her tracks.

"Theresia, did you like what you heard?"

Patti’s voice was low and taunting. "That’s how your husband loves to hear me call his name. He just can’t get enough."