The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 16

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**Chapter 16: Mother’s Will**

“Ah, lovers don’t need to be etched together, just like friends don’t have to be. Let’s create our own cherished moments,” Alice said with a warm smile, gently squeezing Serena’s hands as if to transfer some of her optimism.

Serena’s lips curled into a smile, brightening her previously somber expression. “You’re absolutely right. Today doesn’t have to end on a sour note,” she replied, her heart lifting at the thought.

In unison, they exclaimed, “Let’s find a tree!”

After a short search, Alice and Serena discovered a young, vibrant tree, its bark smooth and inviting. Together, they took out a small pocket knife and began to carve their names into the trunk. Around the names, they added a heart, inscribing the words: [Friends 4ever].

“It’s perfect,” Serena breathed, stepping back to admire their handiwork, a sense of accomplishment washing over her.

“Are you feeling better now?” Alice inquired, her tone laced with genuine concern.

Serena nodded, a hint of mischief in her eyes. “Yes, I feel much better. Just promise me one thing—don’t ever break my heart.”

Alice chuckled, her laughter ringing out like a melody. “How could I ever do that? You were my rock when I needed someone the most. I owe you so much for that.”

Alice had experienced her first heartbreak not too long ago. Just a year prior, she had been on the brink of marriage, only to discover her fiancé entwined in a betrayal with his secretary. During those painful days, it was Serena who had stood by her, offering comfort and solace. Now, however, the roles had shifted, and Alice found herself playing the supportive friend.

After their reflective moment beneath the tree, the two friends made their way back to the cabin, fatigue creeping in as they settled down for a brief rest. But soon after lunch, they gathered their things and ventured back to Alice’s apartment in Velmon City, where the bustling life of the city awaited them.

Alice had a night shift ahead of her. As she organized her belongings in the living room, her eyes sparkled with determination. “Tonight, I’m going to channel my inner Sherlock Holmes,” she declared, the thrill of the unknown igniting her spirit.

What she meant was that she would delve into Serena’s medical records—and even those of her parents—searching for answers that lay hidden beneath layers of bureaucracy.

Serena bit her lip, a wave of apprehension washing over her. “Just… please be careful,” she urged, her voice barely above a whisper.

“I won’t get caught,” Alice reassured her confidently. “I’ve been working at the hospital for four years now. The owner trusts me implicitly.”

“If you say so,” Serena replied, her voice tinged with uncertainty.

While Alice took a shower, Serena seized the opportunity to make a call to the Medical Equipment Technology Firm located in Rexam City. It was still early afternoon, and she hoped to reconnect with their old friend, Xavier.

After five rings, a voice finally answered. “Hello, this is the Medical Equipment Technology Firm. How may I assist you?”

“Hi, I’m looking for Xavier Dorian,” Serena said, her heart racing with anticipation.

“Mr. Xavier Dorian?” the woman on the other end echoed, her tone polite yet formal.

“Yes, that’s right,” Serena confirmed.

“May I ask who’s calling?” the lady inquired, her curiosity evident.

“I’m an old friend of Xavier’s, trying to reconnect. Unfortunately, his number seems to be out of service,” Serena explained, hoping her words would bridge the gap.

“Miss, I can only take your name and number and pass it along to Mr. Dorian. He’s currently on a business trip and won’t return until the end of the month,” the woman informed her, her voice professional.

“That’s perfectly fine,” Serena replied, providing her contact information before ending the call, a mix of hope and anxiety swirling within her.

With the decision made to keep the baby, Serena realized that staying in Velmon City was no longer an option. Nathaniel’s influence seemed to stretch into every corner of her life, and she craved space—distance—a sanctuary where she could breathe freely without the looming threat of him discovering her secret.