The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 30

**Chapter 30: The Accident**

The Accident.

“Miss Kline, everything is arranged for next week. We’re all buzzing with excitement to meet you, especially our school director, who is particularly eager for your interview.” The voice on the other end belonged to someone from Oakridge Bay University. They had already taken care of her travel arrangements, securing both her tickets and a hotel room.

Finally, Serena thought, a wave of relief washing over her. She was about to leave Velmon City behind, a place that had been a constant reminder of Nathaniel and the heartache he brought. This was her chance to start fresh, to rebuild the pieces of her life that had shattered.

“Thank you for the update,” Serena said, her voice steady as she hung up. She turned her gaze, searching for Alice’s family amidst the bustling crowd.

It was yet another weekend, just days away from the moment she had been longing for—the day she could finally hold her divorce certificate in her hands. Alice had suggested they join the Hartleys for a family outing, a perfect distraction to pass the time, especially since Serena had been suspended from work for a few days.

Being in nature had its way of soothing her troubled heart. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sound of water flowing had a calming effect on her frayed nerves.

They had traveled to Riverbend Point, a picturesque spot two towns over from Velmon City. The Hartleys had chosen a campsite right by the river cliff, where the landscape unfolded to reveal a wide, rushing river below. From her vantage point, Serena could see a small bridge spanning across the water, and the steep drop from the cliff made her heart race. The river looked fierce, its currents strong and unyielding.

Bernard and Lena Hartley, Alice’s parents, were lounging comfortably by the edge of the cliff, enjoying the serene view. Meanwhile, Alice’s younger brother, Landon, was busy preparing dinner, the scent of grilled fish wafting through the air.

“Serena, I have fantastic news!” Alice rushed over, her eyes sparkling with excitement. “The hospital called! They found the samples! Your swab and Victor’s were still intact. The cleaners discovered them in a garbage bin, and since they were sealed in a ziplock bag, nothing was contaminated!”

A wave of relief washed over Serena, almost overwhelming in its intensity.

She had already reached out to the cemetery to inquire about exhuming her mother’s body, but they had informed her that a court order was necessary. The thought of alerting her father made that option impossible.

“I’m going to get them now,” Alice declared, determination in her voice. “I’ve already contacted someone at GeneSure Diagnostics Laboratory. They can expedite the paternity test.”

“I’ll come with you,” Serena said eagerly, her heart racing at the thought of finally uncovering the truth. But just as the words left her mouth, the aroma of the fish Landon was grilling hit her nostrils, and a wave of nausea swept over her.

She doubled over, retching violently until she found herself heaving near a nearby tree.

“Maybe you should stay here and rest,” Alice suggested, concern etched on her face. “You might be experiencing pregnancy symptoms. Why don’t you sit with Mom and Dad? Get some fresh air.”

“I’m so sorry,” Serena said, her voice small and apologetic as she looked at her friend.

“Don’t apologize,” Alice replied, her tone encouraging. “I can handle this. Just stay put, my friend. By next week, we’ll know the truth.”

After a brief ten minutes, Alice prepared to leave. Serena waved goodbye, watching as the car disappeared from view. But just as it turned the corner, a strange sensation gripped her chest, tightening like a vice.

“Why am I feeling this way?” she muttered to herself, unease settling in her stomach.

“Serena, come here and relax a little. Don’t fret. Alice will be back soon,” Mrs. Hartley said, her voice soothing.

In the following moments, Serena and Alice’s parents took in the stunning scenery around them. From the cliff’s edge, the river below sparkled in the sunlight, while the trees swayed gently in the breeze, their leaves whispering secrets to one another. The air was fresh, carrying with it the earthy aroma of soil and wild grass.

Yet, despite the beauty surrounding her, an unsettling feeling churned within Serena. She turned to Lena, who remarked, “My hands are so cold.”

Serena found herself gazing at the distant bridge again. The longer she stared, the heavier her heart felt.

Suddenly, a bright red car sped across the bridge, and recognition hit her like a bolt of lightning—it was Alice.

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