“If Tyrone truly cares about you, that’s one thing... but how long do you think a rich man’s heart can stay true?” Albertine’s tone was thick with worry.
“Albertine, you don’t need to worry. I know how to stand on my own two feet—long before his feelings for me ever run out.” Alicia’s voice was calm; she had her own plans.
She knew she came from nothing, and she’d accepted that. She had no shame in quietly biding her time.
She didn’t see anything wrong with using a man as a stepping stone. It wasn’t as if she’d been born into privilege—she needed a little help, and if that meant leaning on him, so be it.
Albertine squeezed her hand. “I believe you. You might look gentle, but you’ve always had a mind of your own.”
Albertine stayed in Seaview City for two days. Alicia took her shopping, bought gifts for the children at the orphanage, and then booked Albertine’s flight back home.
During those two days, Tyrone hadn’t called once. Alicia didn’t dare disturb him either, so she kept her phone tucked away, resisting the urge to reach out.
Still, the silence left her uneasy.
She wanted to tell him about the pregnancy, but the thought of something going wrong at her next check-up—of disappointing him—made her hesitate.
Maybe it was better to wait.
“Call me when you get to the orphanage,” Alicia said as she walked Albertine to the airport.
“Don’t worry, I will. Now you should get home—you need to take care of yourself, especially in these early months.” Albertine gave her a gentle push.
Alicia nodded, waiting until Albertine was through security before turning to leave.
In the swirling crowd, a man lurked, his eyes fixed on Alicia. As she moved toward a busy spot, he broke into a run and slammed straight into her.
He’d meant to knock her down, to cause a miscarriage—everyone knew how fragile pregnancies were at the beginning.
“Watch out!” Suddenly, Tyrone appeared out of nowhere, pulling Alicia into his arms just as the man lunged.
The attacker missed and crashed to the floor.
He shot a panicked glance at Tyrone and tried to bolt, but Felix was faster—pinning him down. “Trying to run? You think you can just walk away after that?”
Alicia stood frozen in shock, staring at Tyrone. “T-Tyrone? You… you’re back?”
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