The Twisted Obsession
Chapter 52: My husband

Chapter 52: My husband

The medical director asked for the room number from the nurse and led them.

As they followed the medical director through the maze of sterile hallways, Abby’s heart raced with a mix of anticipation and trepidation.

Remo walked by her side, his hand rested reassuringly on Abby’s back, a silent gesture of support.

The medical director, eager to distance himself from the tension, gestured toward the door.

"Mr. Alfonso, Miss, your father is right inside. I hope everything is in order now."

Remo gave a curt nod, his eyes never leaving the medical director’s face.

"Ensure it stays that way. You can go."

"Alright. Let me know if you need anything else."

The medical director hastily retreated, leaving the family outside the door. Abby took a deep breath, her hand gripping Remo’s for support.

The hospital corridor stretched out endlessly, a sterile maze of anxiety and anticipation. Abby stood there, her heart hammering against her chest like a caged bird desperate for freedom. She clutched the bouquet of daisies she had bought in front of the hospital tightly, their cheery yellow petals offering a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere.

Remo spoke gently, "Abby, take a deep breath. You’re stronger than you think. We’ll get through this together."

Abby nodded, wiping away a tear. "I just wish I could have been here sooner. My uncle kept me away, and I couldn’t bear the thought of losing my father without saying goodbye. What if he has gotten worse?"

Remo placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "You made it now, that’s what matters. Your father will understand, and I’m sure he’ll be glad to see you."

She paused, her hand trembling slightly as she reached for the handle, the metal cool against her clammy palm. With a deep breath, she pushed the door open and stepped inside.

The room was bathed in a soft, muted light, casting long shadows across the pale walls. And there, lying on the narrow hospital bed, was her father. His once vibrant eyes now dulled with pain and exhaustion, his frail form barely recognizable beneath the thin hospital gown.

Abby’s throat tightened as she took in the sight, a rush of emotions flooding her senses. Guilt gnawed at her conscience, a relentless reminder of all the moments she had missed, all the words left unspoken. Tears pricked at the corners of her eyes, threatening to spill over at any moment.

"Abby," her father’s voice was barely a whisper, but it cut through the silence like a knife. His eyes met hers, filled with a mixture of longing and resignation. "I’m glad you’re here."

The words hung in the air, heavy with unspoken meaning. Abby crossed the room in quick strides, her heart pounding in her ears. She placed the bouquet on the bedside table, the vibrant blooms a feeble attempt to brighten the sterile surroundings.

"I’m sorry, Dad," she whispered, her voice barely above a whisper. "I’m sorry for not being here sooner, for letting time slip away like sand through my fingers."

Her father reached out, his hand trembling as it found hers. Their fingers intertwined, a fragile connection forged in the face of impending farewell.

"Her father’s weak voice replied, "It’s okay, sweetheart. I knew you’d find your way back. I love you."

Tears welled up in Abby’s eyes as she leaned in closer, her heart heavy with the weight of unspoken words. In that fragile moment, surrounded by the sterile hum of machines and the scent of antiseptic, father and daughter found solace in each other’s presence.

Remo, observing from a respectful distance, felt a mix of emotions — relief, empathy, and a quiet satisfaction that he could bring solace to the woman he cared deeply for.

As Abby and her father shared a tender moment, Remo discreetly went outside, allowing them the space they needed.

Abby’s eyes glistened with tears as she mustered a heartfelt smile. "I love you too, Dad. I’m here now, and we’ll make the most of the time we have."

Her father’s feeble but genuine smile reflected gratitude, a silent acknowledgment of the daughter he thought he might never see again.

As Abby’s father basked in the warmth of her presence, he gently squeezed her hand, his voice barely above a whisper. "How have you been, my dear?"

Abby’s heart swelled with a flood of emotions at her father’s question. It was a simple inquiry, yet it carried the weight of years of separation and longing. She took a moment to compose herself, the memories of their time apart still fresh in her mind.

"I’ve missed you, Dad," Abby admitted, her voice trembling with emotion. "It’s been hard without you. But Remo has been my rock, always there to support me through the toughest moments."

Her father frowned when he heard the name, "Remo? Who is that?"

Abby bit her lips avoiding her father’s gaze.

"My-My husband."

Abby’s father’s expression shifted, a mixture of surprise and confusion flickering across his weary features. He struggled to process the revelation, his mind grappling with the unexpected news. The silence stretched between them, pregnant with unspoken questions and a sense of disbelief.

"Your husband?" Her father’s voice was barely a whisper, his eyes searching Abby’s face for confirmation.

Abby nodded, her heart pounding with apprehension. "Yes, Dad. Remo is my husband. We... we got married a few weeks ago... sorry."

Her father’s gaze softened, his features reflecting a complex array of emotions — surprise, concern, and a hint of resignation. He reached out, his hand trembling as it found Abby’s, the warmth of their connection a fragile lifeline in the midst of uncertainty.

"I... I had no idea, Abby," her father murmured, his voice tinged with regret. "I wish I could have been there for you."

Abby squeezed his hand reassuringly, tears glistening in her eyes. "It’s okay, Dad. What matters is that you’re here now. And Remo has been incredible, supporting me every step of the way."

Her father’s gaze softened, a flicker of understanding lighting up his tired eyes. "I’m grateful for Remo’s support, Abby. And I’m grateful for you, my dear. You deserve all the happiness in the world." Her father smiled softly.