When I saw Ashton’s name on my phone screen, a wave of panic washed over me. I took a deep breath to steady myself, reassuring myself that I had not left any loose ends. Only then did I answer the call.
As soon as Ashton spoke, his tone was heavy. “Pip, my grandfather isn’t going to make it.”
After hanging up, I opened my phone and searched the news online. For the past few months, I had not paid much attention to the news in Regensburg.
It seemed Ashton and Mallory made headlines two weeks ago.
The top story was titled: “Scandal Exposed: Heir of Business Giant, Wallace Corporation, Caught in an Affair! Spotted Leaving Hospital with New Flame with Rumored Pregnancy!”
The accompanying photo showed Ashton carefully supporting Mallory as they left the hospital, his expression filled with tenderness.
Years ago, the wedding between the Wallace and Stevens families was a grand spectacle in Regensburg, Ashton’s scandal now drew intense attention from the business community.
In response, Ashton was forced to issue a public clarification, confirming that we were divorced.
The news enraged Elliott, who collapsed and was rushed to the ICU. Now, the hospital reported that he would likely not make it through the week.
I stared at my now–obvious baby bump, my mind in turmoil. If I returned to Regensburg, Ashton might discover the truth. But if I did not go, I would miss my chance to see Elliott one last time.
Elliott had always treated me well, so I could not bring myself to be so heartless.
After days of agonizing over it, I finally booked a flight back to Regensburg. I put on a loose, plain white dress and stood in front of the mirror, inspecting myself for any signs that might make others suspicious. Once I felt confident that nothing seemed unusual, I let out a long breath.
The next day, I arrived in Regensburg and went straight to the hospital after landing. As I reached the door to Elliott’s ward and was about to knock, I heard soft sobbing from inside.
A middle–aged woman’s voice said impatiently, “He’s still here. What are you crying for?”
The sobbing immediately ceased.
I knocked lightly on the door, and a few seconds later, it opened.
