The ROSE

                            3

Natasha's eyes gently fluttered open, casting their gaze upon the familiar surroundings of her room. She found herself in a state of bewilderment, wondering what had transpired prior to her awakening. Just then, Mr. P entered the room, holding a steaming cup of coffee, which he carefully placed on the nearby stool.

"Wah, wah... what happened, Mr. P?" she inquired, her voice tinged with curiosity and confusion.

"What happened? You don't remember?" he responded, his tone filled with concern.

In that moment, Natasha's mind swiftly traveled back to the night when she had been attacked. She vividly recalled how her vision had cleared from the haze of alcohol, as she witnessed a brave young man valiantly fighting off the robbers. His courageous act had compelled him to snatch the pistol from their grasp, forcing them to flee. But what remained etched in her memory was the profound impact of his captivating eyes, which had instantly bewitched her, giving birth to a singular emotion she could only define as "Love at first sight."

"Here..." he uttered softly, extending the cup of coffee towards her which distracted her attention to the thoughts of what previously happened 

"Thanks," she expressed her gratitude, accepting the offering.

"I was genuinely worried about you. Fortunately, he had called through your phone, alerting me just in time. I was amazed to witness the existence of such genuinely good-hearted people," Mr.P affirmed, his voice filled with a sense of admiration and gratitude. She thought about the man Mr P explained that saved her life as he further spoke to her. 

"But why did you? i only suggested your relaxation of mind not to binge on alcohol."

"I'm sorry for my actions,I didn't mean it that way" she apologized.

"You owe me no apologies, your Dad is whom you may have scores to settle."

"Taking a deep sigh … it is going to be news,I know."

"Exactly. He also instructed your movements for the mean time to be restricted."

Displaying a surprised expression, she asked, "How do I work then?"

"Well,he instructed you to do your job remotely for now until investigations are over. I would inform your secretary about it and keep you updated on other related matters. Excuse me." He politely said as he vacated her room.

Rex, concerned about the news of the attack, made a later phone call to check on Natasha, knowing that he would take some time to return due to his ongoing business plans out of town.

Natasha, who now works from home, is currently under full medication and prescribed ample rest. However, moments later, she summoned Mr. P, expressing her strong desire to learn more about the man who had rescued her on that fateful night.

"I need to know everything about him, every single detail. she insisted. "The one who saved me that night, I must have information about him without arousing any suspicions. Please, go there in disguise. I am grateful that you have seen him before and will be able to recognize him."

"Very well, ma'am," replied Mr. P, faithfully carrying out her instructions. However, he was unable to locate Jamal during his visit. He informed Natasha about his unsuccessful attempt, but she remained unconvinced by his words.

To the best of his knowledge, Mr. P surmised that Jamal did not work at the location in question. Nonetheless, Natasha firmly believed otherwise. After Mr. P's double search attempts, she contemplated the idea of sneaking out of the house to see for herself. The memory of Jamal's appearance that day and the profound, inexplicable connection she felt compelled her to embark on this personal quest, driven by an unyielding need to find him.

She fortunately managed to sneak out unnoticed, but unfortunately, her search for him at the bar turned out to be fruitless. Overwhelmed by disappointment and stress, she hastily made her way back home, yearning for solace. Little did she know that an unexpected surprise awaited her upon entering her room and flicking the light switch.

With a mix of trepidation and relief, she mustered the courage to address her father, struggling to find the right words amidst the whirlwind of emotions.

 "Hey, Dad... um... I didn't expect you to be here. I mean, it's... surprising."

Emerging from his concealed position, her father interjected with a touch of sarcasm.

 "Surprised, huh? Well, I must say, Natasha, it's even more astonishing that my mere presence now catches you off guard. Take a long look at yourself—time waits for no one, and you're not getting any younger. I provided you with everything a child could need to be happy, sent you to the best schools,gave you every penny and every need of yours so you would make me proud at last. Yet, all you seem to do is lead a reckless existence."

Natasha found herself struck speechless, consumed by a wave of remorse. Her father, unrelenting in his expression of disappointment, pressed on. 

"And due to the extreme pleasure of wealth and freedom I have administered to you,it  has led you down this path of careless living, where you believe that true enjoyment lies in drowning yourself in alcohol. Let's not even delve into your promiscuity... It's the darkest aspect of you I've ever witnessed as a father."

"Dad..." she managed to utter, her voice quivering with tears and regret.

"Enough," her father interrupted sharply. "Let me finish. Who do you think you are, behaving as though you're entitled to do as you please? Just a few nights ago, your life was jeopardized due to your carelessness, primarily fueled by excessive alcohol consumption. If you were in your right mind, you would know that it's unsafe for you to be out alone at that hour of the night, without even a security guard to protect you."

Immediately, Mr. P knocked on the door and entered, carrying the reports he needed to deliver to her desk.

"Good day, sir," he greeted,turning to her" Ma'am i have the documents for today's reports from the office. 

" Just leave them there." She answered 

"Yes, ma'am," Mr. P responded, placing the reports on her desk. As he started to leave, Mr. Fernandez stopped him in his tracks.

"Don't move an inch, Pius. he said, using his full name. "What exactly is your job here, are you here to watch over my daughter and provide necessary assistance, or are you simply here to indulge in the comforts of this house without fulfilling your responsibilities?

Busy giving unnecessary advice about relaxation spots leaving her all alone by herself without my knowledge at that hour. Few nights ago she got involved in a robbery without even a guard. How dare you!!

 He uttered fiercely.

" Even at that,your carefree attitude and unseriousness has made her use you to carry out more sneaky plans without my knowledge or your consent. 

Now are you aware that she just sneaked out of this house again and just returned or should I ask if you even knew of her whereabouts this time around even as she is under your watch?

How do you get carried away with other things without fulfilling your responsibilities? You should be well aware of how challenging Natasha can be at times, yet you left her without a backup plan. Is that how you handle your duties?"

Mr. P felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He couldn't deny the truth in his words. Natasha had sneaked out, and he had been unaware, leaving her vulnerable.

"I apologize, Mr Fernandez," he said, his voice filled with remorse. "I had no idea she had left the house. I am truly sorry for any inconvenience or worry caused."

"Well, be sorry no more," he retorted sharply. "Let this serve as a warning that If anything happens to my daughter under your care, you will face severe consequences. I won't hesitate to take action."

Turning his attention to Natasha, he continued, "And as for you, young lady, don't test my patience. I expect you to behave responsibly, or else you'll face the consequences as well." He uttered as he vacated her room.

Natasha wanted to apologize to Mr. P for involving him in her troubles, but before she could, he apologized to her and swiftly left the room. She felt a deep sense of disappointment that she had dragged him into her mess.

One week later, Natasha returned to her office and found herself in a meeting. Suddenly, her phone beeped with an urgent message that caught her attention. She excused herself from the meeting and hurriedly left, leaving her clients wondering what had happened. Despite her colleagues becoming accustomed to her sudden disappearances during meetings, they were not overly surprised when she abruptly left once again. Instead, they fearlessly took charge and skillfully concluded the meeting, ensuring a seamless interaction with the clients.

She arrived at a bar and quickly located the head bartender she was looking for, Jamal Smith. He was known as the head bartender, immediately she developed an inexplicable attraction towards him. As she watched him skillfully mix drinks and serve customers with grace, her heart raced with excitement. After calling his attention through his colleague, Jamal finally approached her.

 "Hi, miss," he greeted. "I heard you wanted to talk to me."

Natasha's heart fluttered as she struggled to maintain her composure. "I'm Natasha Fernandez," she introduced herself, her voice slightly shaky. "I'm the lady you rescued from the robbers two weeks ago."

Recognition sparked in Jamal's eyes. "Ah, yes, I remember your face," he said. "I'm glad to see you're doing better now."

They engaged in small talk, as she spoke about the times she came visiting but never met him till this moment.  Jamal explained his abrupt disappearance from work.

"I'm sorry for leaving without notice at least from anyone or maybe my colleagues," he said. "I took a week off work, and that's why I haven't been around. But how did you manage to convince your boss to let you leave early? It seems you have a relaxed schedule here."

Natasha chuckled. "'Don't worry about it, it's fine. She assured him.

 "By the way, why were you so drunk that night? You know the dangers of excessive alcohol consumption, right,so why the carelessness?"He questioned. 

Natasha nodded. "I was overwhelmed," she confessed. "I thought a drink would help calm my nerves, but I ended up having too much. How did everything unfold that night,like what exactly happened?

Jamal recounted the events of that fateful night, describing how she had consumed strong alcohol and became aggressive in the thirst for more. He shared how he had taken care of her, saved her from potential danger, and brought her back to the bar. Natasha was deeply grateful for his actions.

"Thank you for saving my life," she expressed sincerely. "I can't imagine what would have happened if you hadn't been there."

"Oh no…don't mention," Jamal replied modestly.

Unable to contain her appreciation, Natasha handed him a cheque worth five million naira. Jamal hesitated, refusing to accept such a large sum of money. They went back and forth, debating whether he should take it or not.

In the end, Jamal's colleague, Fred, intervened and received the cheque on his behalf. Natasha smiled, knowing that he might use the money. She left her complementary and business card with Jamal before making her exit, leaving him in awe and wonder.

As Jamal stood there, holding the complimentary card, he couldn't help but wonder who this remarkable woman was and what fate had in store for them.

As the weeks rolled by,their friendship blossomed. Natasha found herself drawn to Jamal.  She took the initiative to spark their connection up by inviting him to casual outings which further ignited their bond. His company meant the world to her, and they both made efforts to understand each other on a deeper level. The disclosure of Natasha's identity came as a surprise to Jamal, cementing their already strong fondness for one another.

Their days became incomplete without sharing moments or messages. Mr. P, noticing Natasha's changing attitude encouraged her to embrace her feelings for Jamal while being careful. Amidst shared laughter and enjoyable outdoors fun like going shopping, movies, and amusement park visits, their companionship grew even closer. Jamal cherished their friendship dearly, unaware of Natasha's growing desire for something more.

One Wednesday morning after a rigorous gym session, Natasha's car halted in an unfamiliar neighborhood. Rain started pouring heavily as she struggled to diagnose the issue. Her attempts to call for help were thwarted by a lack of signal, leaving her stranded. Fortunately, fate intervened as Jamal jogged by, recognizing Natasha and offering his assistance. He shielded her from the downpour and inspected the car, realizing it was beyond his expertise he then suggested they head to his nearby house while the rain persisted.

Upon arriving, Natasha was grateful for his hospitality as he provided her with dry clothes and lit candles to create a cozy atmosphere amidst the power outage caused by the storm.

Natasha slipped into Jamal's oversized t-shirt he gave to her,  and once she was settled, he handed  her a steaming cup of tea.  His actions were clear evidence that he was kind which inadvertently hinted at his caring nature. Unknown to him, that the display of his attention sparked a thought of affection towards her.

 With her comfort ensured, he excused himself for a relaxing bath. Meanwhile, Natasha explored his abode and eventually found solace in his room, surrounded by captivating artwork she set down her tea cup on a nearby stand to admire more paintings and also pictures of Jamal's youthful past. Feeling overwhelmed, she kept her eyes locked in the beauty of the frames. Just as the sound of footsteps reached her ears, a rush of anticipation prompted her to exit the room swiftly. Yet, fate played its hand, and her hasty exit led to a gentle collision with Jamal. Enthralled and captivated, her gaze locked onto his bare from his waist up adorned only by a white towel as beads of water made his skin wet. Her heart raced uncontrollably as emotions swirled in the charged air. In this charged moment, Jamal stood frozen, equally entranced by Natasha's presence. 

In the atmosphere of emotional connection, Natasha and Jamal found themselves drawn together, their bond felt strong that Natasha summoned the courage to inch closer to him, her heart racing as her lips met his for a tender kiss. Jamal, swept up in the moment, responded with equal passion,their lips meeting in a delicate dance that lingered briefly before pausing. After a minute filled with intense gazes, their lips met once more, this time with a deeper intensity that surpassed their initial connection.

Natasha's desire deepened, leading her to embrace the passion of a more profound kiss while also loosening the buttons of her shirt. Attempting to reciprocate her fervor, Jamal allowed himself to be swept away momentarily. However, amidst the entanglement, he abruptly withdrew, his emotions shifting, halting Natasha's advances. While she attempted to reassure him with affirming words, his internal struggles took precedence, distancing him from the moment. Natasha, taken aback, found herself facing an unexpected turn of events. Despite her declarations of affection, Jamal's resolve remained unwavering, leaving her downhearted.

"I'm deeply sorry, Natasha. I don't believe this is the right path for us. I'm uncertain if what you feel matches what I can offer. Perhaps it's not something that should be begged for; it's simply a personal conviction. It might be best if you leave now; the rain has ceased, and I'll arrange a cab for you."

Her heartbreak was a first time experience, for she had never encountered rejection from a man. The unexpectedness of Jamal's response shattered her expectations. Anger and disappointment led her to leave his home in tears, only to find  Mr. P standing at the roadside, ready to take her away, offering his support without judgment. As they drove away, Natasha wiped her tears, pleading with Mr. P to keep her emotional turmoil hidden from her father. His understanding gesture faded into the distance.

Days passed, and Jamal's thoughts remained entangled with Natasha. Regret seeped in, making him reconsider his impulsive reaction. Though he grappled with the idea of an apology, he was hesitant to embrace love once again. Sharing his heavy heart with colleague Fred, he sought guidance and advice on how to navigate the complex emotions that swirled within him.

"Jamal, I'm so perplexed by your actions. Turning down her feelings at such a crucial moment, why would you do that? Like… of all times,really?"

"Look, I don't think I'm prepared yet. I don't believe I can measure up to her standards to start with".

"Come on, man. Fred chimed in, She knew from the beginning that you weren't anywhere near her standards, but she stuck with you because of how she felt about you.'"

"But Fred, I haven't given up on her. I can't just let her go," Jamal replied.

"That's it! So it was her all along. I knew it. Jamal, when will you face reality? Seriously, you have no idea if that girl you met four years ago is even alive, let alone feeling the same way about you. You've turned down so many wonderful women just because of someone you had a one-night encounter with, and you're calling that love?"

"Fred, you won't understand. What I felt for her was unlike anything I've ever experienced. I don't care if she feels the same way, but I believe I'll see her again. Maybe with my child."

Fred burst into laughter. "What kind of man are you Jamal, do you think a girl is ready to raise a child alone, or do you realize the challenges and hardships that come with that? Not to mention, having a child for a stranger – she might see the baby as illegitimate and choose to terminate the pregnancy. Just because you met her as a virgin doesn't make her a saint. Have you ever questioned why she was at the club in the first place? Who knows,if it wasn't a ploy to get money from young men,and you know how this things are being done. Nothing goes for free. I know quite alright that things went south but who knows, It might just have been a blessing in disguise."

Jamal absorbed all of Fred's insights about the girl he encountered once in his life. He had searched tirelessly for her but had never crossed paths with her again.

"Listen, buddy, I'd recommend reaching out to Natasha and apologizing. Stick with her, and maybe over time, you can build something meaningful that could change your life. Think about the potential transformation if you become her partner. Don't lose this chance; you never know if it's the last. So just give her a call."

"Man, I've tried calling her, but she's not picking up."

"Of course! She's hurt. It takes a strong woman to open up her feelings to a man first. Anyway, you still have her business card. Use it to get her office address and meet her there."

"What!  Are you serious?"

"Why not? You need to mend things with her quickly."

"I hope I don't get into trouble."

"You'll be fine. Trust me."

Jamal heeded his friend's advice and made his way to Natasha's office. Upon reaching there, he grew restless in the waiting area. Guided by the receptionist, he eventually found himself at Natasha's office door. With an unexpected entrance, he caught her off guard. However, this didn't surprise Natasha as she had received numerous calls and messages from Jamal about his visit. The receptionist offered an innocent apology for the disruptions, to which Natasha dismissed her and took control of the situation.

Natasha's gaze was averted when Jamal entered.

"Perhaps a reminder is needed that this isn't a bar or your home, where such a sudden intrusion is acceptable."

"I know... I just wanted to talk," Jamal stammered. "You weren't taking my calls, and I felt compelled to show up."

"What's the topic of conversation? Business or what, cause I don't think this is a right time now, it's a busy time, and I'm not inclined to talk," Natasha responded.

"Natasha, please," Jamal implored. "I'm deeply sorry for everything. My words the other day were out of line. I realize how hurtful they must have been, but trust me, that wasn't my intention."

"Really? Did you just really realize this or what," Natasha retorted, her eyes welling up with tears. "Jamal, it's painful. I waited patiently for you to come to me, to express your love, but it never happened. All I offered was not just kindness but a genuine display of affection. I even took the initiative to express my feelings physically, yet how did you respond? By pushing me away. Honestly, I'm not as worthless as you made me feel. I deserve better you know" 

Jamal attempted to end the conversation, seeking forgiveness.

"Natasha, I'm sorry,I truly apologize. I was just afraid..."

"Afraid of what, Why were you so afraid,Scared I'd hurt you emotionally? Why?" Natasha interrupted, her voice wavering with emotion.

For a moment, Jamal was left speechless. Suddenly, he leaned in and kissed Natasha, catching her completely off guard. The kiss grew intense as they passionately locked lips for several minutes. In an unexpected turn of events, Jamal lifted her onto her desk,as they both had their dresses unzipped and kept the passionate kiss steady. The atmosphere of the room shifted dramatically as passionate moans filled the air. It was her first ever heartfelt intimacy. As soon as the pleasure got to the peak,they found a sense of satisfaction and delight.

After a while of relaxation, Natasha approached him with a sultry demeanor and inquired.

"I guess I can officially address you as my man…she said, acting all seductive around him."

Jamal wasn't sure of the right words to say but he replied…

"Natasha, it's difficult to find the right words, but I have to admit that you are an incredible woman. Since the day we met, I've considered myself fortunate, and being with you has taught me so much. But there's a fear within me that..."

"Shhh… don't say that," Natasha interrupted softly, moving closer. "I've never truly fallen in love before. My past relationships were mere escapades. But you, Jamal, you are the one. You're perfect for me. Please, let me into your heart. I want to love you, care for you, and be with you."

Jamal couldn't resist her and her words this time,seeing that she was also too close to him, he quickly utilized the chance as he gave her another soft kiss. 

Weeks later they started their relationship and then,it became the gist in the company.  Their bond deepened as they gradually discovered more about each other. Unfortunately, Natasha chose to conceal her health struggles, believing that revealing them would push him away. Despite this, Jamal encountered instances of her dizziness, which she attributed to stress. Then, one day, a nosebleed left Jamal anxious and puzzled.

"Oh my... I'm sorry about that, I was actually hit by a ball at the field while playing this morning . It was a mistake."

Jamal's concern was evident, "Come on, I think you need to see a Doctor."

"It's nothing… trust me. 

Jamal pressed, "Are you kidding me,common you're bleeding …"

"It's not serious Jamal, trust me. I guess it must have been my disobedience that caused it because I was told to get ice on it and rest very well but as you can see,I'm still working.

"Are you sure you don't need a doc?"

"Absolutely! I've already taken care of it," Natasha assured him.

Even though Natasha concealed her health challenge, their relationship continued to flourish, strengthening their bond through shared moments and experiences. She then decided to go see her father concerning the news but her father was disappointed as he expected someone with better class and standards. In the course of the conversation,there was a little argument that ensued. 

"Why, Dad? Why do you always impose your desires on me? I need your support to find happiness and not this right now"

Her father retorted, "He saved you once, and now you want him to be your fiance or my prospective son-in-law. He simply isn't a suitable match. As a bartender, his compatibility with you is questionable. Labeling your connection with him as love and happiness after only a few encounters seems rushed. I've witnessed the journey of your growth and success, and I can't stand idly watching your hard work jeopardized by this unwarranted infatuation you're displaying and trust me, he hasn't achieved success on his own. Therefore, his intentions likely don't extend to making you a life partner; instead, he might be seeking to exploit your resources, consume your time, and then abandon you."

Natasha asserted, "Dad, you're missing the point. Your support isn't just about money. I need emotional backing and not this you are doing right now. You need to understand that."

The conversation ended with Natasha walking out, determined to pursue her happiness. In the following days, she decided to bring up an idea of marriage with Jamal, hoping it would change her father's perception. Jamal, though uncertain, agreed after their heartfelt discussion.

She gave Jamal the proposal that same day on a date. Jamal felt he was rushing into the whole relationship thing but he was convinced. He properly made the proposal to her as they shared a soft kiss and forged ahead. 

Mr. Fernandez was stern around Jamal but Jamal felt he could handle his cold attitude towards him. From the very first day of introduction, he has everly warned him not to hurt his daughter. This was a frequent reminder to him regarding his daughter. 

Finally, after a few months of enduring unimaginable pain and pressure, Natasha welcomed Tessa, a cherished addition to their family. Natasha's remarkable ability to conceal her ailment, even while under the same roof with her husband, spoke volumes about her strength. The delivery, though a harrowing rollercoaster ride due to her frail condition, ended in success. However, her personal doctor, Mr. Sam, delivered the devastating news to her that another pregnancy would jeopardize her. Despite this, he celebrated the safe delivery. Two blissful years passed as the couple enjoyed the joy of their newfound family. Then, one fateful day, Jamal, meticulously prepared for work, bid his wife farewell and headed out. Just moments after his departure, he returned in haste to retrieve a forgotten document. In the process, he stumbled upon scattered files and unfamiliar medications strewn across the bed. Intrigued, he investigated further, only to be confronted with his worst nightmare: both his wife and daughter were battling leukemia. The revelation left him so livid and confused just then his wife emerged from the bathroom, she was utterly surprised to find Jamal standing in the room clutching the files tightly in his hands. The expression on his face left her with an unsettling certainty that she was facing impending trouble.

The atmosphere of the room was heavy with unspoken emotions. He summoned the courage to speak to her as he stammered.

"What…what are these Natasha?" he demanded, his voice tinged with anger.

"Babe, please calm down. I can explain," she implored fearfully. 

"Please don't tell me to calm down! I need explanations right now," he retorted with fear of the unknown. 

"I'm so sorry, babe," she said tearfully, her voice filled with remorse as she continued to apologize.

"No no no…please don't tell me it's what I'm thinking." He begged as hot tears rolled down his cheeks.

"I truly am sorry…"

"How could you? How on earth could you do this to me?"

"I apologize; it's not what you think. Please believe me."

"Not what I think, really? Then what am I supposed to think? How could you be so cruel?"

"Trust me, I'm not Jamal please… Believe me. It was complicated. She pleaded tearfully. 

"Do you realize the gravity of what you've just done? You deceived me, Natasha – that's what you did. I now see the reason why you had rushed all of this. How can you explain to me that you had cancer and hid it so long until now and my daughter too is affected, why,why did you do this... takes a deep sigh and continued 

You know what, this situation is not just complicated; it's like a labyrinth of emotions. Honestly.. you're more haunting than a nightmare, and trust me, every fiber of my being aches with regret for being entangled in this". 

His words escaped his lips, each one weighted by the pain he was feeling and abruptly walked out. Natasha couldn't hold back the flood of her tears; his words found their mark deep within her heart, and she crumbled beside the door, her weeping uncontrollable.

Meanwhile, Jamal entrusted the delivery of the papers to his secretary, dispatching them through a swift ride. The prospect of facing the office was daunting, so he sought solace in a dimly lit bar, hoping a few shots could douse the flames of his anger. A call from his secretary interrupted his thoughts, her voice laced with curiosity as she inquired about his absence. With a sigh, he explained that he wasn't in a good health space and instructed her to proceed with the day's planned agenda.

Jamal returned late from work and with a heart heavy with sorrow, he pushed his meal aside, ignoring his wife Natasha completely as he readied himself for bed. Days turned into weeks and weeks into months, and their long-distance relationship weighed on Natasha, drowning her in guilt and regret. She wished she had never hidden her secret from him, fearing the nightmare of divorce. She longed to talk to him about it, but he always brushed her off, claiming tiredness or work as excuses.

Jamal seemed distant, not treating her like a wife anymore. The physical and emotional distance grew wider with his business schedules and meetings. Then, Jamal left for a three-month business deal in Kenya, leaving Natasha alone. She begged him not to go, but he insisted it was crucial. He suggested she hire nannies if needed. Despite the loneliness and heartbreak, Natasha stayed strong for herself and her daughter.

During Jamal's extended absence from the country, Natasha repeatedly reached out to him in hopes of seeking forgiveness and an opportunity to explain herself. Jamal, however, wrestled with thoughts of divorce but remained uncertain about the consequences of such a drastic step. Seeking guidance, he confided in his friend, Fred.

"Common man… she really betrayed me. How could she do something like this, and for how long did she plan to keep it hidden? It just doesn't seem fair, man."

"Jamal, I understand your anger, and you have every right to be upset. But before making any decisions, I urge you to have a conversation with her. Did she provide any reasons for her actions?"

"At this point, I couldn't care less about her reasons."

"Buddy, let's not discuss this over the phone. I heard you're out of the country. It's best we sit down for a drink and talk about it. Please, consider all options, but divorce shouldn't be your first choice."

"It's been over two months, and I've distanced myself from her because I can't stop thinking about why she did this and how blind I was not to see it clearly, Fred. It's driving me crazy."

"I understand your feelings Jamal, but you need to gather yourself, at least for the sake of your daughter."

"Hmm.. I will man. I will be fine.. Thanks for your support."

After their call concluded a few minutes later, Jamal returned home. The heart-to-heart conversation with Fred had activated a positive shift in his decisions. He was now eager to engage in a conversation with Natasha, seeking resolution for the entire situation. As time unfolded, it was revealed that Natasha's journey with her baby was in service of an essential conference, standing as her Father's representative. This revelation came through a note handed to Jamal by the household nanny, eliciting a surge of emotion as he absorbed the newfound truths about her. Regret surged through him for the harsh words and actions he had previously employed. He yearned for the chance to have spoken this truth sooner.

Delving into Natasha's writings, he made an attempt to reach out via phone, but she remained out of reach due to her prior engagements. Undeterred, he sent a heartfelt text message of reconciliation, eagerly anticipating their eventual reunion. Natasha, upon receiving his message, felt a wave of relief wash over her, grateful for the olive branch extended by Jamal.

Although Natasha had initially planned to extend her stay, she departed swiftly for home, ensuring that the nanny she had hired was duly compensated. With a resolve to mend her heart and brave the storm within, she set out to forge a fresh beginning, fully unaware of the thorns that might accompany the rose."