Second Chance
**Sarah**
I feel a profound relief when Kael's hand wraps around mine as if that simple gesture could push away some of the burden I carry. However, the feeling is bittersweet because I'm hiding a truth that eats away at me from the inside, but it also shows me that we're not as different as I thought.
"I've made mistakes too, by letting myself be influenced by everything Rachel said."
I confess because it's the truth. I look into his eyes, seeking transparency, even though I myself am hiding something important. Kael gazes at me attentively, his eyes filled with emotion, and he makes a proposal that catches me by surprise:
"How about we write a new story for us, Sarah?" He asks sincerely, and I can see that his words come from the heart. "I'm just asking for a second chance, to do things differently and prove that I'm telling the truth."
My feelings are in turmoil, but Kael's sincere and vulnerable gaze moves me. I look at this strong and determined man, who holds my hand so gently as if it were the most precious thing in the world. I realize how foolish and weak I've been, letting other people's voices shape my decisions. But now, it's time to be strong, to act according to what my heart desires.
He's pleading for a second chance, but it's not just for him, it's a chance for me too. A chance to explore what I feel for him and to discover what I want and feel. Because I want to do it, not because someone else desires it.
I take a deep breath and look directly into his eyes, feeling a mixture of fear and determination.
"Kael, I will give you a second chance." My words come out with conviction. "But not just for you, it's a chance for both of us. A chance to find out what we truly feel for each other and if we can overcome the past. I don't want to live in the shadow of other people's expectations anymore. I want to make my own decisions and follow my heart. And now, my heart says that I want to try again."
He stares at me, surprised and emotional at the same time. And for the first time in a long time, I feel empowered and capable of taking control of my own life.
"I want to try too, Sarah," Kael whispers, his voice filled with emotion. "I want this to be our story, free from lies and regrets. I want to be the man you deserve, to be by your side every step of the way."
A shy smile appears on my lips, and I gently squeeze his hand.
"So, let it be a new story, Kael. A story where both of us choose our own destiny."
Our eyes meet, and for the first time, I feel a genuine hope for the future. Now, Kael had indeed proven that he wanted me, regardless of my condition. However, I felt terrible for manipulating the situation this way. It was time to confront reality: I love Kael and want to be with him. As he suggested, I want to rewrite our story based solely on the truth.
"I need to be honest, Kael," I say, aware that I'm risking everything.
He looks at me, bewildered, not understanding my intention. I feel the pressure on my hand increase, indicating that he's tense and anxious about my revelation.
"I am, in fact, paralyzed. However, my condition is reversible, and I will be able to regain my mobility as long as I follow all medical guidelines."
I anticipated various possible reactions from Kael, from anger to disappointment at being deceived. However, what I see on his face is the purest and most genuine joy, a reaction that catches me by surprise.
"I can't believe it!" He exclaims, raising his hands as if thanking the heavens. "What wonderful news, my love."
In an instant, he's hugging me, overcoming the challenges of my lying position and his height. I feel his strong arms around me, and his joy is contagious.
"I'm sorry for lying about this," I apologize, my voice a whisper by his ear.
He pulls away slightly, looking into my eyes with a tenderness that melts my heart.
"The only thing that matters now is that you'll walk again. The rest is just that, Sarah," he says softly. "I love you. And I'll do whatever it takes for you to love me again too."
My words come out with sincerity:
"I never stopped loving you, Kael."
We hear Maira's surprised voice in the room, and it makes me smile. It feels so strange to think that my sister is now my sister-in-law.
Kael plants a gentle kiss on my cheek and steps back, turning his attention to Maira.
"I imagine you have something important to tell us," Kael says, still with a radiant smile.
Maira seems to regain her composure, realizing that she interrupted an intimate moment between us.
“Our mother is coming to London.” Maira says, catching me by surprise. “She wants to take Sarah to our house to help with her recovery.”
Kael's smile noticeably fades, and his eyes reveal a concern I can't ignore. I look at him, trying to understand his reaction.
"I'll perfectly understand if you'd rather stay with me in my penthouse," he says, and only then do I realize his apprehension.
"I have nothing against your mother, Kael," I reply, trying to calm his fears. "I don't even know her!"
"Anyway, let's consider the options carefully," Maira intervenes, as always bringing reason to the situation.
Indeed, it's important to consider all possibilities.
When Mary, Kael's mother, arrived the next day, I surprisingly feel at ease with her. She proves to be sensible and kind, and she makes it clear that she disagrees with her eldest son's actions. After a long conversation, we come to the conclusion that it would be more appropriate for me to stay at Kael's official residence, which is the mansion where he lives with his mother and now also with Maira.
We traveled back home the next day.