Chapter 147 Accepting Your Hatred
After tending to the babies, Janna went straight to Fiona's side. She found Fiona exhausted, deep in sleep. Ashton and the two nannies were taking care of things nearby. Upon seeing Janna, Ashton's eyes reddened as she stood up. "Grandma, Fiona has really suffered this time!" she cried. Janna patted her hand gently, saying, "Giving birth is no easy feat, especially to twins."
Fiona had intended to deliver naturally, but complications led to a cesarean section. Ashton wanted to say more, feeling sorry for Fiona who had endured so much pain to give birth to Darwin's children, only for him to reconcile with his first love. How appalling!
Janna stayed by Fiona's side, wiping her hands and face. It wasn't until midnight that Fiona awoke. "You're back..." she greeted Janna weakly. They hadn't been close in recent months, and during childbirth, Fiona had thought of her mother again, knowing her own birth hadn't been easy.
"Thank you for your hard work," Janna said tenderly, holding Fiona's hand. Fiona looked at her, then closed her eyes. "I dreamt of my mother." Janna's hand trembled; she had known Fiona was aware of her background, which explained their growing distance.
"Grandma said my mother was in labor for two days with me," Fiona said, tears rolling down her cheeks. Janna quickly wiped them away. "You've always known, haven't you? That I knew?" Fiona asked.
Janna nodded gently. "I suspected it before you came to the island. After spending time with you, I was sure."
"I hate you for hurting my mother, but you also saved me and my children," Fiona said. "How should we deal with this conflict?"
"It's my fault," Janna replied quickly. "I can't make it up to Jane, but I will treat you and the babies better from now on. I'll support whatever you decide."
"What if I want revenge?" Fiona asked.
Janna paused. Revenge would involve Ken and Alice as well. "That's understandable," she said after a moment. "I've been prepared to atone for my past mistakes since learning of your resentment."
Fiona looked at her deeply, then closed her eyes in silence.
Janna tucked her in. "Rest now. Don't worry about anything; postpartum recovery is crucial."
Fiona, too tired to respond, had never felt so exhausted in her life.
Five years flew by, bringing two major events in the capital market.
First, an investment genius emerged on Wall Street, completing projects worthy of textbooks. This figure was revealed to be the granddaughter of Janna, the future Ji Corporation heiress.
Second, the century-old Solomons conglomerate was being acquired by Darwin Solomon. This move sparked discussions, especially since five years ago, Darwin's mother and the Solomons had tried to overthrow him during an illness.
"He holds grudges, huh? He must've decided five years ago to destroy the Solomons."
"Remember why he fell ill? His wife died in a crash, and then he got sick. My poor bride!"
"Oh, stop. Who cares about his new love? Fiona was just a substitute, and with her gone, his old love returned. Even if Fiona were alive, Miss Robbins would have no place."
"Haha, you're hilarious. Who confirmed the substitute story? Darwin Solomon proposed to Secretary Woods, not Miss Robbins."
"Laugh all you want, but the last one standing wins. He's proposed, and the wedding will be announced soon. Pity those hung up on the dead previous bride."
Although deleted, the comment about Darwin proposing to Miss Robbins and the upcoming wedding spread online. Meanwhile, Darwin was at the hospital.
Anniston's health had worsened, and she'd suffered a heart attack, undergoing emergency treatment.
Five years on, Anniston looked frail, her life seemingly flickering out.
"Darwin..." she reached out her hand from the hospital bed.
"I'm here," Darwin said, holding her cold hand.
"Fiona..." she asked weakly, "When will she come back?"
Behind him, Lilian's face fell. Fiona's name was taboo around Darwin.
"She'll come back when you're better," Darwin reassured her.
Anniston nodded, stroking his hand, "You and Fiona... take care of each other."
"Mhm," he responded lightly.
Exhausted, Anniston fell asleep.
Darwin exchanged glances with the doctor before stepping out.
Outside, the doctor spoke with Darwin. "Mr. Solomon, the old lady's condition is worsening. She has three months at most."
Darwin was stoic. "Just take good care of her."
Once the doctor left, Darwin faced Lilian. "You didn't have to come."
"Are you mad at me?" she asked, looking healthier than five years prior, her appearance increasingly reminiscent of Fiona. Sometimes, when Darwin was tired, seeing her caused momentary illusions.