Chapter 17
In the early morning light, Amelia kneels beside the bed, engaging in a silent prayer while her husband Adrian sleeps peacefully. The serene atmosphere is disrupted when Adrian’s phone buzzes with a call from “The Automobile Guy,” prompting Amelia to gently wake him. Their conversation reveals a mix of curiosity and irritation as Adrian expresses frustration over the early call about a work matter he had taken upon himself. Amelia comforts him, reminding him not to let it ruin his morning.
As the couple shares a tender moment, discussing breakfast plans for their daughter Hazel, Amelia heads to the kitchen, leaving Adrian to settle back into bed. However, once she leaves, Adrian’s demeanor shifts; he suddenly feels overwhelmed by the call he received and quickly grabs his phone to dial Vivian, a woman from his past. Their conversation is charged with tension, revealing Adrian’s frustration over her early morning call and his struggle to maintain boundaries in their relationship. Vivian’s feigned innocence and her admission of missing Adrian complicate the situation, showcasing the emotional turmoil he faces.
Adrian tries to remain composed as he listens to Vivian’s concerns about her health, agreeing to send her money for a hospital visit but withholding a promise to accompany her. The conversation shifts to a bittersweet note as they express their love for each other, highlighting the complicated nature of their connection amidst the chaos of his life. As Adrian hangs up, he feels the weight of the day ahead pressing down on him, filled with uncertainty as he drives away from the quiet home, caught between his responsibilities and his emotions.
**TITLE: Hands Trembled Before Goodbye — Ryan Ellis 17 p>
The delicate light of dawn began to seep through the curtains, casting gentle shades of gray and gold across the room, creating a serene atmosphere. Amelia found herself kneeling beside the bed, her hands tightly clasped together as she whispered her thoughts into the stillness, her lips moving in a silent prayer. Behind her, the rhythmic rise and fall of Adrian’s chest assured her that he was still deeply ensconced in the realm of dreams.
With a soft exhale, she uttered her final “Amen,” her eyes fluttering open just as a sudden vibration shattered the tranquility. Adrian’s phone illuminated the nightstand with a bright glow, the screen displaying an unfamiliar name that piqued her curiosity.
The Automobile Guy.
“Baby,” she called softly, her voice barely above a whisper as she reached out to gently tap his arm, hoping to rouse him from his slumber.
He remained still, lost in sleep.
With a firmer touch, she tapped again, a bit more insistent this time. Suddenly, he jolted awake, eyes blinking rapidly as he tried to shake off the remnants of his dream.
“Hey, babe,” she said, her finger pointing at the glowing screen, “The Automobile Guy is calling p>
He reached for the phone, still groggy, squinting at the light as he rubbed the sleep from his eyes.
“Why is he calling at this hour?” Amelia questioned, a hint of intrigue coloring her voice.
Adrian let out a heavy sigh, his voice still thick with sleep. “I told him yesterday to come check out the company cars p>
Her eyebrows arched in surprise. “Oh? You took it upon yourself to tell him? That wasn’t your responsibility the last time I checked p>
“I had to handle it this time,” he replied, a hint of defensiveness creeping into his tone. “It’s not a big deal… or is it p>
A gentle smile graced her lips as she reassured him, “No, not at all p>
Yet, she noticed his frown deepening, irritation creeping into his voice. “Still, what’s wrong with this guy? Calling at dawn for something scheduled for midday. It’s always something ridiculous p>
Amelia instinctively reached for his hand, her thumb gliding over his skin in a soothing gesture. “It’s alright, babe. Don’t let this get you worked up. It’s too early for anger p>
He met her gaze, his tension easing just a little. A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth as he took a deep breath. “You’re right. I won’t let it bother me p>
“Hope you slept well?” she asked softly, her eyes sparkling with warmth.
His smile widened. “I did, and you p>
She nodded, her heart swelling with affection. “So did I. What would you like for breakfast? Should I whip up something special, or stick to our usual timetable?” She stood, stretching slightly as she prepared to head to the kitchen.
“Timetable, please. Hazel loves it when you stick to it,” he replied, his voice still drowsy but more alert now.
“Alright then,” she said, her heart fluttering at the thought of making Hazel’s favorite breakfast. He lifted her hand to his lips, placing a tender kiss on the back of her palm.
“I’ll get that done, then I’ll help her get ready for school,” she promised, her voice light.
“Okay,” he murmured, already sinking back into the softness of the pillows, his eyelids drooping.
As Amelia slipped out of the room, the door creaked softly behind her, closing with a gentle click. The moment it shut, Adrian’s eyes snapped open. He shot upright, grabbing his phone with urgency, his fingers scrolling rapidly as a low groan escaped his lips. He buried his face in his hands, overwhelmed.
Stepping outside, Adrian adjusted the cuffs of his shirt, the cool morning air brushing against his skin like a refreshing embrace. His strides were brisk, almost hurried, as he made his way to the driveway. He slid his briefcase into the backseat of his sleek car, then lowered himself into the driver’s seat, shutting the door with a soft thud that echoed in the stillness.
Almost instantly, he pulled out his phone and dialed a number, the call connecting on the first ring.
“Babes,” came a sweet, sharp voice, laced with anticipation.
“Hey, hey… Vivian,” Adrian said, his tone taut with frustration. “What was that for p>
“What was what?” she replied, feigning innocence.
He pinched the bridge of his nose, exhaling sharply. “Why on earth would you call me at five in the morning? My wife was right there; she almost picked up the phone p>
A soft pout colored her words, as if she were genuinely remorseful. “Aww, I’m sorry. I just… missed hearing your voice. That’s why I broke the rule p>
“Oh, please,” he snapped, his voice hardening. “I’ve told you countless times, don’t call before ten a.m p>
“You have,” she admitted with a hint of defiance, then quickly added, “but like I said, I missed your p>
“Cut that crap, Vivian,” he interrupted, his patience wearing thin. “What’s the issue p>
There was a pause, followed by a long sigh that echoed through the line. “Haven’t I p>
“Okay, fine. You caught me. I woke up feeling nauseous, and… I wanted to fill you in on it, that’s all p>
Silence stretched between them for a moment, Adrian’s jaw tightening as he processed her words. Finally, he spoke, his voice steady. “Alright. I’ll send you some money. Go to a hospital and get a proper check-up so we know what we’re dealing with p>
“Okay.” Her voice softened, a note of hesitation creeping in. “But… can you come with me to the hospital? Please p>
“I’m not promising,” he replied, his tone more guarded now, a shield rising between them. “Let me see how today goes first p>
“That’s good enough,” she whispered, relief lacing her voice as a weight seemed to lift.
For a fleeting moment, the tension dissipated, and their conversation softened into that familiar rhythm they both craved, a bittersweet connection amidst the chaos.
“I love you, Adrian,” she said, her voice imbued with sincerity.
His lips curled faintly, betraying the frustration that still lingered in his heart. “I love you too, Vivian. Always p>
As he ended the call, he tossed the phone onto the passenger seat, exhaling heavily as he turned the ignition. The engine purred to life, a comforting sound amidst the uncertainty. With one last glance at the quiet house, Adrian pulled out of the driveway, driving off into the awakening city, the weight of the day ahead pressing down on him like a heavy fog.
In the quiet aftermath of dawn, both Amelia and Adrian found themselves navigating the delicate balance of love and tension that had woven itself into the fabric of their lives. Amelia, with her nurturing spirit, sought to create a sense of normalcy in their morning routine, her affection evident in her simple gestures and warm words. Meanwhile, Adrian grappled with the complexities of his external relationships, particularly the unexpected call from Vivian that stirred unease within him. As he drove away, the weight of his dual life loomed large, a reminder of the fragility of their shared moments and the secrets that threatened to unravel their bond.
Ultimately, this chapter encapsulates the emotional arc of a couple at a crossroads, where love is both a sanctuary and a source of strife. Amelia’s unwavering support stands in stark contrast to Adrian’s internal turmoil, highlighting the challenges they face in a world that demands their attention and loyalty in conflicting directions. As the sun rises higher, illuminating the path ahead, both characters must confront the realities of their choices, realizing that the journey of love is often fraught with uncertainty, yet it is the strength of their connection that may guide them through the storm.
In the next chapter, readers can expect the delicate balance of Adrian’s life to be tested as he navigates the complexities of his relationships. The tension between his duties as a husband and the lingering connection with Vivian will escalate, forcing him to confront the emotional turmoil that shadows his seemingly perfect life. Amelia, blissfully unaware of the brewing storm, will continue to pour her heart into their family, blissfully unaware of the cracks forming in their foundation. As the day unfolds, the stakes will rise, and decisions will have to be made—ones that could alter the course of their lives forever.
Moreover, the arrival of The Automobile Guy will bring unexpected complications, intertwining with Adrian’s personal struggles. Will he be able to compartmentalize his personal life from his professional obligations? As the narrative unfolds, the tension will build, leading to a confrontation that could either mend or break the fragile ties binding Adrian to both Amelia and Vivian. With secrets lurking in the shadows and emotions running high, the reader will be left on the edge of their seat, eager to discover how Adrian will navigate this intricate web of love, loyalty, and betrayal. The dawn of a new day may just hold the key to revelations that will change everything.
Olivia Harris
Olivia Harris is an emerging author celebrated for her captivating romantic and steamy novels. With a talent for crafting deep emotional connections and fiery chemistry between her characters, Olivia’s stories offer readers an escape into worlds filled with passion, intrigue, and heart-stopping drama.