Chapter 27 27 Chapter 27 - Her Secret Child Morris's POV The tension radiating from Monica was palpable during our drive. Something had clearly upset my normally composed assistant, and her anxiety filled the car's interior. Upon arrival, she bolted from the vehicle before I could even shut off the engine. I hurried after her, concern mounting with each step. When she glanced back with questioning eyes, I quickly explained. "I'm coming with you. Whatever this emergency is, you might need assistance. She acknowledged with a simple nod, too preoccupied to argue. Inside her apartment, we were greeted by a worried woman. "Monica, thank goodness you're here. I was about to phone you again, the woman said, wringing. her hands. "Where is he, Kayla?" Monica asked, her voice tight with concern. "In the bedroom. His fever's climbing. I was just fetching him some water," Kayla replied. He? Who was she referring to? My curiosity peaked as Monica rushed down the hallway. I followed closely behind, unprepared for what I was about to witness. Inside the bedroom, Monica gathered a small child into her arms, her voice transforming into something tender and maternal I'd never heard before. "It's alright, sweetheart. Mommy's here now." Mommy? The word hit me like a physical blow. Monica was a mother? How had I not known this fundamental fact about her? Kayla entered the room, her expression grave. "I think we should take him to see a doctor. Probably nothing serious, but fevers in little ones can indicate many things." "You're right," Monica agreed. "I'll get him dressed warmer. Could you pack his essentials, please?" "Certainly, dear. I'll gather his things." I stood frozen, my brain still stuck on the revelation that Monica had a child. Her voice finally broke through my stupor. "Morris, thank you for bringing me home, but I need to take my son to the hospital now." I blinked twice, finally regaining my composure. "Let's go. I'll drive you both. "That's not necessary. We can catch a taxi," she protested. 27 Chapter 27- Her Secret Child "Absolutely not, Monica. Let's go," I stated firmly, making it clear this wasn't up for discussion. I helped them into my car's backseat and drove swiftly to the hospital, periodically checking Monica's worried face in my rearview mirror. After dropping them at the entrance, I parked and hurried inside. When I found her in the waiting area, her expression was one of complete surprise. "Why are you still here?" she asked, genuinely confused. I settled into the chair beside her, glancing at the drowsy boy clinging to her, then meeting her gaze directly. "I'm not about to leave you two alone." Gratitude and tears shimmered in her eyes as she thanked me. So, Monica," I ventured carefully, "when exactly were you planning to mention you have a son?" Her confusion quickly transformed to understanding. "It's not some secret I've been keeping. I would never hide my child. Actually, Paula has met him. The topic simply never came up between us." "Paula knows him?" "Yes. That evening we declined dinner with you both? We were having Natalie and Austin over for dinner at my place." I couldn't help the smile forming on my face. "Your son's name is Austin?" "Yes, Mr. Lorenzo. Meet Austin Hayes, the absolute light of my existence," she replied, maternal pride evident in her voice. "What a coincidence. Austin was my father's name, I shared, nostalgia washing over me. "What made you choose that name?" "Austin means 'rock' or 'stone. My son is my foundation. He gives me the strength to face each day. "That's beautiful, Monica. After losing my parents, I decided my firstborn would be named Austin to honor my father. He was my rock too, Monica." She reached out, placing her palm gently against my cheek. "Your father raised an exceptional man. I'm certain he's at peace." Her words brought unexpected comfort. Yet curiosity continued to gnaw at me. "Monica, what about Austin's father?" "He doesn't know Austin exists, she admitted. "It's complicated and quite embarrassing. Could we discuss it another time?" Her eyes pleaded with me. 27 Chapter 27 - Her Secret Child "Of course, I agreed, draping my arm around her shoulders supportively. The doctor called us in promptly. I accompanied them, carrying Monica's purse and the child's bag. Inside the examination room, the doctor gestured for us to sit while he asked routine questions that Monica answered calmly. When the doctor requested she place Austin on the examination table, he turned to me. "Come closer, dad. You can observe the examination too." Monica appeared flustered and was about to correct him when I jumped in. "Right, doctor. You know how it is-worry makes us freeze sometimes." The doctor nodded sympathetically. "Completely understand. I have five teenagers myself, and despite being a pediatrician, I still panic when they're sick." Monica watched our exchange with bewilderment, staring at me while the doctor examined her son. The situation was almost comical, but I wasn't about to correct the misunderstanding and embarrass her. Post-examination, the doctor requested a blood test as a precaution, explaining that Austin likely just had a stronger cold from daycare exposure. He noted that now that Austin was attending daycare, he would naturally encounter more childhood illnesses-normal but worth monitoring. The doctor praised Monica for having Austin's vaccination records and medical history. transferred from their previous city, calling her exceptionally organized. He promised to contact her once test results arrived but advised keeping Austin home from daycare until he recovered. With that, our consultation concluded. "Morris, I can't thank you enough. Your help today means more than you know." "No need for thanks, Monica. But you will tell me your son's full story eventually. Now, let's get you both home." We drove in comfortable silence. Despite her protests, I stopped at a pharmacy and purchased. the prescribed medications. At her apartment, I followed them inside where we were greeted by Natalie rushing toward us. "Monica! What happened to Austin? Why didn't you call me? I just got back and found your note." "Just a bad cold, Natalie. Have a seat, Morris, make yourself comfortable. I need to give Austin his medicine and put him to bed. Natalie, come help me?" Monica requested, while her friend cast an intrigued glance my way. As they disappeared inside, Isettled onto the sofa, admiring the apartment's stylish interior and impressive view. When Monica returned, she wore a navy blue dress and exhaustion was evident on her face. コーワ 27 Chapter 27 Her Secret Child "Can I offer you some coffee, Morris?" "You're clearly tired, Monica. I should leave now that Natalie's here with you. Call me if you need anything at all." I gently touched her cheek before heading toward the door. "Thank you for everything today," she called after me. I turned and offered her a warm smile. Driving home, countless questions raced through my mind. Something about that little boy felt oddly familiar, creating a connection I couldn't explain. Why had I felt so compelled to stay with them? Why was I so intensely curious about this child? And who was the father who didn't know his son existed? My thoughts whirled with questions that had no answers-at least not yet. Comment Leave the first comment for this chapter In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.