by L. Foster
CHAPTER 14
Chelsea decided to attend Georgina’s funeral at her mother’s insistence although she feels like a hypocrite because she didn’t even like Georgina. She had always felt like Georgina wasn't what everyone believed she was. Her experience with her back in their high school days helped to see her for what she truly was. She remembered her funny ways of trying to separate her and Michael. Most girls back then wanted him for themselves because of his strong elegant physique and pretty blue eyes that could make any girl's knee grow weak. Michael had always been the love of her life, she knew it then, but now she's not certain their love could weather the storm around them. Chelsea dear, Antonia called out to her. We are almost set to leave. Dress up quickly so we don't get there late. Alright mum, I'd be right down. She put on the black dress she had picked out earlier, packed her hair in a doughnut style, kept on a burgundy lipstick and was down and out the door where she found the whole family waiting. To her amazement, she saw Bobby all dressed up in his black suits sitting with Colin in the front. Bobby, I thought you hate attending funerals. What's changed? He dismissed her comment and continued to stare out the window. Cecilia murmured, we were more shocked than you are when he told us he'd be coming along. They arrived at the service as they were about to start. Colin's and the rest of his family went on to join the people that were there to bid farewell to Georgy. As soon as the funeral service was over, Colin and Antonia went to pay their condolences to Georgy's parents. Michael seized the chance to corner Chelsea at the funeral and insisted they had to talk. Before they could, a policeman, "Detective Jack" interrupted. Hello there, I'm detective Jack; I'm in charge of the two murder case that's recently occurred. I will like to speak with both of you. I've got questions about Georgina’s activities in the days leading up to her death. Do you mind if I speak with you first and alone please? He was facing Chelsea now. Ok detective, you got it. He took Chelsea aside and talked to her first. Chelsea explained that she and Georgina weren’t friends and she doesn’t know anything about Georgina’s activities. Jack asked, when was the last time you saw Georgina. Chelsea told him about running into her at the restaurant. She remembered vividly how they bumped into each other. Georgina even rubbed it in her face that she was only a spoilt brat, that she and her mother were only taking advantage of her stepdads money. It was so bad that they got into a fight that night; they were separated by people at the restaurant. Are you sure that her constant provocative ways did not somehow push you into anything like murder? Jack asked. What are you trying to say, detective? Do I look like I could kill someone? She said angrily. Well, young lady, I've learnt in the course of my job that anyone could do anything. No one can truly be trusted. Not even a pretty face like yours. And who's the young man to you? He won't stop staring at you. It seems to me like you two are involved or in love. Chelsea was alarmed when it seemed Jack took extra interest in the fact that Michael was there. That's no concern of yours, I'd appreciate it if you keep your focus on the task you have at hand. I think we are done talking, said Chelsea finally
CHAPTER 15
Jack spoke to Michael and it turned into a hostile conversation when Jack questions him about knowing both Georgina and Emily. What are you implying detective? That I murdered both victims, Michael said. They were both my friend and I could never think of doing that to them. Is that so? Why were you out of town after Emily's death? Now that you are also back in town, we have another case of murder in our hands. That looks rather suspicious to me. Michael's countenance changed after the comment he just heard. His tone became defensive and evasive when he realized Jack really considers him a suspect. You need to learn to do your work well detective and stop making silly insinuations. And you need to watch your tone with me, boy, said Jack as he moved closer to him. They seized the action that was about to sprout when they heard Chelsea's voice asking if everything was alright with them. I shall be in touch with both of you. I hope you won't contend with the law, rather we will be provided with your utmost cooperation. Chelsea replied, of course, we shall detective. Michael looked away while Chelsea watched as the detective walked away. Have you been waiting for me? Michael asked. Yes, I thought I should wait so we can finally discuss our pending issue. I also wanted to know what Jack talked about. After a pause, Michael told Chelsea the truth. How Jack likely considers him a suspect. I'm just tired of everyone's strange looks and comments like I killed Georgina. My brother needed me and I chose to be there. How have I done any wrong? He asked. Michael's words touched her. She couldn't help but worry about him. She hates the sadness she could see lurking behind those pretty eyes. Everything is going to be alright, she said. The detective thinks the same of me too. Since we got nothing to lose or hide, we've got nothing to fear. He could tell Chelsea appreciates his candour. He leaned over towards her to kiss her. They kissed for a while before she broke off the kiss. Please let's keep things simple between us. For the first time in a long time, he felt like he’s making progress in getting back together with her. She still kissed him like she always has, Michael thought. Chelsea wanted to leave now, so he thought to drive her home since everyone had left but them. They hardly spoke on their way home. When they got to her house, she wanted to get down from the car but Michael stopped her. I'm sorry I was out of control. I shouldn't have kissed you. It's ok Michael. Let's forget about it. I will see you around. Thanks for the ride. When she got in, everyone wanted to know what the detective wanted with her. She explained to them before heading for her room. As she was leaving, her mother asked, I hope you are not thinking of seeing that boy again? I don't think you should be asking me that now mother, Chelsea replied.
CHAPTER 16
Few days later, Chelsea and Michael's love had started steaming up again. Although, they haven't admitted it to each other. They got closer than ever through their repeated visits to detective Jack's office to help solve the case. During this period, Chelsea had grown to trust Michael so much. She even apologized to him forever doubting his trueness. One evening, after leaving Jack's office, Michael could no longer hold back his feelings towards Chelsea. His loving eyes won't stop watching her as she spoke. All he wanted now was her love to grace his life. Will u like to join me for dinner tonight? He finally asked. Well, you are lucky I'm free, Chelsea replied. Please, can we meet at our favourite restaurant then? That sounds like a plan to me Michael. He was sure to make his reservation right before heading out. He was anxiously waiting for her to arrive and when she finally did, he felt a big rush of emotions but tried to have control. He stood up, hugged her and helped with her chair. They ate and chatted about almost everything that connected them. They also spoke about how inseparable they used to be. My heart has never been apart from yours. You have always been right here; he placed her hands on his chest so she could feel his heart. I'm sorry I went off the way I did. I was wrong not to inform you about what happened. It's ok Michael, Chelsea said. Let's leave the past behind and move ahead. They both decided it was time to leave for home, hugged themselves goodbye and got into their various cars. On their way home, they both discovered they had picked each other's phone mistakenly. Chelsea decided she will drive over to Michael's house for the exchange because of the issue he still has with her family. When she got there, he was waiting for her outside already. After giving each other their phones, she was about leaving when Michael asked if she'd like to come inside. I should really go now but I think I can still afford to stay for another 10 minutes, Chelsea muttered. He took her to his part of the house. It's a secluded building from the main one. He asked her seat while he went on to pour her a glass of water. Michael gave her the water, she took it and he sat next to her. His closeness made her tremble. As she dropped the glass of water, their eyes met. Michael moved closer to her now until his lips met hers. They kissed each other intimately before revealing their lingering feelings for each other. They continued to kiss whilst they gradually pulled their clothes. I have been yearning to have you in my arms like this. I love you so much. Mic
hael murmured! I love you too Michael. They made such passionate love that brought tears to Chelsea's eyes. I'm always going to be by your side. Chelsea felt good about their new start. Michael got summoned to the main house by his father and Chelsea decided it was time to go home even though he wished she could stay the night but Chelsea knew her mother will be worried if she doesn’t report in. Chelsea drove home singing happily in her car without noticing the other car that sped up behind her. All she heard was the sound of the hit. It was too late when she realized she was being knocked off the road. Thank God, she was able to jump out of the car before her car got into the ditch and exploded. Chelsea lost consciousness immediately.
CHAPTER 17
As Antonia prepares breakfast in the morning, she won't stop wondering why she hasn't seen Chelsea downstairs. She was always the first to get up. She called the rest of the family to come to the dining room. Cecilia was always the last to get up, but she was down on time today. She was so happy about her new job as an intern at the foundation. She decided to take on the job as she studies. Although, her parent wasn’t in support of the idea of working much less at the same foundation where two murder had taken place. While Cecilia was still clamouring about her excitement on the new job, Antonia seized the opportunity to check on Chelsea. As she climbed up the stairs, Bobby was about coming down too. Hello Antonia, good morning! She goes up and finds Chelsea’s bed hasn’t been slept in. When she doesn’t get an answer on Chelsea’s phone and texts are not returned, she pressed Cecilia and got her to admit Chelsea went out with Michael. Antonia called Michael to see if Chelsea’s with him. Hello, Michael, this is Antonia "Chelsea's mum". I was told you were out with my daughter last night. Don’t you feel it's about time she returns home? Yeah, she was out with me but she's left here since last night. His voice seemed worried now; I will help find her ma'am. I think I should inform the police about this; Antonia called the police while Michael goes out looking for Chelsea. On hearing this news, Bobby was alarmed; he left the house in an instant. He was going to look for her too. Inspire of their differences, he cares so much about her. Cecilia also tried calling her friends, but her efforts proved futile. They all seemed to be unaware of her movement. Mum, she called out to her disturbed mother. Please calm down; I'm sure my sister will turn up soon. Nothing could be wrong with her, I'm certain there's an explanation for what has happened. Yeah, there is one, my daughter is probably in the hands of the murderer, she shouted back. Michael was out searching desperately for her. He had also called up Jack to inform him. On getting the news, Jack dispersed a search party to find her. He tried to trace her down every path she could have taken home. It was all to no avail. Out of frustration, he got down from his car hitting it so hard. I can't afford to lose her now that I have her again. God! Please help me find her; he had his face down saying this. It was then he noticed broken pieces like a car front and rear light. He started searching around that vicinity. He felt it was best if he went into the bushes and leave the road. He kept walking and looking for any sign that might help him find her. It became an endless search, but the love he felt towards Chelsea gave him the strength to forge on. Suddenly, he stumbled due to the stone he had accidentally hit. He screamed after feeling the sharp pain. He was still nursing the pain when he noticed that the atmosphere seemed foggy. There was an odd smell too like something got burnt. He started tracing it until he eventually got to the ditch.
CHAPTER 18
Michael finds Chelsea’s car overturned in the ditch. He ran over quickly, but he found no one inside. The car had exploded after the fall. He fell on his knees weeping bitterly because he could not find any sign of Chelsea. He called Jack and the police to check out the site. Jack showed up at the scene and assisted in examining the car. Antonia was still with one of the police officers when he got a phone call informing him that Chelsea's car has been found. Is that my daughter's car that has been found, does it mean she's also been found? We can't ascertain that just yet ma'am, her car was found exploded in a ditch. What!!! She screamed out; please tell me nothing is wrong with my daughter. She ran off to pick up her car keys; Cecilia went along with her and insisted she'd drive instead. They got into the car and drove the police car. Antonia called Colin on the way and he decided to meet them at the scene. On getting to the site, they found Chelsea's car but were not allowed to move closer to the scene. Michael and Jack approached them on Colin’s arrival to explain what they had discovered. It’s obvious from the damage to the rear that someone ran her off the road. Michael grew angry when Jack suggests it might be connected to Emily and Georgina’s death, but deep down he suspects the detective is right. He finally assured them that they will do everything they possibly can to find Chelsea. Colin was still trying to pacify his wife when his phone rang. The number appeared unknown to him, but he picked up anyways. Dad, it's me, Chelsea. Chelsea, where are you? We've been looking all over for you. I'm at the Johnson's hospital, she replied in a low tone. We will be right there darling. He informed everyone about the call and the whereabouts of Chelsea. The whole of Chelsea's family left for the hospital. Michael and Jack drove along in another car. On getting to the hospital, they made enquiries at the reception about Chelsea. They were directed to room 15 where Chelsea was found sleeping. They decided to wait till she was awake to speak with her. Michael and Jack were around now and seized the opportunity of her daughter sleeping to send him away. It's your fault my daughter is in this condition. You are not welcome here; Antonia spoke in an angered tone. Michael left the hospital but decided he'd come back to check on Chelsea when her family is not present. He won't leave her alone because Chelsea might still be in danger. If the killer realizes that the initial plan wasn't successful, he might want to make another attempt. Jack had her room under protection. Only authorized people from him were allowed in.
CHAPTER 19
When Chelsea woke up in the hospital, she found her family waiting for her. Everyone was happy to see that she's finally awake. Although, she could not remember anything that happened except that she and Michael had gotten back together. Her eyes won't stop searching for him. She wondered why he wasn't there or could it be that he doesn't know that I was almost killed. Oh my baby, I'm so glad you are alright. You got us all worried sick, Antonia said. Yes, Cecil, you have to tell us what happened to you. She's in no condition to do so now, the doctor interrupted. Please allow her to regain her consciousness and memory fully before any interrogations. I will be sure to inform the police as well. She suffered a severe blow to the head. You should be thankful she even recognizes you all. Ok doctor, we won't pressure her with anything, Colin intervened. After a while and Chelsea still hasn't seen Michael. She felt it was time to ask someone about it. Cecil, why haven't I seen Michael at the hospital? Well, mum told him to stop visiting, she also accused him of being responsible for your accident, Cecilia explained. Chelsea was furious with what she's just heard. She was with Michael that night and she'd left him at home. She was more convinced now that Michael and Mathew were not responsible for the murder. She had seen a long blonde hair just before the car hit the ditch and that proves the murderer is a female. She was only unfortunate to see her face. She couldn't wait till her mother visits. She picked up her phone to call Michael. She needed to see him now more than ever. Michael got to the hospital few minutes later. He was delighted Chelsea was in good shape. She was all better; she just needed to complete her treatment before getting discharged. My love, I'm so sorry I haven't been here like I should, said Michael. I don't doubt that you wanted to be here. I heard what my mum did to you, I apologize on her behalf, Chelsea replied. He hugged her gently and whispered into her ears. I don't know what I would have done if I lose you. I'm going nowhere darling, "it's you and I", said Chelsea. Now that I can remember what happened, I want to speak with Jack. I have some information to share with him concerning the murderer. Alright, let me contact him. Jack got to the hospital in no time and Chelsea explained all she encountered to him. He carefully to
ok note of every detail and promised to look into it. Antonia is relieved at her daughter's fast recovery, the doctor assured her and it's been quite evident. Mum, I'm aware of what you did to Michael. Allow me to make it clear to you that I'm an adult. I can choose to be with whoever I damn well, please. Do not interfere in my personal affairs except I ask for your assistance. I'd appreciate if u could get along with him because I love you both! Michael said. Antonia's countenance seems to have changed, she was upset that Chelsea's gotten back together with Michael. I'm sure he's responsible for your accident just like he killed both girls. Chelsea tried to explain to Antonia what had truly happened. Now, she needs to prove to her mum that she's wrong. She could not help but feel uneasy.
CHAPTER 20
Michael and his family were having dinner when he told them about Chelsea's accident. They all expressed their concern but didn't dwell on it. They were more focused on Lawrence political career. Michael realized he doesn’t care as much about Lawrence’s campaign anymore. They've shown less concern towards his personal feelings and life over the years. His family has always placed their interest in business and politics. Lawrence was more political driven than anyone he's met. His quest for power and fame had caused him to lose his reasoning, he thinks. He recalled what growing up with him was like. He cheated countless times on his wife. He could not understand how Sadie still bears to live with him after all he's done to her. Well, I guess they are a perfect match because Sadie wasn't exactly the best person, but she had always supported his career. Sometimes, I feel she's hungrier for power than Lawrence is. He spent the whole night thinking about his plans for the future with Chelsea. The next morning, at the breakfast table, everyone seemed to be involved in the conversation that interests them. He interrupted their discussion by announcing his decision to move back to the city with Chelsea when she returns to school. Only Matthew was supportive, the rest of the family expressed their disappointment and regret. His father was really mad about it; you are not going to leave Hatton to go to the city. You have shown no interests whatsoever in the progress of our family's business. What will you do at the city uh? Tell me, Joseph demanded. I made enquiries about the school of Arts and found that they offer an intense two years’ program that would enhance my skills and turn me into a professional artist. I applied already, father and they seemed to be impressed with my work. I think it will be nice if I take this opportunity because this is what I've always loved and wanted to do. Michael turned to his mother now; please I need your approval to go. His mother who was hesitant to speak at first because she didn't want to go against her husband's wish. She looked into her son's eyes and spoke up finally. My son, are you certain this is what you want? She asked. Yes, mum! I know I'm making the right decision, said Michael. Then, you have my approval. I will support you in every way that I can. Thank you, mum! He turned to his father whose anger had escalated. You will not leave Hatton; I will not grant you the permission. His father left the table angrily to go to work. Michael got closer to his mum now, please try to convince dad for me. You know how your father is. I'll speak with him and I'm sure he would see reason, said Margaret. Later that evening, when Joseph got home, he went straight to his room. Although, he was less angry now. Margaret went straight into his room. He was just about changing his clothes. She walked closer to help him undress. He said no words to her, but he didn't push her away. I know you are angry I gave my support to our son without your consent. Do you know the secret to this long lasting marriage we have? It's not only because of the love we feel but also the understanding and friendship we've built. You know I won't go against you if I don't see any good in what Michael is about to do. Please let's give our son a chance. He has always stood by our decision. Now is the time to stand by his. He sighed then spoke; I guess you are right dear. We will support his decision. Later that night at the dinner table, Joseph made it clear to everyone that night that he has decided to let Michael Bobby his dreams. Thanks, Dad!! Michael said with a huge smile on his face. Michael was always at the hospital to help her out. He never left Chelsea's side at the hospital. He was there day and night. He only leaves when her family wants to be with her alone or the doctor needs a private session with her. Antonia and the rest of the family noticed how caring and loving he's been to her. They all gradually accepted him. Chelsea got discharged from the hospital after few weeks. Before they left the hospital, Antonia admitted to Chelsea that she was wrong about Michael. I guess you should be with who your heart chooses, Antonia said. Yes, my dear, that boy has shown us that he loves you so much and will do anything for you, "Colin added. Chelsea was happy to hear of her parents’ approval. She wanted more than anything for them to get along. They meant the world to her. Colin's have been an exceptional father to her. She felt so blessed to have him. Colin and Antonia took Chelsea home. Michael didn't go along with them. He felt it was probably best if she went home with her family. Her room was already well prepared. Everyone showered her with a lot of love and made her feel so comfortable. Shortly after, Michael showed up at her house. She couldn't come downstairs so he was allowed to go up to her room. My love, you are here, Chelsea said. Yes, darling, I will always be where you are, he said that as he moved close to give her a kiss. I have something to share with you. You know how much I love art. I have decided to attend the school of arts at the city. I sent my work to them and they think I've got great potential. Wow! That sounds good! Does that mean you will be moving to the city? She asked. Of course darling, he said. She was thrilled after hearing his plan to move to the city in order to be near her. You have filled my heart with so much joy u can't contain it. Chelsea became optimistic about their future as she thought of it. She even went ahead to share the news with her family. They were really happy for her. All that matters to us is your happiness darling, Colin said. Thank you so much for everything. You all are my rock! I also want to tell you, Bobby, that I love how much you've improved and became understanding. Thank you for being there for me since the accident occurred. You sincerely amaze me with the new change I and everyone else have observed in you. Well, let's bury the hatchet and unite ourselves as one family. Even though it's difficult to admit, Michael does love you truly. I'm sure you both will be happy together. I wish you the best, Bobby concluded. The next morning, Michael went to pay a visit to Jack concerning the murder case. Jack showed him the evidence he's gathered. Over the past days, I've been convinced that the murderer was only trying to confuse us. The broken front light is the part of this case that will help shed light to everything. It's the missing piece of the puzzle that we need to decipher to solve this case. We are almost their boy. I'm really glad to hear that, Michael said and he took his leave. Jack thought as Michael left the office that it's better if you don't know who we suspect boy. I won't let the cat out of the bag until I'm absolutely sure.
