Shantelle

Does my fate lie in the stars, destined to succumb to this illness and meet my demise? If that is the path predetermined for me, am I left with no choice but to patiently await my final day?

Upon receiving the news of my condition from the doctor, these thoughts immediately raced through my mind.

However, the moment I conjured images of my younger siblings, I swiftly dismissed such notions.

As I fought to expel these unfavorable thoughts from my mind, I reminded myself that I mustn't entertain such notions because my siblings rely on me, and thus, I must remain strong.

Despite a pleasant breeze caressing my face, I found it difficult to find solace and embrace the moment.

The park I find myself in, surrounded by numerous trees, allows the wind to gust strongly. Seeking mental clarity, I chose this location, conveniently close to the hospital.

Should I disclose to my siblings my ailment and the possibility of my demise, I sense that we would all succumb to tears.

How could I possibly tell them that their older sister was sick and would pass away in the near future?

When the results of the various tests that I had to go through were finally out, the doctor got in touch with me right away.

As soon as I arrived at the hospital, the attending physician briefed me on my condition, which caused me to come dangerously close to passing out.

I have been diagnosed with cervical cancer.

It was curable, but it wasn't for people who were in my financial situation and couldn't afford the treatment or the operation.

The operation requires a significant amount of money, which I do not currently possess, and the salary that I earned was insufficient to ensure that we had enough money to live on.

When our parents were killed in an airplane accident three years ago, I was the only person on whom the rest of my siblings could rely for support.

Therefore, I will not be able to pass away calmly in the knowledge that there are special people in this world for whom I would be leaving this world because they feel that I should not die.

I should do everything in my will to stay alive.

But the question is, is it really possible for me to avoid passing away from cancer?

Where can I get the money?

People have always died young at some point in history, but I just couldn't bring myself to accept the fact that I'm going to be one of those people.

I still have a lot of work to do, and I have a responsibility to provide for my siblings for as long as I am able to.

I raised my left arm and placed it on my head in order to shield my eyes from the glaring light that was emanating from the sun.

Should I have known better and not gone to the hospital?

The tests cost me money, but they did not provide the results that I was hoping for.

At least I am now ready for whatever is going to happen to me in the future.

When I realized that there was no point in continuing to think about what I ought to do to get out of my predicament, I stood up and made the decision to go home.

All that was required of me was to make the most of the time I had by making productive use of it, and then I should get started planning and saving money for the future of my siblings.

My daydreaming was abruptly brought back to reality when I collided with something—or should I say someone?

‘Nurse…’

When I was in the hospital, Nurse Peighton was the one who assisted me.

I mumbled an apology and tried to get out of her way as quickly as possible, but when she started talking, my feet just stopped moving.

"I am aware of what is taking place with you. I was wondering if you could spare a minute or two to talk to me." According to Nurse Peighton.

I joined her on the bench and remarked, "I suppose there's no harm in hearing you out." We both smiled, at each other.

"After the doctor informed you of the results of your test, you went silent for an entire minute and did not ask any questions pertaining to your treatment. You didn't waste any time and just said your goodbyes before leaving."

She paused for a short while, but I maintained my silence throughout the pause.

She continued, "I figured out that your problem is the money you will need for the operation, and I could help you with that,” she said.

"Hold on just a second, you are willing to spend your money on someone you didn't know, really? But why?" I inquired while my eyes clearly conveyed my confusion.

"You are this hospital’s patient, and my father was the owner of the hospital. Let’s say, it’s a part of good deed, but in general, I would not do something like this to our patients.”

“It’s not free either. You will be charged for it, despite the fact that it wasn’t your idea in the first place. It would mean a lot to me if you could help me out with this. Think of the money that I will give you as compensation for the favour that you will do for me.”

"You are in need of financial assistance, and so am I. I mean, I need someone’s help. This has no negative consequences for anyone involved. Your lives will be extended if you receive treatment, and you won't have to worry about pointless matters once you've reached that point. To help me out, all I ask is that you perform one simple task. So, what are your thoughts on that? Are you willing to take it?"

When I looked into her eyes, I could tell that she was being very serious about what she was saying.

If your life was on the line, nobody would take you up on this offer.

Because I need to live for a longer period of time and I don't believe an opportunity like this will arise again, I shouldn't waste time hesitating.

"Alright, Nurse Peighton, I'll take your offer. I will do the task, in exchange of my treatment. Thank you very much."

I wanted to show her that I was on the same page as she was, so I extended my hand to her. She accepted it and gave each of us a firm shake on the hand.

"In that case, everything should be fine. I will send you a text message with the time and location of our meeting tomorrow. My allotment of time is nearly up. See you."

After tapping me on the shoulder, she stood up and headed back to the hospital.

I was able to discover hope, and now I will do anything in my power to preserve it.

I got her message as soon as I got home, which was at three in the afternoon at the restaurant just behind the hospital.

Although the time was the same, the location was different.

It's fine, but I hope there isn't anything that can be argued against, and it might take a long time to discuss her favor if it does happen to come up....

I went to the cafe earlier than necessary in order to wait for Ms. Peighton, but I didn't think that she would be there before the appointed time as well.

As she entered the room, she greeted me and asked, "Hello, did I make you wait?"

"No, you didn't. I just got here early, so I won't make you wait for me any longer than necessary."

"Let me first get us some coffee and then I'll tell you what favor you have to do for me."

"Oh, there's no need to place an order for me. I'm okay."

She insisted, "Don't worry, it's on me," and then went to the counter to pay for it.

When she got back, she briefed me on the task I was supposed to be working on, and what she said completely blew my mind.

I questioned her about the matter because it was possible that I might had just misunderstood what had been said, but she responded without any hesitance.

The conversation came to an end after a few minutes of me being instructed on what I ought to do.

At first, I had some reservations about this, but ultimately, I came to accept it.

Even if it were not illegal, it would not have been the right thing to do, it was all wong, in my opinion.

"Shantelle, are you having any second thoughts about this?" I raised my chin and turned to face her direction of travel.

"You shouldn't. I mean, you don’t have to, as no one will lend you money knowing that you are having trouble making ends meet, especially considering that I am willing to pay you back for it. Do exactly as I have instructed."

"But…"

"If you decline this offer, think of the consequences sooner or later. You will not be treated, and when you pass away, it will be your siblings, not you, who will bear the consequences of this decision. Have you thought about allowing that to happen, Ms. Clarkson?”

She was absolutely right, and if something were to happen to me, my family would be the ones to suffer, not me.

I really hope that doesn't happen, but even if it does, I don't think I'd be able to handle that job.

"You have absolutely nothing to be concerned about at all. After you have completed the task, I will hand over the necessary sum of money to you. I'll assist you in evacuating this location so that no one can identify you and search for you,” She continued her efforts to persuade me and said.

"Okay."

"So, are you going to do it?"

I nodded and said, "Yes, I'll do it but just only this time, and you should keep your promise.”

Despite the fact that I was still having second thoughts, but I didn't have a choice because I was in the position where I couldn't back out.

"That's fantastic news, by the way. This is a one-time favor, and once you've finished your work, I'll hand over the money to you."

"Here, take it. You are going to wear them for tomorrow."

She handed me two boxes for the event, and all I could do was cross my fingers and hope that nothing untoward would occur.

Before we went our separate ways, she refreshed my memory on what I needed to do once more.

I also made certain that I had a complete comprehension of everything that she required of me.

The favor she was asking for was not simple to perform, not because it was challenging, but rather because it was unethical regardless of the motivation behind it.

Simply completing this task is all that is required of me; after that, I will no longer be responsible for anything.

"Sister! Shantelle? You’re home already?" My younger sister, Vienne, spoke to me.

I was unaware that I had already arrived at our home until it was pointed out to me.

My mind was preoccupied with the things that I had discussed with the nurse.

Since yesterday, and really ever since I first learned about my condition, I've been doing a lot of thinking.

"Yeah, do you need anything?" After clearing my thoughts, I turned my attention to her.

“Actually, yes, we need to pay the tuition fee as soon as possible for both mine and Oliver's classes because, if we don't, both of us will be expelled from the school.”

"Okay, I understand. You do not need to be concerned about it, and you should direct your attention solely to your studies because I will manage your finances."

I suppose there wasn't any way to go back now.

I had already come to terms with it, so there was nothing I could do about the many what-if questions that kept running through my head.

Because we are in desperate need of funds, I have decided to take on this position.

I really hope that tomorrow goes smoothly for me.

Shantelle

When the priest began speaking, I knew it was my cue to enter the scene.

I was nervous, but the fact that that I will live longer outweighed my fears and worries.

‘I had to do this, for my family!’ I silently mumbled as I took a deep breath and strolled my way inside.

"Gavin Adams! Stop! Don’t do this to me! Stop this wedding, now!"

As soon as I entered the hallway, I let out a shout and everyone inside immediately turned their attention to me. Shock was evident in their faces.

My focus shifted to the front of the room, and fixed my eyes on the groom, and with his bride.

"Gavin, you know that I am pregnant. And you're the father of this child! Yet, you wanted to get married to someone else? How could you do this to me?"

I pretended that I was becoming weaker, but that wasn't entirely true. I really was weakening. The anxiety was really draining my strength, and I couldn't do anything about it.

I really hoped that they wouldn't figure out that I was just making things up.

People who had been completely silent up until a short while ago and who had attended their wedding started hushed speaking to the person sitting next to them.

Their eyes betrayed the confusion and shock that they were experiencing, especially the bride.

And yes, this is the task that I have been given by Doctor Peighton in exchange for the money that she will give me.

I needed to ruin Gavin Adams' wedding.

She only instructed me on what to do, but she did not provide even the slightest motivation for why I should carry out her instructions.

But all I needed to do to accomplish my goal was to completely sabotage their relationship, Gavin and his bride.

I felt sad about it, but I had no choice now.

The person who stood up and responded first asked Gavin, "Son, what does this mean? What was that woman talking about?" when he saw what was happening.

Another man yelled at him, saying, "Gavin Adams! How dare you do this to us, to our family, to my precious daughter!"

That was when I realized that the two men who stood up were the groom's father and the bride's father respectively.

"No, don’t listen to her. Please try to remain calm. This whole thing is a lie, and I have no idea who she is,” when Gavin did finally speak, he attempted to put an end to all of the commotion.

But I won't stand for that to take place.

If they went ahead with the wedding despite everything that I did, then I am a failure.

There was no way out, and I had to complete this task to the very best of my ability.

"Gavin, what are you saying? Why do you keep on rejecting the fact that you got me pregnant, huh? Do you really think that I am just lying? I have nothing to gain by making false statements. I am being completely honest here! I am pregnant, and you are the father of my child. So you better stop this nonsense ceremony now!"

I responded, thereby rebutting what Gavin had said.

"Those momentous nights, have you really forgotten about them? The nights that we made love? You had promised to spend your life with me after you’d call it quits with her! How could you possibly forget the promise that you made to me?"

I lied and made myself cry more convincingly.

Loisa, the bride, began to cry and almost fell to the ground before Gavin was able to catch her in his arms and support her.

Loisa made an effort to stand on her own, and it appeared as though she didn't want to be held by Gavin because of the things that she had heard, which made her feel disgusted.

I believe that her mother was the woman who walked into the room where she was standing.

"A promise after calling it quits with me, really Gavin? You made love with another woman? You played tricks on me! How dare you! You cheated on me, under my nose!"

Loisa blurted out. She looked stunning in her wedding gown and was a perfect bride.

The appearance that she is currently showing is inappropriate for today's occasion.

"Who is she? Tell me, Gavin!”

She reiterated the statement with a voice that was quaking with insanity.

"Loisa, listen to me. That woman and I are not communicating in any way. I really don’t know her. It wasn't possible for me to spend the night with her,” he said to her while trying to comfort her and pointing his finger in my direction.

Initially, he was making an effort to keep his composure, but by this point, he was beginning to lose it as well.

He was completely incapable of containing his rage, which was plain to see in his eyes.

"You made a promise to be with me, but now you're going back on your word and marrying her. I had no intention to do this but I am hurting, so I had to come all the way over here to stop the wedding! You said you are solely mine and you’ll be a great husband and father!"

It's hard for me to tell if what I just said is accurate.

Despite the fact that everything I did from the very beginning on was wrong, I had no choice.

I have no other option if I want to keep living like this.

"Shut up you whore! You're not the one I'm interested in hearing from!”

I was taken aback for a second by what the bride had said, but I didn't let them know that I was surprised by her because I didn't want them to think suspicious of me.

She confronted Gavin with the question, "Tell me, when did you start cheating on me? When did you start playing tricks on me, Gavin! Have you made love with her? Have you made flings with other women while we’re in a relationship?"

"Loisa, look… I really..."

‘That’s it Gavin, keep it that way. You have now assisted me in putting an end to this wedding.’ I murmured silently.

"I mean…" he stutteringly began, but his bride interrupted him before he could finish.

"You were unaware, were you? Therefore, it was not impossible. You had earlier stated that you were positive that you were not familiar with her, but now that you have responded to my inquiry, you are unsure about this."

That is exactly what I am referring to, and the groom did not pick the appropriate word to use because the bride was intelligent enough to think in this manner.

"No honey, please, that is not the case. I was not familiar with her at all, and I did not sleep—"

Because Loisa's hand flew up and hit him in the face, he was unable to finish what he was trying to say.

"Put an end to this shambles, Gavin! Make it right! I have never before experienced the feeling of being embarrassed until today!” It was his father who spoke.

"I don't think your son would be able to fix it, and there's really nothing to fix anyway because we're leaving right now," the bride’s father said, furiously

He walked in and nodded at his wife and daughter before assisting them with leaving the event hall.

I suppose that was a sign for me to exit the building as well.

If I remain here, this will be an annoyance to me.

My job here is done.

It was imperative that I’d speak with Nurse Peighton right away.

After exiting the event hall, I entered the elevator and proceeded straight to the parking lot, where I found Nurse Peighton waiting.

Yes, I may have some regret because I ruined their wedding, but the fact that I still have the will to live is more important than any regrets I may have.

I have no idea what the consequences of doing that may be, but I couldn't care less about them.

When something that I did will reflect on me, I will think of something else that I ought to do.

After we leave, the only thing I can say for certain is that I will have a longer life and will never step foot back into this country again.

My eyes travelled throughout the entirety of the parking lot in search of the brown luxurious car that Nurse Peighton had used when she was the one who drove us here.

"How did it go? Have you completed the task at hand?" Almost instantly, she questioned it, as she smiled victoriously.

"Of course, I did what was told. The wedding was ruined now. The bride already walked away and most of the guests as well,” I answered back.

"Very well done, Ms. Clarkson. Now, take this. That’s my payment, and that would be more than enough for you ro get out of this place as quickly as you can," Nurse Peighton exclaimed without even giving me glance.

"I don't believe that I could use such a large sum of money. Are you sure going to give me a this huge amount?"

I inquired about it because I simply could not accept the information.

It was excessively difficult for such a task that had been assigned to me.

"That is completely yours to keep. You are free to put that money toward running or opening up your business, and what's left over is entirely at your discretion. You are free to put it toward anything or spend it in any way you see fit."

She confirmed it with a nod and all I could do was to accept and agree with her.

"By the way Ms. Clarkson, here's one more set of clothing for you to take. It would be inappropriate for you to wear the dress you wore to the wedding again. It is possible that someone would recognize you as the person who crashed their wedding and confronted you about it," she added as she handed me the bags.

"You have a valid point. Permit me to first change before we part ways."

After I had finished changing into a different outfit, I thanked her for her help and bade her farewell because I knew this would be the last time we would cross paths.

I can only hope that we will never run into each other again and that we will never see them again.

I didn't waste any time and went straight home, where I waited for my siblings to get back.

Yesterday evening, I had already packed some of the things that we would have with us when we left, and I also told them to pack their things; however, I did not tell them that we were going to leave for today.

In addition, I contacted Nurse Peighton and asked her to purchase three plane tickets for us, because, if I were the one to make the decisions, there is no way that we would be able to leave any time soon.

In the event that this takes place, Gavin may be able to locate me in a timely manner.

"Shantelle, what are you doing right now?" Oliver inquired, he was her youngest sibling.

"You’re home! How wonderful, you two have already arrived. Keep the other items you have in your bags or luggage for the time being. Our flight would be early in the morning of tomorrow," I responded to him.

I was aware that there was still some time left because Gavin might first try to resolve the situation with her bride, or should we say her ex-bride to be more accurate, before coming after me.

"The departure time for our flight is five hours from now, and once we have established ourselves in Standford, I will talk to you about everything. Do what I've told you to do for the time being."

"Standford, you say? I believe that is where Aunt Trina has made her home?” My younger sister asked.

"Yes, but she has no idea what's going on, which means that we might as well spend the night, or two, at the hotel that's close to the airport."

"Stop asking questions and just do what I told you to do, will you? After that, eat your dinner and get to bed at a reasonable hour. The departure time is set for five in the morning."

My siblings started looking for their important belongings and putting them away in their respective bags.

Since we are unable to afford to stay any longer or even to come back to this location, I may have to ask my aunt to take care of everything that we left behind here.

After we had finished, I watched them sleep and waited for the next day to come around.

After everything that took place earlier today, I seriously doubt that I will be able to sleep tonight.

I was able to get at least four hours of sleep, which wasn't ideal, but it was better than nothing.

I got some bread ready for us to eat, and then I woke up my siblings so that they could get ready and get ready for the day.

It is important that we get going as quickly as we can.

After everything was finished, we made it to the airport, and someone who knew, the nurse, had already purchased the plane tickets for us.

After we had all found our seats, I felt a sense of relief and was able to relax.

I no longer have any reason to be concerned, and I have faith that we will be able to lead a worry-free life there.

Shantelle

Years later…

"I hope you had a good morning, Shantelle. I have compiled both your agenda for the day as well as the list of appointments that I have set up for you below.”

When she spoke, Cara was courteous. It just so happened that she was my friend from work, and she offered to be my secretary at the office.

I said, "Allow me to take a quick look," and when I checked the paper, I found that I was correct.

I saw his name again. Gavin Adams.

I have no idea what's going on with him, but after these many years, there is no way that we will ever cross paths again.

"Have you already emailed Mr. Adams about our meeting schedule with him?" I asked her.

"Not just yet, because you assured me that you would check it first before we set our meeting with our customers," she said.

As I handed her the paper, I said, "Then, replace our schedule with another client."

I then walked away.

"Pardon? Will this be the third time you blow off your appointment with this client?”

She questioned with a befuddled expression.

She never found out what my life was like in Wilderford or what I did there, so it's possible that she was confused about why I would do something like this.

"You could tell them that I don't want to have any connections with that company if they ask for another schedule for a meeting. This is something you could say, by the way. Understood?"

She responded with a "Yes, ma'am," and then she exited my office.

After reading his name, my mind immediately went back to what I did to him exactly five years ago.

Following the debacle that I caused at his wedding, my family and I relocated to Satndford to live with our Aunt Trina.

I was honest with my younger siblings and my aunt about everything.

They didn't know how to respond at first; they weren't sure if they should be upset with me because I ruined someone else's relationship for money or angry with me because I told them I have a cancer, and I might die.

Both of these responses were possible.

They were aware that I was making every effort to stay alive because I didn't want to abandon them just yet, and over time, they came to comprehend the reasoning behind my actions and came to terms with what I had done.

They encouraged me to get surgery and helped me through the recovery process until I was finally healthy enough to go on my own.

While I was attending school, I also kept up with my treatment.

In addition, my younger siblings continued their educations here in Standford, and my Aunt Trina was able to take care of the matters that we had left unattended in Wilderford.

It took me two years to get better after I got sick.

After that, I put all of my efforts into my studies, and a year later I received my diploma.

I submitted an application to work as a food researcher for a company; however, after six months, I made the decision to start my own small business and used the remaining money that Peighton had given me.

I started out in the same field as my boss, who was instrumental in the development of everything I've accomplished to this point.

Vienne had completed her education, whereas the rest of my sibling, Oliver, was still in school.

Up until that point, we had a very tranquil existence in this location.

I was completely taken aback the day that I saw his name on my schedule for the first time, as well as the day that he attempted to make an appointment with me.

Because I kept turning down his invitations, I was curious how much longer it would be before we finally got together.

When will it happen, and how soon?

But if there was one thing that was certain, it was that I would no longer be able to live my life the way I did five years ago.

‘Why does the past need to haunt me now?’

~~~~

"Hi, you contacted me. Is there anything else I can do for you, Shantelle?" Cara inquired shortly after entering my office.

"Yes, I'd like to see the annual report on our partners and clients since we started doing business," I told her.

"You mean since the beginning of our operation, which is two years ago," she clarified.

"Yes, I need to check and review something, so please get those papers to me as soon as you can, thanks!"

I said as I rummaged through the papers on my desk. It was a business partnership agreement with our new client, who stated that they desired a long-term relationship with us.

I wanted to concentrate on what I'm holding right now, but I just can't.

I'm still undecided about scheduling a meeting with Gavin and his team.

His secretary barged into our building without us being notified.

I knew Gavin was the one who ordered his secretary directly because no one would enter someone's home without permission from the owner.

Last week, there was a commotion outside my office, so I opened the blinds to see what was going on.

My secretary had dispatched the man, but he remained motionless and continued to attempt to enter my office.

I was supposed to send him outside our building, but he relayed a message from his boss when his eyes were on me.

'You only have two options, and your outcomes are determined by your choice.'

It was easy to understand what he meant by his message.

I needed to be cautious because he was issuing a warning.

Cara was perplexed by the man's words, but I ignored her and allowed the man to enter my office.

I don't usually do that, especially if they aren't regular clients or related to me, but this was an exception, so I let it go.

Lance was his name, and his boss was, of course, Gavin.

He gave me a quick rundown of their new Standford locations.

Also, he didn't completely reveal everything that would be included in their business proposal.

He simply provided enough information to make me reconsider, which I did.

It would be a fantastic opportunity for the company, but I would be the one at risk.

If we were in a different situation, I would accept it right away, but Gavin might not be interested in my company.

When someone knocked on the door, I calmed down and became more alert.

I pinched my cheeks because my thoughts were wandering away from what I needed to do and think right now.

"Shantelle, please accept this flash drive. I've included our annual report for each year relevant to the subject you're looking for."

Cara said as she handed me the flash drive.

"Because you stated that it was urgent, I prepared the soft copy first in case you still required a hard copy. I'll have someone look for them in the storage area," She went on to say.

"No, it's fine. This soft copy is fine with me now, thank you," I smiled at her as I responded.

"Also, our work will take more than an hour from now. You should arrange the files on your desk before leaving because you might mix up some of the documents, or do you want me to do it?"

"I'll take care of it. I just need to finish reviewing this before I put my papers on my desk and bring them with me to check at home.”

In reference to the flash drive, I stated.

I focused on my work again, thinking that problems would no longer occur in the future.