After Our Fall, Love Reclaimed

After Miriam had taken care of me, ensuring I had some water and food, I drifted back into a restless sleep. Even in my dreams, I couldn't escape the presence of Mr. Rivera.

In the dream, he sat with an effortless elegance on the living room sofa, lighting a cigar with a small torch. I was led in by a housekeeper and stood there for what felt like an eternity before he finally glanced up at me. "Lilah Rivera," he said.

"Mr. Rivera..." I faltered.

His eyes were always distant, almost indifferent—like staring through a mist that never fully cleared. He was physically close, yet it felt as if an ocean separated us.

In the dream, after he called my name, silence ruled until the cigar burned out, leaving me drenched in sweat. My belly had grown noticeably larger, yet my body remained thin and frail. I could barely remain upright.

As I started to wobble on my feet, he finally spoke, "Who gave you the nerve to secretly carry my child, Lilah?"

"Mr. Rivera, I didn’t..." I begged. "I took the medication you gave me. You can even check the security cameras."

I was desperate to defend myself, but he seemed uninterested in believing me. He lazily waved his hand, signaling the bodyguards to escort me out.

"Mr. Rivera, please... don’t..." I cried out, pleading with him until I woke from the dream in tears.

When I finally opened my eyes, still groggy, I found myself whispering "Mr. Rivera" under my breath.

"What nightmare has rattled you so much?" came a low, soothing voice. "You were crying like a little girl."

Through my blurred vision, I saw a handsome face, distinctly European yet with amber eyes. His English was heavily accented, but his voice was calming and rich.

He was dressed in a finely tailored black suit with peak lapels, sitting beside my bed, using a handkerchief to gently wipe away my tears.

The scene felt surreal, yet strangely calming. I stared at him, momentarily forgetting my tears. "Mr. Rivera?" I asked, confused.