Sins Of The Father

Donovan didn’t stop at just one punch as he continued to hit Miller until he was forced to retaliate.

The men exchanged a few punches with each spilling blood before I decided to intervene,

“Enough of this rubbish, you two!” I screeched, putting an end to their fight.

“Fuck this!” Miller cursed, spitting out the blood in his mouth. “Bela, it’s just in a few days! I can’t wait to end this shit so make sure to call me soon!.” He reminded me before bouncing out of the compound.

Miller’s statement only provoked Don more and when he tried to bring up a conversation, I strode away, provoking Don even more.

Don couldn’t contain his curiosity as to the meaning of Miller’s words to me so he followed me in and tried to start a conversation with me.

“Bela, what on earth are you scheming with that asshole? What is wrong with you?” He bellowed furiously.

I tried to keep my cool and avoided eye contact with him as much as I could because his presence reminded me of the pain Diego had to go through in that operation room because of his weak heart.

If only he didn’t have such a bad heart, maybe…just maybe Diego would still be with me now.

I ignored him and went into the washroom to freshen up but on my way out, I met him standing right in front of the door, his arms crossed while putting on a straight face.

It was obvious he needed this conversation with me or he might lose his sanity. I needed to steer up his emotions even more so I finally agreed to hear him out.

“I told you I had a reason to be on pills. I thought you’d be understanding enough to give me some time until I’m ready to open up to you, but what did you do? You went out of your way to harass my friend.” I sucked in a quick breath.

Don remained mute unnecessarily longer than I thought but eventually, he spoke up, “What is happening to us?” he asked, his usually calm voice cracking up.

“You heard Miller right. In a few days, you will understand exactly what is happening to us.” I replied, cautiously optimistic but my words only confused him.

Today marked the beginning of a new month making the Ministerial Candidate screening just five days ahead. I have to prepare him for whatever is to come.

“Bela…” He called out, almost in whispers.

“Just a few more days.” I interrupted, and just then, his phone rang which he hesitantly answered.

“Dad is here,” Don announced as soon as he ended his call but I didn’t believe that at first.

He has never been to our house ever since we got married and his sudden presence sent a shiver down my spine.

For the past three years since I joined his family, he has never really given me much of an audience because he never liked me. His decision benefited me more because I’m not sure how I would have hidden my hatred and anger toward him if we met often.

“I will go and welcome him,” Don suggested as he walked towards the door but before he could step out, I pulled him back and closed the door.

“Have you taken a look at yourself in the mirror today? You look like a hot mess. Go wash up. I will welcome him.” I scolded, pushing him towards the bathroom.

“Are you worried about me right now?” He asked, his dull eyes lightening up a little as a ray of hope returned to them.

I rolled my eyes in contempt, “Just go get cleaned!” I sneered.

Of course, I was worried about his haggard look. He is daddy’s boy and there is no way that sly old man won’t notice his son’s misery. I just need to put on an act before him for the next five days.

Once Don trudged into the bathroom, I quickly got dressed and went to the living room.

As I walked down the stairs, I saw the middle-aged man in his 50s sitting on one of the couches with so much confidence and poise.

My breath hitched and I felt my heart ripping apart as it always does anytime I saw him.

Even though the aching was more unbearable today, I convinced myself that his reign will come to an end in the next few days.

“Look who is finally coming down stairs,” Hudson exclaimed as he finally saw me.

“Good day, Sir.” I greeted, forcing a fake smile as I bowed slightly.

“Where is Donovan?” His gaze darted to the bar shelf by the corner of the living room.

I sighed in disgust as I noticed the mess Don had caused at the bar while drinking all night.

“He will join us soon,” I replied. “We partied all day yesterday and hence the several empty bottles of alcohol.” I lied, walking towards the bar.

I was still clearing it up when Don finally came downstairs.

“I heard you partied all day, is that why you look so tired and sleep-deprived?”

Damn that man! Why is he so fucking observant?

Don’s confused gaze darted towards me and my uneasiness gave him a clue on what to do.

“Yeah. Bela threw a small party for me yesterday. It was so much fun I drank a lot.” He lied. “By the way, what are you doing here? This is the first time you’re coming to my house and that too, unannounced.” He asked, trying his best to dismiss the topic as he sat beside his father.

“Are you not happy to see me?” Hudson grinned.

“No, just surprised.” He replied.

“Well, that’s because I decided to give your wife a chance to become a proper part of our family.

I was walking back to the living room when his words took me by surprise. I wonder what he is up to this time.

“Bela, as you know, the Ministerial Screening is just around the corner, and as a confident man, I know I will be elected. Why don’t you plan a party for me, my associates, and the whole family?” He suggested and I almost laughed at his statement because according to my calculation, he will be going to the prosecutor’s office right after the screening.