Chapter 4 Between Two Worlds

Hadassah's fingers trembled as she pressed the call button, her heart pounding.

"Bernard, who are you?" she paused, her voice shaking. "What are you trying to do with me? What are your plans?"

She continued, not caring if Bernard responded. "Look... I know I'm broke, and I'm really trying to feed my family, but I'm hardworking. I believe in myself, and I know I'm going to make it," her voice thickened as tears threatened. "Don't think you can use me with your ten-thousand-dollar salary!"

Bernard replied sharply, "All this over the message you got? You need to learn to ignore it. Just forward it to me along with the info." He hung up.

His unbothered tone offered her a flicker of relief. She stared at the message again, taking a deep breath.

"Oh Lord, please help me and lead me," she whispered, grounding herself as she exhaled slowly.

---

Feeling a wave of relief after Bernard's call, Hadassah decided to spend some quality time with her family. She rolled up her sleeves and began preparing a delicious meal, the aroma filling the kitchen.

In the dining room, the table was laden with a feast she had prepared. The scent of spiced chicken and roasted vegetables filled the air, inviting her family to gather around. Laughter erupted as her siblings playfully nudged each other, eager to dig in.

"Wow, Hadassah! This looks amazing!" her youngest brother exclaimed, his eyes wide.

"Thanks! I made your favorite," she replied, beaming as she served him a generous portion.

Her mother sat at the head of the table, a warm smile on her face as she watched her children. "You've really outdone yourself, my dear. You always know how to bring us together."

"Of course! Family time is important," Hadassah said, glancing around the table. "I want us to enjoy every moment."

Her mother's expression turned serious. "Hadassah, soon you'll be in your husband's house. Make sure you come back to check on your siblings. Don't neglect them. Learn how to take care of your husband too-be a good wife and a good mother to his child. She's your stepdaughter, so take care of her with love. And don't let money entice you and change who you are."

Hadassah nodded, a pang of guilt twisting in her stomach. "Thank you, Mummy. I promise I will."

Her little brother piped up, his voice bright and innocent. "Aunty, I will miss you! You're the best sister! I don't want to share you with anybody."

Hadassah chuckled, ruffling his hair. "You won't have to share me. I'll always be your sister."

Another sibling jumped up, eyes wide with excitement. "Hadassah, I love you more! I'll come and live with you in your husband's house."

"And I'll buy you a car like your husband's when I grow up!" chimed in yet another sibling, determination shining in his eyes.

Laughter filled the room, and Hadassah felt warmth spread through her heart. "You all make me so happy!" she said, gathering her siblings into a tight hug. "I love you all, and I promise to give you the better life you deserve!"

Her mother smiled, pride swelling in her chest. "Look at how much you've grown, my dear. You're going to be an amazing wife and mother."

As the lively banter continued, Hadassah's mother suddenly grew quiet, her gaze drifting to the family photos on the wall. "You know, your father would have loved this meal," she said softly, her voice tinged with nostalgia.

Hadassah paused, her heart sinking. "I miss him too, Mummy," she admitted softly.

Her mother's eyes glistened. "He would have been so proud of you, Hadassah. I just wish he were here to see how much you've grown."

"Don't be sad, Mummy. I'm here," Hadassah said, reaching across the table to hold her mother's hand. "I know Dad will be happy in heaven."

Her mother nodded, wiping her eyes. "Okay, my love. I just miss him so much."

"Daddy used to tell the funniest jokes!" her little brother exclaimed, trying to lighten the mood. "Remember when he made that silly face?"

"Yeah! And he always let me have the last piece of cake!" another sibling chimed in, laughter bubbling up around the table.

As the chatter resumed, Hadassah felt a renewed sense of hope. She squeezed her mother's hand, knowing that together, they could face anything.

---

The weekend was fast approaching-the time Hadassah had agreed with Bernard to move in. As she sat on her bed, surrounded by half-packed bags, a wave of despair crashed over her. She buried her face in her hands, her shoulders shaking as sobs wracked her body.

"I can't believe this is happening," she whispered between tears. The thought of leaving her family, especially her mother and siblings, felt like a weight pressing down on her chest. Each item she picked up to pack seemed to carry memories that cut deeper. She glanced at a photo of them together, laughter frozen in time, and her heart ached.

"How am I going to cope in that house?" she thought, her breath hitching. "I barely know Bernard! All I know is that he's mean, rich, and has a daughter!" The discomfort in her abdomen escalated, and she hugged her knees to her chest, rocking slightly as if to soothe herself.

Tears streamed down her cheeks, blurring her vision. "God, please!" she cried out, her voice trembling. The thought of Bernard's cold, distant face made her shiver. How could she live with someone like that? Fear gripped her, and she felt a chill run down her spine.

But then, a flicker of hope ignited within her. "Everything is going to be fine," she reminded herself, taking a deep, shaky breath. "I'll be independent. It's just work. It's just business." As she spoke the words, she straightened her posture, trying to summon strength from within.

With renewed resolve, she began folding her clothes, each item a symbol of her determination to make this new life work. "I can do this," she whispered, wiping her tears with the back of her hand. "I just need to focus."

As she continued to pack, the weight in her heart didn't entirely lift, but she felt a tiny spark of courage growing. She would face this challenge, one step at a time.

---

Hadassah finished packing her bag, a modest suitcase that showed signs of wear but held her cherished belongings. It wasn't designer, but it was sturdy enough to carry her hopes and dreams. As she made her way to the nearest bus stop, a sense of loneliness enveloped her. She glanced around, scanning the street for a familiar car.

When Bernard arrived, his voice cut through the silence. "Hey!" he called, gesturing for her to get in.

Hadassah hesitated for a moment, her heart pounding in her chest. "Get in, get in," he urged, and she felt a wave of mixed emotions-anxiety, anticipation, and a hint of excitement. She climbed into the car, unsure of how to behave. Should she smile? Stay silent? The air was thick with tension, and she could feel the weight of his gaze.

"You good?" Bernard asked, his tone neutral.

"Yes, I am," she replied, forcing a smile that didn't quite reach her eyes. As they drove, an uncomfortable silence settled between them, stretching on like an endless road. Hadassah fidgeted, scrolling through her phone, but her eyes kept darting to Bernard, stealing side glances. His expression was unreadable, a mask that gave nothing away.

She noticed they were driving farther than she expected. Anxiety began to twist in her stomach again. "Your house is really far?" she broke the silence, her voice tentative.

"I'm going to pick up my daughter from my mom. It's about a 40-minute drive," Bernard replied, his focus on the road.

Hadassah's heart sank. "Oh," she thought, feeling a rush of panic. "Is he going to show me to his mom? I'm going to meet his mom and his daughter. Oh no, I'm not well-dressed today." The anxiety flickered in her eyes, betraying her inner turmoil. She felt the weight of her casual outfit, a stark contrast to the significance of this moment.

Bernard glanced at her briefly, noticing the shift in her expression, but chose to remain silent, his face still cold and composed as he concentrated on driving.

Feeling overwhelmed, Hadassah rolled down the car window, embracing the refreshing air. She closed her eyes, letting the warmth of the sun wash over her, providing a brief respite from her worries. In that moment, she allowed herself to enjoy the view-trees whipping by, the distant sound of laughter from a nearby park. A flicker of warmth ignited in her heart, reminding her of the beauty in the world beyond her fears.

Bernard, still maintaining his stoic expression, stole a glance at her. While he kept his focus on the road ahead, a hint of curiosity lingered in his eyes. He wondered what thoughts were swirling in her mind, but chose to keep driving.

As Bernard drove into the compound, Hadassah's breath caught in her throat. The sprawling estate was breathtaking, a blend of modern architecture and classic elegance. Lush lawns stretched out like a green carpet, dotted with vibrant flowers, while majestic trees framed the property, their branches swaying in the soft breeze. The house itself was a marvel, with large glass windows inviting warmth into an expansive interior.

"Get out, we've arrived," Bernard's voice broke her reverie. She blinked, still awed by the sight.

As she climbed out, Bernard added, "Don't overreact. Remember, you're not my wife or girlfriend; this is just business." Hadassah nodded, trying to mask her excitement with a confident smile.

Inside, the opulence continued. A grand foyer welcomed them, adorned with high ceilings and sparkling chandeliers. Hadassah composed herself, determined not to let her awe show too much. As they moved through the house, the elevator whisked them upward. The first sight that greeted her was Lily, Bernard's daughter, rushing toward her father with pure joy.

"Who is this, Daddy?" Lily asked, her innocent face bright with curiosity.

Bernard hesitated. Unsure of how to describe her, he simply said, "You'll know her with time." Hadassah reached out, but Lily hesitated. With a warm smile and a playful gesture, Hadassah did a little trick, and Lily giggled, finally accepting her.

Just then, Bernard's mother entered, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "My son, is she...?"

"Yes, Mom!" Bernard replied, pride in his tone.

The warmth of his mother's embrace enveloped Hadassah, making her feel unexpectedly welcome. "Come, sit!" she urged, showering Hadassah with questions. As she held Lily in her arms, Hadassah admired the living room's high ceilings and tasteful decor.

While they talked, Bernard asked about his father. "He went on a business trip to Greece," his mother replied.

"Really? Dad didn't tell me," Bernard said, surprise flickering across his face.

"He had to rush; he didn't even pack any clothes. It was urgent."

"Okay, Mom, I understand. I'll be on my way now," he said, requesting Lily's bag. His mother handed it to Hadassah, smiling warmly. "You're beautiful! Come and visit me often," she added.

Hadassah smiled back. "Okay, Mummy," she replied.

On the drive back, Lily fell asleep in the car, her small body curled up peacefully. When they arrived at Bernard's home, Hadassah was struck again by its grandeur. It mirrored his parents' house in size, a testament to his wealth. She wondered how he could live alone in such a vast space.

Bernard carried Lily inside and gently laid her on the bed, while Hadassah stood still in the living room, unsure of where to put her bag.

Bernard turned to her. "Come, let me show you around." The house was expansive, each room more impressive than the last.

In the sitting room, Hadassah's eyes caught a familiar framed picture. She moved closer. "Is that...?" she began, but Bernard's voice cut through her thoughts.

"Don't touch it. That's my late wife."

Shock hit her. "Eliana was your wife?" she exclaimed.