No Regrets

Chapter one: Accidents Happen.

"Anna!" "Anna, wake up!!!" I could hear a distant voice calling out to me, but I was deep asleep, and I had no idea that I was. These dreams haunting me now and then all seemed real enough every single time. I relive the torment of the day I lost my sister to the cold hands of death. The burden of guilt, a punishment I must endure, a penance I carry with me. Forgiveness seems like a distant memory, a concept I dare not seek.

Anna wakes up with a loud gasp to a blurry vision of her mum directly looking over her "it's only a dream" Amelia reassures.

In that moment, Anna's heart raced, and her breath was shallow. She closed her eyes, trying to shake off the remnants of the nightmare. Slowly, she took deep breaths, finally coming to the realization of her actual environment and relieved that it was all a dream. She hugs her mum as she cries profusely, still trembling in fear.

"The nightmares, make it stop! make it stop!" She sobs.

Amelia quickly holds unto Anna's face.

Anna was 12 and she had the most delicate features you could ever imagine like a porcelain doll, her curly hair cascaded down her shoulders like a dark waterfall, framing her face with a touch of elegance. Her eyes held so much sadness as she looked directly into the eyes of her mother with tears rolling down her cheeks.

"It was never your fault, can't you let it go" Amelia's comforting voice breaks out as she rubs Anna's cheeks softly, trying so hard to reassure and create a safe space for her daughter. She's too young to suffer like this and it breaks Amelia's heart each time she sees her daughter this traumatized.

Anna quickly places her hands over that of her mother's and pulls it down away from her face to her mother's laps. "lies", Anna blurts out as she stands up from the bed which she laid earlier on, she picks up her dress and quickly puts it over her body.

Amelia stood up standing directly behind her "What did you just say?" Amelia's eyes were now red but not a single tear in sight.

Anna turns around to look at her in disbelief "Its not my fault? (Scoffs) funny how you say that to me and say something else behind my back! ... I heard what you said to Aunt Margaret, I heard everything!" Anna moves two steps closer to Amelia and grabs Amelia's hand.

She smacks her face with it "hit me!!!" "Hate me!!!" With each word she smacks her face continuously "just curse at me!!!" She screams.

Amelia's hand recoiled swiftly as she gazed at her daughter with a mix of frustration and sorrow. "ENOUGH! Stop it! It's not easy for you, it's not easy for me. We're both struggling, but I try to be there for you. Stop being selfish for once!".

The weight of her words hung heavy in the air, regret seeping in instantly. As silence enveloped them, she attempted to backtrack, "Anna, I didn't mean..."

Anna, unmoved, turned on her heels and fled the house.

She wandered aimlessly for hours with her mind a mess, clouded with frustration and hurt wishing things had panned out differently, perhaps she was too harsh on her mother who truly cared.

Lost in her thoughts, a sudden memory of her childhood best friend flashed in her mind, like a beacon of comfort in the midst of turmoil. With a determined stride, Anna retraced her steps, her heart yearning for the familiarity and warmth of her friend's company. "His foolish, I'll feel better with him" she thought.

As she hurried along the familiar streets, a commotion caught her attention. A boy, not much older than herself, sprinted past her, closely followed by a group of menacing men. In a swift and unexpected move, the boy bumped into Anna, a fleeting touch that sent a shiver down her spine.

What was that? She wandered.

She turned to watch him dart away, his agile movements outmaneuvering his pursuers in a heart-pounding chase through the crowded streets.

Breathless and wide-eyed, Anna followed the unfolding drama, her heart racing in sync with the boy's desperate escape. Just as the boy seemed to have evaded his chasers and reached the safety of a bridge overlooking the glistening river, in a moment of misfortune, he lost his footing, teetering on the edge before plunging into the cold waters below.

With a gasp of shock, Anna's eyes widened as she watched the boy disappear beneath the surface, no one seemed to have noticed this scene before her eyes. Frozen in disbelief, she stood rooted to the spot. In that intense moment, she found herself engulfed in a whirlpool of emotions, memories of the past mingling with the urgent need to rescue the boy. Despite the haunting echos of her trauma, in a swift instance she leaped into action. She dived in, scanning through the waters and pulling the boy to safety. Almost making it out herself but unfortunately her lack of recent swimming experience threatened to overwhelm her.

Struggling to keep afloat, the weight of her fears pressing down on her, it seemed like she was destined to be consumed by the very depths she had bravely ventured into.

****

(The Montclair villa)

News has spread like wildfire that the esteemed Montclair family, famed for their exquisite winery, has ventured into a new province. Their arrival has stirred excitement and curiosity among locals, as the Montclairs are renowned for their exceptional wines and sophisticated taste. Rumors swirl about the family's intentions in the province, hinting at potential collaborations and exclusive wine offerings that are sure to elevate the regions reputation in the world of viticulture.

Mrs Montclair turns off the tv, she appeared visibly irritated, her expression grew tense, and a furrow appeared on her brow. She seemed frustrated that her family's true influence was not portrayed as magnificently as she believed it should be. The descriptions fell short of capturing the grandeur and power she felt her family truly possessed, leaving her yearning for a more fitting and impressive portrayal of their stature. "Just, exquisite?" She questions in disbelief. Finally coming to the realization that her forehead was tensed, and, in a frown, she places a finger on it in a bid to massage into it, she picks up her mirror "You look so beautiful and young, let's maintain that..." she fixed her face into having a quick yet attractive smile.

Still indulged in her captivating reflection, her personal assistant rushes in with the biggest worry on her face.

"What seems to be the matter?" Mrs Montclair questioned. Not withholding Amara breaks the news. "Mrs Montclair... your son was involved in an accident".

Epilogue:

Four years ago, on the day of the accident (chewan province)

It was on a Friday morning, the air was so breezy, pregnant Amelia laid there on the cold floor fast asleep with her sister Margaret while Josephine and Anna shared the bed barely spacious for two kids. Anna was fast asleep, but Josephine was unsettled, she moves over to Anna's ears and whispers "let's go, it's time!". Without questioning anything though still sleepy Anna stood up from the bed led quietly by her elder sis, the two kids hurriedly sneaked out of the house heading towards the sea. Josephine was 10 and at the time Anna was 8.

"Where are we going, Jojo?" Anna questioned still half asleep; she had forgotten the plan they had made the previous night before going to bed. Josephine quickly responds "Have you forgotten? We are going to dig up clams for mother, she loves them a lot and she would play with us again, if we get them for her". Anna quickly giggles, they seemed to be happy at the thought of the idea. They get to the sea and Josephine starts digging for clams, she was so hellbent on bringing the smiles she grew up with back to her mum's face. Anna stood their wandering away, distracted she stared at the sea reminiscing the days she went swimming with her dad, but he was dead now and their mother turned cold. Anna quickly takes off her nighties and goes for a swim.

As Anna frolicked in the sea, her laughter echoing in the salty air "Jojo come take a swim with me, the water is sooooo cold" she dragged her words playfully. "I will shortly, Anna". Josephine responded still focused on her task, digging up clams with determination. However, as the moments passed, Josephine noticed that Anna's joyful splashes had ceased, and an eerie silence fell over the sea. Concerned, Josephine dropped her shovel and hurried towards the water's edge, calling out for her sister.

"Anna" "Annaaaa" "Anna, where are you?" She cried

With a sinking feeling in her heart, Josephine waded into the sea, scanning the tranquil surface for any sign of Anna. The water, once inviting and playful, now seemed vast and foreboding. Panic gripped Josephine's chest as she realized Anna was nowhere to be seen. Frantically, she searched the waters, her calls for Anna becoming more desperate with each passing second. Without wasting a second more she swims in, as her cries for Anna faded into the sound of the waves.

Chapter two:

(Current day)

In a dimly lit hospital room, Anna lay still on the bed, her chest rising and falling with the rhythm of the oxygen machine. Her mother, seated beside her, held her hand tightly, her eyes filled with worry, fear and tear. The door to their ward opens up as Margaret steps in. Her curvy, full figure, moved with grace and determination, she was voluptuous but agile. Dressed in simple, comfortable clothing, her blonde locks gathered in a messy bun, framing her baby face that exuded kindness and warmth. Amelia turns around to give a swift look "How's Ryan?" She asks after she scanned to see he wasn't with Margaret "His fast asleep...how's her condition?" Margaret inquired. Amelia looks at Anna as she laid their repeating the same movements, Amelia couldn't contain her tears "she hasn't said a word or moved since I got here...what should I do? We had an argument earlier today, I was so harsh on her, if anything happens to her...". Margaret quickly places a hand over her mouth and enveloped her now crying sister in a comforting embrace "Stay strong, Anna needs strength not tears, she's still alive, isn't she? You can apologize when she's up...for now, please go home; I'll handle it from here," Margaret whispered, her voice a soothing balm to Amelia's frazzled nerves. "How could I ever leave her this way, she's still unconscious" Amelia uttered but Margaret insisted "Just trust me". After some playful bantering, Amelia finally agreed to take a much-needed break, she stood up and walked out of the room, trusting Margaret to watch over their beloved Anna.

***

In the bustling hospital wards, Mrs. Montclair sat tenderly petting her son, enveloping him in a cocoon of love and care. Her son, perfectly conscious, basked in her affectionate embrace, finding solace in the warmth of her presence.

Suddenly, the ward's door swung open, and Jake's expression quickly shifted to one of fear as his father, Mr. Montclair, entered the room. With determined steps, he strode towards Jake, his imposing figure casting a shadow over the room. Ignoring the hospital setting, he delivered a harsh slap across Jake's face, the sound echoing in the tense silence of the ward. Jake recoiled, stunned by the unexpected blow, as the gravity of the situation hung heavy in the air.

"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?" Mrs. Montclair sprang into action, attempting to halt her husband's escalating anger and soothe the turbulent situation. She never anticipated such a confrontation to unfold in the hospital setting, especially with their son at the receiving end of his father's harsh reprimand.

"You bring too much drama to the family, and it's never good! Why did you run away? Look at all the commotion you have caused! Oh, you better pray she wakes up or ELSE..." Mr. Montclair's voice boomed, his words laced with a foreboding threat that sent a chill down jakes spine.

Reacting swiftly, Mrs. Montclair interjected, her voice firm and resolute, "You're causing a lot of commotion yourself. I command you relax this minute until we get home." Her words cut through the tension like a sharp blade, momentarily diffusing the mounting conflict.

Mr. Montclair, wise in the ways of navigating family dynamics, understood the delicate balance within his own household. Avoiding any actions that could provoke a reaction from his formidable father-in-law he chose his battles carefully, steering clear of confrontations that could ignite a storm he might not weather.

With an icy calmness, Mr. Montclair composed himself and without another word, strode out of the ward, leaving a palpable sense of unease in his wake.

****

Mrs. Montclair, driven by gratitude and curiosity, eager to express her appreciation to the girl who had saved her son's life, approached Anna's ward with a mix of gratitude and intrigue swirling within her. The weight of her son's near brush with death hung heavy in the air, propelling her towards the girl who had unknowingly become a guardian angel to her family.

As she reached for the door, a voice sliced through the silence, halting her in her tracks. "Excuse me?" The voice belonged to Amelia, Anna's mother, her tone laced with a subtle blend of curiosity and caution. Mrs. Montclair turned, her gaze meeting the inquisitive eyes of the woman standing before her.

Amelia, observing Mrs. Montclair's distinguished appearance, couldn't help but notice the contrast in their social standing. "How may I help you?" Amelia asked unmoved. "Call me Claire" Mrs Montclair responded with her head high as she continued "...I've been informed that my son was saved by your daughter, I've come to extend my gesture of gratitude"

'Ooh so my daughter is in this situation now because of this woman's son' Amelia thought, obviously displeased she walks up to the wards door, her back against Mrs Montclair "I must go in now, my daughter is still unconscious... thanks for stopping by, anyway" with a polite yet firm tone, she excused herself, disappearing into the ward, the door closing behind her with a soft click.

Left standing in the hallway, Mrs. Montclair found herself enveloped in a whirlwind of emotions – gratitude, curiosity, and a newfound sense of connection to the mysterious girl who had altered the course of her family's fate. As she lingered outside the closed door, the echo of unspoken words lingered in the air.

Amelia, stepping into the ward, was greeted by the sight of Anna awake, her presence accompanied by Anna's best friend Evan and Margaret. A wave of relief washed over her as she saw the trio together, a symbol of life and hope amidst the sterile hospital surroundings, reigniting a spark of joy in her heart.

"I'll get the doctor right away" she said in a hurry

"I already did that" Margaret announced.

Surprised by Margaret's proactive approach, Amelia felt a sense of gratitude for the support surrounding Anna in her time of need.

Amidst the flurry of emotions and conversations, a cluster of vibrant flowers caught Amelia's eye, perched delicately on the desk.

"Whom are these from?" Amelia asked, intrigued by the presence of the flowers. "Oh, I didn't notice those were there, weren't they always just their?" Margaret puzzled. "muum" Anna's voice breaks the impeding silence, shifting everyone's focus to her "I'm right here darling" Amelia said in a second.

Epilogue: Earlier in the hospital

Jake, feeling the weight of loneliness in his ward, made a bold decision to step out for a walk. As he emerged from his room, he was met by the watchful eyes of the heavily guarded ward. With a tone that conveyed both authority and respect, he expressed his desire, "I would like to take a walk, now." The response from the guards was simple yet compliant, "Yes young master, lead the way."

Throughout his 13 years of life, Jake had been accustomed to this level of protection, a constant presence since his very first breath.

Their journey led them to the hospital's garden, where Jake's hand delicately plucked a flower, a small act of connection to the natural world outside the confines of the hospital walls. With the flower in hand, he proceeded towards Anna's ward, a mix of determination and apprehension in his steps.

Standing at the threshold of Anna's room, Jake paused "I'll like to go alone" a silent request hanging in the air. "I'm afraid you can't go alone, young master" they said. He gives just one look with his fisted hands "I insist" he said, the guards exchanged glances before they let out a nod of approval, he took a deep breath and entered.

Jake, taking each step with a mixture of nerves and anticipation, approached Anna's bedside where she lay in a state of unconsciousness. The rhythm of his heart seemed to quicken with each passing moment, a subtle reminder of the emotions swirling within him. Placing the flower delicately on the table, he then moved closer, his gaze fixed on her serene face, a hint of blush coloring his cheeks as he softly murmured, "Sleeping beauty."

Caught in the moment, Jake's eyes shifted to her hand, and without hesitation, he reached out to hold it gently, a gesture of connection and reassurance. As his hand met hers, a subtle movement stirred through Anna's fingers, a sign of life returning to her as she began to awaken from her slumber.

"What are you doing?" a voice called from behind Jake. Startled, he turned around to find a boy standing there, wearing a puzzled expression. Jake gazed at him, silently urging the boy to introduce himself, a sense of curiosity lingering in the air.

Unbeknownst to Jake, the boy standing before him was actually Anna's best friend.

Evan quickly approached with determined steps on getting to the side of the bed he pulls jakes hand away from Anna's confidently, almost as if marking his territory.

A silent tension filled the room as Jake and Evan locked eyes, each displaying a mix of emotions and unspoken intentions in the intensity of their gaze.

Chapter 3:

A group of enthusiastic tourists and sophisticated business associates gather at the entrance of the Montclair wine route, their eyes gleaming with anticipation. The sun casts a warm glow over the rolling vineyards as a guide welcomes them, sharing tales of the rich history and unique flavors that await along the route.

As they embark on their journey, the air is filled with the sweet aroma of ripening grapes and the chatter of excitement. Each stop along the way offers a new discovery - from the crisp whites to the robust reds, each sip telling a story of the land it was grown on.

The tourists eagerly swirl, sniff, and sip, while the business associates engage in lively discussions about the intricate notes and subtle nuances of the wines. Laughter and camaraderie fill the air as they bond over their shared love for the art of winemaking.

At the end of the day, as the sun sets behind the vine-covered hills, they gather for a final toast, raising their glasses to a day filled with new experiences, connections, and unforgettable memories along the Montclair wine route.

Mr. Montclair, a man known for his dedication to perfection, was completely engrossed and elated by the tour's resounding success. The joy radiating from him was palpable, a testament to how deeply a successful job resonated with his soul. Mr. Montclair reveled in the moment, savoring the sweet taste of triumph and the warmth of accomplishment.

As Mr. Montclair returned home, a wave of excitement and contentment washed over him, basking in the comfort of his day's accomplishments. Stepping into his master room, he was met with an enchanting sight of his wife in her nighties. His gaze lingered as she delicately applied her creams, her skin glistening from the shower. The allure stirred desire within him, yearning for a moment alone with her. Drawing closer, he sought to ignite a spark, planting tender kisses on her shoulders, paying attention to the sweet fragrance of her perfumes. "I had a great day today at the winery...seeing you this way makes it even better" he says softly as he plants a soft kiss on her lips, finally delving into the moment, his hands make way to her thigh softly... "Please stop, I'm not in for it tonight" Mrs. Montclair's voice sliced through the air. She rose from her seat, heading to the bed, unmoved by her husband's longing.

Mr. Montclair stood there, disappointed, watching as she covered herself with the beddings, closing her eyes in an attempt to sleep. His once perfect evening shattered by this single act. Why bother trying? He pondered, knowing the outcome would always be the same.

The hush of the night envelops Mr Montclair as he makes his way out of the room, careful not to wake his now slumbering wife, his footsteps echoing softly in the stillness. With a gentle click, he closes the door behind him.

Now in the passageway, the sound of his footsteps can be heard making his way to the bear parlor as if invited by its somber ambience, the flickering candles casting eerie shadows on the walls.

Pouring a generous measure of his preferred spirit, as he basks in the taste of his drink savoring the flavor of each mouthful, his enveloped by sleep, the boundaries between reality and memory blurred, transporting him back to a night etched in the deepest recesses of his mind. The room around him faded, replaced by vivid flashes of a chilling scene:flashes of himself, a spectral figure standing over a man in the crimson hue of his own demise, the metallic scent of iron heavy in the air as the visions unfolded like a macabre dance, each flash of memory a painful reminder of a past he sought to bury clawing its way to the surface, demanding to be acknowledged.

The tension in his physical form mirrored the turmoil within his mind as he fought to break free from the clutches of the haunting dream.

****

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Amelia sat on her porch, enjoying the evening breeze when a sleek car suddenly pulled up Amelia's gravel driveway. The sound of tires crunching on the stones caught Amelia's attention, and she couldn't help but wonder who was arriving in such a flashy vehicle.

Stepping out of the car with poise and grace, Mrs. Montclair emerged, her emerald, green gown flowing around her fit figure like a regal cloak. Amelia's surprise was evident in her wide eyes as she took in the sight before her "Clair? What does she want here" Amelia wandered

"Amelia, my dear," Mrs. Montclair began, her voice soft yet authoritative. "I've come with an offer that I believe could change your daughter's future." Amelia's eyes widened in surprise, unsure of what to expect. Shortly after she breaks out "Please come in" Amelia offered.

Amelia led Mrs. Montclair inside, the small and empty house feeling even more cramped with each step. The limited space was evident, with barely enough room to move around, and a tiny bed that seemed to dominate the room. Mrs. Montclair's gaze swept over the modest surroundings, taking in the lack of space and the simplicity of the furnishings.

As Mrs. Montclair settled on the small bed, she expressed her gratitude, "Thanks for inviting me into your home." Amelia, noticing the unfamiliarity of the water she offered, watched as Mrs. Montclair accepted it gracefully, though it was not her usual choice. Looking around Mrs Montclair inquired about the absence of others "You seem to be home alone, today?"

"Yes, for now, my sister left to fetch my daughter from school, along with my youngest son...They should be back soon." Amelia answered

A brief silence filled the room as Mrs. Montclair took a sip from the cup. Breaking the quiet, Amelia inquired, "Are you here to see my daughter?"

Placing the cup on the bed, Clair answers, "Yes, but no." Amelia looked at her, puzzled by the cryptic response. Mrs. Montclair fixed her intense gaze on Amelia, who stood in a corner. "Would you stand there all day? You can sit next to me," Mrs. Montclair suggested. Amelia quickly moved to sit beside her, the closeness between them growing palpable.

"I'm afraid I haven't properly thanked you or your daughter enough...Paying the bills was nothing compared to the life she saved. If anything had happened to my son, all this money would mean nothing," Mrs. Montclair expressed with gratitude shining in her eyes. She held Amelia's hand, placing a file in it. "Please take a look at it. I've created this carefully for Anna."

She stands up to leave, a sense of urgency in her movements as she tries to prevent Amelia from rejecting her offer. "Please, do not say anything and just accept it. It's the little I could do," she implores. Amelia, still puzzled by the situation, expresses her heartfelt gratitude "Thank you, for whatever this is" she said.

Amelia is seen standing on her porch as she watches Mrs. Montclair move towards her car, watching her drive away, a mix of emotions swirl within her.

Just over a minute later, Margaret bursts into the room like she's seen a ghost, her eyes wide with shock. She swiftly shuts the doors and pulls Amelia towards the bed, scanning through her body, her voice had a sense of urgency in them "What did she want from you? What's going on? Are you okay?" Amelia, taken aback by Margaret's intensity, asks about her daughter. "What's happening? Where's Anna?"

Margaret, still visibly shaken, replies, "Anna's at Evan's. What business does Mrs Montclair have with you?" Shocked by the name, Amelia stops in her tracks, her skin prickling with goosebumps. She looks at Margaret in disbelief and questions "wha...what did you just say?" Margaret repeats with tremor in her voice "Clair, the wife to Monte!!!"

Amelia's mind raced as the pieces of the puzzle fell into place. Fate seemed to be playing a cruel game, bringing back a past she had buried deep. The unexpected reappearance of that name sent a wave of emotions through her. As the tension in the room eased, Amelia stood, her gaze fixed on the papers from the file Clair had given earlier.

"You're not going to accept that, will you" Margaret inquires

Amelia stood their spacing out into thin air

"Amelia? Amelia?!!". Margaret tries to snap her out of her thought

With determination shining in her eyes, Amelia snaps out of her reverie, rising from the bed with newfound strength and willpower. She declares, "The past is behind me. I won't let my mistakes shape my daughter's future. This is a fresh start for Anna, I can't afford any of this, the least I could do is embrace it...even if it means revisiting the past"

Margaret sat there, her expression a mix of concern and worry. She silently hoped that her sister was fully aware of her actions and decisions. With a heartfelt prayer, she wished for everything to unfold smoothly, without any unforeseen obstacles along the way but either way she knew, she was always going to be by her side, just as she has always been.