The Five Year Itch (Sera and Julian) novel Chapter 27

7 

Early the next day, two videos went viral. 

The first showed Liam’s romantic balloon display. The comments were overwhelmingly jealou 

‘Liam is so devoted! His wife’s been paralyzed for years, but he’s still there for her, showering her with surprises. So enviable.” 

“Liam, the most romantic man in the city!” 

Summer is so lucky! If I were her, I’d be so moved.” 

The second video was Liam’s extravagant fireworks display for Chloe. No one knew it was him Comments speculated about a rich CEO showering his sweetheart with gifts. More emy poured in for the “lucky girlfriend.” 

I watched both videos calmly, during breakfast, right in front of Liam He reacted to the fireworks video; a flicker of something crossed his face, but he recovered instantly. 

He leaned in, kissing my cheek. “If you like fireworks, sweetheart, I’ll throw a much bigger one for you.” 

I put away my phone.“No need.” 

I met his amber eyes. “Your love is enough.” 

His eyes lit up. He showered my face with kisses, oblivious to my forced smile and churning stomach. My girl’s the best! I’ll head to work, see you tonight.” 

After Liam left, I went to the hospital. I’d scheduled the abortion. I was only a month pregnant; the doctor recommended medication. She prescribed some pills and instructed me to return in three days for a follow–up. 

Seeing I was alone, she asked, “Where’s your partner? Aren’t they here with you? My gaze was cold.“He’s dead…. the father is dead.” 

The doctor’s expression was full of pity. Try to stay strong. You’re young, things will get better.” “Stay strong“? How? 

Couples sat on benches outside the gynaecology and obstetrics, radiating happiness. I touched my belly. My child would never know happiness…. 

Dragging myself downstairs, I reached the elevator and 

Liam. 

a familiar figure. 

LO stop me. 

My heart leaped; he’d discovered my pregnancy and was here 

Then I saw Chloe, her eyes shining with joy. The moment she saw Liam, she threw herself into his arms. 

“Honey, Milly’s going to have a sibling! Are you happy? The doctor says I’m over a month along.” Liam’s hand went to Chloe’s belly. He lifted her in a swirl Give me a son, a boy and a girl, a perfect family.” 

“Okay! I’ll give you a son!” Chloe kissed him deeply. 

12:51 

1 froze, a chill running through me. 

They were having another baby… 

Liam had been pretending to love me just last night. The irony was sickening 

Chloe looked down, our eyes met. I saw the panic in her eyes. 

I didn’t react, pressing the elevator button, entering the lift. 

It didn’t matter. 

Once the system recalled me, Liam wouldn’t live much longer without me. 

But Chloe panicked. 

That evening, she bombarded me with calls, which I ignored.