Page 242 of From Rivals to I Do

"Oh, my goodness! He woke up finally. I'm so happy to hear this. I hope he's doing great?"

"Yes, he is. However, he's in a lot of pain as his wounds have not healed fully. But I'm just happy he's awake."

I can sense Maria's impatience, and her eagerness to share something else. "Guess what? Your painting was displayed at the art festival, Maya. Even in your absence, it became the highlight of the entire event!"

My heart skips a beat, and I am at once stunned and elated. I'm taken aback, my mind struggling to process the unexpected turn of events. Maria

continues, unable to contain her excitement, "People were captivated by your art. They were drawn to it, and they started bidding on it. Everyone wants

to see more of your paintings, Maya. They are clamoring for your own art show!"

My hands tremble with disbelief and overwhelming emotion. A rush of gratitude floods my being, gratitude for the universe aligning the pieces of my life in such an unexpected way.

Tears of joy glisten in my eyes as I express my gratitude to Maria. Her genuine excitement and unwavering support warmed my heart. "Thank you for telling me. I can't believe this."

She chuckles softly, her voice filled with affection. "Oh, Maya, I am just as thrilled for you! This is the beginning of something incredible, and I can't wait to

see your artistic journey peak. Your manager should call you soon; he wanted to ensure that you had returned from the hospital before giving you all the

details." There is a slight pause. "And we're throwing a party in honor of this great achievement at the studio. Everyone's been planning for it; it's going to

be a big party and I'm sure you'll love it."

I take a deep breath, embracing the serendipity of the situation. "Wow, I'm speechless. I didn't see this coming. I don't even know how to react."

"I know, darling," Maria says chuckling. "I'll be over at the hospital in an hour or so. Do take care of yourself and Jackson."

Chapter twenty

Chapter Twenty

The day has finally arrived. Three weeks have passed since the accident, and today, Jackson is coming home. The morning sun casts a warm glow through the kitchen window as I move about with giddiness, my heart fluttering with anticipation. I want everything to be perfect for his return, a celebration of his recovery, and a testament to the love that has carried us through this journey.

I start to prepare his favorite breakfast dishes so I can cook for him when he gets home. I begin with whipping the fluffy pancake batter, pouring the maple syrup in a bowl, and laying out the powdered sugar. The sound of the sizzling bacon fills the room, Eggs are cracked and ready for the sound of the melodic crackling of eggs in the frying pan. This morning, I want to fill his senses with love and comfort, to remind him of the simple joys that await him at home.

With breakfast almost done, and the table set and ready to serve I glance at the clock, realizing it's time to wake up Henry. He has been counting down the days, eagerly awaiting his father's return. I climb the stairs, excitement building with each step, and gently nudge open Henry's bedroom door.

"Good morning, my sunshine," I whisper, my voice laced with tenderness. "It's a special day today. Daddy is coming home."

Henry's eyes widen with delight as he bolts upright, his youthful energy filling the room. "Really? Daddy is coming home today?"

I nod, my heart brimming with joy. "Yes, sweetheart. We're going to bring him back, and we'll be a complete family once again."

Henry's smile grows wider, illuminating the room.

We go to the mall to pick out flowers and cards, carefully choosing each one with love and thoughtfulness. The flowers, a vibrant bouquet of daisies and sunflowers, represent hope and rejuvenation, a reflection of Jackson's journey towards recovery. The cards are adorned with heartfelt messages, pouring out our love and gratitude, and offering words of encouragement for the days ahead.

With everything in place, we make our way to the hospital one final time. The corridors seem different today, as if they hold the echoes of a victorious battle fought and won. As we approach Jackson's room, my heart flutters with excitement and nervousness. The door creaks open, revealing Jackson sitting on the edge of his bed, clad in hospital clothes, his smile radiant like the sun breaking through clouds.

"Hey there," he greets us, his voice filled with a blend of relief and anticipation. "I can't believe the day is finally here."

My eyes well up with tears of joy as I hold out the cards. Henry hands him the flowers. He can't contain his excitement any longer. He bursts forward, embracing his father tightly. "Daddy, you're coming home! I can't wait to play catch with you and show you my new drawings."

Jackson's face beams with pride and love as he hugs Henry back, their connection unbreakable. "I've missed you so much, buddy. Let's make up for lost time."

"We've missed you so much, Jackson," I say, my voice quivering with emotion. "These are for you."

Jackson's eyes light up as he takes in the vibrant colors and heartfelt messages. "Thank you, sweetheart. These mean the world to me."

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