Kamille's POV

Tears streamed down my face, unchecked and raw, as I finally released the flood of emotions building inside me.

"Why?" I asked slowly, my voice cracking. "What were you aiming at, Zeke?"

Zeke stared, shocked, his hand pressed to his stinging cheek. "Kamille, I—"

I didn't let him finish. Words spilled from my lips, a torrent of pain and anger, each laced with betrayal.

"Was everything you did for me a facade?" I demanded, my voice rising. "Did you only rescue me because you knew this would happen? Were you playing the hero?"

Zeke's expression softened; his eyes pleaded for understanding. "No, Kamille, that's not—"

But I cut him off, unable to bear his excuses. "If that's true, I want nothing to do with you," I declared. "And we can't be together again."

Zeke's face fell. He stood transfixed, his gaze searching mine for doubt. But I refused to waver, my heart hardened against his betrayal.

"No, Kamille, you don't understand," he insisted, desperation creeping into his voice. "I did it to protect you. I couldn't bear to see you hurt again, after everything you've been through."

I scoffed, shaking my head. "And where was your protection when my children and I were chased by a lunatic? Where were you when they needed you most?"

Silence hung heavy as Zeke struggled to find an answer, his gaze falling to the floor. "Just forget it," I said, walking past him in annoyance.

I stumbled into the hospital gardens, the cool evening air soothing my flushed cheeks. Tears continued to stream down my face. I was heartbroken and disappointed.

Finding a secluded corner, I sank to the ground, my voice choked with sobs as I poured out my heart.

"I'm tired, Grandma," I whispered.

I sat in silence, the only sound the rustle of leaves. After a while, I decided what to do. I couldn't let Zeke's actions dictate my life, couldn't be consumed by anger and resentment, and couldn't let him hinder my plans.

Confident, I rose. Zeke stood quietly behind me.

We stood in silence. In his eyes, I saw pain, hurt, and regret.

"What are you doing here? How long have you been standing there?" I asked, my voice steady.

"I've been here a while," he replied quietly, his gaze unwavering.

I nodded. "Thank you for everything, Zeke," I said, my voice tinged with gratitude. "But I need you to remove your men from my trail, and I'm leaving the hospital."

Zeke's brow furrowed. "But the kids," he pleaded. "They've just been admitted. They need monitoring."

I shook my head. "I can bring them in if the doctors need to monitor them, or they can come to my house. I just need my space."

Zeke sighed. "Okay," he said softly. "I'll have the doctors come for a checkup."

Relief washed over me. He was respecting my wishes. "Thank you," I said sincerely. I had expected an argument. I arranged my hair and began to walk away.

But as I turned, Zeke reached for me. Before he could speak, I cut him off.

"Don't, please don't say it, Zeke," I pleaded, my voice thick with emotion.

He released my hand, his expression pained. As I returned to the ward, I couldn't shake the feeling of longing.

I gazed at my sleeping children. Who would want to harm them? Zeke definitely wasn't the culprit. Deep down, I knew he would never intentionally harm them. But I needed to step back. This was an opportunity.

Voices broke the silence. Amanda and Belle entered.

"Kamille, are you okay?" Amanda asked, concerned.

I forced a smile. "I'm fine, just lost in thought," I replied, my voice betraying exhaustion.

Belle stepped forward. "We heard about what happened," she said softly. "Can we help?"

I shook my head, grateful for their concern. "I don't know," I admitted. "I need time to process everything."

Amanda nodded. "We'll be here for you, Kamille. Whatever you need."

"How did you know?" I asked. They exchanged a glance.

"Zeke's personal assistant contacted us," Belle explained.

Gratitude welled within me for Zeke's thoughtfulness.

"I—I'm going home. I'm tired." Silent sobs wracked my body. Amanda and Belle embraced me.

After a while, I regained composure. "I should prepare to leave."

"I'll get the kids' things from Zeke's penthouse," Belle offered.

"Thank you, Belle," I said softly.

"Of course, Kam," Belle replied. "We're here to help."

"Of course, Kamille," Amanda added. "We'll take care of everything."

"You just focus on getting home and taking care of yourself and the kids," Belle said.

Once everything was gathered, the nurses helped us with the sleeping children.

"We'll get through this together," Amanda said, rubbing my shoulders gently.

"No matter what happens, we're here for you," Belle said.

We boarded Amanda's car. They helped with the kids and luggage. Soon, we were on the road. I just wanted a long, warm bath.

I silently promised my children they wouldn't face this again.