Chapter 301: Martha Is Hospitalized

Cecilia saw the online news but dismissed it, prioritizing her own life. Unable to divorce Nathaniel, now amnesiac, she planned to travel abroad to find Martha and the children. The day before her departure, Calvin called.

“Ceci, Martha’s hospitalized,” he said solemnly.

Cecilia’s heart clenched. “What happened?”

“Age-related illnesses, lung nodules… the doctor says she might not make it past the New Year,” Calvin replied, the New Year being just over two months away.

Cecilia stumbled. “I’ll go back immediately.”

“Ceci, Martha longs to return home,” Calvin interrupted. “The older generation often subtly reveals their homesickness.”

Overcome with emotion, Cecilia sobbed, “I owe her a huge apology. I’ll bring her back to Sparaville at once.”

“I’m returning to Clusia for a project; I can bring her,” Calvin added, aware of Nathaniel’s situation. “The children want to come too.” Cecilia, already anxious about the children remaining abroad, asked Calvin to bring them back. He agreed.

That night, Cecilia couldn’t sleep, Martha's illness stirring childhood memories. Martha, more than Paula, had been a mother to her.

Early the next morning, she prepared toiletries and groceries for Martha and the children, later purchasing clothes and shoes. Everything was ready for their arrival.

Around noon, she met them at the airport. Since their last hasty farewell, Martha’s hair was silvered, her back stooped, yet she seemed unfazed, offering Cecilia a bag of snacks.

“Ceci, your favorites from abroad.”

Cecilia was amazed Martha, who spoke no foreign languages, had found them. Hiding her bitterness, she hugged Martha, saying, “You’re the best.” Calvin stood nearby with the children.

Back at the rental house, after Martha and the children rested, Calvin explained Martha’s treatment was unnecessary; being home with her family would be better. Cecilia, throat tight with unshed tears, could only listen.

“Spend time with her,” Calvin finally said.

Cecilia nodded. “I will. We’re moving tomorrow, returning to Sparaville.”

Calvin noted her pale face. He wanted to ask about Nathaniel but only managed, “How have you been?”

Though suspecting Sven had told Calvin everything, Cecilia explained, “I filed for divorce, but then Nathaniel and I were in a car accident. His injuries caused blindness and amnesia; the court ruled against me.”

Calvin was silent, acknowledging fate’s cruelty. “So, how are things between you now?”

“It doesn’t matter,” Cecilia replied. “He says he won’t bother me again.”