Chapter 9

Chapter 9:
The nearby crowd leaned in, their interest piqued.
The family doctor replied in a low voice, “She’s conducting a pericardiocentesis. This man has accumulated fluid around his heart, and this procedure is meant to drain it to relieve his distress.”
“I see,” came a murmur in response.
As time seemed to stand still, all eyes were fixed on Belinda.
After a while, she finally removed the syringe from Jordy.
Relief washed over the crowd as color began to return to Jordy’s face, though his breaths were still shallow.
Soon after, medical professionals arrived and quickly transported Jordy to the hospital.
Darren extended a hand to help Belinda rise from her kneeling position.
After the intense focus required for the procedure, Belinda felt a slight numbness in her legs as she stood up.
“Belinie!” a voice called out.
Santino Thomas approached with a warm smile.
“Belinie” was a special nickname given to Belinda by Santino and his wife, Mollie Thomas, symbolizing their hopes for Belinda to embrace a new chapter in her life.
A guest inquired with curiosity, “Mr. Thomas, is this exceptional young woman your goddaughter?”
More updates uploaded to gαℓησν𝒆ls․com
Santino looked at Belinda with a warm, affectionate smile before facing the guests and saying, “That’s right! She is the goddaughter of Mollie and me.”
A chorus of admiration followed.
“Lucky for us that Belinie was here today!”
“She is so young, yet she is already about to join the prestigious Cardiac Surgery Department at Grand Plains General Hospital. She is truly remarkable!”
While praises flowed freely toward her, Belinda maintained her poise, unaffected by the flattering words.
Once the banquet officially commenced, Belinda and Darren led the opening dance.
Their dance included close steps and touches, which, to the audience, appeared intimate.
Everyone believed Belinda and Darren made a good match.
Lucas, seated with his legs crossed and his hand idly tapping his thigh, watched them.
His expression was neutral, but those familiar with him could sense the storm beneath his calm facade.
The following morning at the courthouse, Lucas and Belinda arrived on time.
When Belinda saw Lucas, she walked past him without a word and entered the building.
Lucas watched her graceful figure, his eyes narrowing slightly.
.
.
.