Chapter Forty One

Wednesday;

It was just before 1:00 PM, and I sat alone by the fountain, the gentle trickle of water doing little to calm my storm of thoughts. The afternoon sun warmed my skin, but inside, I was cold. My last lecture with Montgomery had been... unsettling, to say the least. The way she kept looking at me—her gaze heavy, lingering too long—had made me feel like I was under a microscope. And when the class ended, she asked me to stay behind. But I'd walked out without a second thought, not sparing her a glance.

Even now, the shock of discovering she'd scared Octavia away hadn't faded. Why? If she wanted me that badly, why couldn't she just say it? She has a girlfriend, for God's sake, yet she's always trying to control my life. She clearly has issues—issues that probably need a good therapist.

The sudden voice startled me, pulling me from my thoughts. "Why are you here?" I looked up and saw Lea standing a few feet in front of me, a cigarette dangling from her lips, the smoke curling lazily in the breeze.

"Because we have a lecture soon?" I responded, furrowing my brows and shrugging. It seemed obvious, but nothing was ever simple with Montgomery and her web of manipulation.

Lea rolled her eyes, the smirk on her face making it clear she wasn't buying my nonchalant attitude. She plopped down beside me, lighting her cigarette and taking a slow drag before blowing the smoke out into the warm afternoon air. "Aren't you supposed to be in Montgomery's office, doing whatever it is TAs do?"

I sighed again, resting my elbows on my knees, the steady trickle of the fountain filling the silence between us. Part of me wanted to just spill it all. To tell Lea everything. She was probably the only person who'd understand—or at least not judge me for it. I glanced at her, watching as she lazily flicked the ash off her cigarette, her eyes half-lidded but curious.

"I guess I should just tell you," I started, my voice low but steady. And once I began, the words just tumbled out. I told her how I really started to enjoy hanging out with Octavia. How those small moments, even if brief, were starting to mean something. Then I talked about Montgomery, how her mood would sour the second she saw me with Octavia, the snide remarks, the way she acted like such a... well, a bitch whenever we crossed paths.

Finally, I dropped the bomb. "We were supposed to meet at the park on Tuesday, but Octavia never showed. I thought maybe something came up... but then I found out she blocked me on everything. No explanation, nothing." I sighed, frustration creeping into my voice. "So, I confronted Montgomery about it, asked if she had anything to do with it. She didn't even deny it. Just sat there, silent, with that damn smirk on her face. I knew, right then, that she had scared Octavia away."

Lea took another drag from her cigarette, her brows furrowing as she listened. "And then?" she asked, clearly intrigued.

"And then I quit," I said, the words feeling more certain now that I spoke them aloud. "Stormed out, told her to find someone else to play with." I finished with a sigh of relief. It felt oddly good to finally talk about it with someone.

Lea let out a low whistle, exhaling smoke as she leaned back against the bench. "Was quitting really necessary though?" she asked, her tone not judgmental, just curious.

I pursed my lips, thinking about it for a moment. "Yeah," I nodded, more certain this time. "She's trying to control my life, and if I stay, eventually... I'll give in. I can feel it. I don't want to let her have that kind of power over me."

Lea gave a slow nod, then glanced at me briefly, a playful smirk tugging at her lips. "Isn't it kind of hot though?" she asked, flicking the cigarette away. "I mean, she wants you all to herself."

I stared at her, considering the question. In some twisted way, she wasn't wrong. It was kind of hot—the intensity, the possessiveness—but it didn't change the fact that it was toxic. I shook my head, sighing. "I guess," I muttered, "but if she had just been honest about her feelings... maybe things would be different."

Lea glanced down at her watch, her brow furrowing before she groaned loudly. "Let's go," she muttered, standing up and slinging her bag over her shoulder with a dramatic sigh.

I clicked my tongue in response, pushing myself off the bench and falling into step beside her. We walked in silence towards Prof. Martin's lecture hall.

About halfway there, I heard my name, cutting through the chatter of students. "Valentina!"

I groaned internally, already recognizing Montgomery's voice. I didn't even look back, just grabbed Lea's elbow and sped up. "Keep walking," I muttered under my breath.

"Valentina," she called again, her voice closer this time. "Please, just spare me a minute."

Lea glanced sideways at me, her voice low. "Maybe you should just listen to her."

I shot her a sharp look. "Whose side are you on?" I snapped, dragging her down the hallway faster.

We made it into Prof. Martin's classroom just in time, sliding into our usual seats near the back. The relief of avoiding another awkward encounter with Montgomery barely settled in before I realized I was still tense, my shoulders tight with frustration. I sighed, pulling out my notebook and pens, trying to focus on the upcoming lecture.

Lea tapped her pen against the desk, the rhythmic sound oddly calming. "You sure you don't want to talk to her?" she asked, not looking up from her notes.

"Positive," I muttered, flipping open my book. I couldn't deal with Montgomery's manipulations today. The thought of heading home after class, curling up with some snacks, and maybe indulging in a long, lazy nap felt like a far better plan.

Or maybe I should just head to the park to clear my head. Get some fresh air, some space. Then again, there was a big chance I'd run into Montgomery there. And I wasn't in the mood for another confrontation. Not today.

The lecture was a blur. I had zoned out the entire time, barely hearing a word Prof. Martin said. Before I knew it, he was dismissing the class. I mechanically packed away my things, shoving my notebook into my bag without much thought, and followed Lea out of the classroom.

She looped her arm through mine, and we walked towards the parking lot in comfortable silence.

When we reached the parking lot, we parted ways. Lea gave me a quick goodbye and headed off to her motorcycle, while I strolled towards mine, already thinking about the nap I was going to take.

But then I froze.

There, lying on my windshield, was a single sunflower, its stem neatly wrapped in a sky-blue ribbon. My heart dropped.

It didn't take a genius to figure out who left it. Montgomery. Of course.

I sighed, a heavy feeling settling in my chest as I reached for the flower. The bright yellow petals seemed mocking in their innocence, contrasting sharply with the tangled mess of emotions she always left me with. Without a second thought, I tossed the flower into the backseat and climbed into the car, closing the door with a satisfying thud.

Montgomery needs to get out of my life, I thought, gripping the steering wheel a little too hard.

The idea of heading to the park or grabbing snacks suddenly felt exhausting. Scratch all that. I started the engine and made my way home, my mind set on only one thing—a long, dreamless nap to forget this entire day.

✿

Saturday;

This entire week has been a complete disaster. Since I quit my TA job, there's been this void in my life. Sure, I've had more time to focus on studying and knocking out assignments, but something still feels off. I can't deny it—I miss it. The routine, the responsibility, the strange satisfaction of working alongside Montgomery. No, I won't beg for my job back. That's beneath me. It would be humiliating.

Still, I've managed to avoid her all week. She's asked me to stay behind after every lecture, but I walked out each time without a glance in her direction. She even sent a couple of emails, but I didn't bother responding. Some might say I'm being immature, but they don't understand. It's not that simple.

I've never been in a relationship before—never really dated anyone. No one has ever shown real, genuine interest in me. Then Octavia came along. She was honest about how she felt, open and unafraid. Unlike Montgomery, who's still entangled in a three-year relationship.

It's confusing, having feelings for Montgomery. It's twisted, I know. But when she's kind, even for a fleeting moment, it makes my heart race. That rare softness from her makes me feel...alive, happy even. And yet, it only happens about ten percent of the time.

My aunt and mother always taught me that forgiveness is important—that no matter the offense, you should always consider forgiveness. But how am I supposed to do that when I know there's a high chance she'll just hurt me again? I'm really struggling with that.

I sighed quietly, continuing my rounds as I delivered lunch to the patients. I still hadn't gone to Elizabeth's room, dreading the possibility that Montgomery might be there. Seeing her was the last thing I wanted today. With Elizabeth's tray in hand, including an extra pudding cup as a treat, I knocked softly on her door before entering.

Relief washed over me when I stepped inside and saw the room empty of Montgomery. "Morning, Elizabeth," I greeted with a smile as I handed her the tray.

"Val, dear," Elizabeth's face lit up as she noticed the extra pudding, "How are you?" Her warmth always made the room feel lighter.

"I'm good, always," I nodded, giving her a small smile. "How about you?"

Before she could respond, the bathroom door creaked open, and I froze. Montgomery stepped out, her gaze immediately finding me. "Valentina," she said softly, her voice almost...gentle.

I pressed my lips into a thin line, turning my attention back to Elizabeth. "I'll check on you later," I smiled quickly and turned to leave, wanting nothing more than to escape the awkward tension.

"Mother..." Montgomery's voice urged Elizabeth gently.

Elizabeth cleared her throat, quickly grabbing my hand before I could walk away. Her touch made me pause, and I turned back to her. "Please, just hear my daughter out," she said softly, her eyes pleading as she nodded toward Montgomery.

I glanced at Montgomery, noticing the innocent smile tugging at her lips, her eyes fixed on me as she swayed slightly on her heels. The look she gave me felt all too familiar—like she was playing a game, waiting for me to break first. Turning back to Elizabeth, I forced a small smile, giving her hand a gentle squeeze before stepping away. "I'll see you soon," I murmured, then quickly exited the room, the tension almost suffocating.

Montgomery followed me out, softly closing the door behind her. I leaned against the wall, arms crossed, waiting for her to say whatever she had dragged me out for. She fidgeted, running a hand through her hair and parting her lips, only to close them again. The silence stretched on until I sighed heavily, "Can you hurry up?"

Her face twisted in irritation. "Can you shut up?" she snapped, and I gave her a sarcastic smile, pushing off the wall as if to walk away. But she quickly blocked my path, stepping in front of me. "Wait—I'm sorry," she sighed, her voice softer this time. "Can we just grab a coffee? I'll explain everything."

"You can explain it right here," I replied, leaning back against the wall, arms still crossed. Montgomery bit her lip, her eyes darting around the hallway, avoiding mine.

"Okay, so..." she began, her voice wavering slightly, but she was interrupted by a familiar voice calling her name.

"Johanna, your mother is waiting for us," Vargas' voice cut through the air, approaching us from down the hall. I leaned to the side, catching sight of her heading our way, making the situation all the more uncomfortable.

"Unbelievable," I muttered under my breath, rolling my eyes as Vargas walked past me and into Elizabeth's room. Montgomery's expression flickered between frustration and something softer as she turned to face me again.

"Val—" she began, but I didn't let her finish. Pushing past her, I cut her off coldly. "You should really stay out of my life," I said, my voice thick with disappointment. "Especially if you have another one to ruin." Without looking back, I shook my head and walked away, leaving her standing there in the hallway, alone with her excuses.

I was halfway to the nurse's lounge, already imagining the peace and quiet of diving back into my book, when someone suddenly grabbed my elbow and yanked me into an empty room. I let out a startled yelp, my heart racing as I spun around to see who it was. Standing there with an almost comically wide grin was my Aunt, practically vibrating with excitement.

"Uh... hey?" I chuckled nervously, my eyes darting around the room. "Is everything okay?"

Without a word, she started bouncing on her toes, her hands clasped in front of her chest. "Guess what! Guess what!" she squealed, her voice high with anticipation.

I blinked at her, trying to keep up with her energy. "Dr. Bryson asked you to be his girlfriend?" I teased, raising an eyebrow knowingly.

Her bouncing came to an abrupt halt, and she narrowed her eyes at me, folding her arms. "How'd you know?"

I couldn't help but laugh, raising my hand to my forehead like I was a psychic. "I have powers beyond your comprehension," I said, striking a ridiculous pose for added effect.

She snorted, rolling her eyes as she playfully swatted my hand away from my face. "Seriously, though," she asked, her tone softer now, "Are you okay with this?"

I didn't even hesitate. A big smile spread across my face as I pulled her into a tight hug, wrapping my arms around her. "Of course I am," I said warmly. "I'm really happy for you. You deserve this."

I could feel her body relax into the hug, and for that brief moment, it was just the two of us, wrapped in her joy, her energy contagious. I held her a little tighter, trying to bottle up the warmth and happiness that radiated from her.

After a few seconds, she gently pulled away, her eyes still sparkling. "I have to run, but I'll tell you everything later!" she said, practically skipping towards the door.

I watched her with a soft smile as she disappeared into the hallway, waving goodbye as she went. The door clicked shut behind her, leaving me alone with my thoughts. I felt a wave of genuine happiness for her settle over me. She deserved this. Dr. Bryson was a good man, and I knew he'd make her happy. But still, the protective side of me stirred.

If he ever hurt her... well, I'd have to break something of his. Or better yet, I'd enlist Lea. She always seemed like she'd relish in the opportunity for some creative payback. With that thought, I chuckled to myself, pushing off the wall and heading back to the lounge.

For the next few hours, I floated through the day, half reading, half completing small tasks given by the nurses and doctors. Time seemed to drag, and by the end of my shift, exhaustion settled in. I was more than ready to head home, but since I'd driven here with Aunt Grace, I had no choice but to wait.

I found an empty bench just outside the hospital, the late afternoon sun casting a warm glow over the parking lot. Settling onto it, I pulled out my phone, scrolling aimlessly to pass the time. It wasn't long before someone sat down beside me. For a second, I thought it was Aunt Grace returning, but when I glanced up, I froze.

Montgomery.

She was sitting beside me, her gaze fixed on me, silent but intense. I sighed, my brows knitting together. "Why are you still here?" I asked, trying to keep my voice neutral. "Visiting hours ended ages ago."

Montgomery pressed her lips into a thin line, her jaw tensing as she nodded slightly. "I know," she replied quietly, "I was waiting for you."

A scoff escaped my lips as I rolled my eyes. "This is getting a bit pathetic, don't you think?" My tone dripped with frustration.

Her grip tightened on the armrest of the bench, and for the first time in a while, I saw the mask of control she usually wore begin to slip. Her eyes narrowed as she spoke through clenched teeth, "Perhaps," she breathed out, "But you won't let me talk to you."

I stood up from the bench as soon as I spotted my aunt chatting with another nurse near the hospital doors. Glancing back at Montgomery, I crossed my arms, unable to hide the frustration bubbling inside me. "You're the reason I can't talk to Octavia anymore," I said, my voice sharp.

Montgomery opened her mouth, "Val—" she began, but I cut her off, my words laced with hurt. "For someone who claimed to be messing with me, you sure acted like someone who cared way too much."

She sighed heavily, running a hand through her tousled hair, her gaze dropping to the ground. A bitter laugh escaped her lips, hollow and self-deprecating. "It's pathetic, really," she muttered. "I pushed you away, and now... now I have to watch you walk away."

I shifted my stance, uncrossing my arms, a pang of something unfamiliar tugging at me. "Just..." I shook my head, stepping back, creating more distance between us. "Just leave me alone, or actually prove you're not as bad as I think you are."

I turned to walk away, eyes catching sight of my aunt approaching, but before I could move, Montgomery's hand shot out, grabbing mine and pulling me closer to her. The sudden proximity made my heart skip a beat, her presence overwhelming as she leaned in, her breath warm against my skin.

"I'll make myself better," she whispered, her voice soft but filled with determination. "Better to deserve you."

I stared at Montgomery, my heart pounding in my chest, feeling the weight of her words and the intensity in her eyes. I held her gaze a second longer than I intended before pulling my hand free from hers, taking a deliberate step back.

"You should make yourself better for Carol," I said, my voice barely above a whisper, laced with the tension I was trying to hide. "She doesn't deserve all this dishonesty."

For a fleeting moment, something flickered across her face—regret, maybe—but it vanished as quickly as it came. Her expression returned to its usual unreadable mask just as my aunt arrived beside me, her presence breaking the moment. She glanced between us, confusion etched on her face as she furrowed her brows.

"What's going on here?" she asked, concern lacing her voice.

"Nothing," I forced a smile, brushing it off like it was nothing more than a trivial encounter. "Let's go home."

Without sparing Montgomery another glance, I turned and walked towards my aunt's car, the weight of everything pressing down on me. I could feel Montgomery's eyes on me as we left, but I kept moving, ready to leave it all behind.