Hey everyone,
So, at the moment a lot of things are happening with me. I might and probably still will be a single 37 year old woman living in California at the end of it in 2 or 3 months time but since y'all were so kind as to help me in my moment of dire need with my mom, I feel I owe you the truth.
Firstly, the thing that has me most excited is a convoluted job opportunity that I have somehow lucked into. I was in a dark place after I lost my job and ended up applying to a lot of positions and one of those was with a company that I can only best describe as mysterious. I was a software engineer before my transition and I still hold both my bachelor's degree and a lot of experience in software engineering and so, on a whim and with a few drinks in me, I applied for a job with this company in Doha, Qatar. For some reason, a recruiter reached out to me (between you and me, I don't think they have a lot of takers for this job) and I have my first talk with her at 7am on Monday. I don't know how it will go or even if I have a snowball's chance of making it but I do know that if I get this job and work here for 5 years, I never have to work again and a few more years more than that and I can pay for my nephews and nieces college.
Moving onto more realistic targets, I am at almost 10,000 words with my novel and you can read the latest two chapters at the end of this post. Also, I relaunched my podcast but it's a youtube channel now. It deals with creepy and macabre events in history. I think a small subsection of you guys might like it. So, give it a try. Here are the links to the latest youtube video and short. I would love to hear your critiques. Lastly, before I sign off, I want to thank y'all for all your donations (coffees) on here. I am reaching the end of what my severance package included and April will be a tough month for me but I am determined to see out this book project till the end and get it published. Thank you so much! And you can read the latest two chapters at the end. Lastly, I wrote a pretty long post on JK Rowling and Harry Potter that I didn't publicize much on here. I would love for y'all to take a look and let me know your thoughts.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_itaBeOb35w&t=61s
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Dc6rArvTd9A
CHAPTER FOUR
Genevieve slowly opened her eyes, feeling groggy and disoriented. It took her a moment to remember where she was - in her new apartment, away from Arnold. She breathed a sigh of relief, feeling a weight lift from her shoulders. It had been three days since she left him with the help of Rhonda, and she was starting to feel like she could finally breathe again.
As she sat up, she looked around the room, taking in the changes she had made. She had spent the past few days redecorating, trying to make the space feel like her own. The walls were painted a soft blue-grey color, and there were several plants scattered throughout the room. She had hung up some artwork she had found at a local thrift store, and the curtains were a bright, cheerful yellow.
It was a small space, but it felt cozy and welcoming. She had spent the past few days setting up her new home, and it was starting to feel like a sanctuary. Genevieve took a deep breath, feeling grateful for the chance to start over.
Genevieve swung her legs out of bed and stretched her arms above her head, feeling the knots in her back start to loosen. She quietly padded across the small apartment, her feet sinking into the plush carpet. She paused for a moment when she reached her children’s room to listen to the soft sound of their breathing. The door was slightly ajar, and she could see the dim outline of Todd's racecar bed and the small crib that held her Amy.
She pushed the door open gently, stepping inside the room. The night light cast a warm glow over the space, and she could see the peaceful expressions on her children's faces as they slept. Genevieve felt a wave of love wash over her as she watched them, feeling grateful for their presence in her life. She bent down and pressed a soft kiss on each of their foreheads, feeling their warmth against her lips. She took a moment to just stand there, enjoying the simple pleasure of watching her children sleep peacefully. For the first time in a long time, she felt hopeful for the future.
Genevieve tiptoed out of the children's room, making her way to the small kitchenette that was just off the living room. The kitchen was bright and while small it was functional, with a small stove, refrigerator, and a sink. Genevieve had managed to find a small table and two chairs at a thrift store, which now sat in the corner of the room.
She started by putting a kettle of water on the stove to boil, while she rummaged through the cabinets for breakfast options for her children. She found some oatmeal and a jar of baby food in the cupboard, and set them on the counter.
She grabbed a small saucepan and added water to it, putting it on the stove to heat up. As she waited for it to come to a boil, she spooned some oatmeal into a bowl, adding a splash of milk and a pinch of salt.
By the time the water was boiling, she had the oatmeal cooked and ready. She added some to a small bowl for Todd and then stirred in some mashed banana into the jar of baby food for Amy.
She set the food out on the table along with some fruit, and then went to the fridge to grab some milk and orange juice.
As she poured the juice and milk into cups, she couldn't help but smile at the thought of her children enjoying a healthy breakfast in their new home. It was a small victory, but it was enough to make her feel like everything was going to be okay.
Genevieve’s thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. She could feel her heart skip a beat. She looked nervously at the clock on the wall - it was only 7am. Who could be at the door at this hour? Her mind raced as she thought of the worst-case scenario - had Arnold somehow tracked her down? She tried to push the thought aside, telling herself that it was unlikely. After all, she had taken every precaution to make sure she and the children were safe.
With a deep breath, Genevieve walked slowly to the door, peering through the peephole. She saw a young woman standing outside, dressed in workout clothes and with a backpack. Genevieve hesitated for a moment, but then decided to open the door. The woman smiled warmly at her. It took a few seconds for Genevieve to realize that the woman was none other than Rhonda. She looked so different.
"Rhonda is that you? Why are you dressed like that?" exclaimed Genevieve, her surprise evident in her tone.
Rhonda chuckled. "Yeah, I know I look different. We can’t have people becoming suspicious of the same strange woman coming in here every so often in a pantsuit. Sorry to bother you so early, but I wanted to check in on you and the kids."
Genevieve couldn't help but smile at Rhonda’s thoughtfulness. "Thank you, Rhonda. We're doing okay," she replied, opening the door wider to let her sister in.
Rhonda walked in, taking in the sight of Genevieve's new apartment. "Wow, you've really made this place your own," she said, looking around at the decorations and furniture.
Genevieve smiled. "Yeah, it's not much, but it's home."
Rhonda nodded, then turned her attention to the children's breakfast. "Looks like you've got everything under control here," she said, impressed by Genevieve's efficiency.
Genevieve shrugged. "It's not easy, but I'm managing."
"So, I have some news for you. We have arranged a job interview for you."
"What? Huh? I didn’t apply for a job" replied Genevieve, wondering how Rhonda and her organization had somehow gotten hold of her resume and applied for a job on her behalf.
Rhonda smiled. "No, we found a job that we think would be a good fit for you. It's with a non-profit organization that helps women and children in need. It's part-time, so it won't be too much of a strain with the kids, and it pays well."
Genevieve looked surprised but also grateful. "Thank you, Rhonda. That's really kind of you and your organization to do this for me."
Rhonda shook her head. "It's the least we can do. You deserve a fresh start, and we want to help you get there."
Genevieve couldn't help but feel emotional. She had never expected to receive this kind of support from anyone. "Thank you," she said again.
"So, I am here today to get you set up for your interview" said Rhonda, setting her backpack down on the door and pulling out a laptop, a laptop charger and a black device that Genevieve recognized as an internet router.
"I am sorry, we didn’t leave you and the kids any form of entertainment. We felt the situation was so urgent that we needed to move immediately. But this stuff will help with that and your interview" said Rhonda motioning to the devices that she had just taken out.
Genevieve shook her head. "It's okay, Rhonda. We've managed without it. But thank you for bringing them."
"I also have toys for the kids in my car" said Rhonda while getting to work setting up the router. She plugged it into a nearby outlet and connected it to the modem with a cable. As she waited for it to power up, she pulled out her laptop and charger.
Once the router was powered on, Rhonda opened her laptop and connected to the network. She checked the internet connection, making sure it was strong enough for Genevieve's upcoming interview. She navigated to a speed testing website and ran a quick test, watching the progress bar as it loaded.
"Looks like we have a good connection here," Rhonda said, turning to Genevieve with a smile.
Genevieve breathed a sigh of relief. "Thank you so much, Rhonda. I don't know what I would do without your help."
Rhonda waved off her thanks. "It's my pleasure. I want to make sure you have everything you need to succeed."
With the internet connection secured, Rhonda turned her attention to the laptop. She opened up the email with the interview details and began to go over them with Genevieve. Together, they discussed the interview time, job requirements, the interview format, and the dress code.
Rhonda also gave Genevieve some tips for the interview, such as how to answer certain questions and what to bring with her. Genevieve took notes on everything, grateful for Rhonda's guidance.
Once they had finished, Rhonda and Genevieve walked down the stairs, with Rhonda leading the way. They stepped out into the bright morning sunlight and made their way towards the parking lot where Rhonda had parked her car. As they walked, they chatted about the weather, how the kids were doing, and the upcoming job interview.
"It's a beautiful day, isn't it?" Rhonda remarked, looking up at the clear blue sky.
"Yes, it is," Genevieve agreed, taking a deep breath of the fresh air.
"How's Todd settling in?" Rhonda asked, adjusting the boxes in her arms.
"He seems to be doing okay so far." Genevieve replied, a small smile on her face.
"That's great to hear. And how about Amy?"
"She's been a bit fussy lately, but I think it's just because of the move. She'll get used to the new surroundings soon enough," Genevieve said, trying to sound optimistic.
Rhonda nodded in understanding. "I'm sure she will. And don't worry, we'll make sure to get her some new toys to keep her entertained."
Rhonda opened the trunk of her black 2014 Buick Enclabe. Inside were two large boxes filled with toys of all kinds - stuffed animals, blocks, puzzles, and more.
"Wow, Rhonda. You didn't have to do all this," Genevieve said, amazed at the generosity.
"I know, but I wanted to," Rhonda replied, handing Genevieve one of the boxes. "I just want to help in any way I can."
Genevieve smiled gratefully and took the box from Rhonda. Together, they walked back towards the apartment building, eager to surprise Todd and Amy with their new toys.
CHAPTER FIVE
Genevieve was working her shift at Target when her phone rang. She saw that it was Arnold calling and quickly answered, wondering what was wrong? Arnold had made it a habit to give Genevieve her space while she was at work.
"Hi Arnold, is everything okay?" she asked.
Arnold hesitated for a moment before replying. "Yeah, everything's fine. I just wanted to hear your voice," he said, his tone unconvincing.
Genevieve could hear the distress in his voice and her heart began to race. "Arnold, what's going on? Is everything okay?"
Arnold tried his best to sound normal. "Yeah, everything's fine. I just miss you, that's all."
Genevieve didn't buy it. She knew that something was wrong. "Arnold, please tell me what's going on. I can hear the distress in your voice."
Arnold let out a sigh. "Okay, fine. I got into a little trouble, but I can handle it. I just wanted to talk to you and hear your voice. You always know how to calm me down."
Genevieve was worried. "What kind of trouble? Are you in danger?"
Genevieve heard a sudden click, and the line went dead. She held the phone in her hand, staring at it as if willing it to ring again. But it remained silent. She couldn't shake the feeling that something was wrong. Arnold had never hung up on her like that before, and his voice had been strained and distant.
Genevieve tried to focus on her work, but her mind kept drifting back to the phone call. She felt a knot in her stomach, a sense of dread that she couldn't shake. She tried to call Arnold back, but his phone went straight to voicemail. She felt increasingly anxious as the day went on, jumping at every sound and constantly checking her phone for any missed calls or messages. She couldn't concentrate on anything, and her coworkers noticed her distracted behavior. Finally, her shift ended, and she rushed home. She tried calling Arnold again, but still got no answer. She paced around her apartment, feeling more and more helpless and scared. What could have happened to him? Was he hurt? In trouble?
That night, Genevieve lay in bed, staring up at the ceiling, unable to sleep. Every sound made her jump, every creak of the building sending shivers down her spine. She tried to convince herself that everything was okay, that Arnold would call her back soon and explain everything. But deep down, she knew that something was very wrong. He had always shielded her from his job and his family. They had been dating for four months but she barely knew anything about his life away from her.
Genevieve's heart raced as she heard the name of the hospital and the mention of Arnold's name. It had been a full week, since she had last spoken to Arnold and now a doctor was calling her from Northwestern hospital. She didn't know what to expect but knew it couldn't be good. "What's going on? Is Arnold okay?" she asked the doctor urgently.
"I'm sorry, Ms. Cooper, I cannot discuss any patient information due to doctor-patient confidentiality," replied the doctor in a calm and professional tone.
Genevieve was growing more worried by the second. "Please, can you at least tell me if he's okay?" she pleaded.
"I can assure you that Mr. Tagliaferro is stable, but he has requested to speak with you," replied the doctor.
Genevieve took a deep breath and tried to compose herself. "Okay, I'll speak with him. Can you transfer me to his room?"
"Yes, I'll transfer you now," said the doctor before ending the call.
"Arnold, what's going on? Why did the hospital call me?" Genevieve asked, her voice shaking with worry.
"Genevieve, hi. I just wanted to hear your voice and make sure you're okay," Arnold said, avoiding her questions.
"Arnold, what's wrong? Why did the hospital call me? Are you okay?" Genevieve pressed, desperation creeping into her tone.
"I'm fine, Genevieve. I just wanted to hear your voice. I've got to go now, but I'll call you soon," Arnold replied, his voice strained.
"Arnold, please tell me what's going on!" Genevieve pleaded, but he had already hung up.
Genevieve felt a knot form in her stomach as she stared at her phone. She didn't know what was going on with Arnold, but she knew that something wasn't right. She tried calling him back, but he didn't answer. She felt helpless and scared, wondering what could be happening to the man she loved.
Genevieve woke up early on Saturday and got ready to visit Northwestern Memorial Hospital. As she stepped out of her apartment building, she was greeted by a crisp, cool breeze that carried the sound of honking cars and people talking. The city was already alive and bustling, with people rushing to get to work or running errands.
She walked to the bus stop a few blocks away and waited for the bus to arrive. As she stood there, she couldn't help but notice the colorful graffiti on the walls and the murals that covered entire buildings. The sound of the city was all around her, with the hum of traffic, the screeching of brakes, and the chatter of people passing by.
When the bus arrived, Genevieve climbed aboard and found a seat by the window. The bus rattled and shook as it made its way through the busy streets, stopping frequently to let people on and off. Genevieve stared out the window, lost in thought as the city passed by in a blur of colors and sounds. She saw people walking briskly on the sidewalks, carrying bags and briefcases, their faces serious and focused. She saw street vendors selling hot dogs and pretzels, their carts adorned with colorful umbrellas. She saw children playing in the park, their laughter and screams filling the air with joy.
But Genevieve was lost in her own thoughts, her mind consumed with worry for Arnold. She barely registered the sights and sounds of the city, her focus solely on reaching the hospital and finding out what was wrong with him.
Genevieve approached the front desk of the hospital and approached the receptionist, a kind-looking woman with a warm smile.
"Excuse me, I'm here to see Arnold Tagliaferro," Genevieve said, her voice shaky with worry.
The receptionist looked up at Genevieve and gave her a sympathetic smile. "Of course, ma'am. Are you a family member or friend?" she asked.
"I'm…uh…his friend," Genevieve replied not wanting to put a label on their relationship without Arnold’s consent.
The receptionist nodded understandingly. "I see. And have you been here before? Do you know where his room is?" she asked, typing away on her computer.
Genevieve shook her head. "No, I haven't been here before. I don't know his room number," she said, her worry increasing.
"That's okay, I can look it up for you. What's his full name and date of birth?" the receptionist asked, her fingers moving quickly across the keyboard.
Genevieve gave her the information and watched as the receptionist typed it into the computer. After a few moments, she looked back up at Genevieve with a smile.
"Mr. Tagliaferro is on the fourth floor, room 412. Just take the elevators to your left and follow the signs. Visiting hours are from 9 am to 9 pm, so you're in luck," she said, handing Genevieve a visitor's pass.
"Thank you," Genevieve said, her voice full of gratitude as she took the pass and headed towards the elevators.
Genevieve walked up to the elevator and pressed the button. After a few moments, the elevator arrived, and she stepped inside. She was joined by an elderly couple, a young woman with a stroller, and a man in a business suit. As the elevator began its ascent, Genevieve couldn't help but notice the sterile smell of the hospital and the bright fluorescent lights that illuminated the space.
As the elevator doors opened on the fourth floor, Genevieve stepped out and walked down the hallway. She passed by several rooms with open doors, catching glimpses of patients lying in their beds. She tried to ignore the beeping of machines and the sound of people talking in hushed tones. Her mind was solely focused on Arnold and what could be wrong with him. Finally, Genevieve arrived at room 412. She took a deep breath before opening the door, steeling herself for what she might find inside.
Genevieve's heart sank as she stepped into Arnold's hospital room. The room was dimly lit, and the only sounds were the beeps of machines that Arnold was hooked up to. Arnold was lying in the bed, his face pale and heavily bandaged. He looked like he had been through a terrible ordeal, and Genevieve couldn't help but feel a lump form in her throat.
As she approached the bed, she could see that Arnold was asleep. His breathing was shallow, and he looked so fragile. Suddenly, she heard the sound of Arnold stirring in his sleep. His eyes fluttered open, and he looked around the room, confused.
"Genevieve?" he asked weakly, his voice barely above a whisper.
Genevieve stepped closer to the bed and took his hand in hers. "I'm here, Arnold," she said softly. "I'm here for you."
Arnold looked up at her, his eyes filled with tears. "I'm so sorry, Genevieve," he said. "I didn't mean for you to see me like this."
Genevieve sat down on the chair next to Arnold's hospital bed. She looked at him with concern and asked, "Arnold, what happened to you? Why are you in the hospital?"
Arnold looked away, avoiding her gaze. "It's nothing, Genevieve. I just had an accident."
Genevieve could sense that he was hiding something from her. "You can tell me, Arnold. I won't judge you. What happened?"
Arnold sighed heavily. "I promise I will tell you everything once I'm feeling better. Right now, it's not safe for you to know."
Genevieve was taken aback by his words. "Not safe? What do you mean?"
Arnold looked at her with a pained expression. "I can't explain it now. Just trust me, okay? Please leave and don't come back until I tell you it's safe."
Genevieve felt angry and hurt. She had come all the way to the hospital to see him, only to be told to leave. But she knew that arguing with him wouldn't help. "Fine, Arnold. I'll leave. But please, let me know when you're feeling better. I care about you."
Arnold nodded weakly. "I will. Take care, Genevieve."
Genevieve forced a smile and stood up from the chair. "You too, Arnold." She hesitated for a moment before leaving the room, trying to mask her true feelings of hurt and frustration.
As she walked down the hospital hallway, Genevieve couldn't help but feel angry at Arnold for keeping her in the dark. But at the same time, she was worried about him and hoped he would be okay. She promised herself that she would try to be patient and wait for him to tell her what had happened when he was ready.