Page 9 of Secret Revenge

A knock on the door startled me, and I quickly opened it to reveal Doctor Elena Deluca, her white coat crisp and her eyes sharp with authority. She carried an air of competence that had always been reassuring in times of crisis, a lifeline to cling to when all else felt lost.

“Nicholas,” she said, her voice firm yet gentle, a balm for the soul. “I’ll take care of her, then we’ll talk.”

“Of course, Doctor,” I replied, stepping aside to allow her entry. As she approached the bed, I watched her every move, desperately hoping for any sign that my wife would be alright.

“Mrs. Romano, we haven’t met. I’m Dr. Deluca, the Romano family doctor. I’m going to examine you and get you cleaned up. Is that okay with you?

Liliana nodded but said nothing.

My heart raced as I watched Elena work meticulously, her gloved hands moving with gentle precision over Liliana’s bruised and broken body. As she cleaned each wound, her touch was both soothing and clinical, exuding the confidence that came from years of experience in our dangerous world.

“Hhand me those gauze pads and the antiseptic solution,” she instructed, her tone firm yet kind.

I complied without hesitation, handing her the requested items while keeping a watchful eye on the doctor’s examination. Each movement of her skilled hands revealed another aspect of my wife’s suffering – the purpling bruises, the swollen joints, the tender flesh marred by cruel blows.

“Is there... any permanent damage?” I managed to choke out, my hands trembling at the thought of an irreparable harm done to my precious Liliana.

Doctor Deluca continued her examination, probing carefully for any signs of concussion or further soft-tissue injuries. “It’s too early to say for certain, but I believe she will recover with time and proper care. You must be patient, Nicholas. This is just the beginning of her healing process.”

“Thank you, Doctor,” I whispered, my heart heavy with both relief and unspoken fears that threatened to consume me whole.

“Remember, Nicholas,” she said, locking eyes with me for a moment, “you have the power to help her heal, not only physically but emotionally as well. Your love and support are vital in this difficult time.”

Her words struck a chord deep within me, and I knew she was right. As much as my thoughts were consumed by vengeance, it was my duty – my privilege – to stand by Liliana’s side and help her through this dark chapter of our lives.

“Whatever she needs,” I said.

“Rest, nourishment, and peace are the most important things for her now,” Doctor Deluca advised, her voice a soothing balm on my frayed nerves. “But above all, make sure she knows that she is loved and cherished, despite the pain she endures.”

“I will,” I vowed, my resolve hardened by the fierce love I held for my wife. And with that promise, I steeled myself for the long journey ahead - one paved with both darkness and hope, but guided by an unwavering determination to see Liliana return to her former strength and beauty.

With the initial examination complete, Doctor Deluca guided Liliana to the bathroom, her arm tenderly wrapped around her waist. As they disappeared behind the door, I clenched my fists at my sides, feeling like a helpless observer in my own home.

“Nicholas,” Liliana’s soft voice called out from the bathroom, shattering my reverie. “Could you bring me one of your shirts?”

“Of course, cara mia,” I replied, my heart swelling with love and concern. I quickly retrieved a clean shirt from our wardrobe and handed it to her as she emerged from the bathroom, her body now free of blood but still marred by bruises.

“Thank you,” she whispered, her eyes brimming with unshed tears. I gently helped her into the shirt, taking care not to cause her any further pain. It hung loosely on her petite frame, but it provided her with a small measure of comfort, and that was what mattered most.

“May I speak with you for a moment?” Doctor Deluca asked, gesturing towards the hallway. With a nod, I followed her out, leaving Liliana alone to rest.

“Nicholas,” she began, her tone serious yet compassionate, “As I said, Liliana needs plenty of rest, nourishment, and peace in the coming days. Her recovery is of utmost importance.”

“I understand, Doctor,” I replied, my voice laced with determination.

“Good,” she said, a hint of approval in her eyes. “And remember, your love and support are vital during this time. She needs to know she’s not alone in her healing process.”

My heart pounded in my chest, and I could feel the weight of a question that had been festering at the back of my mind for hours. I hesitated for a moment, my vulnerability threatening to overwhelm me. But as I glanced back at Liliana, her bruised and battered body a stark reminder of the cruelty she had endured, I knew I needed an answer.

“Doctor Deluca,” I began, struggling to keep my voice steady, “will... will she still be able to have children?”

Dr. Deluca studied my face for a moment before replying, her eyes reflecting a mixture of understanding and sympathy. “Mr. Romano, I assure you that Liliana’s ability to have children has not been affected by this terrible incident.”

The relief that washed over me was almost palpable, though it did little to ease the guilt that still gnawed at my soul. I swallowed hard, steeling myself for another question that haunted me. “And, forgive me for asking, but was she...?” I trailed off, unable to bring myself to utter the words.

“Sexually assaulted?” The doctor finished the question for me, her voice gentle yet firm. “No, Mr. Romano.”

I closed my eyes, offering a silent prayer of gratitude for the small mercy amidst such brutality. The thought of Liliana experiencing even more pain and humiliation than what she had already suffered was unbearable.

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