Chapter 4 - Chapter four Hospital

Chapter Four:Hospitals (Silverware clatters) Early in the morning Victorine is already up doing her normal routines. And arranging breakfast for the couples. Alex is seen coming down the stairs, for the first time he asks her how her night was. Victorine hoped you slept well last night, he said. With a smile Victorine taken by surprise Stammers. Sir it was ... .mmmm…fine sir. She said while bowing her face. Alex heads towards the dining room. "Please get me a cup of coffee no sugar " he smiled She hurriedly prepared the coffee. And it's over to him. Thanks Alex said. This is the longest conversation they have ever had. Victorine if you need anything at all don't hesitate to tell my wife. He said in a gentle commanding tone. He looked at the watch and stood immediately and left,leaving Victorine speechless as the sound of his car engine fades. "Hey" Mrs Juliana called with her smooth and calm voice. Have you had anything for breakfast? It is going to be a long day. "Not yet ma'am"; Victorine said sharply. Okay dress up we will eat outside. Yes ma'am. Victorine hurried to her room after some minutes she came out looking a little better. We will change your outfit on the way back. Juliana said with a smile. They both step outside as the driver hands the key to the RollsRoyce to his boss. "Come in" Juliana signals Victorine,she couldn't believe her eyes did she just said I should come in, this is RollRoyce we are talking of. Ma I will hire a taxi. Juliana looks at her come in okay. She smiled, there is nothing to be scared of. Victorine steps in both drove off. She couldn't stop looking around the car. Juliana starts a conservation to make her relax. "We will first stop at a restaurant to eat and get your brother food and buy lots of fruits for him". She said with a smile. "Okay ma'am I appreciate it". At the restaurant they ate quietly and ordered before heading to the hospital. Hospital Victorine smiles as she heads to her brother's ward. Danny she called out with a sweet tone. Yes Vicki. Her brother looks at her good morning ma'am. Juliana smiled, "how are you doing?" I'm fine ma'am Danny said with a weak smile, looking at his sister curiously. Victorine I will be going to the doctors office. I need to speak with him. Immediately she left. "Who is she?" he asks his sister who keeps smiling at him. She is our saviour. You have nothing to worry about, just focus on your recovery. Back in the doctor office "Good morning ma." Doc Henry said, trying to figure out why a renowned painter is in his office. I'm here for Victorine Hollow's brother. I made a deposit to this hospital yesterday. I want to confirm he will be attend as soon as possible. And I need to see his complete health report. Yes ma'am I will call the nurse to get them. Juliana confirms that he was in the right hand. Doc makes sure to update me on all his problems but his needs. Here is my business card. Doc Henry. Just nodded gently not still believing that is the artist that just left. Victorine bid his brother Goodbye promising to come visit him soon. They both drove to Juliana's fertility hospital. Victorine enjoys the ride looking at London in another dimension, not her usual way of running and fearful way. At the hospital Victorine's stomach twisted with nerves. The next phase of her sacrifice awaited. As the car pulls the car Juliana rubs her hand reassuring her everything will be okay . "You're not doing this alone," she said. And for the first time in a long while, Victorine allowed herself to believe. The fertility clinic smelled faintly of lavender and antiseptic, an odd but strangely calming mix. Victorine walked beside Juliana, her steps small and unsure, her fingers nervously gripping the strap of her handbag. The lift chimed softly as it opened, and Juliana guided her inside with a gentle hand at her back. "You don't need to look so frightened, darling," Juliana murmured, her voice warm and steady. "They're only running the usual checks. Nothing painful." Victorine swallowed. "I just… I've never done anything like this before, ma'am." giving her a reassuring smile. "And I promise, you're safe with me." They stepped into the clinic's reception—a bright, modern space with cream walls and soft music drifting from hidden speakers. Couples sat scattered across the lounge, some holding hands tightly, others pretending not to look anxious. Victorine felt wildly out of place among them, a housemaid standing in a world she had never imagined entering. Juliana noticed her unease and gently puts their arms together, a small gesture, but one that made Victorine's heart warm. "You're doing something incredibly brave," Juliana said. "For your brother. For us. For yourself." Then, with a little laugh, "And I'm here the whole time. I won't leave you." The nurse called Victorine's name, and her heart pounds. Juliana stood instantly. "We're coming," she said, her tone soft but firm. Inside the examination room, Juliana remained by Victorine's side as the doctor explained each step: blood work, scans, health evaluations. Victorine lay back on the cushioned bed, trembling slightly, but every time her nerves rose, Juliana's hand found hers. "You're handling this beautifully," Juliana whispered. At one point, tears gathered in Victorine's eyes, quiet, overwhelmed tears she tried to hide. Juliana held her hand tighter. "You're not alone," she repeated. And somehow, Victorine believed her. By the time the tests ended, Victorine felt worn out but calmer, wrapped in a strange mixture of fear and hope. As they stepped out of the clinic into the late afternoon light, Juliana slipped an arm around her shoulders. "Come on, sweetheart," she said softly. "Let's get you some clothes. And for the first time since agreeing to the surrogacy, Victorine didn't feel like she was walking into darkness.