Updated Mar 22, 2026 • ~2 min read
Chapter 25: Conrad’s Regret
CONRAD
Valeria came home from the hospital.
Told me everything.
Maren almost went into early labor.
She’s on bed rest.
Scared. Alone.
Well, not alone.
Jasper is there.
But still.
I should be there too.
“Why didn’t you go?” Valeria asks.
“She doesn’t want to see me.”
“Did you ask?”
“I don’t need to ask. I know.”
“Conrad. You’re being stubborn. And stupid.”
Ouch.
“I’m protecting our family legacy—”
“By pushing away the only family you have left? Maren is your niece. Your sister’s daughter. And she needs you.”
I know she’s right.
But admitting I was wrong?
That’s harder than I thought.
***
I think about my sister.
What would she say?
If she knew I disowned her daughter.
For falling in love.
For choosing happiness over a forty-year grudge.
She’d be disappointed.
No.
Furious.
Elena loved Maren more than anything.
And I promised to take care of her.
But instead, I pushed her away.
For what?
Pride?
Revenge?
A feud that’s cost us everything?
***
I call Maren.
It rings four times.
Then voicemail.
I try again.
Same result.
She’s ignoring me.
Can’t blame her.
So I leave a message.
“Maren. It’s Uncle Conrad. I heard about the hospital. I hope you’re okay. And I… I need to talk to you. When you’re ready. Please call me back.”
I hang up.
And wait.
END OF CHAPTER 25
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