INK and IVORY

Chapter 7

The morning sun painted the sky in shades of pink and orange as Emma woke up to a new day. Determined to make the most of it, she followed her morning routine with a sense of purpose. With each task she completed, she felt a growing sense of clarity and calm.

Downstairs in the kitchen, she decided to prepare a simple yet wholesome meal for herself and Aliza. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the scent of eggs and toast. Emma hummed a soft tune as she moved gracefully around the kitchen, the rhythmic clinking of utensils adding a gentle melody to the morning.

Lost in her thoughts, she couldn't help but reflect on the past few days. The incident with Jonathan and the revelations about their mother's accident still weighed heavily on her mind. She knew that she had to find a way to resolve her inner conflict and make a decision about her future.

As Aliza descended the stairs, Emma's eyes widened in surprise as she caught sight of Aliza. Dressed in a stunning outfit that accentuated her natural beauty, Aliza looked absolutely radiant. Her hair was styled elegantly, and her choice of attire exuded confidence and charm.

"You look amazing, Aliza," Emma said, unable to contain her admiration.

Aliza grinned, a blush tinting her cheeks. "Thanks, Emma," she replied, a hint of playfulness in her voice. "I thought I'd dress up a bit today."

Emma nodded, appreciating the effort Aliza had put into her appearance. "Well, you've certainly succeeded in turning heads," she said with a teasing smile.

Aliza laughed, "Oh, stop it," she said, playfully swatting Emma's arm. "You know I just felt like doing something different today."

"Going somewhere?" Emma playfully teased, her eyes twinkling with mischief as she looked at Aliza.

"Not where your mind is wandering, sis," Aliza chuckled, taking a seat on a nearby chair. "I have a meeting to attend with Richard."

Emma smirked playfully at her sister. "Oh, with Richard? Mama mia!" she teased, emphasizing the words with a wink.

"Emma, you have such an overactive imagination!" Aliza exclaimed, her cheeks turning a shade of pink. "There's nothing like that between me and Richard, and there never will be. He's just a good friend, that's all."

Emma playfully raised an eyebrow, "Oh, come on, Aliza! Your blushing gave it away. You've got a secret crush on Richard!" She giggled, enjoying teasing her sister. Aliza rolled her eyes and swatted Emma's arm gently, laughing along with her. "You're impossible, Emma. There's no secret crush, I promise!"

"We'll see," Emma said with a mischievous grin, setting the food on the table before taking a seat next to Aliza. As they began to enjoy their meal together.

"Aliza, when will you be back?" Emma inquired curiously."Probably around 5 or 6, why?" Aliza replied, taking a bite of her meal."Well, I'm heading to the hospital now, and I thought maybe you could come with Richard after work," Emma suggested, scooping up a spoonful of food from her plate.

"Sure, why not. I'll be there," Aliza replied with a smile, finishing up her breakfast. She got up from her seat, picked up her coat, and said goodbye to Emma, patting her cheek affectionately before heading out the door.

"Be safe and say hello to Richard for me!" Emma called out to Aliza, who was in a hurry. "I will," Aliza replied with a wave before disappearing out of sight.

 Emma cleared up the table, efficiently picking up the utensils and cleaning the dishes before she went to get herself ready. Once she was dressed, she made her way towards her car and headed to the hospital.

Emma entered the hospital, and the receptionist immediately called out to her, "Ms. Martin, your mom's condition has improved. The doctor is not available today, but he asked me to inform you about this. There are other doctors on duty who can update you about her progress if you wish to know."