Tony kept an eye on Lara as she tucked him into bed. She hasn't been herself in the two weeks since she visited her mother. The happy-go-lucky Lara has vanished,
and the old Lara appears to be resurfacing.“Good night,” she said quietly as she walked away.
“Lara?” he asked as she reached for the doorknob.
“Yes?” She didn't return the stare.
“Do you mind if we talk?” His tone was hushed.
“Can't wait until morning?” irritatedly, she inquired.
He seemed anxious as he said, "Please..."
Lara turned and moved up to him with a sigh.
“So?” she asked, sliding up alongside him on the bed.
“Lara...” he began as he took her hands in his.
He had expected her to back away.
“Err, I just wanted to see if you were okay?” You've been moody since you returned from your mother's house....err mm, is there anything wrong?” he said, his tone calm.
Lara averted her gaze. Why is he asking her that question? Does he give a damn?
She sighed and said, "I'm OK."
“I know you're OK, but you're bothered deep down, talk to me, Lara...” He said in a soothing tone.
She gave him a quick glance; he didn't sound like Tony at all, and had his illness changed him?
She inquired, “Is there anything else the doctor said about your health other your legs?”
Tony's heart rate accelerated.
“Did your mother tell you that?” his voice was faint.
“She did, and I'm not sure why you never told me...” she said as she got out of bed.
“Lara…
I just felt like you shouldn't know, and I know it'll hurt...”
“The fact that I heard it from someone else stings even more...” Her tone was becoming more assertive.
“I'm sorry, it's just that....err mm...,” she said.
Please, Lara, hear me out..” He appeared perplexed.
“Do you get it? Of course you're aware that Lara is a moron! “An illiterate can never comprehend!” Her tone grew abrasive.
“No, Lara...
He tried to explain, "What I mean is that I would get treated, and everything would be OK..."
Lara slowly shook her head.
“Your legs, not your....your...your...Impotency!” she exclaimed fiercely.
Tony's eyes narrowed, and he appeared to be in pain. He had a sad expression on his face that made Lara regret her comments.
“That isn't true, Lara... it's just...that...some things become complicated...
I'll be back to normal after my spinal cord is replaced...” His voice was trembling.
“Are we back to normal?” “Did you used to be normal?” Lara made a sneering expression.
“All that time you were sleeping around Sophia...
Have you ever considered if...if...if...I'm a human with needs?” Her eyes welled up with tears.
“We've been married for over two years. And” smothered her sobs.
“Please forgive me, Lara... I know I've done you wrong...
nonetheless, please...” He, too, was crying.
“I assume you want me to stay?” But how can I be sure you're not just trying to be kind since you're sick? When you get back on your feet, I'm confident you'll be the genuine Tony, and I'll be nothing but a dumb-illiterate girl!” Lara snarled fiercely and walked out of the room.
He called after her, “Lara, please wait.”
But she walked away, slamming the door shut behind her. Tony was terrified as he glanced at the door. If Lara decided to abandon the marriage, he knew he was doomed. He was completely reliant on her.
“Please, God, assist me!” He prayed with his palms clasped together.
Perhaps she was right, and if he gets back on his feet, he won't be able to reclaim his manhood! Is it possible that the doctor lied to him? Everything would be fine, the doctor assured him...
He whispered, holding back tears, "Tony, you're in a big problem."
He won't be able to survive if Lara abandons him. Because he was madly in love with her, he might lose his life.