Chapter 2 The fireworks faded from the sky , leaving only the dim golden glow of the streetlights illuminating Dariel's face . He looked at me , his eyes full of surprise , but he quickly masked it , turning to Elodie with a gentle , easy smile . " If you liked them , I'll set up an even better show for you next time . " Elodie blushed . " I loved it , but you don't have to make it such a big deal ... " I watched the growing warmth in Dariel's smile , my eyes stinging with unshed tears . His feelings or lack thereof - were painfully clear . Just then , Elodie seemed to remember something . She glanced at her watch , her expression apologetic . " Oh , Dariel , I have to run . Let's meet up again soon . " Dariel nodded . Elodie waved goodbye to me before turning and walking away . I stared after her , dazed . " So , this is the kind of girl you like . " Dariel pressed his lips together . " It's not about a type . Elodie's like a little sun - always full of energy . When I'm with her , I feel 18 again , reckless and alive . " I had no response . All I could feel was a heavy ache in my chest . " About those fireworks earlier- " 10 510 Chapter 2 Dariel didn't finish . His phone started ringing . He answered , and my mother - in - law , Lauren Whitlow , anxious voice came through . 231 Vouchers " Dariel , your dad had a stroke ! You and Alexis need to get to the hospital , now ! " My heart dropped . Everything else was forgotten as Dariel and I rushed to the hospital . The sharp scent of disinfectant hung everywhere . When we entered the room , we found Lauren sitting by the bed , her face etched with worry . As soon as she saw us , she broke down in tears . " The doctors saved him , lready in the middle This book had been added on your bookshelf . stages of liver cancer . Even with aggressive treatment , he might only have five years left ... " The news hit both Dariel and me like a punch . I furrowed my brow , wanting to offer some comfort , but Lauren let out a heavy sigh and suddenly changed the subject . " There's something I've been holding in for a long time , and I have to say it today . " Alexis , Dariel , you've been married seven years . Your father and I have never meddled in your lives , but seeing other people's kids running around , we can't help but feel envious . " She took my hand , her grip tight . " For Marco's sake , could you two have a child ? Let us hold a grandchild before we're gone - please ? " 10.511 Chapter 2 I froze , instinctively looking over at Dariel . He was frowning deeply , as if wrestling with a hard decision . 1288 Woulfers The truth was , I had thought about having kids over the years , but Dariel always said , " Let's wait a little longer . " Eventually , I figured he just didn't want children , so I let the idea go . But now that Dariel had already asked for a separation , how could he possibly agree to have a child with me ? way While I was still searching for a to respond to Lauren , Dariel suddenly spoke up . " Mom , Alexis , and I will have a child . " My eyes widened in shock . He was as calm as ever , as if he'd completely forgotten about the whole " separation without divorce " thing . Lauren , hearing his promise , seemed to relax a little , some of the sorrow lifting from her face . Once we left the hospital room , I shut the door behind us and asked in a low voice , " Didn't you say you wanted to separate ? Why did you tell Lauren we'd have a child ? " Dariel frowned , as if annoyed by my lack of understanding . " Mom's health has never been great , and now Dad's so sick . I needed to keep her from falling apart . " He paused , his voice dropping - more serious now . " Don't worry . I promised you we'd separate without divorcing , and I won't touch you . Not once . " 52.19 % 10:51 C Chapter 2 My gaze dimmed , and I couldn't find any words . Dariel continued , " After a while , just pretend to be pregnant . ' 288 Wouchers I pressed my lips together , my voice dull . " And then ? How long do you think we can keep this up ? " Dariel remained unruffled , but there was a hint of longing in his eyes . " When it's time for you to ' give birth , ' we'll adopt a child . Or maybe , by then , Elodie and I will already have a kid of our own . 89.51 % Title: A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way Author: CrushReels Genre: Romance, Modern Status: ongoing In "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" by CrushReels, Felix Lloyd finds himself in a predicament as he seeks to pacify his family's marriage expectations by renting a girlfriend for the holiday season. However, a serendipitous airport mishap leads Kendal Scott, the wrong woman, into his life. As Felix and Kendal navigate this unexpected twist of fate, the novel delves into themes of familial pressure, mistaken identities, and the complexities of modern relationships. CrushReels intricately weaves together elements of romance and contemporary dilemmas to create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers seeking a blend of heartwarming moments and unforeseen connections. What sets "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" apart is its ability to balance light-hearted humor with poignant insights into the intricacies of human emotions. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this ongoing romance promises a captivating read for fans of modern love stories. Experience the unfolding tale of Felix and Kendal at CrushReels and immerse yourself in a world where love finds its way through unexpected avenues. Read online at CrushReels today to discover the enchanting journey awaiting within these digital pages.