ManyWriters

My wife sent our five-year-old daughter into a supposedly haunted, abandoned house to recover her engagement ring from a past relationship.
Inside, our child was horrified by the blood-spattered walls. Frightened, she stumbled and tumbled down the staircase. A corroded metal spike impaled her tiny frame.
When I discovered her, she had already passed away. Her small fingers were still tightly gripping the ring, unwilling to release it even after death.
I broke down beside her motionless form, weeping uncontrollably as I embraced her.
Overwhelmed with anguish, I repeatedly dialed my wife's number.
When she finally picked up, her tone was irritated and detached.
"Quit calling me!" she barked. "David's daughter is about to go into heart transplant surgery. Don't ruin this!"
Her statement struck me like a thunderbolt. I gazed at my daughter's lifeless face, my heart shattering.
In that instant, a part of me perished.
I ended the call with my wife and dialed another number.
"Hello. This is Emily's father," I said, my voice quivering with fury and sorrow. "I'm phoning about the heart donation."
"I regret to inform you that we've decided to withdraw from the process."
If you took my child from me, you don't merit her heart.

The Ring That Shattered Two Hearts

In this vision, Emily was stuffing her small rucksack, her voice melodious and eager as she called out: "Dad! Didn't Mom promise to take us to the aqua park today? Why haven't you gotten ready yet?"


Noticing my tears, Emily's face transformed to one of concern. She swiftly approached me.


"It's nothing, darling. Dad just got something in his eye."


"I'll puff it away!" Emily drew near, placing her soft, plump face against mine as she exhaled gently.


Monica came over as well, beaming warmly.


Her typical aloofness had vanished. She appeared just as she had when we first encountered each other—tender, compassionate, and vibrant.


"Emily, have you upset Dad again?" Monica joked, her tone lighthearted.


"No way!" Emily inflated her cheeks defiantly. "I'm aiding Dad! I adore Dad the most. Why would I ever irritate him?"


Lord, if this is merely a dream, please... please don't let it end.


Chapter 5