Chapter 8: The Return Of Marcus Murphy
Anna’s POV
I was savoring a rare moment of peace during my spa treatment when my phone buzzed. The masseuse paused as I reached for it, instantly recognizing my mother’s name on the screen.
"Anna, darling," she greeted me with that familiar spark in her voice. "William Murphy’s youngest son, Marcus, has returned from Europe! They’re hosting a family dinner tomorrow at the Murphy Estate."
My muscles tensed so much for relaxation. "Mother, I barely know Marcus Murphy. And the Simpsons will be there." The thought of seeing Jack and his new family made my stomach twist. "I really don’t think —"
"Anna," she cut in gently, "your grandmother and I will be at church tomorrow, praying. But you should attend. William’s always been so good to us."
She wasn’t wrong. What we owed William Murphy ran deeper than polite social obligations. My thoughts drifted back six years before my marriage to Jack, before it all crumbled.
I had been leaving a café when I saw an elderly man stumble on the sidewalk, clutching his chest. Everyone else ignored him, too absorbed in their own lives. But I couldn’t walk past. I rushed him to the hospital. That man was William Murphy. Back then, he was just a powerful name in Skyview City someone far removed from my world. But that day changed everything.
He had suffered a heart attack, and doctors said that if he’d arrived even ten minutes later, it might’ve been fatal. From that point on, William took a special interest in my family, especially after learning about my father’s death. When he realized my feelings for Jack, he personally arranged for us to meet. He was the reason our paths ever crossed.
"I know, Mother," I sighed, the memories washing over me. "William’s been wonderful."
"He treats you like a daughter," she reminded me softly. "And now his favorite son is home..."