Sophia
We had eagerly anticipated the press conference, and it was a relief when the day finally arrived. Eric had been under a lot of stress, and I was glad he could finally have peace of mind.
Eric clasped my hand tightly as we went outside the F.A.C. building, accompanied by our PA, Tom, for the highly anticipated press conference. As soon as we stepped into the open air, the relentless flashes of the cameras illuminated the scene, accompanied by a cacophony of voices and conversations from the eager crowd of reporters and journalists.
As Tom walked up to the microphone, I could feel the anticipation in our surroundings. Eric and I stood a little ways behind Tom, waiting for our opportunity to address the crowd. Tom's voice resonated through the entire area as he began, "Good afternoon, everyone. I understand that there are many questions today, so I kindly ask for your patience as we ensure everyone gets a chance to speak."
Tom began to point out to some reporters or journalists to ask their questions individually. So far, 12 questions have been asked, and they all related to the company having bad luck because of what happened to me, which wasn't my fault.
Eric's fingers gently exerted pressure on mine, a reassuring gesture that seemed to be as much for his benefit as for mine. I could sense his growing frustration with the continuous barrage of questions.
Tom was answering questions to make us and the company look good; however, at some point, Eric guided me to the microphone and had Tom step aside so he could now speak.
As Eric addressed the audience, his frustration was evident in his tone. "I want to emphasize to everyone here that despite the a*******n of my wife and the close call with a shooting during our previous campaign, it's important to understand that F.A.C. is not plagued by bad luck," he expressed passionately.
I was worried that his emotions might escalate even further if Eric kept talking. I understand that the topic of what happened to me is very emotional for him because he felt like he had failed to protect me, but that's not true.
I need to step in despite my lack of confidence in public speaking in such a large crowd, but I need to reassure the audience and help Eric to relax.
I slide my hand down Eric's left arm, feeling the warmth of his skin until our fingers intertwine. I leaned close to his ear and whispered, "Let me take over." Eric turned to look at me, his eyes filled with warmth, and then he leaned in to give me a gentle, sweet kiss. He stepped out of the way with a smile, allowing me to approach the microphone.
I took a deep breath, trying to calm my nerves and gather my thoughts before I began speaking. I reassured myself that I could do this and that I needed to truthfully share how Eric had been my hero during those difficult times, as he tried to protect both me and our baby that grew inside me.
"Good afternoon, everyone. I want to thank all of you for being here today. I am truly thankful for the unwavering support of my loving husband, Eric Franklin. His kindness and strength have been a source of inspiration for me, especially during the challenging times portrayed negatively in the media as unfortunate events for F.A.C.," I declared with conviction.
"Without Eric's quick thinking and bravery, I might have sustained severe injuries or even lost my life. I'm so grateful for Eric's actions, not only for my sake but also for the safety of our unborn baby," I expressed, tenderly placing my hands on my slight belly. At that moment, Eric enveloped me in his arms and planted a gentle kiss on my cheek, reassuring me of his love and protection.
As the crowd grew louder, a sea of questions flooded in, accompanied by the relentless flashing of camera lights. The focus shifted from the company's misfortunes to inquiries about our upcoming baby and the immense courage displayed by Eric in coming to my rescue on numerous occasions.
Tom once again stepped forward to address the crowd and provide further clarification. "As you have all heard directly from both Mr. and Mrs. Franklin, Eric has acted as a steadfast protector during the recent a*******n and the harrowing incident almost resulting in a shooting," Tom asserted with unwavering confidence. "It is imperative to acknowledge that Karen Markson, the daughter of Leo Markson and CEO of Markson Company, is unequivocally responsible for the abhorrent events and the targeted attacks on Mrs. Franklin. Thus, if the media and reporters seek to attribute this unfortunate series of events to an individual, let it be known that Karen and Rachel are the ones to hold accountable," Tom stated firmly, ensuring that his message was unequivocally understood by all.
As more questions flooded in about justice and the potential consequences for Karen Markson if she were found guilty of a*******n, as well as the fate of her family's business, Eric approached the microphone once more, with me standing by his side. "Karen conspired to cause harm to my wife out of jealousy, with the assistance of Rachel. Both of them should face consequences for their actions," Eric declared, embracing me tightly.
After that, Tom approached the microphone again to conclude the press conference, ensuring we had clarified any misunderstandings. "We hope that the Franklin Advertising Corp (F.A.C.) will have a more positive view to the reporters and press knowing now that Eric should be recognized as a hero to Mrs. Franklin and their unborn child.
As Tom wrapped up his speech, I was grateful to Eric for all the times he had come to my rescue. I turned to face Eric, gently brushing my hand against his cheek to catch his eye. With his full attention, I eagerly wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him close, sharing a deeply passionate and meaningful kiss.
As we leaned in to kiss, time seemed to stand still, and the rest of the world melted away. The sensation of our lips meeting was electric, and when we finally pulled back, our breaths mingled as we rested our foreheads against each other. Looking into Eric's eyes, I whispered, "I love you so much, baby." His gaze warmed as he replied, "I love you and will always be your protector, my beautiful Sophia."