As the evening settled down, I was sitting on the couch beside Robbin. The cozy warmth of the home wrapped around us, and I couldn’t help but think how much my life had changed in these five years. The quiet moments like this, with Ethan laughing in the background and Aunt Linda bustling about, felt almost surreal.
Robbin turned to me, his expression softening. "You’ve been quiet tonight. Everything okay?" I hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, I’m just... thinking. About how different things are now, how far we’ve come." He nodded thoughtfully. "You've built a great life here, Tasha. You and Ethan are thriving. You should be proud of yourself." I gave him a small smile. "I couldn’t have done it without you, Robbin. You’ve been there every step of the way." Just then, Ethan came running back into the room, his new iPod in hand, grinning from ear tAs Robbin left, I took a deep breath. Now it was my turn to prepare for work, and I had less than three hours before my meeting with a client. Just as I was mentally listing all the tasks I had to complete, Aunt Linda's voice called from the kitchen. "Why aren't you ready for work?" she asked, her hands full with ingredients for breakfast. "Hurry now, go get yourself ready, and I'll make something quick to eat." "Thanks, Auntie," I replied, grateful as always. I rushed upstairs and quickly took my bath then changed into a pair of fitted trousers and a jacket I'd designed myself. When I returned to the dining room, Ethan was already at the table, looking as lively as ever despite just waking up. "Good morning, Mommy!" he chirped, his little British accent making the words sound so endearing. "Good morning, sweetheart," I replied, kissing the top of his head as I sat down. "Did you sleep well?" "Yeah," he nodded enthusiastically. "But... where's Uncle Robbin? He promised to
Tasha's POV I nodded, acknowledging his confidence in me. As I left Mr. Belvoir's office, my mind was already racing with plans and strategies for the upcoming fashion contest. Normally the New York fashion scene was notoriously competitive, and this event was crucial. It was more than just a chance to showcase our designs; it was an opportunity to cement Belvoir Couture's position as a leader in the industry. I made my way back to my office, where my assistant, Claire, was already waiting with a stack of papers and a look of concern. "Everything okay, Ms. Taylor?" she asked, handing me the documents. "Just a change of plans," I said, glancing through the papers. "Mr. Belvoir canceled my meeting with Vivienne Steele. We need to focus on the fashion contest in New York." Claire nodded, her fingers flying over her keyboard as she started organizing th
"Okay, umm..." I began, glancing at Ethan and Aunt Linda before looking back at Robbin. "So, the company is sending me to New York for a fashion contest and also a project. It's a really big opportunity. The project could take almost a year to complete." "Really?" Robbin asked, his eyes wide with surprise. "That's... that's huge, Tash. I'm so proud of you." Aunt Linda beamed. "This is a wonderful opportunity for you, love. You’ve worked so hard for this." "Well," Robbin said, a hint of a smile on his lips, "I guess we'll be heading in the same direction, but at different times." I looked at him, curious. "What do you mean?" He took a breath. "I’ve got some news of my own. I've been offered a chance to expand my business to New York as well. It's not immediate, but it’s in the works."
Daniel's POV I stared out of the window of my office, watching as the city moved around me, a blur of motion that I couldn't quite bring myself to focus on. The skyline of New York City was supposed to represent everything I had worked so hard to achieve—power, success, the pinnacle of my career. But as the days passed, it felt more like a prison, a constant reminder of what I'd lost. I rubbed my temples, trying to push away the memories that threatened to overwhelm me. Memories of her. Tasha. Even thinking her name sent a wave of pain through me. It had been five years, but the wound felt as fresh as if it had happened yesterday. I never thought I would miss someone this much. Suddenly, my phone buzzed, pulling me back to the present. I glanced at the screen Vanessa's name flashed up, along with her message. "My love, don't forget the designer shoes I told you about. They're a must-have!"
Daniel's POV I sighed, leaning back in my chair. Stanley and I used to hang out all the time, grabbing drinks, catching a game, or just shooting the breeze about life. But ever since the divorce with Tasha, he had been angry with me, not that he'd ever say it outright. It was in the way he looked at me, the way his voice got tight whenever her name came up. He blamed me for it, I knew. Hell, I blamed myself too, most days. But none of us were prepared for what happened after. After Tasha left, it was like she vanished off the face of the earth. Every line of contact we had for her was disabled. No phone number, no email, nothing. I had my people try to track her down, but she was always... not found, leaving no trace behind. Stanley and I even tried some old friends, mutual acquaintances, but no one knew. It was like she didn’t want to be found. And maybe that was for the best. She deserved her freedom, her space
Tasha's POV As the plane began its descent, I couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. The flight attendant's voice came over the intercom, a calming and professional tone that broke through my thoughts. "Ladies and gentlemen, we are now beginning our descent into New York City. We hope you’ve had a pleasant flight with us today. Please make sure your seatbelts are fastened and your seats are in the upright position as we prepare for landing. The local time is approximately 3 PM, and the weather in New York is clear and pleasant. We hope you’ve enjoyed your flight and have a great time in the city." I looked out of the window as the skyline of New York began to come into view. The city's iconic landmarks and bustling streets were spread out below. Ethan, sitting beside me, looked out the window with wide eyes. “Mum, is that New York?” he asked, his exciteme
Panic surged through me as i rushed to the elevator, my hands trembling as i pressed the button. The elevator seemed to take forever, each second stretching into an eternity. when the doors finally opened, i bolted out and ran to the building’s security desk. "Excuse me, please," i panted, barely able to catch my breath. "my son, he's missing. did you see a five-year-old boy come through here?" The security guard looked up, his face calm but serious. "no, ma'am. we haven't had any children come through today." My heart sank, and i fought to keep my voice steady. "are you sure? he’s only five, dark hair..." The guard nodded, checking the logs. "i’m sorry, but no one matching that description has been seen leaving or entering the building." My vision blurred with tears as i turned to leave, desperately trying to calm myself. i neede
Daniel's POVI woke up to the sound of my phone buzzing on the nightstand. My head throbbed from last night’s drinks, but it wasn’t the hangover that had me feeling uneasy. It was the fact that I’d completely forgotten to pick up the designer shoes Venessa had asked for. My eyes drifted over to her sleeping form beside me, her back turned toward me. “Shit,” I muttered under my breath. Venessa had been talking about those shoes for weeks, reminding me at every possible opportunity. And yet, here I was, waking up next to her with empty hands. I knew I was in for it. I sighed and ran a hand through my hair. I needed to fix this before she woke up and realized. Maybe I could get them first thing Monday morning, or maybe I could find a way to make it up to her right now. Carefully, I slid out of bed and made my way around to her side. She was still asleep, her hair fanned out over the pillow. I leaned down and pressed a soft kiss to her shoulder. "V
Daniel leaned back in his chair, his sharp gaze fixed on Vanessa as she stood with an air of feigned confidence. His office, typically a place of order and control, seemed to shrink with her presence. The secretary lingered nervously by the door. “Sir, I tried to stop her—” “It’s fine,” Daniel said curtly, waving her off. “Close the door.” The moment the door clicked shut, Vanessa crossed her arms and faced him. “We need to talk.” Daniel’s jaw tightened. “Have you made your decision?” Vanessa took a step closer, her heels clicking against the floor. “I need money, Daniel. And if I’m going to leave, I think I should be leaving with something… substantial.” Daniel didn’t flinch, his expression cold and calculating. “Substantial?” He leaned forward, his elbows resting on the desk. “What exactly do you think you’re entitled to, Vanessa?” Her lips curled into a sly smile. “I know what I’m worth, Daniel. You want me gone? Fine. But I’m not leaving empty-handed. After everything I’ve
Later that Evening Tasha stared at the screen for a moment, her finger hovering over the keyboard. She hadn't expected a message from Daniel tonight, especially not after everything that had happened. But there it was, the simple "Hey" that sent a ripple of emotion through her. She bit her lip, uncertainty flooding her. Was this the right time to respond? Did she even know what to say? But before she could overthink it too much, her fingers moved on their own. "Hey," she typed back, her message short and neutral, but it was enough to let him know she was still there. A few seconds passed before his reply came through. "I know we haven’t talked much, but I wanted to check in. How are you doing?" Tasha's heart skipped a beat at the sincerity in his words. It was small, but it felt like a bridge between them, something they hadn't shared in a while. She let out a breath, sitting back against the couch, her phone still in her hands. Was it possible to answer honestly, to let him s
As they finished their meal, Claire leaned back in her seat, a sly smile spreading across her face. Tasha noticed the glint in her eyes, the kind of glimmer that always appeared when Claire was up to something.“So, you’ve been awfully quiet lately,” Tasha remarked, raising an eyebrow. “I’m guessing there’s something you’re not telling me.”Claire let out a soft laugh, swirling the ice in her glass. “Maybe. You know, I’ve been seeing someone.”Tasha’s eyes widened in surprise. “Wait, what? You? Seeing someone?”“Shocking, right?” Claire teased, her lips curling into a smile. “But yeah, I’ve been spending some time with a guy. His name’s Kyle. He’s a friend of one of my college classmates. I didn’t expect it to turn into anything, but... I don’t know. He’s different.”Tasha leaned forward, her curiosity piqued. “What’s so different about him?”Claire shrugged, her cheeks slightly flushed. “I don’t know. It’s just... easy with him. We can talk for hours about anything and everything, an
The morning sunlight poured through the floor-to-ceiling windows of Tasha’s office, illuminating the space with a soft glow. She adjusted her blazer as she settled into her chair, staring at the untouched stack of files on her desk. Returning to work had felt like a monumental decision, especially with everything happening in her personal life, but Tasha had always found solace in staying busy. A knock on the door broke her reverie. "Come in," she called, her tone steady. The door opened to reveal Vivienne, her sharp features softened with a polite smile. "Good morning, Tasha. How’s it feel being back?" Tasha leaned back in her chair, folding her arms. "Mixed emotions, honestly. But it’s good to see things running smoothly. You've been doing a great job holding down the fort." Vivienne took a seat across from her, crossing one leg over the other. "Thank you, but we’ve missed your leadership. Your insight has always been invaluable." Tasha chuckled softly. "I’m sure you’ve
As they arrived at the ice cream shop, Ethan raced ahead, pressing his face against the glass display to marvel at the array of flavors. His excitement was infectious, and Tasha couldn’t help but smile.“Alright, Ethan,” she said, catching up to him. “What’s it going to be?”“Chocolate chip!” Ethan exclaimed, practically bouncing on his toes.Tasha chuckled. “Good choice.” She glanced at Robbin. “And for you?”“Vanilla,” he replied with a shrug. “I’m simple like that.”Tasha smirked. “Boring, you mean.”“Classic,” Robbin corrected with a grin.As they placed their orders, Tasha noticed Robbin glancing at her thoughtfully. She arched a brow. “What now?”“Nothing,” he said, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “Just… you seem lighter today. Happier.”She hesitated, looking down at the counter. “Maybe I am. Or maybe I’m just trying to enjoy the moment for Ethan’s sake.”Robbin nodded, his expression softening. “Whatever it is, it’s good to see.”They found a table near the window, Eth
As they sat on the bench, the soft hum of children's laughter and the occasional squeak of swings filled the air. Ethan was running around with a group of kids, his joy infectious even from a distance. Robbin leaned back, arms stretched along the backrest, his eyes scanning the park. After a moment of silence, he turned to Tasha. “So, is there anything going on between you and Daniel?” Tasha tensed but kept her gaze fixed on Ethan. "Why would you ask that?" Robbin gave a low chuckle. “Don’t play coy, Tasha. The guy’s been hanging around a lot lately. People notice.” She sighed, finally looking at him. "And by people, you mean you." He smirked. "Naturally. Can’t help but notice when a guy like Daniel is lurking around the woman I care about." Tasha narrowed her eyes. "He’s Ethan’s father, Robbin. He has a right to be around." Robbin scoffed, sitting up straighter. "A right? That man forfeited any ‘rights’ the moment he walked out on you, on Ethan." Tasha’s jaw tightened, her vo
The next day, Tasha woke up with a lingering headache, the events of the previous night still fresh in her mind. She had barely slept, tossing and turning as her thoughts swirled. The alcohol, her argument with Daniel, the confrontation with Robbin all of it seemed so distant yet so real, like a weight pressing down on her chest. As she sat up, trying to shake off the grogginess, she realized that everything felt different. The house was eerily quiet, and for a moment, she wondered if it was all just a bad dream. But the pain in her head told her otherwise. Robbin had been there last night, a steady presence in the chaos, and as much as she appreciated his support, she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being pulled in two different directions. Daniel’s words echoed in her mind—I still love you, Tasha. And yet, with everything that had happened, she wasn’t sure what love really meant anymore. She rubbed her temples, trying to focus. The silence in the house was deafening, a
She swallowed hard, her chest tight with emotion. She nodded slowly, and with that simple action, the door opened and she stepped inside, Daniel following her in. “I’m here,” he said again, his voice steady. “For whatever you need.” Robbin rushed down the stairs, his footsteps heavy and hurried, his mind racing with anger. He had been pacing upstairs, trying to calm himself, but the sight of Daniel and Tasha talking, her slurring her words and leaning on him for support, snapped whatever control he had left. He reached the bottom of the stairs and saw them right away Tasha, standing there, visibly unsteady, leaning against Daniel as though he was the only thing holding her together. His eyes narrowed as he marched toward them. “Tasha!” he shouted, his voice sharp and filled with frustration. “What the hell do you think you’re doing? You’re drunk!” Before Daniel could respond, Robbin reached him in two strides, his hand gripping Daniel’s shirt as he shoved him back against th
Tasha sat alone in her living room, staring blankly at the empty glass on the coffee table. She had spent the day pacing between thoughts and emotions that felt too heavy to carry. The weight of her decisions, of everything that had been happening lately, felt suffocating. Robbin's calls and constant presence now felt distant, while Daniel's silence echoed in her mind. What did she really want? What was she doing? Her fingers hovered over the phone as she typed out a message to Robbin: "I'm sorry for acting out earlier. I just couldn't help it." She paused, staring at the screen, before hitting send. Maybe it would ease the tension, or maybe it wouldn’t. But for now, she just needed to say it. Tasha stood up, her body moving on autopilot as she grabbed her coat and slipped on her shoes. The thought of staying in, of facing all the turmoil that had been building, felt too much. She needed to get away. A quick glance in the mirror she looked fine, but inside, everything felt out o