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119. Sanity
Last Updated:
2025-02-23 23:26:05
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Second Chance For Him? 120. Mother
James’ POVI let out a sigh of relief and settled into the sofa as I got home. My house is empty now, Zoe is gone and I feel satisfied. I didn't wish to see her here now, and I felt like I didn't want to see her ever again. Enjoying the moment, I closed my eyes to neutralize the jumbled emotions within me. But the moment I shut my lids, the memory of when I saw Clara and Keith earlier flooded my mind.Why did they both go together?Didn't Keith already talk to Selena? Selena is a childhood friend of ours, and my mother and I had planned to introduce her to Keith. They used to date in junior high and high school. And even though years have passed, I'm sure it won't be impossible for love to grow between the two of them again.Keith is supposed to be at Selena's apartment today because I know she invited him. But why did he out with my ex-wife instead? Once again, I've let myself slip and let my brother get his hands on Clara again.Glancing at my watch, it was half past two in the morn
Last Updated : 2025-02-24Second Chance For Him? 121. The mastermind
James' POVFeeling that there's no point in talking about this any longer, I get up from my seat. But my mother put her hand on mine."Where are you going, James? We haven't even talked about this yet." She met my eyes with a pleading gaze, trying to make me sit back.I was never expecting that Zoe would get to my mother the moment I told her to leave. She must think that was the best decision since my mother will support her no matter what. Among the other families, my mother is the one who accepted Zoe with open arms since the first time I introduced Zoe to them.They both quickly became close to each other. My mother used to be a model before she met my father, that one thing she and Zoe have in common made them both quickly connect.Since I married her five years ago, I've noticed Zoe's dedication to trying to win over my family, especially my mother. Their connection has grown significantly. At first, I appreciated it, but it also led her to meddle more frequently in my househo
Last Updated : 2025-02-24Second Chance For Him? 122. Dating
Clara's POV"Please tell me what brings such a big smile to my beautiful cousin's face?" Lily asked as she saw I could no longer keep my smile under wraps.I tried to hide my smile but I failed. And now I must look crazy in her eyes."Clara, remember that you also haven't told me who that beautiful big bouquet is from? Do you have a boyfriend?" She asked."What? No!" Her question is reasonable. If I want to date, that's my choice since I'm single and of age. I'm still a bit embarrassed when she throws a question like that my way."Then?""It's from Keith, Lily." I finally answered. I turned my gaze, fully aware that she would tease me about this once she found out it was Keith who made my cheeks flush. I really just wish the ground would swallow me right now."Oh, so last night it was him you met? Why are you lied to me, Clara?" She asks her hand on her waist.I can't help but laugh; she looked just like Auntie Jena when she used to scold us as kids, especially when she acted like t
Last Updated : 2025-02-25Second Chance For Him? 123. The old family
Clara's POV"Please tell me he's okay?" Lily said to Auntie Jena over the phone. We're in an Uber now, heading to uncle's house.She cannot put down the phone, wanting to ensure that Uncle Thomas is okay. I can't make out Auntie Jena's response on the phone, but just by looking at Lily's expression, I can tell that things aren't great.Lily still couldn't stop crying. I sense that my tears are on the verge of spilling, but I just can't let myself cry right now. In a situation like this, one of us needs to be the rock to support the other. If I let myself down as well, then who will be there to support Lily?"Uncle will be okay," I said to her, I hope the little power my words have can at least give peace in her heart. “Please, you should have a hope in yourself.”"No, no. I'm not at the office right now. I'm on my way there, Mom." Lily said, "I'll be there soon." And then she turned off her phone.As soon as the connection dropped, Lily couldn't contain her sobs any longer. She look
Last Updated : 2025-02-25Second Chance For Him? 124. The rain
Clara's POVTime flew by without me noticing, and before I knew it, I found myself sitting between them. Auntie Jena and Lily were sitting right in front of me. Uncle Thomas is lounging on the sofa, his injured arm wrapped in bandages and resting on some pillows. Layla is sitting next to me, enjoying the cookies that Auntie Jena gave us."Eat some Clara. You haven't tasted it even a bit" Auntie Jena said, handing me a plate of cookies. She was still in shock having me here. It's so clear on her face."Thank you, Auntie." I had one of her cookies. As I took a bite, I realized this was the first time she had let me enjoy a cookie she baked.Auntie Jena sells them online and she typically bakes cakes when there are orders. Whenever she makes something, she always saves some to share with Lily and David. I never asked where my share was or why she never saved any for me because I knew she simply wouldn't give it to me. It's been years, and I've moved on. But I think that memory will
Last Updated : 2025-02-25Second Chance For Him? 125. A small detail
Clara's POVYes, my eyes did not deceive me because that man was indeed James. He rushed over to us and we stared at each other for a while before he finally said."Please get into my car."I was silent for a while. I couldn't believe that it would be my ex-husband who showed up when I needed help the most. The craziest part was when he asked me to get into his car."I get that you might not be happy about being in the car with me, but it’s already dark and raining now. Make sure to think about your daughter's health as well, rainwater isn't good for a kid." James said.Everything else he said faded away as my focus was on his final sentence. At that moment Layla sneezed, and without a second thought, I brushed aside all my doubts.I was just about to head over to his car, which was parked a few meters away when I felt something draped over my head. I looked up and saw James was already taking off his suit, leaving the white tailored shirt that fit his body just right."This is not un
Last Updated : 2025-02-26Second Chance For Him? 126. Comfort
James' POVClara seems taken aback; she probably questions how I still recall such a small detail about her after all this time. Honestly, I have no idea what the answer is. I had no idea that my subconscious was holding onto some memories of my ex-wife from our time together.Even though I'm not a fan of chocolate, I really don't want to let her down. I picked up the cup and took a sip. The chocolate's quality is top-notch and the sweetness is perfectly balanced. "What do you think of the tastes?" She asked. "It's good," I say. It didn't take long for me to finish it in a few gulp. I set the empty black cup on the tray.Clara picked hers up and brought her cup to her lips and I just can't help but watch her. When she walked to me with a tray holding two cups earlier, I felt a strange sensation within me. It was the usual scene I witnessed every day when she was still my wife, but why does it feel so different and special now?Her invitation to stop by for a bit gave me a rush of
Last Updated : 2025-02-26Second Chance For Him? 127. Stalked
Lily's POVThe next morning."Lily, why didn't you tell me sooner that you've been living with Clara all this time? Wait, you didn't even mention that she's still alive?" Mom called out as I walked into the kitchen.I just brought breakfast to Dad's room. Waking up in my parents' house again, hearing their voices fill the morning was a comforting feeling. I suppose I didn't fully understand that I still wanted them to be there with me all the time. I pushed myself to handle everything on my own and didn't realize just how much I missed them. Mom was baking cookies since she had a hundred orders to fill. And today, I will spend my day helping her. Just like I used to in high school, I always wanted to help her, but she always told me not to. She said that I would just ruin it if I got my hands on the dough."Don't you remember that Clara chose to keep herself away from all of us these whole years? So why would I share her secret with others when she trusted me with it? I really don'
Last Updated : 2025-02-26
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Second Chance For Him? 213. The place he deserves
Clara's POVNew York CityWe’ve been here for a week now since coming over from Paris. Even after that week, I still can't seem to get back into my work routine. I still feel anxious about leaving Layla alone like I usually do. My day starts with waking up, driving her to school, and then picking her up again when school is done.I just can't trust Dain to drive Layla anymore. James got us a bodyguard, but I said no. I just can't get comfortable with the idea of another stranger being close to my daughter, even if it's someone James trusts.I stepped into the apartment and shut the door behind me. Diana called earlier to say she would swing by after work, so I figured I’d prepare some snacks for her. "Layla you can change your clothes before grabbing a bite to eat. I'll whip up something for us to eat. Auntie Diana will swing by later too.""Okay, mommy." My daughter hurried to her room.In the meantime, I headed to the kitchen. I checked the cupboard and fridge to see what ingred
Second Chance For Him? 212. A vacation
Clara's POVThe following morning finally arrived. The gentle sunlight poured in through the hotel window. I stretched my body and, getting up, walked over to the window. I drew back the curtain and looked out. The view outside my room instantly woke up my tired eyes.'What a beautiful city.'Of course. I'm in Paris right now. The wide array of buildings featuring beautiful classic architecture, the balconies of the apartments lining the street, and the lively hustle of the street below create a lively atmosphere. I think I have become so accustomed to the rigid vibe of New York that being here truly amazes me.I know I’d have a better time if we were here on vacation instead of trying to rescue my daughter from someone who attempted to kidnap her. With a sigh, I made my way to the bed."It's time to wake up Miss Sleepyhead, we're heading back today. We have to catch that flight."Layla extended her limbs. She let out a yawn for a moment, and when she replied, her voice carried a lin
Second Chance For Him? 211. A better father
James' POV"Where is Clara?" I asked Arlo as soon as we got into the hotel. "She's in her room already, sir." I headed straight to Clara's room. I and Clara stayed in the same hotel but in separate rooms for sure. There’s so much I want to say to her right now. But the main thing was that I wanted to check in on her and Layla to make sure they were alright. When the police arrested the car where Layla was kidnapped, I didn't have the opportunity to check on her because I was too focused on Keith and Zoe.I got to Clara's room, but the door was firmly shut. I was just about to knock on the door when a thought crossed my mind—Clara probably didn’t want to be disturbed. Perhaps I should give her some space with her daughter.Following this traumatic event, she must be feeling hurt and deeply affected. Maybe she would like to have some time alone with Layla without any interruptions. I dismissed the urge to see or talk to her and turned and walked to my room, which was across from her
Second Chance For Him? 210. Reunite
Clara's POV"Mommy?"I quickly grabbed Layla from the car seat and pulled her in for a hug. She wrapped her arms around me in return. I caught her saying that I could have squeezed her too hard with how tightly I was holding her.But I was scared that if I loosened my arms around her, I might lose her for good."You finally arrived. But why do you have police with you?" Layla whispered gently as I gave some space.A wave of relief washed over me to see her unharmed. I, still caught up in my relief and still cannot believe that we were finally together again, didn’t respond to her. That's when Layla's next words grabbed my attention. "Why is one of them putting cuffs on Uncle Keith?" It was only at that moment that I understood what was going on around me.The police that arrived with us, surrounded the car. I heard a woman scream coming from the car. One of the police is taking Keith' out of the car. His hands are already gathered behind his back and is secured in cuffs.An overwhe
Second Chance For Him? 209. Arrest
Zoe's POV"Zoe, bring Layla along with you," With that, Keith turned and walked away, heading to the living room. I went after him right away. No. I really don't want to handle this fussy kid all by myself. Since we're in this together, he should be ready to pitch in and share the responsibility. I'm not going to let him walk away so easily. “Keith, hold on! Where are we headed exactly?” I reached out and grabbed his arm. "You didn't tell me anything."It really bothers me that he doesn't include me in the decisions he makes. "We have to leave right now. Arlo mentioned that James had arrived in this city. We have to leave now; he could take Layla from me at any moment."I scowled. Arlo's hanging out in the living room. From what I recall, that man has always worked with James. I'm not sure why he suddenly turned to take Keith's side and said that James was there. Something feels off, and I can't shake the feeling that this might be a setup. I need to warn Keith to be cautious be
Second Chance For Him? 208. His regret
James’ POV"I've been waiting for him to at least leave the apartment, but it looks like Mr. Keith isn't going to take the little girl out, sir," Arlo called me on the phone.I sealed my lips tightly. This isn't a good news. If that's true, how can we possibly get Layla back? Keith has set up strong security measures in his apartment. He even brought in guards for his protection. "Did he find out that I got here?" I asked.If Keith already found out I'm here it might explain why he is hesitant to leave his apartment. He could be hiding. But, how long he intended to stay in his apartment forever? Paris could be just a brief layover, and he might take off to who knows where next. I need to be aware of every detail regarding his movement."I don't think so, sir.""Is Layla okay?" I asked. Because that's the most important thing. To make sure Layla is alright."According to the report from one of the staff who regularly brings them food, yes. She spotted the little girl, and she was al
Second Chance For Him? 207. Paris
Keith's POVParis, France.The shrill screams were so disturbing that I couldn't focus on my work. I shut my laptop, stood up from my chair, and walked out of my study. I made my way to the only place the sound could be coming from, the TV room.And just like that, I spotted Zoe and Layla there. Layla's screams filled the space. She hadn't stopped fussing since we touched down here. And Zoe, who was utterly incapable of handling a task as simple as soothing a fussy child, just sat like nothing happened. Ultimately, I had to take charge of the situation since Zoe just couldn't manage anything properly at all.As I approached, Zoe gestured that she was done dealing with Layla. I exhaled deeply. In this mission, I assigned her the simplest task while I took care of everything else. I took care of our getaway from the country. Ensuring that neither the police nor James' crew would catch sight of what we were doing. I just put her in charge of Layla to ensure she remains calm for an exte
Second Chance For Him? 206. Changed
Clara's POVI locked my eyes on James, watching his expression shift from panic to a pale, speechless state.I overheard their conversation, and he asserted that Keith was the one responsible for my daughter's disappearance. Part of me wished I had just misheard it, that James was just making things up. Of all people, why Keith? Why him?"Clara I-" James gulped. He looks to be deeply troubled by uncertainty about what to say. Diana nibbled on her nails, her eyes flitted back and forth between me and James.“You said you would fly to Paris to bring my daughter back since Keith is the one responsible for this? You want to go there by yourself, without me." I said what I had heard about his earlier conversation with Diana.An intense surge of anger hit me. I’m the mother of Layla. I won't just sit back and let James take care of this on his own. "I'll give you both some space to discuss this," Diana said, and then she turned around and walked away, leaving us by ourselves."Can we head
Second Chance For Him? 205. The right time
James' POV"Zoe left on the same day Mr. Keith departed the city, sir." Dain gives his report. "What?" I blurted it out, could barely wrap my head around the fact that Zoe was gone as well. For a moment, I could only remain quiet. I didn't need any more proof to see that they were working together. Keith is taking Layla out of the city, and Zoe is involved. I hold my phone so firmly. I had never thought that my brother could do something like this. Since the first moment I first saw Keith and Layla, I felt that he genuinely cared for her. I never thought that he would stoop so low and take a step like this."It happened right after the last time when she crossed paths with Mrs. Clara at the restaurant," Dain said.I didn't respond. I came to understand that Zoe's actions were influenced by more than just her last encounter with Clara at the restaurant. I recall our final argument on the day of our divorce when she mentioned that she thought Clara and Layla were the reasons for our
