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166. He chose his mother
Last Updated:
2025-03-23 18:15:30
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Second Chance For Him? 167. The fear
Clara's POVA week later.I stood with the other parents, listening for my daughter's name to be announced. The classroom was nearly vacant when the teacher finally called my daughter's name. With a sigh of relief, I stood up from my chair and walked over to the stunning woman wearing square glasses.Olivia Webber, Layla's teacher, welcomed me with a warm smile. “Miss Russel, it’s great to see you again after such a long time. I'm so excited to share Layla's accomplishments with you!" She said.I took a seat in front of her and smiled. I felt relieved because, despite the long vacation that required me to take her to New York, Layla managed to keep up with the lessons. "I’m sorry Layla had to take such a long day off from school a few months back," I said.Miss Olivia flashed me a knowing smile “No worries. Layla is an incredibly smart kid, and I have no doubt she can keep up effortlessly. See? She proved it through her outstanding academic performance this semester."Then she we
Last Updated : 2025-03-24Second Chance For Him? 168. Difficult choices
Clara's POVI found myself lost in thought as I drove into Keith's apartment. Layla's words kept echoing in my mind, and I just couldn't shake them off.How she wants a father figure to be present at the performance. She wouldn't care if it was all just a facade, even if it was only for a day, as long as she could experience a moment with both of her parents there. My heart felt like it was being crushed, and I didn't pay attention to driving until I nearly went off the road.I blinked and let out a deep breath. I always made sure she never felt like she was missing out on anything. I was overly sure that I had managed to provide her with a joyful perfect life, not realizing there was one part she needed that I could never truly provide.I would never be able to provide a father figure for her.The life she lives now is a result of the choice I made six years ago when I chose to conceal my pregnancy and leave James behind for good.'It's all your fault.' A voice in my head starts to w
Last Updated : 2025-03-24Second Chance For Him? 169. Where's her dad?
Selena's POVSeeing Clara here in Keith's apartment hit me like a ton of bricks. What made it even more annoying was not only her presence, but the fact that they were in each other's embrace so tightly. I was also surprised to see she still had the nerve to come to Keith after how she just ruined the dinner with his family last time. How can someone be so shameless and completely devoid of guilt like she is?I stood there, taking in the scene before me, feeling a sharp pang of jealousy in my chest. I saw Keith's hand wrapped around her waist, holding her close. It made me want to pull him away from her. I realized I couldn't watch it any longer, so I jumped in.Once I successfully separated them, I tell my purpose for being here. I'm here to follow up on the promise Keith made to me a few days back and to make sure that Clara isn't going to ruin our agenda.Clara's expression shifted instantly when she learned that I wanted Keith to drive me to my filming location. I could tell she
Last Updated : 2025-03-26Second Chance For Him? 170. His unexpected presence
Clara's POV“Is the camera all set, mommy? You remembered to bring it, didn't you?" Layla asked.We made our way to her school. With one hand on the steering wheel, I dug into my bag with the other. As soon as I discovered what she was referring to, I pulled it out and presented it to her. "Of course, I remember."She smiled with satisfaction, and I couldn't help but smile back. I just wanted to ensure she wouldn't have to stress about anything. Today, I made it a point to ensure the show was thoroughly documented, so we could watch it later, just like I promised her yesterday.We got to Layla's school ten minutes later. I parked the car, and we jumped out. When we got there, the school was already pretty packed with the students mostly her classmates already hanging out. Most of them were accompanied by their parents.I noticed Layla's gaze swapped around before she looked at me "Where's Uncle Keith?"Keith couldn't give us a ride because he had an unexpected meeting at his office
Last Updated : 2025-03-26Second Chance For Him? 171. Her daughter's disappointment
Clara's POVJames remained unfazed by my threat, and it frustrated me. It frustrates me to realize that even now, after gaining some power and not feeling as weak as I once did, It is still not enough to stand against him, let alone beat him."Clara, don’t you think your attitude is a little too much? I just ask about where your daughter is; I have no desire to harm her at all. Please don't take this the wrong way." He went into detail.But I chose not to be deceived. I could tell what he was really thinking; he asked where Layla was so he could harm her.“Oh, I get it, your daughter is one of those kids who performs, right? She’s one of those talented kids. It's a shame you're the only one here to see this." He said.I lost my temper. His words got under my skin. "What does that mean, James?" "Where's her dad? He should be here with you to see her talent shine. Why aren't you inviting him to a special event like this?"I balled my fists. "If it weren't for what you did to me, Layla
Last Updated : 2025-03-27Second Chance For Him? 172. Don’t deserve her
James' POVI think Clara really took her daughter out of there after our encounter earlier. Because I haven't seen them anywhere though I've been searching for them for a while. Maybe if I had gone after her right away I wouldn't lose her track like this. I set my time to come to this place just to see her, but now she's gone.Why is that? The question keeps echoing in my mind. What makes her so anxious about me being close to her daughter? She treated me like I had a past of kidnapping and selling children, now viewing me as a danger to her kid.Her final words, when I brought up the father of her daughter who wasn't able to attend this event, lingered in my mind.Why is she bringing up our past relationship? About the way I treated her back then? Yeah, I used to be awful to her, and I regret it now. But why does it have to do with the absence of her daughter's father?I tried to figure out how old her daughter was and the year Clara pretended to die just to get away from me. If I'
Last Updated : 2025-03-27Second Chance For Him? 173. Haunting dream
Clara's POVAs soon as I got to my restaurant, it was crowded with people. I noticed some of the last customers rushing out; I think Diana has informed them that we’re temporarily not accepting dine-in. As soon as I reached my car, my eyes caught a glimpse of black smoke rising into the blue sky, and my heart sank instantly.Without a second thought, I rushed straight to the source of the chaos: my kitchen. I pushed through the back door, even though I could see the firefighters working to extinguish the flames, and it was obvious they weren't allowing anyone else in at the moment. But my mind was so clouded with panic that I couldn't think clearly.I burst through in a panic, and a thick cloud of smoke hit me, stinging my eyes and searing my lungs. Suddenly, a hand pulled me out without warning."Ma'am please stay right here! They need to extinguish the flame first until everything is safe for us!"I knew it was Diana's voice. She was right, but I was too overwhelmed and anxious to r
Last Updated : 2025-03-28Second Chance For Him? 174. Betrayal
Clara's POVI didn't even have a moment to respond to Miss Olivia because the next second, I rushed out of my apartment, headed downstairs, and jumped into my car to drive off. It was already nighttime. It was already dark outside. Of course, what else could you expect? It was nearly nighttime.My daughter still wasn't back home. My heart raced with panic and fear. I pushed through the pain as my burning hand clutched the steering wheel firmly. The streets buzzed with workers returning home after a long day at the office.As soon as the green light lit up, I hit the gas without hesitation. I nearly hit someone who was about to cross the street and I noticed her spit on my car. Right away, I felt a wave of guilt wash over me. I nearly put her in a dangerous situation.This urgency made me speed up as much as I could. I realized I needed to make it there right away. When I got to school, I parked the car haphazardly and hopped out. I sprinted toward the building, heading straight for
Last Updated : 2025-03-28
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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
