For Sharlene - PV OS - The Parent Trap - Epilogue - page 11 - Page 2

Originally posted by: lovely_nikki

Reserved

I read it the day you posted it but could not comment on it at that time

I'll re-read it and comment soon 😃

Chapter 2

She was disappointed. She knew she shouldn't have asked. He already did so much for her and the kids. He provided a lovely home for them right here in Bhopal. She had merely thought that she could be with both her girls. However from his expression it seemed that he was not going to agree. It was only fair she supposed, for all these years, he was only a part time father and now it was her turn. At least she would still have her baby here. She kept herself busy with setting the table.

"Aarti ...

"No it's fine. Palak can come visit us. We will just have to co-ordinate the visits so that Palak and Payal are in the same city at the same time. Forget I asked.

"Aarti ...

"Is breakfast done? Ansh came rushing into the kitchen.

"Yes, yes, it's done. Please get those girls. What could possibly take them so long? You will be late for school.

"Payal, Palak!!! We are waiting. he shouted.

"Ansh! I could have done that too. she looked at him crossly.

Soon they were on their way their way to school with their dad. Aarti stood in the doorway behind them till the car disappeared. Already now she was starting to feel redundant. She lived for her children and now two of them would be leaving her. What would she do with herself? She was so used to running around for them, dropping them and picking them up. Practicing their sport with them and going for their morning run. She would really miss them she thought as she wiped a tear away her cheek and went back inside to clean the kitchen.

She was surprised that he wasn't married yet. She knew what he was in a long term relationship. She knew Arpita. She was in his circle of friends when they were married. She was a widow with two children 8 and 10 now. The children seemed to like her, and that was all that mattered to Aarti. Not that the children needed a mother figure and Ansh would be gone most of the time in any case. She assumed that Palak would be living with the Scindiya's while in Mumbai. She had hoped to be there with her, though.

He was still so good looking. He was aging more than gracefully. His maturity only added to his sexiness. She even felt those old familiar butterflies in her stomach when he was around. She felt hurt and disappointed that he didn't want her in Mumbai. But she supposed it was for the best. Her life would remain uncomplicated if she stayed here, she thought as she did her daily chores before collecting the kids at school.

Aarti was reading a magazine when the doorbell rang. She was not expecting anyone and the kids were studying upstairs and were not allowed to have any friends over unless it was for studying. She made her way to the door.

"Yash? she was surprised to see him.

"Do you have plans with the children? she asked.

"No, with you? he said.

"Me?

"Yes, you. I want to show you something. Can I come in?

She nodded. He went to the kitchen table and took out his laptop.

"I already own a few homes in Mumbai that are being rented out. My estate agent sent some pics on their website. You can have a look and if you are not interested in any of them then he can look at another one that is more suited to your liking.

"But I thought you did not agree on the move.

"I do not recall answering. As usual, you jumped to conclusions. I would love it if you moved to Mumbai. Then I can see more of my girls. And you don't have pay with your own money. You and the children are my responsibility. I will cover the cost of the relocation and your home there.

"Thank you Yash.

"Come sit.

She sat down at the table with his laptop in front of her and he bent over her, giving her a rundown of the homes. He was so close to her. He was speaking into her ear. She heard him but she couldn't concentrate on anything that he was saying. His proximity was too distracting. She felt as if she was melting inside. She nodded as if she was listening.

It came to the end of the slideshow of the one home and she lifted her hand to go to the keyboard to move to the next house, when their hands met. His on top of hers. Neither moved their hands away. She turned to face him, their faces so close together, their lips practically touching. Aarti's heart was racing in anticipation.

Suddenly he moved away. Only then did she become aware of the voices coming from upstairs. The kids were obviously done studying and making their way downstairs. She was embarrassed as she was so into the moment that she didn't even hear them.

"Daddy, we didn't know you were coming? said Palak.

"I had some business with your mother. he answered.

"What business?

"Finding a home for you in Mumbai.

"We are moving to Mumbai, mom? Payal said excitedly.

"Your father agreed, so we can go when your exams are over.

"That's awesome. The kids seemed happy.

"You three can sit here with your dad and I will clean the lunch things in the kitchen and start dinner. she said and made her way to the kitchen.

He watched as she walked away. He knew that morning as he was driving the kids to school that he could not miss this opportunity. These feelings confused him. But of course he liked the idea of having his children closer. That had to be the only reason for his excitement for this move. That moment that they shared just now was baffling. Before he came to Bhopal, he had practically made up his mind that it was time to marry Arpita. After all they had been seeing each other for almost three years and both their sets of parents were becoming impatient. But now being with Aarti for just a few days, his plans didn't seem so clear cut anymore.

When he was younger, before he met Aarti, he was quite the ladies' man. And when they got divorced as well. Even more so. He was trying to forget her. And he eventually did. But he was never interested in a relationship. He had known Arpita for most of his life. He knew she was always interested in him. Eventually she married one of his friends that died prematurely in a vehicle accident. He tried to be there for her and their friendship had eventually changed to a romantic relationship. She was a good woman and a great mother. His children and parents liked her as well. Their relationship had not been platonic for a while now. It suited them both, yet they were very discreet. And until he saw her again, he had thought that that part of their relationship was great. But being with Aarti, hardly touching her, brought back memories of their very passionate relationship.

He decided that it could just be him romanticising what they had. Their relationship had always been volatile and very passionate. They had made love anywhere and anytime. When they were happy they made love, when they were sad they made love, and when they were angry they had a wonderful way of making up. He was the experienced one of the two of them but she was often the one that pursued his attention and she was very creative and very willing to do anything. Long after their divorce he used to fantasize about her when he was with other girls. But surely now that they were older, parents, things would have changed. Even had they still been married things would have been different. Yes, the Aarti that he remembered was just a figment of his imagination. A memory, a fantasy. This is a different, more mature woman. Not the 17 year old girl that he married. He was sure this craziness that he was going through would soon be over. After all they were not those young and impulsive people that they were then. And they were not in love as they were then.

And he was madly in love with her but he was also far away from her and very immature and spoilt. He went back to complete his studies after their marriage. Yash Scindiya was used to instant gratification however. The fact that he had a pregnant wife back home did not stop him from seeing other girls. Even when he completed his studies and started working for the family business, it was really hard for him. His job as function co-ordinator to the rich and famous made it necessary for him to socialise extensively and as usual women were all over him. He did not always resist. Especially since his wife was always tired having to look after twin babies.

She was madly in love with him and she clung to him. He was all she had. Her parents had not disowned her but their disappointed in her was a source of deep pain. Her in laws merely tolerated her because of their beloved son and that she produced beautiful, healthy babies. Before the babies arrived and he was at home, it was very good. But when his studies finished and he came home things changed. Not only from his side, hers as well. She was tired and not in the mood for amorous activities when he came home early hours of the morning from his functions. Then the rumours started. There were those who relished in her misery because of pure jealousy. He first denied, then confessed, apologised and promised it would never happen again. Until it did. Again and again. The babies were 2 years old when the she had enough.

He came home again reeking of alcohol and perfume. It nauseated her. But she wasn't even angry any more. She felt empty. She jumped out of bed.

"What is Aarti?

"Nothing. She said coldly. "Just more of the same. And I am done with it. I am done with your whoring, drinking and those no good friends you hang around with. They do not have wives and children to go home to so they can do what they do. So I have warned you time and time again Yash, and this is it. No more warnings. Come tomorrow morning I am leaving.

"What do you mean?

"I am taking the children and leaving. This marriage was a mistake. I want a divorce.

"Aarti it's late. We will talk about this in the morning.

"Yes, it is very late. But we won't talk about this in the morning. By the time you wake up I will be gone. You have a good night's rest Yash. she said.

He fell asleep. She knew he thought that was just another idle threat. She didn't go back to sleep. She started packing and was gone before the family even woke up.

Her parents allowed her to stay for a while but made sure that she knew that she was not welcome to stay with them. He came to Bhopal and they had violent arguments about custody of the children until he could see that she was determined not to give up on her children. At 19 she was well aware of her rights. She got a lawyer to handle the custody and divorce but once he agreed to leave the children with her, he agreed to a generous settlement which included and house in an upmarket area of Bhopal and domestic servants as well as a luxury vehicle and a huge monthly allowance.

That one night was bittersweet. He had brought them to their new home, both of them resigned to the new situation. But yet not. They did love each other. They were a family. She could see the sadness in his eyes while putting up a happy face for the twins. She felt sorry for him because she knew how much he loved them and would miss them. She asked him to stay for supper and put the kids to bed and he grabbed the opportunity to be with his children a little longer.

As they stood at the door for him to leave, the reality set in. The pain and loss seemed unbearable. As one they stepped into each other's arms and made love one last time. And from the sweetness of that love bore their breath of sunshine. Their beautiful Payal. But even then she would not go back to him.

Now 16 years later she was back in Mumbai. Again he was there to bring them to their new home. It was even bigger than the one they had in Bhopal. It was really beautiful. He chose well. Yash's sister and her husband came to welcome them too and helped move in. She still had a good relationship with his Vidhi Bhabhi and her husband Pankaj.

Too soon the time came for Ansh to leave for England. They had a fairwell party for him at SM. It felt so strange for her to step back into that home after all these years.

"Namaste Ma-Bauji. she said as she entered.

They barely responded and basically ignored her for the rest of the time. But what was even weirder was meeting Arpita again. She was very friendly but somehow Aarti felt wary of her. They did not get on particularly well in the past either.

"It's so nice that you moved back here. Now Yash can spend more time with his children.

"Yes, both of us will spend more time with our children.

"Your kids are wonderful. You did such a great job, I must say.

"Thank you. They are my pride and joy but they have a great dad and family right here that helped so much in making what they are today. They speak very highly of you, Arpitaji.

"Aww, that's so sweet. My kids love it when they are around too. That's great don't you think, for when we get married. No issues, you know. she smiled but somehow Aarti felt it lacked sincerity. She clearly was putting it out there that Yash was hers. Aarti excused herself and went to speak to Vidhi.

The three girls settled in well. Aarti went to school with Payal for the first day. She was so worried that she would struggle to fit in but she should have known better. As she walked out of the school she heard:

"Hey, Dubey is that you?

She turned around.

"Oh my goodness. Amaan? What are you doing here? And how did you even recognise me?

"Come on Dubey. After all the years of having the hots for you at school how could I forget? Not that you ever noticed me of course.

"Nonsense. You were the ladies man at school. I never stood a chance. So are you going to tell me what you are doing here?

"I'm the head of the sports faculty. And you.

"I just moved from Bhopal and my daughter started school here.

"You have a kid in high school?

"I have 2 kids at university and 1 in high school. Come on. Don't tell me you don't remember the scandal.

"Oh yes. You got knocked up by that rich guy and married him.

"Yep, and then divorced him but still fell pregnant from him while the divorce was in process. A wonderful life I have.

"So what are you doing now?

"Well I've been a stay at home mom since I last saw you.

"It seems to agree with you. You are still super hot Dubey. I have yet to settle down. I haven't found anyone worthy of my fabulousness yet.

She laughed. The same old Amaan, she thought.

"Should I be flattered or take offense?

"Dunno. You choose. But we must catch up. Let's do dinner sometime.

"Okay

"I'll be in touch Dubey.'

She laughed as he walked off. Amaan was one of her best friends at school. Everyone always thought that they had a thing for each other but he was just genuinely a great guy and she really enjoyed his company. She was looking forward to their catch up session.

She started her old routine with the girls. Running in the morning or working out in the home gym, Yash had installed in their new house. But during the day she found herself with nothing to do. But that changed after her many catch up sessions with Amaan. He roped her into the school governing body and coaching as well. She also enrolled in sports coaching course. She always wanted to do it but never had the time.

Aarti stepped in the door and it smelled delicious. She was just coming from her class and Payal had to be fetched by her dad.

"Payal sweetie? Where are you?

"In the kitchen.

"Daaad, I am hungry. she heard.

And she saw him as she walked into the kitchen. She hadn't really seen him since Ansh's farewell a month ago.

"Yash?

"Hi. Your daughter is hungry apparently.

She looked at Payal questioningly.

"Well I was. I didn't know when you were going to be home cause you are always at your course or with Mr. Khana. So dad brought me supper.

Payal was having difficulty not having her at her beck and call.

"Mom I told her you would be home soon but she made dad get us take out. said Palak.

"I'm sorry Yash. I was stuck in traffic. And Payal needs to learn some patience. she gave her an angry stare.

Payal pouted again.

"No worries. I did nothing but place an order on the phone. You don't mind that I join you for dinner do you?

"Not at all. Let me just freshen up.

She was not happy. Firstly she did not expect him there. Secondly, Payal made it sound as if she was neglecting them. And thirdly, she looked a mess. Today's class was very physical and she was obviously not as young as the rest of the class. She was sweaty and her hair was a mess and she was tired. She did not like that he saw her like that.

Yash was sitting and chatting with his girls. He loved having them so close. He saw them so much more now. He could attend more sport and school functions. They were the light of his world.

However the pleasure he felt when Payal asked him to get supper for them was more than spending time with them. When she came into the kitchen with her gym clothes and sweaty with strands of hair over her face, she looked so sexy.

"Is there still some left for me?

"Of course Mom. said Palak.

She had just come out of the shower, her hair was still damp. She wore an above the knee pink slip dress, with flat sandals and he found himself staring at her. She looked so beautiful. Certainly not like a mom of 3 late teens.

"Dad, dad! I'm talking to you.

"Huh?

"Are you having desert now or are we waiting for mom to finish her supper?

"Umm, let's wait for mom.

"Ok, I'm going to watch TV in in meantime. Said Payal.

"I have to make a call. said Palak.

"So how is the course going Aarti? he asked when the girls left.

"Ok, I guess. The training is a lot harder than I thought it would be.

You are still very fit though.

"Yes, but the rest of the class are much younger and have so much more energy.

"You can do this. You have always done everything that you set your mind to.

"I never had the career I wanted. she said wryly.

"Sorry.

"Why are you sorry? I wouldn't wish my children away no matter what? she smiled.

"What will you do once you have qualified?

"I'm not sure. It's just that the kids don't need me so much anymore and I am bored.

"Well whatever you do, I know it will be a success.

"Thank you. She gave him a brilliant smile.

Again he was mesmerised by her beautiful smiling eyes, he could not look away. Neither could she but they had to. They both got up together, and knocked into each other causing Aarti to slip. He caught her around the waist. And she held onto his shoulders. And they both couldn't let go.

"Hello, what's happening here?

They let go of each other.

"Caught out Yash and Aarti.

"Nonsense. I fell and dad caught me. Stop being silly, Payal. Get your sister, I'm going to serve the desert the now.

"Mmm, the lady doth protest too much.

"Payal, don't give your mom a hard time.

"Ok, I won't. So dad, what would Arpita aunty say if she saw you now?

"Nothing because nothing happened.

"Then why do you both looks so guilty?

"What's happening? Palak entered the room.

"I caught mom and dad in a compromising position said Payal.

"What? Palak shouted.

"Payal, I said stop your nonsense. Palak, I just stumbled and your dad stopped me from falling and your sister is being her normal dramatic self.

"Ok, mother dearest. If you say so. But dad, mom is still hot for her age isn't she. Amaan sir says so. said Palak.

"When did you hear Amaan say that? Aarti asked shocked.

"The other night when he dropped you. "Still hot, Dubey. she imitated Amaan.

"You two need to mind your own business. Now who is having desert. Aarti said.

"Me both the girls shouted.

"Yash?

"Please. he said. But he did not like what he just heard. Who was this Amaan that called her hot and why did it disturbed him so?

The girls continued to chatter but Yash and Aarti were merely awkwardly responding to questions from the girls, fortunately not pertaining to the prior discussion.

Yash's phone rang. It was Arpita.

"Oh no he exclaimed.

"What is it daddy?

"I forgot Arpita and I had dinner plans he said before he answered the call.

Aarti found a strange sense of disappointment as he left the room to take the call.

"See Aarti. When he is with you he even forgets his girlfriend. Payal said and made dreamy eyes. Palak just smiled and shook her head at her impossible sister.

"I am not the one that called him here and I am mom to you. And this will be the last time you call your dad to bring you food when you know I am on my way. Do you hear me, Payal Yash Scindiya.

"But mom ...

"End of discussion. Aarti said firmly.

Yash came back into the room

"Sorry girls. I have to go.

"But daddy you already ate. Can't you stay a little while longer?

"I promised Arpita I will take her out for coffee to make up.

"Well ok. Payal said clearly still not happy.

"Say good night to you dad, please.

They hugged their dad and went to their rooms.

"Yash, I'm sorry. Payal should not have called you. They could have called for takeout themselves. She is too demanding and we all spoil her. Please apologise to Arpita on my behalf.

"I apologised. It's no ones fault but my own. You have nothing to apologise for, I enjoyed the time here this evening. Very much.

She stood looking at each other, neither sure of what was happening.

Eventually he said.

"Anyway, I have to go. Good night, Aarti.

"Good night she said and he left.

Aarti went back to the kitchen to clear up but he mind was not there. It was still on him and how she felt when he was around. In retrospect maybe it was not such a good idea to move closer to him. But she was here now and there was no going back. She could not uproot the children again. But these feelings really scared her and it did not seem to be unreciprocated. But he had a girlfriend, in fact he was close to getting married. But then again marriage did not stop him from dating before so she shouldn't be surprised. Yes, yes, she thought. She should cling to those memories. The ones that drove her away from him with 2 babies. There was no going back. She just had to keep her interaction with him to the bare minimum. Yes, that is what she would do. She had made up her mind and she would stick to that.

It seems they have unresolved feelings, and they still love each other i just hope they find their way back to each other...the uodates just gets better and better...beautiful update Honey-B i cant wait for the next one

Originally posted by: zuby87

It seems they have unresolved feelings, and they still love each other i just hope they find their way back to each other...the uodates just gets better and better...beautiful update Honey-B i cant wait for the next one

Chapter 3

He left her home but she did not leave his mind. When Payal phoned he forgot everything but to get to their house. Yes, he supposed he was always over indulgent to the baby of his fold but there was something else as well. The idea of seeing her again excited him. He had not seen her since Ansh's farewell. He wanted to go around before but he really had no reason to go and now he practically jumped at the chance much too eagerly. So much so that he even forgot his dinner plans with Arpita. Something that has never happened before. And she was not happy.

Holding her in his arms even briefly and by mistake felt so good. Her smell was still the same as before. She was looking so sexy in her sweats when she came home and equally sexy when she came out of the shower with her hair still damp. Again he thought she hardly looked older than their girls. She was a young mom but she looked so much younger than she was. And yes, what this Amaan character said was right. She was hot. But he did not like hearing another man saying that about her. He felt oddly possessive for a man that been in a serious relationship for the past couple of years. And he was no longer the philandering, immature, spoilt brat that he was when he was married to Aarti. He was seeing Arpita exclusively. He never even thought of cheating on her. He is happy with her. Well he was until his ex-wife appeared back on the scene. He really was at a loss at what was happening. The conclusion he came to was to keep his distance. Yes, that was safer for all concerned he decided as he stopped at Arpita's house.

He was still distracted at the restaurant and Arpita was already not pleased with him for good reason.

"Yash, things have changed since your ex-wife moved to Mumbai. Should I be worried?

"Worried about what?

"She calls and you go running. Even forgetting our date.

"Aarti has never called me. She has never needed me. As he said those words he felt a dull ache in his heart.

"She has always been independent. It was Payal that called. Even Aarti was not happy with her.

"Yash, you really spoil that child. You need to make her understand that there are boundaries.

"You don't need to tell me how to be a father. I know I spoil not only her but all of them, but you've never had to live apart from your children so you don't know what it's like. And my children are the most important thing in my life

"So you are trying to make up for lost time?

"I guess.

"And when we are married. Are they still going to the most important thing in your life?

He was silent. He knew the right answer the question, he didn't know that he could agree to that.

Not making his wife a priority ruined his first marriage, so he knew the implications. Yet still he was uncertain and what did that say about this relationship.

"I asked you a question Yash.

"I'm don't think I can give you the answer that you want. he had to be honest with her.

"Ok. Then answer me this. Is it just the children or will their mother also be a hindrance in our marriage.

"It's beein 16 years Arpita. Don't you think that says it all?

Arpita did not answer and she did not pursue the conversation, but his defence of Aarti and his evasive answers told her what she needed to know.

And as if to reinforce the subject his phone rang.

"Excuse me. he said and took the call.

"Yes baby.

"Daddy, mom's upset with me. She shouted at me when you were gone. she said.

"I know she wasn't happy.

"Sooo ...

"So what Payal?

"So, I thought you could take me the shop this weekend to get her a nice gift. To apologise, you know.

He could hear the smile and excitement in her voice.

"I have plans baby. This is your mom's weekend anyway.

"Oh. Ok. I just thought ... Well never mind. I suppose I can get the driver to take me. she said sadly.

"Can Palak not take you?

"No, she has plans with her new hockey buddies.

"Ok, I will make a plan. I will call you to confirm.

"Really daddy?

"Yes. Now say good night baby.

"Good night baby. She said and laughed.

He laughed too.

"Just joking. Good night daddy.

"Good night my darling. he smiled and disconnected the phone.

He looked and saw Arpita's unhappy face.

"I will get the bill. He said, not in the mood for a confrontation. Especially since his mind was all over the place. He first had to make sense of everything before he could talk to anyone about it.

The road home was silent. Each in their own thoughts. One confused and one determined.

"Payal, are you going somewhere? Aarti asked that Saturday morning early, as Payal came downstairs dressed to go out.

"Oh, did I forget to mention that I am going shopping with dad?

"But you were with him last weekend.

"I know, but he said he needs my opinion on something. Maybe he wants to buy Arpita Aunty a gift. Please mom, you are not going to mad at dad now are you?

"I guess not, but it's not like him to cut into my time with you. And anyway you should have told me ahead of time. What if I had made plans?

"Sorry.

"It's ok. Aarti said a little annoyed at her youngest and at Yash.

She was on her way upstairs when the doorbell rang.

"That's dad.

Oh no, already, she thought. She was not dressed for received anyone. Her hair was in a ponytail and she was wearing shorts and a t-shirt.

"Payal wait. she said but she was already running and opened the door.

"Daddy! she hugged her father tightly.

"Hello Sweetheart.

Aarti was standing on the first step of the staircase.

"Hello Yash.

"Hi. he replied.

"Sorry, Payal just told me you are coming right this minute. I ... I am dressed to received guest.

He was not sorry. She looked scorching hot in that outfit. And he did not like to be termed a guest.

"Mom, didn't you say you have no plans for the day. Why don't you come along with us?

They both looked at Payal in surprise.

"No, I'm fine. I will just have a relaxing day.

"No, I feel bad. It's your weekend with us and now you are all alone. Daddy, please convince her. Please daddy.

Yash was very confused. She said she wanted to buy a gift for her mother and now she was inviting her along. But he went along with it.

"Aarti I'm sorry. I should have cleared this with you first. It is your weekend with the girls. I was being inconsiderate. So please let me make it up to you by treating you to a nice breakfast.

"And shopping Payal beamed.

"Mmm ... and shopping. he repeated.

"No, I still have to get ready. Aarti replied.

"Mom, you get ready quicker than anyone I know. Please, before breakfast becomes lunch. I am very hungry.

"We'll wait for you. said Yash

"Well, ok. I'll change and come said Aarti.

When she was out of sight Yash looked at Payal.

"You said we are going shopping for mom, now you are inviting her along?

"Yes.

"Payal?

"Don't you want mom to join us. Ok, I'll go tell her she walked to the staircase.

Yash caught her arm.

"That's not what I said.

"So you do want my beautiful mother to join us?

"I ... I ... I will wait in the car. He said and left. He did not know what was going on or how to react. But the thought of spending time with her was not unpleasant.

She was at a loss for what to wear. She wanted to look good. No, no she thought, why was she behaving like this was a date.

She chose a floral maxi dress, with slip on sandals and she let her loose. It was a bit frizzy as she had not dried it coming out of the shower.

Payal sat at the back in the car and she kept on chattering, helping to put them at ease.

Breakfast was pleasant. They spoke mostly about their older children. They actually had quite a banter going and it was fun. The even took some pics at Payal's insistence. She took a picture of the two of them and practically forced them in each other's arms.

His arms were still so strong she thought. She had always loved to be held be him. She loved the smell of him. She reluctantly left his arms when the picture was taken.

She had to compose herself. Yes, it has been a while since she's been with a man. Yes, that is it. She always lectured her children about being chaste and not making the mistakes she made and now she was lusting, yes lusting after a man that was practically married. Yes he was her ex, yes he was so handsome, and yes he was an amazing lover ... No, she had to pull herself together. She gave herself a mental shake. She had to cover over this.

After breakfast they went shopping. Never was the subject of buying her mother a gift brought up by Payal again as she was shopping for herself. She did eventually see a bunch of roses and asked him to get it for her mom.

"No, mom liked lilies he said.

Aarti looked at him surprised. Even he was surprised that he still remembered he favourite flower. She awkwardly accepted the flowers.

Payal smiled broadly.

When they reached their home, of course Payal invited him in. Yet she ran to her room to go and video chat to her friends.

"Coffee?

"Can I have a cup of tea, please?

"Of course.

She went to the kitchen and he followed her.

"This is for you. he said as he put the bag on the table.

"For me? What is it?

"Look

It was a rose gold pen and pencil set, a rose gold covered journal and some character note pad and stickers. He knew she had a passion for stationary as well as art and craft supplies. Drawing and painting was one of her passions.

"Yash! I love this. But it's too expensive.

"Don't worry it's not real gold.

She burst out laughing.

"You remembered that I have a fetish for these things.

"Yes, I remember. I remember a lot of things from our time together. They weren't all bad, were they?

She sobered.

"No, no they weren't. We can never regret what we had because we have the most amazing beings in our lives because of it. It was just very premature.

"Have you ever thought what it would've been like had we stayed together?

"So many times in those first couple of years. So many times I was tempted to call you but then I remember there was a reason that we were not together and I had to stop myself.

"You loved me, right?

"You were my life. And that is why it hurt so much. That was why I had to leave.

"I loved you too you know. I really did. I was just too young and stupid to value what we had. I'm sorry.

"I made mistakes too. I was quite a hot head. And I know that I neglected you but it wasn't easy being the mom of twins and have enough energy to be the wife you wanted.

"I realised that too late.

She smiled sadly.

"Aarti, do you think ... "

"No. No Yash. I don't think and neither should you. You have a wonderful woman in your life. I know how it feels when your partner is not totally committed to you, I won't do that to anyone else.

"I'm not thar person anymore Aarti.

"I know that. But this, whatever it is, whatever we are feeling, it has to stop.

"I know but ...

"But nothing.

He took a step towards her and touched her hand.

"Aarti I ...

"Dad, you're here! They never even realised that someone had entered. They practically jumped apart.

"Hi honey.

"So what is happening? Why are you here? Are you making moves on my mother?

"Palak! Aarti said.

Yash just looked at Aarti.

"No Palak. Your sister roped me in to take her shopping.

"Sounds like our baby bear.

So now I am home, you are staying right. There is an international hockey match on in an hour. Please watch it with us.

"Sweety, your dad probably has plans.

"More important than his favourite girls? Come on daddy, please. Pretty please, with a cherry on top.

"If your mom is ok with it.

"You know they are manipulating you right?

"I know. I'm just glad that they are close to me to manipulate me so often. he hugged Palak and kissed her on the top of her head.

"Best dad ever! she shouted.

"So what did you bring me?

"Your sister has the bags upstairs.

"Love you daddy of mine. And you to of course momster.

Aarti just shook her head.

She started to make the tea and he sat down at the table. They said nothing but their eyes spoke volumes.

The girls came down and they started to prepare some snacks for the game. It was really a treat for Yash. He often watched hockey with the kids, but they had never done so as a family. They even video called Ansh knowing he would be watching too. It was as if the whole family was together. He felt an overwhelming satisfaction. As if the emptiness in him that he felt for years has suddenly been fulfilled. He smiled as he saw his three favourite girls jump up and celebrated as the Indian national hockey team scored a goal. This is what happiness was, he thought.

Great update B. It seems they are still not over each other yet. In fact they still love each other. Hopefully the girls will help them to find way back to each other. Can't wait for the next update. Really enjoying the story. Thank you.

Looks like payal has noticed the love that is still there between her parents, and she is trying to set the up, the shopping for her mom's gift was just an excuse she wanted them to be in the same room,and i think it is just a matter of time before they reconcile because that would be just beautiful...another beautiful update Honey-B now im addicted, im always here checking for an update...i cant wait

Brilliant chapter

Thank for the awesome updates B ⭐️⭐️ loving this

Originally posted by: Fandu

Great update B. It seems they are still not over each other yet. In fact they still love each other. Hopefully the girls will help them to find way back to each other. Can't wait for the next update. Really enjoying the story. Thank you.