Ex-Husband's Regret

For the first time since I got his call, I smiled, happy that he was leaning towards getting to know his daughter.

"Then I'll support you."

"But how the fuck do I go about it? I know finances like the back of my fucking hand, but I don't know how to be a father," he sighed in frustration, making me chuckle.

"You've got to realize that there is no handbook that will guide you on how to be a good dad. Even after years of being a father, I still learn new things each and every day. When it comes to being a parent, you just have to wing. Be there for them and do what feels right."

"Yeah, I guess you're right."

"What are you planning to do with Harper and do you feel anything for her?" I asked curiously.

His answer was instant. “Hell no! I don't feel anything for her, and if it wasn't for the fact that I needed her, I wouldn't have bothered."

Sighing, I asked him the question that has been bothering me since he told me his plans. "Then why the hell did you consider her as a wife? You can have your pick of any woman; why her?"

"I don't know... Maybe because she's familiar. I was married to her for three years. I know how she ticks. I also know she won't expect much from me, just like when we were married. It will be a marriage of convenience where she won't nag me and get in my space because she knows her place."

I looked at him skeptically. I don't know if this is the right time to remind him of what he told me before. There is no way you'll live with someone for years and not have feelings for them.

It's too early to say anything, but I believe there is a deeper reason why his mind immediately thought of Harper the moment he was given the ultimatum. Either the reason is hidden deep down and he isn't aware, or he's just not ready to admit it.Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

Our unconscious mind knows what the conscious doesn't. I think that's the case with Gabriel. His soul knows something that his mind has yet to conceive.

"That's a start... Like I said, what your relationship will be is up to the two of you. Just make sure you don't make mistakes that you can't take back," I said after a moment.

After he nodded his agreement, I ordered a drink and relaxed, glad to see him calmer. After catching up for three hours or so, I bid him goodnight and left the club.

My drive back home is reflective. I don't know about my father, but it seemed like, for us, as his kids, we are good at destroying our marriages. It's a fucking kick to the gut to know that my story and that of my brother are kind of similar.

Both of us were cruel when it came to our wives. We were assholes. Looking back, I still don't understand how Ava was able to forgive me. Don't get me wrong, I am fucking grateful that she took me back ever after all the shit I put her through, but all I'm saying is I wouldn't have forgiven myself if I were in the same shoes.

I get home in record time, getting impatient as I wait for the electronic gates to open up. Once they do, I drive up to our house and park my car before getting out.

I was dying to see my woman and have her in my arms.

Swinging the doors open, I walked to the kitchen, where I knew I'd find her.

"You're back." Ava looked up, smiling at me.

I'm struck yet again by her beauty and the love shining in her eyes. The love that I'd almost lost because of my stupidity.

Walking towards her. I pulled her to me, making her release a cute little startled laugh.

"I love you," I said, before sealing my lips with her.

I am so fucking grateful for a second chance with her. My only prayer is that Gabe won't screw up his.