Single Mama's Ex-Husband Wants Her Back (R18)

Five years. Five years since the day that Scarlet was being betrayed, like its just nothing that she should've thought about. The thought crumbled around her, leaving behind a smoldering ruin of broken vows and shattered dreams. Five years since David, her beloved ex-husband, had traded their marriage for a forbidden love, he cheated and bis infidelity was always been bitter like the taste of betrayal clinging to her tongue, until now. Every flashback came like a trauma towards Scarlet. She still can't get over the fact that even after five years, she's still hurt and suffering from the pain. No amount of duration in time can heal the pain that she was having, especially that it was for the sake of her son, Leo. She was hurting inside, but she was even more hurt as she felt that Leo will grow up without a father by his side. A lot of memories was crashing against the moment that she was having. It started with laughter, the soft, bubbling kind that bloomed in David's eyes when he looked at her. They were sprawled on their plush living room rug, fingers tracing constellations on each other's skin, promises whispered like constellations against the beautiful night. She remembered the warmth of his hand on her belly, it was warm and soothing, already brimming with dreams of the life they'd build. A slow, drizzle rain that turned into a bad day, the day she found the lipstick on his collar, a crimson stain against his pristine white shirt. "I know this smell, and it's definitely now my smell. It seems like a scent of a woman," she said. The air had crackled with a strange mood, the scent of betrayal burning her nostrils. Her husband, their promises and marriage, was put to waste. Scarlet fought back tears as the memories overwhelmed her. She was not even trying to remember it but it was coming like a wind. Five years had passed, but the memories of that devastating day were still deeply ingrained in her soul. The lipstick's vibrant red mark, a playful reminder of a love taken away. David's expression, a blend of embarrassment and determination, stayed with her. Just when she thought all hope was lost, a small hand reached out and held hers. With a welcoming and open nature, it kept her connected to the here and now. Scarlet turned and locked eyes with Leo, who looked at her with a curious and innocent expression. She still felt the pain, a constant ache buried deep inside, but seeing their son had a fresh flame in her heart. At that moment, Scarlet made a decision. She refused to let David's betrayal define her, and she was determined not to let his absence cast a shadow over Leo's life. This wound, although it is still fresh, will eventually become a source of strength for her. It would create a new Scarlet, a stronger and more determined woman, a single mother with a courageous spirit. Out of nowhere, a loud knock on the door startled her. She looked a little puzzled, unsure of what to think. I wonder who it could be? Approaching the door, she peered through the peephole with a sense of caution. Standing on the other side was a tall, broad-shouldered figure, with sunlight reflecting off his hazel brown hair. She took a sudden, sharp breath. It was Liam, David's long-lost brother. The man who, on that fateful day, had burst into their home, anger evident in his eyes, promising to hold David accountable for his actions. The man who, in spite of his own difficult history, had become an unforeseen pillar of support for Scarlet and Leo. When Liam looked into her eyes, they shared a moment of mutual understanding. He was aware. He was well aware of the memories, the pain, and the newfound determination that emerged from the depths of despair. This is the reason why Liam had never spoked to his brother again, because he doesn't want to keep in touch with the man who betrayed his own wife for a temporary pleasure. "Hey, Scarlet." "Hello, Liam, what brings you here today?" Scarlet asked as she smiled back towards him. Leo heard Liam's voice and he was excited everytime he comes over. "Mommy, is that uncle Liam!" he shouted. "Yes baby, it is." Without a doubt, Leo hurriedly ran over to Liam and hugged him saying, "Uncle Liam! You're here! It's been months since the last time you've given me toys!" Liam hugged Leo back and then patted his back while laughing, and then slightly looked at Scarlet. He then took a sigh and said, "Yeah I know Leo, I came here to say hi to you, don't you feel special about that?" "Of course I feel special, it's you uncle Liam!" Liam then took Leo's hands and then went outside towards his car. "I have a surprise for you, I was not able to be here in your 5th birthday, so I am here to make sure I don't miss the moment." "Really uncle!" "Yes Leo, come here." Liam opened his car and there, Leo could see a bike that's obviously a gift to him from Liam, his excitement went over the fact that he can have a bike now. "Wow! That's so cool! I can finally ride a bike myself!" Leo said, he was so happy and joyful by what Liam has given him. A warm smile graced his lips, causing his eyes to crinkle with kindness. In that simple expression, Scarlet sensed a silent assurance, a commitment to remain humble and embrace a hopeful future. With a warm smile, she opened the door, inviting Liam into the sanctuary she had created for herself and Leo. The twist came about in a gentle manner, not as a shocking surprise, but rather as a change in how things were seen, a peaceful understanding that what lay ahead was much more than just the scars of what had happened before. "Thank you so much for the gift you gave to Leo," Scarlet said, as she gave a cup of coffee to Liam to welcome him. They've been friends for 10 years and Scarlet knew Liam first before she could even meet with David, Liam's brother. "It's fine, I just want to make up too with the boy's birthday last month. I was pretty occupied and I can't be here so it's better than late than never," Liam said and chuckled. "You're right, he was expecting for you to come because you've been there with him within his 1st to 4th birthday and he was miserable knowing that you couldn't come," Scarlet added. Liam thought about that as well, but he was busy with work and he can't be there at the moment. "I'm still grateful that you're here anyways," she said. "Thank you, I will make sure to come next year," he said and the both of them laughed carelessly. As they sat there, enjoying their coffee and exchanging laughter, Scarlet couldn't help but feel grateful for the surprising twists life had brought. Liam had grown to be more than just David's brother; he had become a genuine friend and a dependable presence in their lives. As the conversation progressed, Scarlet felt comfortable sharing with Liam the challenges she had encountered over the past five years. Liam was a compassionate listener, providing words of solace and empathy. He openly discussed his own challenges, fostering a sense of connection and offering support towards Scarlet too. During their conversation, Scarlet came to understand that healing doesn't follow a straight path. The journey was a bit chaotic, with unexpected challenges and times when she felt exposed. However, having Liam as a companion made the journey feel less intimidating. The afternoon sun started to descend below the horizon, filling the room with a pleasant, golden light. Leo, with a big smile on his face, joined them in the living room. The atmosphere transformed into a cozy and welcoming environment, where a unique bond was created through shared experiences of happiness. As they continued to chat, Scarlet ponder the ever-changing nature of life. Every now and then, the individuals who enter her life without warning end up becoming the sources of encouragement she yearned for. Liam got to his feet and stretched his limbs. "Alright, I should probably head out now. I've got some work to finish," he said, playfully tousling Leo's hair. "Thank you so much for everything, Liam," Scarlet said, her eyes were filled with genuine gratitude. Liam nodded, his warm eyes was reflecting a genuine look. "You're welcome, Scarlet. Feel free to reach out whenever you need assistance. Remember, we're always here for each other." Liam bid farewell with a warm smile, leaving Scarlet and Leo to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of their home. Scarlet gazed at her son, filled with a fresh wave of optimism. Her past wounds remained, but they no longer defined her life. That night, Scarlet lovingly put Leo to bed, with his brand new bike parked in the corner of the room. While softly singing a lullaby, she couldn't help but feel grateful for the unexpected visit and the special surprise Liam brought. It was a gentle reminder that life continues, and occasionally, the most exquisite moments arise from the remnants of the past. With a warm smile, Scarlet switched off the lights and exited the room, feeling a renewed sense of strength within her. The scars remained, yet they transformed into tales of strength and progress. Under the quiet night, she discovered comfort in the knowledge that, despite the hurt, she was creating a fresh chapter—a time when love for her son and encouragement shall prevail over betrayal and heartache given to her by her ex-husband.