Revenge in Love

~STRUGGLES OF A SINGLE MOTHER ~

Austin's pov.

I really want to feel remorse for what I did to Vivian, but I just can't bring myself to. Dora and I had been lovers since our teenage years. We were so into each other that everyone already had a glimpse of what our conjugal bliss would look like. Only for her to turn me into a fool at the alter. My name appeared on the headlines for months. The disgrace almost cost me the legacy my dad left for me.

My mum made sure she was there for me throughout those times. If you think a man cannot sulk, try to take someone special away from him.

It was during those times mum came home with someone who happened to be Vivian.

Vivian assisted mum to get me back on my feet. She is a very passionate and selfless being. It wasn't too long before I began developing feelings for her. Things happened really fast when she reciprocated. Our wedding was the talk of the city. Vivian knows how to brighten one's day with her smiles and cooking skills. Her beautiful face is enough comfort during a stormy day.

After three years of my marriage to Vivian, I got a text from Dora. I kept seeing her secretly till I decided to man up and tell Vivian the truth. It was quite unfortunate for her to meet us in such a position though.

“You seem worried” Dora interrupted my thoughts.

“Is this about Vivian?” She questioned before I even responded.

My silence gave room for her to continue.

“I know I really did you wrong by abandoning you that day but I'm really sorry. What should matter is how we feel for each other right?” She asked almost crying.

“Not the tears” I wiped them.

“Just don't leave me again” I said vulnerability evident in my eyes.

“I promise” she captured my lips in a warm kiss.

~VIVIAN’S POV ~

Starting life all again in a new environment was in no way easy especially now that I am pregnant.

If it were to be only me, I'd sure have figured a way to manoeuvre myself out of the situation.

Now, I'm extra cautious of everything even to my mental and emotional well being. My foetus is the only reason I'm still struggling now. I don't want it to grow up and thread the same path I did. I might never be able to forgive myself.

I did all sorts of menial jobs just to be able to meet up with my medical and utility bills. It's so crazy working for people younger than you are especially when they show little or no appreciation.

“You might want to scrub that tub a little harder than my teacher's butt” The youngest daughter of the family where I work yelled as her older siblings laughed.

“I'd do just that” I responded humbly.

If responding humbly would fill my plates with healthy food, then they should continue yelling and laughing.

I was paid for my job there and I headed to another apartment. As I was going, I decided to take a break at a park.

I found an empty seat and went for it. This atmosphere was all I ever wanted as a kid. But since life denied me a memorable childhood, I made a promise to myself that my child would experience genuine love from both parents in an environment that fosters happiness and peace.

It's really amazing watching kids run around. They are one of the most innocent creatures. Now, my child would have to grow up without a father. I bit my inner cheeks hard suppressing tears from pouring.

“Dad over here! I want ice-cream” A little girl screamed excitedly.

The dad bent over to carry her on his shoulders as he hold hands with his wife beside him. This was all I ever dreamt of!

I finally let the tears drop. Enough of trying to act strong. I poured out all my emotions in that tears. I was so angry and frustrated at everything. My baby bump was beginning to get visible and I would be a mother soon. Is this how I'm going to prevent it from living the same life I lived - eating from hand to mouth and enduring insults?

Soon, I began to hiccup really loudly because it drew enough attention. My hair was a mess. My skin looked so pale. I do not deserve all this.

“You care for a bottle of water?” A hand stretched towards my face.

Immediately, I grabbed it without even looking at the person's face. I retained some that I used to wash my face.

“Thank you so much”, I finally acknowledged the individual's presence.

“You know you are too pretty to be crying”. He initiated a conversation.

Flowing with him wouldn't be bad, right?

“And who said pretty girls don't cry?” I responded with a question that earned laughter from him. Wonder what was funny.

“Alright fine. They do cry, and they are the best at it. It's so beautiful when they do so.”

Now it was my turn to laugh.

“You mean one can be crying and still look beautiful?” I was finally relieving the tensed air.

“You might want to see how many people are gazing at your face right now” He responded in a very calm voice.

Just then did I realize that the pair had been gazing at me.

“You look beautiful when you cry. I wonder how beautiful you would look when you smile”

This man surely does know how to get at someone.

“And now that's the smile I've been yearning to see!” He squeaked like a child and I found it so amusing that I gave way to laughter.

“Did you perhaps study how to make people happy?” I asked, maintaining a residual smile on my lips.

“Just because of rare humans like you, yes” he replied sheepishly.

“I'm Jared”

“I'm Vivian”

“It's so nice to meet you”