Chapter 94
Concern instantly replaced Alex's yearning. " Is everything okay? You sound a little off "
Ava sighed softly. " I'm just feeling a bit tired today, that's all "
" I wish I was there with you " Alex confessed, his voice laden with longing. " I miss you, Ava. I miss seeing you, holding you "
A bittersweet silence hung in the air for a moment before Ava spoke again. " I miss you too, Alex. The baby's been kicking a lot lately. It's like our little one knows you're not here "
A warm smile tugged at Alex's lips at the thought. " I wish I could feel it too. Can you put the phone near your belly? Maybe I can hear something "
A soft chuckle escaped Ava as she adjusted the phone. " Alright, little one, say hi to Daddy "
For a fleeting moment, amidst the static on the line, Alex thought he could hear a faint rustling sound, as if the baby responded to his voice. His heart swelled with emotion.
" Thank you, Ava " Alex said softly. " I needed this. I'll be home as soon as I can, okay? "
" I'll be waiting " Ava replied, her voice infused with a hint of longing. " Take care of yourself, honey "
As they exchanged their final words of affection, Alex ended the call, a mix of emotions swirling within him. He sat back in his chair, staring at the holographic planets, his thoughts now split between the vastness of space and the intimacy of his growing family, cherishing the connection he'd just shared with Ava and their unborn child. He had been thinking about marriage these days. He needed to seal this, he thought to himself.
******************
Ava arrived at Jack's place, looking forward to catching up with Mabel. As she entered, she was surprised to find Jack at home, an unusual occurrence given his busy schedule.
" Hi Jack, I'm quite surprised you're home " Ava remarked with a hint of curiosity.
Jack looked up from his book, offering a warm smile. " Yeah, I just decided to spend a day with my wife and son today. Or isn't it good, darling? " he asked, turning to Mabel with a playful glint in his eyes.
Mabel blushed slightly but returned his smile. " Of course " she replied, a touch of affection in her voice.
Ava couldn't help but notice the genuine fondness between them. It was a side of Jack she hadn't seen before – the caring and devoted husband and father. She settled in, joining them for a cup of tea as they shared stories and laughter, enveloped in the comfort of their family bond.
Their conversation flowed effortlessly, touching on memories, current events, and future plans. Jack and Mabel's playful banter highlighted their strong connection, making Ava feel like an honored guest witnessing their endearing dynamic.
As they talked, Liam, as energetic as always, burst into the room with his favorite toy in hand, delighted to see Ava. The atmosphere lit up even more with his infectious energy, filling the space with giggles and joy.
Ava spent the afternoon engrossed in their company, cherishing the glimpses into their family life. The warmth and love that emanated from the household made her feel welcome and appreciated.
Ava hesitated for a moment before deciding to share the news she had been holding onto. " Actually, there's something I wanted to tell you both. Angel has been arrested "
Jack's expression remained calm, but a flicker of surprise passed across his face. " Really? About time justice caught up with her "
" Serves her right " Mabel remarked, a tinge of satisfaction in her voice. " She thought she could hide forever after what she did to your boyfriend " she added, referring to Alex.
Ava nodded, grateful for their understanding. " Yes, she's finally being held accountable for her actions "
Liam looked on, not understanding a word. He continued playing with his toys after deciding not to mind them anymore.
" Hey Liam, mind if I join you? " Ava aske, smiling down at the little boy.
He shook his head " You're welcome to do so " and grinned.
Ava's heart melted at the sight and suddenly, she couldn't wait to birth her own child too.
" You're so lovely " She remarked and Liam's grin widened.
His parents smiled proudly and stared at him with pure love written in their eyes.
Suddenly, Mabel remembered the discussion they were having before Liam came up.
" In fact, this calls for celebration " Mabel announced, a determined sparkle in her eyes. She peeled herself from her husband's arm and headed to the kitchen to get drinks.
Jack turned to Ava, his expression serious yet tinged with relief. " I hope this brings some closure for you and Alex "
Ava nodded, feeling a weight lift off her shoulders. " It's been a long time coming. We're just glad it's finally over "
In the kitchen, Mabel poured glasses of sparkling water, returning to the living room with a tray. She handed the drinks to Ava and Jack, raising her glass in a toast. " To justice prevailing and closure for the both of you "
They clinked glasses, a sense of relief washing over them. The moment was not just about Angel's arrest but also about moving forward from a difficult chapter in their lives.
As they sipped their drinks, the mood lightened, and conversation shifted to more pleasant topics. They reminisced about happier moments, sharing laughter and camaraderie, grateful for the support they found in each other.
The evening passed in a mix of heartfelt conversations and shared moments of joy.
As the day drew to a close, Ava bid her farewells, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness the beautiful bond shared by Jack, Mabel, and Liam. She left their home with a heart filled with warmth and a newfound appreciation for the strength of family ties, and also the sense of closure and relief that came with Angel's arrest.
