Chapter 22

Rudolf's POV
“But what if you change your mind? What guarantees me that you won’t leave again?” she looked at me with doubt, and I could feel her uncertainty.
“I won’t leave, Mikayla. I promise. After everything we’ve been through, there’s no turning back. I want to build a future together, and I want to start now,” I replied, looking at her with sincerity.
Mikayla was silent for a moment, as if considering every word I said. I hoped she would see my good intentions and allow me to be a part of her life and a father to her children.
“Okay, let’s try,” she said slowly, and there was a new hope in her voice. “But I need time to adjust.”
“Time is fine, I’ll be patient. What matters is that we move forward together,” I said, feeling relieved.
When my colleagues went home, I chose not to join them and stayed with Mikayla. When I peeked into the house, seeing her taking care of two small babies while doing housework, I felt how difficult the situation was.
“How about we go to the city tomorrow? I think you’ll be comfortable there,” I offered, trying to provide a solution that might help her feel better.
“I don’t think so for the time being,” she replied, her tone firm but thoughtful. “I’ve grown accustomed to living here near the beach. It’s a way for me to keep an eye on the kids when they’re out, and the fresh air here gives us comfort. I feel safe here.”
I nodded, understanding her decision. Mikayla clearly put their safety and comfort first after all she had been through. “I understand, but if you want to get something from the city, I’m ready to accompany you anytime,” I said, hoping she would feel more open to exploring the world outside this small house.
“Yes, thank you, Rudolf. But for now, I just want to adapt to this new routine and give my best to the children,” she explained, stroking Emma’s hair as she sat on her lap.
Watching their interaction, my heart warmed. She was truly an amazing mother, full of love and care. However, I also realized how heavy a burden she had to carry all by herself.
“Then, how about I help out more around the house? Maybe prepare meals or look after the children when you need a break?” I offered, wanting to contribute and help her in any way possible.
“Rudolf, that’s very kind. But I don’t want to make you feel forced. All of this is already my responsibility,” she said, as if hesitant to accept my help.
“Not at all. It’s not about being forced, but about facing this life together. I love you and the kids, and I want to share this burden,” I replied, trying to convey my sincerity.
Finally, she nodded slowly, and I saw a little softness in her gaze. “Okay, maybe we can schedule a time to do activities together at home, and we can do it together. Thank you,” she said sincerely.
I then began to play my role as a father and felt excited to make a meaningful change in Mikayla’s and the kids’ lives. Hearing that Emma and Daniel had not had the chance to celebrate their previous birthdays due to limitations, it felt like the right opportunity to show them how much I love them.
Armed with a burning determination, I began to plan a small birthday party for our twins who were now over a year old.
I knew this was a special moment, and I wanted them to feel loved and cared for.
As I observed them, I found interesting similarities; Daniel looked like me, with slightly curly hair and the same bright eyes. While Emma, with her sweet smile and tinkling laughter, was clearly a reflection of Mikayla. Seeing them both made me even more determined to give my best.
I started looking for information about shops that sell party supplies, making a list of needed items such as balloons, cakes, and toys. I had to make sure that all of these things were carried out without disturbing their comfort.
“What if we make a simple party theme with their favorite characters?” I asked Mikayla, as we sat together in the living room while watching the children. “I can find some decorations and cakes with that theme.”
Mikayla smiled faintly, seemingly touched by your idea. “That’s a great idea, Rudolf. Emma really likes bear cartoon characters, and Daniel is still little, so maybe we can make it more general,” she replied, nodding in agreement.
I started planning every detail. The day before the party, I went to the store and chose all the decorations that fit the theme we had agreed on. Brightly colored balloons, a happy birthday banner, and a large cake with a bear character carved on it.
The day of the party arrived, and a cheerful atmosphere filled the small house. I transformed the living room into a fun place, with all the equipment that had been prepared. When Emma and Daniel entered, their eyes lit up seeing all the decorations.
“Happy birthday, Emma and Daniel!” I shouted, with a big smile on my face. At that moment, I saw the happiness radiating from Mikayla’s face, and it made my heart beat with joy.
The event went well. We sang, spent time together, and gave them toys. Seeing Emma laugh happily as she blew out the candles on the cake with Daniel’s help, all the efforts I had made felt more than worth it.
When night fell, and everyone went to rest, I felt so grateful to be a part of this special moment. Seeing the happiness on Mikayla and the children’s faces, I felt a stronger bond as a family.
While the kids were sleeping, I saw Mikayla sitting in front of the house, enjoying the fresh night air. From where we were sitting, we could see the beautiful, quiet beach in front of us. The moonlight reflected its rays on the waves, creating a magical atmosphere.
I joined her, sitting beside her and feeling the peace that enveloped the night. It was a perfect moment to talk, and I felt like this was an opportunity to get to know each other better.
“Mikayla, maybe we should start talking about what we do next. About you, the kids, and our future,” I said, trying to open a deeper conversation.