Roy leaned back on the park bench, watching his daughter play in the sandbox along with other kids. He couldn't help but smile. His daughter was always good at making friends.
Roy gazed to the right of him, noticing a young beautiful woman, set to be in at least her 20s, walking along the pathway and towards the bench. Her shoulder-length black hair and smile warmed his heart.
Roy leaned upright and moved over, creating a space for the woman to sit down. The woman sat beside him, unbuckling her son, who looked freshly born; one year old at least. The kid stumbled a bit, grabbing the attention of Roy. Roy swiftly grasped the kid, preventing him from falling and potentially hurting himself.
"Just learning how to walk?" Roy inquired.
"Yeah," the woman chuckled.
"That's wonderful," Roy exclaimed, his gaze alternating between the child and the woman."I remember when my daughter Lian took her first steps… It was beautiful."
The woman nodded, her eyes gleaming with maternal pride. "Damn right," she exclaimed.
Roy smiled warmly, "I'm Roy by the way." he said, extending his arm.
The woman shook his hand, "Nice to meet you, Roy. I'm Cassandra."
As they exchanged pleasantries with each other. Cassandra glanced at the park, "which one's yours?" she questioned.
Roy pointed out at Lian, "That's my little princess right there."
Cassandra smiled, "She's beautiful. I bet you and your wife are very proud."
Roy awkwardly rubbed his neck. "Oh…there's…there's no wife."
Cassandra's eyes widened with shock, she generally wasn't expecting that. "I'm sorry-"
"It's fine…You didn't know," Roy replied, his voice filled with hurt and sorrow.
The air was filled with an awkward silence, accompanied by the playful banter and laughs of the children, running throughout the park.
The baby began to stir in Roy's arms a bit, causing Roy's gaze to alternate to him.
Cassandra smiled slightly, she couldn't help but feel guilty about the situation that transpired moments ago. "His name is Sam, by the way," Cassandra replied, guilt filling her voice.
Roy smiled, "He's going to grow up and be strong, just like his father," he said, stroking Sam's hair.
Cassandra looked away, avoiding any sort of contact with Roy. "Everything Okay?" Roy questioned, concerned for Cassandra.
Cassandra hesitated for a moment, "There's…no father," she answered, looking away once again, trying to regain her composure. She didn't want to cry right now, not around her son, and this random guy she had just met.
Roy offered Cassandra a hand of support, planting his hand on her shoulder and attempting to comfort her. Cassandra jolted up from the bench with a worried and shocked expression. "I'm sorry Roy. I…I have to go," she responded, quickly reaching for Sam and putting him back in the stroller.
Roy watched Cassandra leave, stunned at the events that played out. Roy heard a familiar voice yell his name and his gaze softened.
"Daddy, Daddy," Lian exclaimed.
Roy scooped Lian up, kissing her on her forehead, "What's wrong sweetie? You okay?"
Lian squealed as Roy scooped her up, "Daddy, was that Mommy?"
Roy chuckled a bit with a hint of concern about Cassandra, the way she jolted up, the way she left. It all left him feeling concerned for the young beauty's safety. "No, sweetheart, that was Cassandra."
"Cassandra?" Lian remarked confused, "Who's Cassandra?"
Roy smiled warmly, "Cassandra is a nice lady we met today. She has a little boy named Sam. Just like you."
Lian's eyes widened with curiosity, "Is Sam going to be my new brother?"
Roy chuckled softly, "Maybe sweetheart."
Lian nodded, her eyes sparkling with excitement, "Can we play with Sam next time we come to the park, Daddy?"
Roy ruffled her hair affectionately, "Of course, sweetheart. We'll see if Cassandra and Sam are here, and maybe you can play together."
Liam beamed with joy, "Yay! I can't wait!" she exclaimed, skipping back to the sandbox.
Roy stood in line at a cozy cafe, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the earthy scent of rain outside. He tugged his hood tighter as droplets slid down the window.
Roy was ordering a strong black coffee to go, he glanced around the cafe, searching for an empty table. Oblivious to the figure behind him, he turned swiftly, unintentionally colliding with the figure.
"Oh, I'm so sorry," Roy exclaimed, his eyes widening in surprise as he noticed, "Cassandra?" a hint of recognition flickered in his eyes.
Cassandra averted her gaze toward Roy, "Roy?" She remarked. She couldn't care less about the collision or stain. "Hey," she greeted with a slight smile.
Roy returned the smile with one of his own, "Hey, how have you been?" Roy asked, shifting a bit to the side to allow other customers to order their espresso.
Cassandra looked as if she had lost some sleep, her eyes looked heavy and her black circles were noticeable. "I'm okay…how are you?" Cassandra retorted, hoping to switch the topic from her.
Roy took note of her audible moment of silence, "I've been good, Lian has been keeping me on my toes."
Cassandra smiled, "Oh, tell me about it."
Silence filled their conversation for a moment, banter from other families and couples was heard, breaking the awkward silence that consumed Cassandra and Roy.
Roy rubbed his neck awkwardly, unsure of where to go from here. An idea formed in his head, maybe buy her some coffee. Cassandra was out of it, her gaze was focused on the ground, but behind it were hints of sorrow, distress, and confusion.
In Cassandra's world, in the corner of her eye, she saw Roy move a bit, maybe talking to one of the workers. Unbeknownst to her, Roy was actually buying her a cup of coffee.
Roy tapped Cassandra's shoulder, her coffee in his hand. He tapped her once more, knocking her out of her reverie. Cassandra looked confused for a moment, but she quickly regained her composure.
"Huh?" she said.
Roy smiled slightly, generally concerned for Cassandra. "I bought you a cup of coffee," he replied, extending his hand out.
Cassandra eyed him for a moment, her eyes holding unspoken emotion. She smiled warmly, "Thank you," she responded, taking the cup from him. "But you didn't have to."
"Don't worry about it," Roy replied, making his way to a nearby table to take a seat. Cassandra pursued him, taking a seat across from him.
"So, how's Sam?" Roy responded curiously.
It looked as if Cassandra's whole world lighted up at that moment, a wide smile playing its way on her lips. "He's doing great, learning how to walk and talk. It's beautiful."
Roy nodded, agreeing with Cassandra, "Of course it is," he exclaimed, reminiscing about Lian and her first steps into the world.
Cassandra beamed at the story, generally invested.
"I love her so much," Roy finished with a contentful smile on his face.
Cassandra lost herself in her thoughts once more, her mind flooding with memories of a challenging past.
"Cassandra?" Roy reached for her hand and gripped it lightly, "Cassandra, you okay?" he asked.
The touch knocked Cassandra out of her reverie once more. She locked eyes with Roy, her eyes glimmering with unshed tears.
"Cassandra, what's wrong?" Roy finally questioned. The concern became too much for him to handle.
A tear rolled its way down to Cassandra's cheek, "Roy…I," Cassandra spoke, her voice filled with emotion.
Roy quickly got up and made his way to the other side of the table where Cassandra was seated. He took a seat next to her, pulling her close to him. "Shhh…" Roy spoke, hoping to comfort her.
Cassandra leaned her head against his pec, grasping his hand tightly.
Roy let her sit there for a moment, giving her some sort of peace. "You wanna talk about it?" Roy inquired, his voice soft and filled with understanding.
Cassandra in response squeezed his hand without saying a word.
"Ok," Roy spoke, his voice barely above a whisper.
A minute or two passed and they remained in that position. Cassandra slightly moved a bit, wiping the tears from her face.
"I'm sorry Roy," Cassandra began, still wiping tears from her face. "It's just been a difficult time…Sam's father wasn't the man he sought out to be." Cassandra resisted the tears threatening to fall. "I just want what's best for Sam."
Roy began rubbing Cassandra's back in a circular motion, attempting to comfort her.
A question popped up in Roy's mind, he debated asking for such a request but found himself doing it regardless. "Cassandra? I can watch…over Sam. Give you time to think."
Cassandra looked up at him, her eyes reflecting gratitude mixed with a hint of hesitation.
"I don't want to add anything on your shoulders that doesn't need to be," Cassandra replied softly, her voice wavering slightly. "You have your own responsibilities with Lian."
Roy shook his head, a reassuring smile on his face. "Don't worry about it, Cassandra. Plus, Lian would have a new friend to play with."
Cassandra's expression softened, touched by Roy's sincerity. "Thank you, Roy. Sam could use some time away from everything too."
Roy nodded, feeling a sense of relief that he could provide somewhat support. "Of course," he squeezed her hand gently.
"Thank you, Roy. Thank you for the coffee, thank you for Sam, and thank you for being here…it means a lot to me," Cassandra spoke softly, an inviting smile on her face.
Roy smiled contenfully, "Of course, anytime, Cassandra."
Cassandra embraced Roy, "I have to go check on Sam. How does dinner sound on Friday?"
Roy chuckled, "Sounds great."
Lian let out a contentful squeal, laughing at the sight in front of her.
"Sam, what are you doing?" Roy laughed, as Sam made his way around his neck.
Roy has found himself growing fond of Sam after he offered to watch him for Cassandra, allowing her to breathe a bit without worrying, stressing, or potentially harming Sam.
Throughout the laughs, a knock was heard at the front door. Roy pulled Sam off his neck gently, planting a kiss on his forehead. "Imma be back sweetie," Roy said to Lian as he made his way to the front door.
Roy's eyes widened as he came to view the figure in front of him.
Cassandra smiled playfully at Roy, noticing his swift demeanor change. Roy was stunned when coming eye-to-eye with Cassandra. Cassandra looked stunning in her red dress. Its fabric, hugging against her, highlighting her curves. Her hair was elegantly styled, highlighting her features even more.
Cassandra playfully nudged Roy, knocking him out of his reverie. "I'm up here."
Roy chuckled, rubbing his neck awkwardly, "You look…amazing, Cassandra, red suits you," he complimented sincerely.
Cassandra blushed, a genuine smile spreading across her face.
Roy regained his composure, stepping aside, inviting her in.
Cassandra entered with a soft smile, taking in the warm ambiance of Roy's home. It was neatly decorated, with family photos adorning the walls.
Cassandra couldn't help but feel invited by the environment provided, she found herself impressed and complimenting Roy, "Your place is lovely."
Roy smiled warmly, leading her to the living room where Lian was engrossed with Sam and playing toys with him.
Lian looked up, her eyes widening at the sight of Cassandra, "Sam's mom," Lian exclaimed, sprinting toward her and embracing her legs.
Cassandra bent down on one knee, "Hey sweetie," she embraced Lian, "Are you being good for Daddy?"
Lian nodded, "Yes!" she exclaimed.
"Good, now how's my Sam?" she inquired, grasping Sam and planting a gentle kiss on his forehead.
Sam reached out and cupped Cassandra's face, he chuckled at his mother's facial expression.
"Mommy loves you, sweetie," Cassandra said, gently placing him down.
Roy couldn't help but feel a ping of happiness strike his heart. It was like a family reunion for him, Lian happy, and Sam, hell he even thought Sam was his son for a second.
Cassandra glanced at Roy, his smile warming her heart.
They settled down for dinner, conversing, and sharing stories with one another of their dreams, and their experiences as single parents.
Cassandra and Roy shot glances toward the living room every now and then when laughter erupted.
Time flew by, and before they knew it, it was late into the night.
"Roy?" Cassandra began, a mix of excitement and disappointment evident in her voice and eyes. "I have received an invitation to relocate because of my photography skills. In reality, Cassandra was happy, she couldn't help but feel anticipated about new horizons. But a ping of sadness also struck her, she would have to leave behind Roy and their connection, leave behind Lian.
Roy felt both excited and disappointed as well. He wouldn't lie, he did find solace in Cassandra and found himself naturally drawn to him. He did develop feelings, feelings beyond mere friendship. He had yet to express himself to her, fearing she didn't reciprocate his feelings. His subdued demeanor didn't go unnoticed by Cassandra, who was quick to pick up on the swift mood change.
"I'm sorry, Roy," Cassandra spoke with a hint of sadness.
Roy's face quickly lit up, "I think it's a great way for a new start."
Roy glanced at the clock, "12 in the morning, already."
"I should probably head home," Cassandra said, reluctantly.
Roy, sensing her hesitation, smiled. "We have a guest room," he offered.
Cassandra's eyes widened slightly, surprised by the suggestion. "I wouldn't want to be a burden," she trailed off, a faint blush creeping on her cheeks.
Roy chuckled, "You're not," he touched her slightly. "Plus it's late, and it's dangerous to be driving around at night," he said In a caring tone.
Cassandra couldn't help but smile at his concern. "Thank you, Roy."
Roy nodded, his smile widening. "Absolutely. Let me show you to the guest room."
"Thank you, Roy," Cassandra said, embracing him.
Roy smiled but his smile didn't reach his eyes, "Of course," he replied in his regular manner but his voice carried weight of sorrow and more.
Cassandra"s smile faded, she didn't wanna push the issue so she closed the door.
Roy let out a heavy sigh, feeling a mixture of emotions. Yeah, he grew accustomed to Cassandra. Everything about, her laugh, her personality, her smile, her eyes, and even the way she made him feel during a bad situation. She was like a new light to him, guiding him through the darkness he was once accustomed to.
Roy sat on the couch and palmed his face. Tears began to roll down his cheeks and onto his forearms.
In the following weeks, Cassandra prepared for her move, packing her belongings. Roy's conflicted emotions started to surface more prominently. On the day Cassandra was set to depart, Roy found himself in a whirlwind of emotions. Unable to contain his emotions any longer. As Cassandra reached for the doorknob, Roy impulsively grabbed her wrist and turned her around, pulling her into a heartfelt kiss. "Don't go, Cass," he pleaded, his voice tinged with longing.
Cassandra's eyes widened in shock at the sudden display of affection. She was taken aback, not expecting such a confession from Roy. "I'm sorry, Roy, but Sam…" she began, her voice trailing off as she struggled to find the right words.
Roy, conflicted with emotion but understanding of Cassandra's predicament, Roy nodded solemnly. He didn't want to complicate things any further with Cassandra and Sam.
Cassandra embraced Roy tightly, her heart torn between her growing feelings for him and her duty towards Sam. She refrained from any physical contact with him, only taking it as far as a hug, not trying to hurt him anymore mentally.
Despite Cassandra's departure, they stayed connected through frequent video calls, updating each other about their lives and supporting each other from a distance. Cassandra usually invited Roy and Lian to join them for virtual celebrations and milestones.
Sam's second birthday approached Cassandra extended a heartfelt invitation to Roy and Lian to join them for the celebration in person. Roy, unable to resist the opportunity of seeing Sam and Cassandra once more, agreed wholeheartedly. He arranged for their travel, and soon they found themselves in a new city, staying at a hotel for a few days leading up to the birthday party.
The day of Sam's birthday arrived, and the party was in full swing with laughter and joy echoing through the venue. Lian quickly immersed herself in playing with Sam and the other kids, while Roy observed from a distance, stealing glances at Cassandra every now and then. Being in her presence again reignited that spark he felt during their initial encounters.
Cassandra, too, couldn't help but steal glances at Roy amidst the festivities. Her heart ached with a mixture of longing and guilt, knowing that her departure had left a void in Roy's life. She cherished the shared moments and regretted the circumstances that kept them apart.
The party began to wind down and guests started to leave, Cassandra found a moment to pull Roy aside and ask him for a private conversation. Roy, intrigued yet nervous, followed her to a quieter room away from the bustling party.
Once they were alone, Cassandra's smile softened as she looked at Roy. "You look good," she remarked, a hint of playfulness in her voice. Roy couldn't help but chuckle. He began tracing Cassandra's features appreciatively.
Cassandra took a deep breath, her tone shifting to a more serious note. "Roy, I didn't want to leave," she confessed, her eyes searching his for understanding.
Roy listened intently, his heart racing with a mix of hope and apprehension. "I know, Cass. I missed you," he admitted, his voice filled with sincerity.
Cassandra leaned in closer, her eyes locking with his. Without hesitation, she closed the distance between them and pressed her lips against his.
They pulled away, their breaths mingling, Roy gazed into Cassandra's eyes. "I've missed you so much," he whispered.
Cassandra smiled tearfully. She embraced Roy tightly. The hug sent jolts through their bodies, both grateful to be with one another.