(◍•ᴗ•◍)✧*。

DAVID WELLINGTON

Jefferson stood up as she ended her monologue, "My lord, asking such questions from my client and forcing her to answer it in the honourable court is again a breach of privacy. But I guess that is Mr. Carter's favourite breach. Nonetheless, I am sure now the jury and your honour, know the cause of this sudden marriage. Circumstances play a big role in life and my clients life is a good example of that. Now, I believe it is upto you to decide whether it is correct to deprive Mr. And Mrs. Wellington of their son on the pretext of the so called 'irresponsibilty' or secure them a chance to be parents and provide a future to their baby."

I felt her hand becoming warmer as she sat back relaxed in her seat. But I could tell she was anything but relaxed. Her face looked pained, as if she was actually forced to pour her heart and what she said was anything but a lie. If I didn't participate in the meetings we had with Jefferson, I would surely mistake this confession as her real love story. But as much as I know, she loved certain someone in school. The guy that I perhaps do not know. How hard I tried to think of any guy I saw her interacting with in school time, but I could think of no one.

"The judgement shall be delivered after proper deliberation by the jury. The sitting is adjourned for one hour."

We remained sitting as everybody dispersed in the room.

"We can expect a positive result!", Jefferson said excited but I only sighed. This one session was one equivalent to hell.

"Dadda!!", I looked up immediately to see Erica standing by my side with Oliver in her arms. The boy was grinning as if he was the winner of this case.

I stood up and took him from Erica, "My little sperm!"

He smiled like I called him the king of this world.  Just then Hope stood up taking away his attention from me. He remained in my arms but leaned his head forward with a pout trying to kiss her.

To irritate him, I pulled back when Hope forwarded her cheek.

"Hoeee!!", He whined not able to place a kiss. I only laughed at his misery. He snapped his little head to glare at me.

However, this time, Hope held me tight in place and forwarded her cheek for that monkey to kiss.

I only rolled my eyes smiling to myself.

If we win this case, this is going to become my life. And I couldn't pray for a better one.

*

I was on one of my calls with Lilliana briefing her about a meeting she has to handle.

"...just that and also tell him that I shall meet him in person as soon as possible. And yeah..."

"Shut up with your nonsense!", I fall quiet as I hear a very familiar voice say, "...I didn't pay you to take this case on your ego!"

"I was just trying to make in convincing!", I heard another familiar voice mumble.

"Listen Carter! I am a very sick man! If I do get the worth of my money, I become even more sick! Go and apologize to Hope after the hearing ends or I'll sue you for loosing this case!", It was Eric. I was sure.

"Bu.."

"No buts! What I am giving you for one hearing will probably won't be enough earning for three. I expect the best!", And then all I heard was steps walking away.

Soon enough, Eric came in my line of view, and I pretended hearing Lilliana on phone, whatever shit she was explaining.

He's asking Carter to apologise to Hope. May be he cares for Hope more than he ever cared for me. Because then, he's paying Carter thrice of his normal wage to thrash me in the court.

My head was ready to burst in these court premises and I wanted nothing more but to lay down in my comfy bed.

"David!", I heard Hope's voice and signalled her that I'm coming, trying to conclude the phone call with my PA.

When I went to Hope, she fetched a sachet from her handbag, revealing my medicine, "I hope you didn't forget this.."

I grimaced looking at that, "I hoped you'll forget it Hopeless!"

She rolled her eyes handing me over a bottle of water, "Have it. You've already skipped a meal."

"Thanks Mommy!", I joked only for her to ignore me. I guess that is what it is when your wife is also your long lost friend. She barely ever takes me seriously. And my charms don't work on her.

*

This time when we assembled in the courtroom, I was more positive. Hope's so called love confession must work, as pointed by Jefferson.

Carter was more subtle this time as he explained the discrepancies in the evidences, followed by Jefferson who looked confident. I noticed the bulky file about my scandalous life was thinned to a visible extent.

And Eric was constantly glaring at him like one single mistake, and he'd be burnt alive. This asshole needs to learn some manners. I feel pity for the people who work for him. Thank God! Erica is no more his PA or I would kick his ass twice daily so he behaves with her.

"After taking into consideration all evidences presented by both parties, and the arguments put forward, the jury, in the break hour deliberated about the case. The case becomes sensitive because we have a one year old child involved here. And so, it is apparent, that passing the judgement is not an easy task. However, I would like the jury to put forward their collective decision before me, so I could deliberate the further actions.", The judge said and one of the jury members stood up and passed him an envelope that represented all of their decision.

They decide by consensus and not majority, when it comes to cases involving children. And the judge usually comply with their decision. It is in very rare cases that the judge gives a different judgement than the jury. But I can't hope anything other than that judgement coming in favour of us.

The judge takes his sweet time reading the content in the envelope and I was literally dying of impatience here.
I could see Hope sitting stiffly beside me, and so I felt the urge to comfort her like she's been doing for a while now.

I forward my hand and take one of her between both my palms.
"I am scared.", I whispered.

"Don't be..", she whispered back.

I intervened my finger with her and we waited for the judgement.

The judge, after ten long minutes clears his throat, "After considering every fact and opinions of the two parties and taking into account the best interest of the child involved in this case, the court has come to the following conclusion. The court has decided to involve a two month evaluation period where the child and his atmosphere will be constantly checked by a representative of Children Welfare Association. We grant the custody of Oliver Wellington, temporarily, for the evaluation period, to his biological father, Mr. David Wellington and his wife, Mrs. Hope Wellington. We shall schedule the next hearing of this case after two months, when the representative of CWA shall put forward his report and we would decide if Mr. and Mrs. Wellington would get the custody permanently or not. Also, till then, Mr. and Mrs. Ashton can visit the child whenever they want and can complain of any discrepancies they witness in Mr.Wellington's care to the representative authority. Thank you. The court is adjourned. The next hearing will be exactly two months from this day."

I smiled wide looking at Hope who was already smiling. Jefferson looked at us and passed a grin. This guy needs a raise. I could finally sit contended at the thought that my son would stay with me. We shall shower so much love on Oliver, that the CWA would get sick of it and let us have the custody permanently.

As soon as the judge left, congratulations flooded from Jefferson and his team. They were celebrating. Erica came to me with Oliver and patted my back, "Congratulations to be dad finally!"

I went forward and hugged her, squeezing Oliver in between who only whined at how tight the hug was. I moved back and took his little face in my palm, placing a kiss on his cheek, which he wiped frowning.

This guy thinks his manliness is compromised because I kissed him. Too used to being kissed by women. Pervert.

"This calls for celebration!", Jefferson announced and everybody nodded in affirmation.

But well, my mind was on something else entirely. I looked behind Erica and saw him sitting alone with a poker face, not seemingly sad, and definitely not happy.

He looked straight ahead as Carter and his team dispersed murmuring greetings to him.

As much as I know Eric, he is not going to take it easy. Not because of the ego involved in this case, but because he genuinely loves Oliver more than I'd ever do. I was aware of that. And despite almost winning the case, and getting a chance to prove that I'd be a good father, I still feel I'd be never better than him.

"Now it is your mutual decision about when you'll take Oliver.", Said Jefferson to Erica and us, "You can take him right now..", he suggested.

My attention again went to Eric who stood up shaking hand with his lawyer, and then slowly leaving the room.

I turned to Erica, "Drop him tonight Erica...not right now."

She turned to see the direction I was looking at and gave me a knowing look.

"Okay! Me and Eric will come drop him tonight at your place."

*

Once inside the penthouse, I removed my blazer and threw it on the sofa sighing.

Hope walked past me, keeping her handbag on the dining table and I followed her.

As soon as she turned, she gasped looking at me standing just behind her, before i grasped her in a hug.

She was surprised, I could tell. The stiffness in her body made me amused.

She has been there for me, since the moment I asked her to help me. And not once did she hesitate in doing whatever she could to bring me to this day.

"Thank you Hopeless! I would have died if it was not for you."

Slowly, she relaxed and then I felt her arms going around me, tight.

"You deserve it all David. I only had a part to play."

"A big part exactly."

I heard her sigh and then rest her head on my shoulder. For once, I too was craving for a tight and comfortable hug. And who's better than my wife who's been my prime confidante these past few days.

"Aren't you hungry?", She asked me after few moments.

"Hnn_Hnn!", I could only manage to hum in reply.

She pulled back her head to look at me, "You'd have to leave me for me to cook for you.."

"I don't want to. You feel good to hug."

I heard her chuckle, "I am not you pillow."

"I'll love for you to be one.", I mused, "A pillow with sexy legs."

I stagger back from her, breaking the hug, when she pinches me on my waist.

"Ouch! Did you forget that my liver, the one you love so much, is there only.",I grimaced rubbing the pinched place.

She chuckled, "You're such a drama queen. Get changed, I'll prepare your soup!"

"Soup again!?"

"With noddles."

"Love you!"

*

I was carefully hearing her talk on the phone.

"...and Rebecca make sure the crib is big because he moves alot.....and I need a supply of diapers, wipes,...clothes!? No No! I will myself shop for his clothes."

"..tell her to add a baby chair."

"Yeah..a baby chair also, three to four bibs, and I'll write a list of smaller stuff that you need to pick up from the supermarket."

She hangs up the call and paces around, "What else? What else?"

"A car seat!!"

"Yes!", She unlocked her phone again, "I'll text her. She's probably tired of my calls."

"A stroller?"

"I've asked her already."

"What about that wierd thing he eats...that gooey sticky..."

She looked at me baffled, "That's baby formula.."

"Yeah that..", I said sheepishly.

"I'll shop for his food myself. He's very particular about his food."

I was amused, "You can probably feed him broccoli and he'd eat it without making a fuss. He has a crush on you."

"Oh c'mon David! Not you! Especially now! He's my baby!"

"Yeah! He's your 'baabbyy'", I sing song teasing her.

Just then, we heard our doorbell ring. Who the heck?

Hope went to open the door and then came back a minute later with Jefferson tailing behind.

I rolled my eyes, "Saw your ugly face just two hours ago! What is it?"

He grinned, "Just wanted to see your ugly face!"

Hope cleared her throat taking our attention, "What would you like Jefferson?"

"Hmm...just a glass of water would do. I came to discuss some important stuff."

Hope poured him a glass of water, and then they settled around me on the dining table.

"So I went through the directives, and one woman, Mrs. Garcia Clinton will come as the representative of CWA. But well, she's not an easy lady. So make sure you both remain alert around her. And please show each other some lovey dovy tactics to show you both are the dedicated couple who are head over heels for each other. Your son is only a gift. I saw her other cases. And man! She's ruthless."

I groaned, "This was what I wanted now!"

"And keep your ailment a secret. Also, do not try to act oversmart before her. She was a judge before her retirement. A smart one for that."

"When is she coming?", asked Hope.

"Tomorrow Morning. Carter and I will be here too for the signing of few documents. And ofcourse Eric."

"But Oliver is coming tonight."

He nodded, "That's fine. You both should have atleast one night of being real with him. It is just the matter of first two weeks. Once she gets assured of Oliver's well being, she'll get laid back. And David! Please avoid cussing before her. According to these elderly people, cussing before children is sin. And she'd be horrified if she heard how we speak!"

Jefferson was no less a cusser. I guess my company did that to him. But how do you survive without it.

(◍•ᴗ•◍)✧*。

She had never seen him this quiet. From the time they returned from the court, he excused himself and went to the studyroom. It's been three hours eversince. She was managing both the kids with the help of their nanny. But she's been constantly worried about him.

She looked at Oliver, sleeping in his crib, his bottle falling loose in his hands. Thankfully, Eve was half asleep too. She could go up and check on him.

Once she was sure they won't wake up now for some time, she left her room and went in the direction of his study.

She opened the door gently only to find him busy working in his file. She saw in the other direction to see a maid, whom she directed to bring him some pasta, the authentic way he likes it.

"Is it just like I said?"

She nodded, "Yes ma'am! I kept all your directions in mind."

She took the plate, and tasted the pasta. It was made just the way he likes it.

With that she entered the room, "Eric?"

"Hmm?", He said looking up from the file.

"I am very hungry. And got this cooked. C'mon, let's eat."

He pulled an empty chair beside him, "You eat. I am not hungry."

She took the seat beside him and grabbed the fork forwarding it to his mouth.

"You can't refuse your very own pasta! Italy would be ashamed of you.."

He shook his head at her attempt. Not wanting to disappoint her, or preventing her from doing more work, he took the bite which made her smile wide.

"My favourite pasta for you were hungry?"

She took a bite for herself before preparing another one for him.

Silently they ate. It was apparent as a day that she wanted him to not gulp all the sorrow alone. She too was feeling as if something precious was being taken away from her. But she always knew this day would come. Oliver's place was not beside them.

Sometime between the food, she closed his file completely taking his attention. He did not say anything but he was aware he doesn't have to. She knew it all.

Once they were done, she kept everything on the tray and called a maid to take the tray away.

The moment they were alone, she said what she wanted to, "Oliver will go in the evening. And I want you to accompany me while I drop him downstairs."

"No! I can't.", He was quick to refuse. He cannot outright go and give away his first child just like that. May be, may be he was not his father, but he has been his son since the moment David left.

These days, he's been preparing and doing everything so he goes to his truthful place. But he has been keeping his own heart in line.

"Eric!", He heard her, "He has to go...you cannot not go and see how comfortable he'd be at his new home. Brother or not, I still trust you the most when it comes to Oliver. That is why I let you do all this."

He looked at her smiling painfully, "I feel as if someone if ripping my heart.."

She scooted closer and kept a hand on his heart, "No one is ripping anything. You will always be his father, way more than that. You fought for him. People easily fight against the world, but you fought against your best friend to give him a life he deserves. But we both know, David needs a reason to live. And right now, Oliver is his only hope!"

He heard her quietly letting her words seep into him. This woman had a way with her words. But in reality, she knew the way to his heart. She knew how to go in there, and put the proper care to do his best protection.

He sat up straighter, correcting his sleeves, "If only that bitch was not your brother! I'd never do this for him."

She chuckled, "We both know him being my brother has nothing to do with how much you do for him."

"At what time do we go?"

"Around dinner time. Eve will also go."

"Do they even have his essential items??"

"I am sure they are making preparations.."

"They better do!"

*

"Papaaa!", He whined, "Monstaaa!"

He nodded, "I know Little Shit! Your monster story is still pending but you need to go to your shitty father. Mumma has already left with Eve. Don't you want to see Hope and that Dick?"

The fact that they were going to Hope did cheer him up.

Once his diaper was tight, Eric made him sit up, and handed him his phone, "Hold this phone for your Papa."

He did as instructed, in the process analysing the device in his hand. He stuck it to his ears to check if someone was speaking inside. But all he got was silence.

Once Eric wore his shirt, and felt ready enough, he made Oliver wear his pants and then the two left. Oliver held his phone, while Eric held the huge basket of his toys.

When he reached the start of the stairs, he signalled Eric to pick him up and so was done. Recently, he's been insisting to walk on his own which was fine. He probably wanted to look less baby.

Twice on their way to David's penthouse, Oliver dropped Eric's phone.

"Is it heavy for you?", Eric asked smirking.

He shook his head clutching the phone tight in his hands, "Goood good!"

"You should say 'its alright' Olive."

"Awwwwite!", He said loudly, his voice echoing in the elevator. That made Eric chuckle to himself, and seeing his Papa smile, Oliver smiled wide too.

Erica left before them because they were busy having a man to man before Oliver goes to his real home.

Even though it was hard for Oliver to understand, Eric expressed all his love and gratitude for him to make him feel like a father for the first time in his life.

'Make that Dick's life hell! Show him that you are my son. And think of me everyday. I'll come to meet you daily so you don't forget about me. No matter what! And for the last time, Hope is your mom now...call her mama or ma! Not 'hoe'!!'

Oliver seemed to note all his instructions carefully but everybody knows what happens to him when he sees Hope.

It will be hard for him to accept Hope as his mother and all for way different reasons.

*

When Oliver reached his 'home', he was pulled into Hope's awaiting arms. Not that he minded. David was ecstatic but he didn't know how to show it. This time, he will not be going back but staying with them.

He stood aside as Hope cooed him, and Erica smiled wide giving her inputs time to time.

His eyes also went to his former best friend, who stood aside, a solemn look on his face. Yes, he was proud of his almost victory in the case. He'd be paying Jefferson his best pay of life. But a part of him was concerned and aware of the person who'd not only lose the case, but also the child he seems to dearly love. He could not help but feel for him, like he has always felt. And no matter how stoic Eric attempted to look, he could read the troubled stance he was in.

This did not allow him to celebrate his success.

Seeking a narrow opportunity, Eric left the premises to go towards the infamous balcony that had the best view of Rome, same as his penthouse, just a little less in height. He hated this city so much. For whole other reasons.
But agreed to stay because Erica loved this place....and not to forget, a part of him loves here too, not that he would admit.

He stood there for few minutes, unless a drink, what resembled to him as apple juice was forwarded to him.

He stared at the drink for a few moments before looking at the owner who was himself sipping some of it from his own glass.

"You want to have apple juice with me?? Are you dying?", Eric said making a frown on his face, but nonetheless accepting the drink.

"I guess...let's have some 'Nemesis time'."

Agreeing to David's so called 'nemesis time', he took a sip of the juice.

Drinking juice with David was one of his favourite times since childhood. Well, slowly there was a change. When they were seventeen, he sneakily changed the juice to alcohol. The alcohol didn't suit him much. And David never stopped. Now after so many years, they were back to juice.

Eric looked at him feeling mischievous, "Why are you drinking juice?"

David was caught but he looked away, "I am being health conscious these days."

"Why?"

"Why would I share that with you?"

"You think I cannot find out."

"No you can't! You are a bitch!"

"Wait!", With that Eric pulled out his phone, and speed dialled Henry, "Henry! I want to know all health recor....."

Before he could complete David snatched the phone and hung up the call, making Eric smirk.

"Some girl said I am losing my shape, that's why I am cutting my alcohol intake."

"Wow! Cool! Tell me the address of that girl. I'll send her a thank you gift."

David scoffed already getting irritated and regretting his decision of coming here.

They remained silent after that, occassionally sipping from the glasses, glancing at the tall building before them, that shadowed the moon. For once, life should be this simple. To have nothing yet to feel like the owner of this world..

"Why did you do all this?"

David asked the question that has been eating him up since so many days. He was seeing everything happening before him, the way he was forced to straighten his ways, the way he was compelled to remarry, the way he was determined to get his son. Everything cannot be spontaneous. And the one man, who could introduce this disturbance in his life was the man standing beside him. He never gave anyone so much charge over his life as he did to Eric. He'd admit, even Venus could not control or manipulate his actions. One of the reason why they went to the verge of breakup so many times before their wedding. But Eric knew the perfect strings to pull to get him to do something. He wondered why would his life take such a sudden turn in the matter of two months. And why would Eric think it was all okay to do it.

"Why did I do what?"

"You know what I am talking about."

"You talk shit David. How would I know what shit you are talking about today."

David looked at him bored, "You forced me to fight for Oliver's custody. Didn't you!?"

Eric glanced at him for a moment before looking away, "If it was in my hand, I would have deleted that word custody from this world just so I could keep him."

"You chased me so many times around the world telling me random things about my baby. You were sending me videos and audios of him walking and laughing. You were sending pictures so I don't miss a moment of his life and then you claim you wanted to keep him."

Eric felt exposed. Too exposed for his own good. This is not how it is supposed to happen.

David was to be smug about his success and move on with Oliver. What is this questioning him?

"You said you did not want him."

"You knew I was upset."

"And I was even more upset after hearing you say that!"

"So you decided to punish me.", He stated more like answered his own question.

Eric turned and looked at him, "You are thinking alot. Just kee...just keep him safe. I..my heart is bleeding while letting him go. And if it isn't worth the pain I am feeling, I will thrash you! I am still his Godfather."

With that Eric left the balcony, not even answering his question and giving him a threat in addition.

It was probably the first time in mankind when the Godfather was being more responsible than the father himself.

*

"Hoe!! Aaaaa..!", Oliver widened his mouth pointing towards it. Hope kept her spoon aside and fed him his soup from his little bowl.

David watched this exchange. This guy is already taking over his wife.

"You know yesterday he threw a tantrum because he wanted to eat on his own.", Erica said playfully narrowing his eyes at him.

Oliver noticed that, and so he threw his charming grin in Erica's direction giving her a flying kiss.

Both the women giggled at his action while men only scowled. This little guy is becoming naughtier day be day.

"Such defective genes!", Eric mumbled under his breath passing a side eye to David who only rolled his eyes.

"I was not this type. I was a decent baby!"

"Yeah! Very decent.", Eric nodded and then turned to the two women, "Mom told me once that he had a crush on our maid, so he spent most of his time in the kitchen, drooling over her as she cooked. At that time, he was probably three."

"Jessica made up that story!"

"Dad verified too!"

Feeling cornered, David decided to change the topic.

"Well, Erica... tomorrow both the lawyers and Mrs. Clinton will come. You both have to be present here. They will make us sign the implementation letter."

Erica nodded, "We'll be here."

*

Eric took his sweet time to judge the strength of the crib. He also asked Hope to keep two to three soft rugs beneath it, so if Oliver attempts to jump out, he doesn't hurt himself.

Oliver was elated seeing his new things. But he did not like the sweet and cute stuff toys. Thankfully Hope has also ordered a crocodile, which wasn't scary but yet interesting to him.

David took note of everything.

"Make him sleep beside you both initially. He gets scared at the new place.", Eric mumbled taking a look at the master bedroom and the things kept in there, "....and that table...it has sharp edges, make it child proof. What if he hits his head on one of the edges."

Erica amusedly shook her head, "Eric...they will take care. We should leave now."

Oliver was lying on the bed drinking his milk, and watching the surroundings.

Reluctant to leave, Eric nonetheless nodded.

"Is Eve asleep?", He asked in a slow voice.

Erica shook her head, "She's sleepy...that why we must..."

He nodded not letting her complete and started leaving the room.

Everyone present in the master bedroom could see the turmoil within him. It was not just hard for him, but for all to see that scene. Infact, Eric wanted to again embrace his escapist side, the one he abandoned since Erica entered his life. But ofcourse he couldn't. He had responsibilities. He was answerable for all his deeds. He had people to take care of. He had his wife and daughter.

He was on the threshold when his steps halted on hearing, "Papa!!"

On turning he saw Oliver abandoning his bottle and sliding down the bed. His protective instincts woke up the moment he saw him getting down the bed and he took three steps inside to prevent him from falling. But when Oliver managed to successfully land on the floor, he grinned showing his new teeth to Eric.

With his small, wobbly steps, he walked to Eric and extended his hands wanting to be lifted. Reluctantly and hesitant, he picked him up.

"Papa...legooo.."

Eric closed his eyes not able to concede to his demand like all the times before.

Erica came forward, "Oliee...Baby Papa has to go for some work. You must stay here with your Dad and Mum...your Hope?"

Oliver observed her but shook his head hugging Eric's neck, "No offiee Papa...no offiiee.."

"Olive...Papa has some important work...very important...", Eric said trying to convince him.

Oliver only shook his head furiously, holding the collar of Eric's shirt to secure his hold on him.

David was watching the scene and at that moment felt like a villain separating a child from his father.

Eric sighed signalling Erica that he'd manage. He makes Oliver look at him.

"Listen here you little shit!", He said softly making Oliver look at him, "...as much as I love you, I am the CEO of a company, a big one for that. If I don't go and work, then how will I get money? And how will I be able to buy you a snake I promised? You know it is very expensive. How will you kill that monster without a snake?"

"Nake??", Oliver uttered thinking hard. The snake stuff toy, 'Nake', which his father is specially getting made for him, because apparently normal children don't play with snakes and they don't sell a snake toy in the most expensive toy shops. He came across snakes when they were watching a documentary on animal planet. And since then, he has wanted to have one.

"Okaaa...Go!", His answer made Eric laugh and everyone amused, "You are such a material baby!"

Smiling, he went to David and smiled wide.

For Oliver, the smile looked an indication of a happy time. But David saw the pretence behind it.

"I can kill people for you David. I have almost done quite a many times.", His smile looked sick to David, which it really was, "...but a single problem to this child of yours, and you'd see the worst of me. I will kill you even if Erica is left without a brother."

He handed him Oliver, who happily passed on to David's arms.

"I heard you say once that he is the cause of your sorrow and that you don't want him. But make sure that was the first and only time you say this. Because if I hear these lines from your mouth again, then believe me, I will the cause of your sorrow."

He then turned to Oliver, "Stay with this Dick Olive. He's your Dad. But I am your Papa. And no bloody Wellington can take my place."

With that he leaned in and placed a kiss on Oliver's head, leaving the room the next moment, without looking back.

*