"Mom,...we are going home tomorrow," Nick whispered as sleep came over him. Sydney roamed her hand in his hair and lean in to kiss his head. "Good night," and looked at his tablet to find Gideon and Amber sleeping too.

She contemplated if she should be happy or sad that no one was caught or came out but there were no answers. Just as last two nights she passed out on the recliner but was jolted out of her sleep when she heard a very loud knock at the door. Looking at the clock striking three in the morning made her gulp hard but before she could reach the person on the door it was banged louder this time.

Running out of Nick's room she saw Rey already standing in the living room motioning her to stay back. He too seemed to be awakened by this unexpected guest.

"Sydney!" The moment she heard Noah's voice her face went pale. Gesturing Rey to stay at his place she went to open the door.

"Noah..." She tried to smile but the moment she looked at his hard jaw she knew she had messed up things immensely.

"...I can explain," She said looking at Noah coming into the house ignoring her altogether. She too turned to find Noah who stopped briefly looking at Rey who had his jeans hung low and shirt with dismissed buttons at places.

Sydney could feel the heat of lava bursting in Noah's voice when he asked, "Where is Nick?"

"Left side...." She only managed but the moment she saw him storming to Nick's room she tried to follow him too to have a chance to talk with him.

"...Noah, I can explain," She said but saw him picking up Nick,

"You are disgusting,...you think it's a game! Getting a kid's life in danger is a fucking game to you!" Noah shrieked making Nick startled out of his sleep.

"Daddy?" Nick said confused as he saw his dad yelling at Sydney in the dark.

"...Noah, I took this step for us." Sydney started but was soon cut off with Noah yelling,

"Hell with us! And, hell with you!" Noah shrieked before picking up Nick who wanted to do anything but be in his father's arms right now.

"Mommy,...what's happening?" Nick looked at his back and asked his mom.

"...We are going home, Nick. This is what happening." Though Noah tried to have his voice lowered Nick could feel the coldness in his voice.

"Mommy,..." Nick called for Sydney who was walking behind them but this time his voice was scared.

"Dad, why are you leaving mom?" Nick asked looking out of his car while ignoring the question Noah secured the door and turned to look at Sydney.

"You can stay all you want...As we can see you have got security." Noah looked at her back to give a hard glare to the Rey before leaving her there all alone.

A lump formed in her throat before she got to her car and dialed for Jasper.

"How he ever got here?" Sydney seethed in anger while on the other side it was only silence.

"He didn't tell any of us. We didn't know he was coming we were...we were busier on your protection," She couldn't believe Jasper could be this careless. But the damage had already done.

"...But he won't say anything to you, he loves you...Look Sydney...he can't be serious just follow him and he will let you in..."

"What do you take me as Jasper?" Sydney was shocked,

"Relax, you will be fine...he is your husband," She was about to start the engine but listening to him she cut the call and threw it on the dashboard.

She could see how wrong she was to take this step that too on Jasper's request. Of all the people she took her husband for guaranteed. She knew why Noah was adamant of her not leaving the home. It was because Jasper had the plan all along to make her the bait.

She looked at the road ahead and knew she had lost the opportunity to make him understand her point. There was only one way left and that was to retort to apologizing and hoping he trusts her again. With her heavy feet, she got out of her car and walked to the home again.

Rey gave her a look as if gauging her reaction. "You can leave," Sydney ordered passing him,

"No...I am here to protect you and I will stay if you are staying." She heard him say and turn to look at him with red fury eyes.

"You are fired..." She said and walked more to him to look into his eyes. "...Now you don't have any reason to stay here," She announced before getting in and closing the door behind.

The moment that door was shut the realization hit her hard. She was caught and Noah hated her. She was about to sink to the floor when she heard her door being knocked.

Gulping hard she managed, "Who?"

"It is Rey,...with an e." This made her blood boil before she got up and opened the door to find the person on her door again.

"What do you want?" Sydney asked,

"I want to see my friend," This time she heard a very serious tone.

"Who?" Sydney asked confused.

"Sydney brown...The one whose father used to make the good fried chicken. And, the one who was the only person at my 8th birthday party..."

"Reynold Reeves?" Sydney said making Rey let out his breath.

"What..." Sydney's shock was real when that person welcomed himself.

"How come you are my guard?" Sydney asked not knowing what else to ask. Yea, she could recall that grey-eyed boy but she couldn't believe that she was seeing him again.

"This is what I do for the living..." Rey explained getting to the kitchen.

"...How did you know it's me?...you left short after...It's been a long time."

"I was given a very detailed report over your whereabouts while we were interviewed. The moment I read it I knew it was you and couldn't risk giving this job to anyone." She followed Rey to the kitchen and heard him giving out all this information as he fishes out some things out of the kitchen cabinets.

"I am...I don't know what to say...How's Mrs. Reeves?" Sydney looked at him in disbelief while he made coffee while heating the old pasta in the microwave.

"She passed away two years ago..." Listening to this made Sydney recall that sweet face that used to bring a lot of sweets for her. She took the seat on the dining table while Rey seemed busy with what he was doing.

"She had an amazing personality," Sydney reminisce the woman who was a doctor in their town and only stayed for a year.

She couldn't help but think how her life was until Noah came...until he came to hold her hand and took her in his world.

"Rey, I need to go..." Sydney who couldn't get her mind off of Noah felt the strong urge to see him. Getting a hold on her car keys she was about to get up when she heard Rey say,

"If I was your husband..." He trailed off making Sydney look right into his eyes. "...I would have killed you,"

"Excuse me?" Sydney tried to come out strong but this time Rey prevented her speech lifting his hand up to gesture her to stop.

"I am not your security guard anymore, Sydney. When I came to know about you becoming the bait I wanted to kill your husband but coming to know that it is your plan. I am disappointed." He passed the cup for Sydney to accept.

"You don't know Lucifer...Noah...doesn't know Lucifer...I was saving my kids Rey! and you are the last person I am supposed to answer." Sydney said all the things in a breath.

"You are right, I don't know him. Noah doesn't know him. But he was figuring out..."

"...I was trying to help," Sydney cut him off,

"This is what only you think..." Rey's voice was decisive this time making Sydney cringe.

"Did you call him?" Sydney asked making Rey shook his head,

"Don't lie. It was you. Aren't you?" Sydney asked narrowing her eyes. And, when he didn't explain she got her car keys and left.

"It wasn't me, Sydney. You are overthinking," Rey ran to the door to yell loud after her but she was already in her Porche.

She drove to the home and unlike she was expecting no one stopped her. Pulling her car in the driveway she tried to get her breathing even before getting to her place. The whole space was lighted which was unlikely for four am. She got to the staircase when she noticed Noah with kids sitting around the dining table.

She had their eyes on her as she comes down from the two steps she had already taken.

"Hello..." She said and wondered why Gideon and Amber didn't talk to her. She looked at Noah who only had eyes on the kids now.

"Daddy...I don't want to choose...I want mom," Amber whispered lowly before getting out of her chair but once on her feet she ran to hug Sydney.

"You said we can see her sometimes," Gideon said before getting down and doing the same as Amber.

"...Daddy..." Nick whispered before Noah gestured him to inform that he is free to follow the suit.

"So, you three want her..." Noah asked making kids look at their mom to say something.

"Noah, they don't need to choose..." Sydney tried to say but was cut off,

"You are right. They don't need to. So, you have to tell them. Are they my kids or yours?" Noah's question left Sydney puzzled but before she could react Noah asked, "...Answer me keeping into account what you did...Tell me, Sydney. Do you have any rights left?"

"Mom, why do we have to choose?" Gideon asked making Sydney look at him before she told them,

"You don't need to choose. We both love you no matter with whom you are,...Go to your rooms. Everything will be alright in the morning." Sydney kissed Amber's head and motioned Gideon to go upstairs.

"Not now..." Noah ordered,

"Noah! We don't have to do this here..." Sydney tried to make him look at the situation but saw him getting out of his seat before he informed with calm.

"They should know that their parents are separating and things won't be...the same..." Sydney felt her heart stabbed but her kids getting uneasy as they looked at her got her attention.

"Nothing is happening...Just get to your rooms." Sydney whispered and kids looked at each other before running to the staircase.

"Noah, I didn't mean to..."

"Shut the fuck UP!!" Noah cried out loud with his face all red in anger. Sydney shivered at his tone but was about to explain when a hiccup they heard from above the stairs got them distracted.

All of the kids were looking at Noah and Sydney and the moment Amber was about to fall Gideon held her close. "Please...don't do this daddy...please..." In her hiccups, Amber requested Noah who was now taking long strides to get to Amber.

"Everything is alright, honey. I won't let anything happen," Noah started rubbing Amber's back as he held her close and whispered in her ear.

"I want mommy..." Amber cried harder making Noah look at Sydney who too came to hold Amber.

"I am here, honey. I am here."

"I don't want to choose...I want you both." Amber looked from Noah to Sydney while Sydney looked up to find Noah's expression as hard as before.

"Amber, you are my daughter. You will get anything you want. You hear me?" Listening to Noah Amber hugged her dad while Gideon came to hold his mom. Only Nick noticed the eyes Noah had on Sydney and didn't move until Noah got up to take Amber to her room while Sydney took Gideon to his room. Nick followed Sydney and waited until Gideon was asleep.

"I am not sleepy," Nick whispered the moment Sydney held his hand.

"Hey, is everything alright?" Sydney asked but kind of knew the answer when he came to hug Sydney.

Sydney kissed Nick's head before taking him to his room. And, the moment she tucked him into the bed she started, "Nick, everything will be alright, I promise."

"I don't like it when someone yells at you, I don't care if he is my dad,..."

"He is angry over something I did. But I promise everything will be alright once you get up in the morning. Remember, we both love you." She leaned in to kiss him,

"I love him,...but,...I love you more," Nick whispered making Sydney smile.

"I love you more than him too," Sydney said making Nick get up and hug Sydney's neck with his small arms.

Putting him to bed Sydney got out to see Amber sleeping in her room before looking at the door to her own room that seemed intimidating all of a sudden. But the moment she turned the knob to her room she was welcomed with the same darkness engulfing her insides too.

She only took two steps into his room when Noah turned to look at her. For a moment she got still looking at his pissed expression but when she took the next step to him he was quick to add, "Stop right there."

"Noah..." Sydney opened her mouth while he huffed before saying,

"I loved you...I really thought you are worth everything but I was wrong!" Noah shouted at the last word making Sydney shiver.

"And, if you think you can blackmail me or resume this relationship between us using our kids?... Let me tell you Sydney. I will prove you have never been more wrong."

"I,...I don't why are you overreacting. Why can't you understand that I was doing it for my family...that includes you too Noah. And, I dare you to change that"

A devilish smile on his lips got her quiet. But what scared her most were his glassy eyes. She hated herself from hurting him. "In two days...in two days I will divorce you. And, don't you think about the guardianship. You have lost that right when you left your kids alone here."

"You,...you can't do this. My Noah can't do this." Sydney shook her head in trans.

"I will do this. I will do this before you could do something to change my mind,"

"I won't live without my kids...I...I deny leaving you too. You are mine, Noah...only mine." Sydney stormed to caught his collar.

"Oh, you can stay here. You can stay here as long as you want but not...as my wife. You will only be my kid's mother but...will never have any say in their future."

She looked at him shocked. His anger was justified as her step was quite drastic but she didn't deserve this. She could feel there was something else. Looking at his mouth for a few seconds she whispered.

"I am...I am pregnant Noah. We are pregnant. Don't do this. I...I thought I was making things right."

"You were not making things right. In this brain of yours...you always believed I was not enough. This is exactly why you take control of the situation." He replied getting her hands in his to get them off of him.

"It can never happen. I...I couldn't ignore how much work it had been for you. I didn't want to be a burden..." She tried to explain but was cut off him saying.

"...you won't be anymore. Once you give me this child growing inside you...you will never be my thought."

"Noah,..." She held his hands tighter. But getting her hands off he whispered, "I am so done with this conversation. I don't trust you from now on. And, I will never trust you...Nothing can change that." His words were like a blow to her. A tear slide off her right cheek before she got to her bed but the moment he saw her getting to bed he added before getting out,

"I am giving you a day to get your room shifted."

The morning came and Sydney wondered how she will face her kids. Something inside her told her that moment she will face those innocent faces of her kids she will break in front of them and only got them worried.

She didn't come out of her bed until she heard her kids knocking at her door. "Mom, are you fine?" Amber's voice came.

"Mom,...are you hurt?" Nick's voice came and she realized her mistake. She never thought that she not getting out will get her kids even more worried.

"I am fine,...I am coming," Sydney said before rubbing her tears away. Walking to the bathroom she splashed cold water on her face and dried it with a towel.

"Hey,..." Sydney greeting Nick and Amber coming out.

"Where's dad?" Sydney asked making Amber say

"He left in the morning...He said goodbye to us but Nick didn't wish him." Amber told over Nick making him shook his head over Amber.

A lump formed in Sydney's throat making her wonder if he was talking to a lawyer right now. She knew she was at wrong but only if she knew who told Noah she would take that person's guts out.

She took kids to have some breakfast and kept lying that everything is fine. Kids were playing in their huge backyard playground when Gideon started, "Mom,...I really want to go to school,"

"And, I want to join my old school, I miss my friends," Amber added,

"Yea, I miss my friends too,..." Nick started but was cut off by Gideon.

"Dad said that we can invite them at any time. But he never called them. Can you invite our friends?" Gideon asked. Sydney was still thinking what to answer when Amber added,

"Yea, I told my friends that I will invite them to my new house. They really wanted to come."

"I will talk to your dad, and maybe we can invite your friends,..." Sydney looked at them for a response before adding, "...And, call Addi," This makes Nick jump with joy too.

"Will Adi come here? He will stay at my place," Nick shouted,

The rest of the day kids were busy planning the party and the games they will play and it gave Sydney a lot of time to worry about Noah. The night came but there were no signs of Noah. Sydney did shift some essentials from her room to the other guest room but she didn't want her kids to notice the change. They were far more sensitive to her change of mood.

She only hears the engine roaring off after two in the morning. For a second, she felt so tired to go and face him but she knew she had to. She so wanted to know if he still had the same decision or something can be done for it.

He came in but this time with no flowers. He didn't even pass her a look as if there was no difference between her or this posh furniture that occupied the space around them.

"Noah,..." She called and followed him making him stop at the base of the staircase.

"Yes?" His voice was monotone while his jaw was hard warning her not to utter a word that he didn't want to listen.

"I,...How was your day?" Her voice gave away how scared she was to lose him.

"You have lost that right to ask. I have talked to the lawyer. You will have the paper the day after tomorrow. You have until tomorrow morning to decide whatever you want to have in alimony." His gruff and cold voice was giving away how much he was adamant about his decision.

"Alimony?" Sydney repeated after him with disappointment in her voice and when he stayed quiet with his stone eyes she added, "We...we can never be this weak Noah. If I think or...sometimes feel that you don't know...I am not wrong..."

"...Isn't it good to end this relationship then?" Noah asked as if telling her the most obvious thing.

"...Can't you for once keep yourself at my place?... You would have done the same, Noah."

"No...I will never be at your place because I am not as stupid as Fuck!" Noah roared loud while Sydney took some long strides as she gestured him to keep the voice low.

"Please, for god sake, we both don't want them to know about our differences."

"Separation you mean to say," Noah corrected her before turning on his heels and getting upstairs.

Defeated with her heavy heart she walked to the guest room and tried to come out to the living room before her kids could wake up. Noah was in the gym and contemplating for many minutes she decided not to disturb him early in the morning hoping he needs some time to know what is needed at this time and prepared a hearty meal for everyone. Kids looking at Noah smiling at them were more active when all of a sudden Amber started,

"Mom, did you talk to dad?" This made Sydney recalled the conversation Sydney totally forgot to discuss to Noah but before she could say something Noah asked looking at Amber,

"About what?"

Amber looked at her mom before looking at her dad to explain. "We wanted to invite our friends."

There was a silence for a few minutes before Noah explained, "It is your birthday in a couple of weeks. We will do it then,"

"...but dad you said we can invite them whenever we want...." Before Gideon could finish Amber added, "...I am missing them so much."

"I am only inviting Abbey," Nick commented. Looking at a little commotion that appeared at the table Noah replied, "We will talk about it tomorrow. I will see if we can do this or not."

The reply left kids a little puzzled but they had nothing to do except nodding in agreement and hoping their dad will agree.

After him, kids were busy thinking about what to do in the party while Sydney was left with her endless thoughts about how they ever end up like this. How her Noah who was gentle, caring, and loving turned into a cold stone that knows nothing but only hurt.

"Mom,..." Amber came running holding a phone and added, "...it's for you,"

"Hello," Sydney asked,

"Hey, Sydney,..." The voice was enough to tell her that it was Rey.

"Hey,..." Sydney respond,

"Is everything fine?" Rey asked to which Sydney replied without wasting a single minute.

"Yea, everything's fine....You tell?" Sydney asked the last part losing control over her shaking voice.

"I...I am standing at your place. We can talk if you want. You don't need to be here all alone, Sydney..." Looking at her kids playing Sydney contemplated for a few minutes before saying, "I will see you in the mart near my place."

She changed herself into a sky blue t-shirt and khaki jeans before telling her kids that she will be home in an hour. She took some of her lists from the kitchen about things that needed to restock. She didn't know what she will talk to Rey about or even if it was a good idea. But she really wants someone to tell her that everything will be alright.

Locating Rey wasn't difficult. She only got into the store and found a presence walking beside her. His distinct perfume was enough to tell her that it was Rey. "Thank you," She heard him before looking at him,

"For what?" Sydney asked,

"For coming out,...Now tell me, what your good for nothing husband is doing to make you look like this," Rey asked making Sydney defended.

"We are fine, Rey. I only came to see you because I didn't want to sound rude..." Sydney replied looking at the tags on a can.

"I heard he is divorcing you," Listening to the mere word from an outsider endorsed Noah's claims. He was indeed very serious about leaving her. Her shock as she tripped her next step revealed a lot to Rey.

"I understand what you did was wrong but tell me Sydney, what kind of husband divorces her spouse over such matters."

"The ones who don't want to kill their spouse," Sydney replied with her left corner of mouth curled up. "...I am fine, Rey. I don't need you...And, if you don't have anything to talk about I can leave."

"...the thing I have to tell you is the most important," Rey replied nodding his head as he takes out a cigarette while Sydney's heartbeat quickened as she prayed it is nothing bad. But it was as if he was intentionally taking long to talk.

"I,...can change it," Rey said but when saw nothing in Sydney's expression changed he explained, "I can delay this whole process of divorce for a few weeks but you have to seduce him to...you know...in obedience again."

"It is Noah we are talking about. He is not even ready to listen to me and you think you can change it for a few weeks?" Sydney asked to which Rey look into her eyes before replying, "You don't really know me, Sydney. I can be very drastic sometimes...but for now you only sit back and enjoy." Rey said before bidding his farewell leaving Sydney perplexed.

She was back sooner than she expected and wondered what Rey can do. The night came again and Noah was home at ten in the night. She stood there but again found herself being ignored and couldn't help but chase him. "Noah...Can we talk?"

"I don't know for what you are waiting here....But I guess I got to bear this so-called marriage for a few weeks," Noah tried to complete but she cut him off with.

"What?... You are right. You need to think over this." Listening to her made Noah's eyes narrowed.

"No, no, no, no, I am not taking time to review my decision. It is because my lawyer Mr. Shetty got into an accident and I can't share the very private clause of our divorce to any other lawyer."

Sydney got still for a second as she absorbed this information while her brain told her that this accident wasn't natural.

"Is he fine?" Sydney asked half guilty.

"That doesn't concern you,..." Noah replied before turning to leave when Sydney stopped him with much desperation.

"We can sort this out like adults."

"I don't even want to talk with you. I can't see myself conversing with you Sydney... You break my fucking trust. And, the only reason that you are still under my roof and will be living here after this divorce is my kids." Noah barked at her face and knew she had nothing to say in her defense when he heard her say,

"It doesn't work like this, Noah." He chuckled knowing she had nothing but this emotional blackmail to retort to. "...In the past, that of course, you can't remember. I have FORGIVEN you for things that no sane person would ever do. You know WHY? Because I was helplessly in love with you," Her voice broke at the end as tears clogged her throat.

Her words got Noah's attention as he asked taking his time, "Have I ever cheat on you?"

Sydney wondered why he asked but shook her head in no. "Great, I can't think of anything else that might have hurt you then,...and yea, you can arrange the party for my kids. But you have to prepare a document regarding every little detail about the party and I will see what things I seem fit for them and what's not...Remember Sydney, you are only living here because they need you. You have no right over them whatsoever."

"I birthed them," Sydney seethed but a tear did fell on her cheek as she shivered with rage and claimed her rights over her kids.

"Good for you," Noah replied with a sarcastic smile but the moment he turned he was met with a thud sound.

The moment he looked at his back he was horrified with the scene. Sydney's body lies on the floor unmoving and looked pale.

"Sydney" A whimper escaped his mouth before he ran to collect her in his arms.

"Sydney,...Sydney,..." He tapped on his cheeks but when she didn't respond he got up and moved her over the bed before calling the doctor.

"Mr. Miller, you must already aware that she can't have easy pregnancies as she suffers from preeclampsia and gestational diabetes...you have to take great care of her medicines and mental health until she delivers. Or you can lose both mother and the child."

"I will talk to her," Noah replied with his mouth tight but the doctor replied sensing his tense body.

"Don't worry. You did great last time. I am sure I won't be needed again and she is in great hands." The words put Noah to deep thoughts.

In analyzing the whole situation with his brain where he did remember that he has to take his unborn child from Sydney with hook or crook he totally forgot that she was making that very child with her blood and could have her own special needs.

Losing his tie and throwing it on the floor he looked at her still body deep in sleep. Her mouth closed but lips a little parted were inviting. He took a side to hold her hand and grazed his thumb over the back of her hand. Her crime was big enough and for days he was feeling suffocated. Even if he decided to forgive her he knew he won't be able to trust her and it will make the whole situation a lot burdensome for him.

Her delicate hand in his big long fingers seemed to be even more fragile. And, the moment he took it to his mouth to endorse a kiss he realized how hard it could be to live without her and wondered how he was ever to deny his rules for her when she apparently tried to keep him in dark and dared to put the life of the kids in danger too. With this thought again in his mind, he placed her hand back to her bed and left.

When the clock on the side table struck four in the morning Sydney woke up to see the darkroom. She recalled her talk with Noah but couldn't recall how it ended. Her eyes became misty and throat pained with a huge lump when she tried to move but feel different. This made her shot to turn and look at her back to find Noah sleeping with his arm caging her.

She was still wondering what happened when Noah asked, "Are you hungry?"

"No,..." She replied and looked at his eyes still closed.

"Then, stay still and let me sleep a little more." Sydney gulped hard because he was still sounding pissed but she couldn't help turning to him and kissed at his neck as she hugged him more but the moment she felt his boxer tightened her cheeks got heated.

"You are not forgiven...not really..." This made Sydney's heart drop. Pulling away Noah looked at her face. Though it was dark in the room she could still make his heated stare at her.

"Noah, I am sorry,..."

"I won't divorce you. But,...I can't trust you. So, you have the same rights in the house as kids...You literally need approval for anything for which you believe kids need approval too." Though he sounded as if it was nothing Sydney knew how badly hurt he was.

"I know I messed up. But you don't need to be so alarmed Noah. Please...please trust me. I won't break it for the world unless...unless it is to save my family."

"You know what Sydney...let's don't talk over it because we both know you will be doing the same I have decided," Noah said making Sydney pout before he kissed her head.

"Noah, I am,..." And, before she could complete Noah took her mouth in his and dominated her with his tongue.

"I don't want a word," Noah said pulling away but then came to kiss her again but this time Sydney kissed him back with all she got and secured her arms around his neck as she felt him coming above her.

In the morning, Sydney sat beside kids while Sandra served them breakfast. Though she wanted to make a special meal for Noah she lost the argument knowing kids don't make food. And, with each passing second, the feeling of being demoted was haunting.

"All of you can have the party this Saturday,...I will try my best to be around," Noah announced making kids smile from ear to ear. But before kids could talk about anything else Noah added, "Make sure to write down all the friends you want to invite so I can talk to their families and Jasper could arrange the things." Kids nodded their head in agreement without wasting a minute and Amber squealed making Noah give her a raised brow but before he could say something Noah got a call from the staff,

"Hello," All of them heard him say,

"Let her in," Noah said making all of them look at Noah for clarification but he ignored.

"Who is coming?" Sydney asked finally but she didn't have to wait a lot because heels clicking the floor made her look at her back to notice Kate.

"Hello, Noah," She came forward to give a brief side hug to Noah and pulling away she looked at kids to greet, "Hello kids,"

"Hello, Kate..." Twins replied while Nick stayed silent figuring who the woman is,"

Sydney who had her eyes on Kate all the time was surprised when Kate didn't waste a second and came to offer her a side hug too.

"Are you fine?" Kate asked making Sydney narrow her eyes, "Yea,..." Sydney managed but her surprise seemed real.

Taking a seat Kate offered three small boxes to kids and started without wasting a minute. "I got a call from Miss Miller about you two getting a divorce. I thought to offer my support..." When no one answered Kate added, "I know Sydney. It can be hard for both of you when Noah is very different and he knows nothing about you."

"What is divorce?" Amber asked but when no one answered she looked at Gideon to help who remains silent too,

"It means parents don't live together and kids need to choose someone...My teacher got divorced but her kids chose her..."

"No one is getting divorced here," Noah halted Nick's speech before looking at Kate.

"Miss Miller is old and doesn't know sometimes what she is talking about. Sydney and I are expecting. But,...thank you for showing your concern."

"Oh,..." Kate managed and there was a long pause. Sydney and Noah kept looking at her agape mouth expectantly while she finally managed after a few seconds "Congratulations ...happy for you two...." Sydney passed her a smile with a "Thank you..." but the moment Sydney noticed Noah getting out of his chair she too got up to help him have his jacket.

"I will see you two around," Kate said while kids shouted thanks to Kate again. "Mom, why Kate was congratulating you," Nick asked making Sydney look at Noah while Gideon and Amber too looked at their parents intently.

"I will tell you about it in a few days," Sydney chirped while Noah kissed the kids before leaving a kiss over Sydney's head too.

Tonight, Sydney waited for his return but this time enjoying her magazine while having a cup of medicinal tea that Sandra made for her. But the moment she heard the engine roaring she got excited and get to the door to welcome him.

"Hello," Sydney greeted but Noah had the same aura as of the morning. He placed a kiss on her head but she felt as if he was making himself do it rather than actually being happy to see her after a long day. Her smile disappeared in the absence of any bouquet or sweets he used to bring.

"I am tired...I will go freshen up." Noah left her standing in the living room all alone. Just two weeks back she would have never thought that she will miss his arms and hands so much that rarely used to be without her.

Everything will be fine, Sydney. Everything will be fine. She chanted before getting to her room and noticed him getting out of the bathroom but before she could say something she heard him order, "Switch off the lights,...I want to sleep."

Switching off the lights she got into the bed and waited for him to say anything but he never did. She knew he was hurt but knowing she was the reason kept her restless.

Is he only keeping me for my pregnancy? Am I really this selfish to bind him because I am pregnant? The thought made her graze her hand on her belly that has started coming into shape. Even with this non-existent bulge, Sydney could feel her innocence. She could feel how she was so unknown to this world and sleeping soundly in the safest place in the world.

Try for her Sydney. She deserves to see the happiest family welcoming her into this world. Sydney thought and could imagine her kids beaming face when they would first look at this angel. She looked at Noah's back. His broad shoulders were as same intimidating. She forwards her hand to touch him but her guilt got the best of her.

"You don't have to act normal...I can live in another room if you want to," Sydney said but got no response for a few minutes, and when she was sure he won't answer she heard.

"I feel so empty Sydney. You have left me with nothing...Just take good care of you. I am always here if you need anything." The more she focused on his words the larger her lump in the throat gets.

In the morning, her morning sickness was worst but she didn't want to disturb his routine. He was always so close still too distant. The moment when kids were around were the only times when she would hear Noah's voice that too not too excited and thrilled. She could see how forced he felt all the time.

She wanted to tell herself that she can't do it without him. She wanted to tell herself that her kids need both but then she knew that it wasn't true. She managed to live without him in the past. And, now when she had to do it for his peace she was willing to do more.

In his absence, Sydney started looking for an estate not so far from her place. She knew she will manage. If not she can take Sandra along with her and the sooner her kids learn that parents don't live together sometimes was the better. She started writing a letter to him. A letter to tell him that she won't mind if they separate and she understands a marriage that starts being a burden shouldn't be pursued. What she didn't write in the letter was how she will never be able to move on.

She was still busy looking at the piece of the paper when her cell phone rang. It was Noah. After days her cell phone was showing his caller ID. It got her excited when she picked up.

"Hello," She asked,

"Sydney,...Gideon is not picking up. Can you pass him the phone?" Of course, it was only because he couldn't reach kids.

"Yea, sure," Sydney replied before passing the cell phone to Gideon.

Kids were busy planning what costumes they will wear and what things they want for the menu. Sydney prepared a document explaining the guests, menu, and even the games kids planned to play. There was a magician they were arranging and some clowns on Gideon's request.

The moment Noah got the email in his inbox he was surprised. He didn't believe she would really explain it all to him. Not finding anything that he can object to he allowed all the things and sent Jasper the copy to make sure no person could get in they don't know or want to.

Saturday rolled around and Noah noticed how she too has stopped passing him a smile. He knew there was nothing left in the relationship anymore. If he had to be on alert around her there was nothing to be saved anymore. And, the fact that he had been intimated with her was making him guilty. Things that he can't control make him helpless and he hated being helpless.

On the other side, Sydney felt a lot more out of her state. But she knew that day was important for her kids who after getting ready were of great help in giving feedback about the settings. Mrs. Saad was the first to arrive with Abbey.

There was a magician, clowns, kiddie pools, a stall for ice cream and other confectionaries, a huge screen to play video games, and small electric cars. The place was heaven for kids. There were twenty-three kids in total and all of them were staying in states for the next three days. And, were welcome to visit Gideon and Amber at any time. Out of all the families, only two were adjusted by Noah for their stay while the rest of them had their own place or a hotel in San Francisco.

Sydney got to meet a lot of mothers coming from all ages but all of them were entrepreneurs. The day was spent over coffee or over the talk about kid's growing up habits or the interior of her house. Though Sydney had a lot of apprehensions about meeting the kids' guardians it was a great experience. She really got advice she could use to tackle her kids' never-ending probing questions.

But her eyes never stopped looking for Noah. She knew he should have been here but unlike she expected no one asked for Noah's presence. She was busy talking to a woman named Freya when a clown came inside the house and got her attention. Her focus wasn't the clown but Amber who was running to her yelling from Clown chasing her.

Sydney got Amber in her arms while giving a glare to the clown and asked him to take it off. So, she could make Amber see that there was only a person inside. But the moment that mask was off Sydney's brows shot up.

"Rey! What are you doing here?"

Listening to her mom, Amber too looked at the person to find a young handsome man.

"I love to party," Rey replied making Sydney shook her head in disappointment.

"He is my friend,..." Sydney introduced Rey making him look at Freya who was sitting closet to Sydney. He didn't take a second to take her hand and kiss the back. "Pleasure is all mine."

"He is fake," Amber whispered getting Sydney's attention. "Yea, hon. It is fake. And, he is a good clown. Come on,..." Amber took the head out of Rey's hand but couldn't look at it for a second and drop it to hug her mom again.

"It's fine,...We will not invite clowns to your birthday." The mention of Amber's birthday put a smile on her mouth as she rushed out with her friends who were the same as her size.

"So, you are still not a thing with him?" Mrs. Saad asked Sydney when she got her alone walking beside the pool.

"I am pregnant,...and I am thinking to have a separation,..."

"What happened? Are you alright?"

"Yea,...I am fine,...it's just we don't fit," Mrs. Saad saw Sydney gulp and couldn't help probing,

"No,...tell me what happened, you can't give up on him. You know what it is all your pregnancy hormones making you a lot sensitive. Don't take any decision that you have to regret later." Mrs. Saad held her shoulder and tried to make her understand.

"I can stand his anger but I can't deal with him acting up as if everything is normal. I can't see him suffering,...not because of me," Sydney's voice came out strong this time but only her friend could see how hard it was for her to utter these words.

Noah could recall his promise to his kids about being there on this day but couldn't leave his office. Not because there was a lot of work but because he didn't want to look at his wife and be reminded of how stupid he was for falling in love with the woman who didn't even see him as someone able enough. It reminded him of how powerless he was. If it was someone else he must have thrown them out of his house, out of his life but she was pregnant with his child and have some medical condition. Sleeping with her was an exam he was failing almost every other night making him wonder how he was supposed to live his whole life with someone as Sydney now. The woman who was his wife, attractive, beautiful but deceitful.

The night arrived and kids were gone to bed at eight. All the guests had left while Sandra who was cleaning up the stuff with the other two staff members left fifteen minutes ago. It was clean and silent. Lost in her thoughts about Noah she headed to take the bath before coming to sit in the living room and started reading her magazine. Her eyes remained on the magazine but her brain wanders thinking if she was giving up too early. Things Mrs. Saad said were shaking her plans of leaving Noah and convincing her to try harder.

"God, this is so frustrating," She whispered but got startled with a piercing loud cry, "Mommy,..." that jolted her to her core.

She ran to Amber's room but saw her running out of her room already and the moment Sydney held her she started crying profusely.

"What happened?" Sydney asked but all she did was shake like a leaf. Sydney could hear her racing heart.

"There is someone in my room,..." The words made Sydney towards her room.

"I will see,..."

"No,...mama...there is a huge clown," Listening to her Sydney let out a huge breath of relief. She knew she was only scared in her sleep.

"Honey,...there can't be any clown." Sydney kissed her head before brushing her hair away from her sweaty forehead.

"Mom, I saw him getting to my closet,..." Amber's shaking voice got Sydney worried too but before she could act she noticed two of the security guards coming behind her.

"We got the signal from Amber's room." The guard explained making Amber say, "It was me, mommy."

"There is no one, honey. Let me show you, alright?" Sydney asked making Amber hug her again.

Sydney gestured the security guards to look into the room and held Amber closer. The guards came out after two minutes signaling that it is clear. "I don't want to go there,"

"Come here," Sydney hugged Amber tight before whispering, "You can stay with me in my room. But you have to go and see that there is no one in your room right now," Sydney said making Amber pout.

"We are here, ok?" Sydney told her and she nodded her head. Sydney made Amber walk in her room and her closet too. And, when they found no one around, Amber whispered, "I am sorry, mom."

"Hey,..." Sydney came to sit on her knees before saying, "You don't need to be sorry. It can happen. I am proud that you called for help...you are my strong lady," Sydney said the last line smiling wide making Amber smile too as she secures her small arms around her mother's neck.

Picking her up Sydney passed a smile to the guards and went to her room. "I love your room," Sydney heard Amber say and made her comfortable over Noah's side before sitting beside her to make her sleep.

Her little angel had her all attention when she saw Noah's caller ID showing on her phone. Carefully she made it out of her room to a little farther to the large window at the corner to pick up,

"Hello,..." She was half ready to hear that Noah wanted to reach Gideon or ask about kids but nothing came,

"Noah?..." Sydney asked again but this time she heard his erratic breathing for a few seconds before she heard,

"I am so sorry, Sydney. I am sorry,..." She could feel him sobbing.

"What are you talking about? What...what happened?" Sydney asked but looking at a shadow behind her she turned to see a clown.

Her shock was too real that she forgot about Noah over the phone. "What the hell are you doing here, Rey?" Sydney asked and recalling how Amber got scared made her blood boil. "Who gave you permission to scare off my child?" Sydney seethed but looking at the happy face of the clown made her irritated and before she could walk to remove the head, that clown got her in his arms and put a dagger on her throat.

"Rey?" She groaned at the tight grip over her wrist but the moment that clown removed his head a loud gasp escaped her mouth.

"You?" Sydney gulped hard.

"Yes,...me. Tell me where the boy is unless you want to see your daughter in a thousand pieces." She heard him say while all her thoughts were focused on the wristwatch she left in the bathroom.

I know it is after a week that I am updating.

First, thanks to all who still read my story after I make them wait a lot.

Second, you people are awesome.

Third? The story has only two chapters left. Last chapter + epilogue.

Love you all, I have made you suffer a lot and can only hope to see you all following me to over my next works too.

If you want to stay updated over my future works, and want to know what stories will be free stories or paid stories, or my giveaways, special discounts, giveaways arranged by booknet.

Many of you if you don't know I will explain. On Booknet, I can arrange my giveaways once a month. I can only run the giveaways over books I am selling over Booknet. If you win you can read the whole book for absolutely free and keep it safe in your booknet library for always. 

And, booknet as a site run giveaways too where you win money in booknet account to buy 2 or 3 books. But it is also once a month giveaway. But I will inform you about both kinds of giveaways whenever they are on the run. 

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