"Renai, we've been doing this for three years, and I don't want to further complicate things between us," Michael told her as they sat on the sofa of her living area. "You're separated and I'm still married to Eve. We're both still love our spouses and want to work things out with them. And my sons..." he sighed then proceeded. "I dont want to confuse them now that they are getting older."
Renai flashed a faint smile, reaching for Michael's hand to hold with the both of hers. "I understand completely and I agree. What we had was special but it just wouldn't work out as we hoped it would have. Now that Vincent and I are working our kinks out, it is for the best. I do care about and love you and those beautiful boys you have though."
A low chuckle escaped from Michael who looked down timidly before looking back into her gorgeously round face. "We love you too."
"I'm just glad we are able to remain friends. You know if you ever need anything, I'm here for you."
"I know. Thank you for everything you've ever done for me and my kids. I really mean that, Renai." Michael's grasp on her hand tightened for emphasis.
Renai had walked Michael to the door as they stood before it. Their eyes locked for what felt like a lifetime. For three years they have developed a strong connection at such hard times of their lives—vulnerability. One thing led to another and a affair progressed. It wasn't an affair that was adulterous but with Renai being separated from her husband and Michael separated by default made their relationship easier. But it could never become more than just a temporary moment of emotions and trying to heal due to the fact that their love was secured for other people they've been with for many years.
Unfortunately, only one of them was returning to the love of their life. In Michael's case, it was fine. It didn't phase him for the simple fact he'd rather be alone after all he has been through the last couple years. But if Evelyn were to ever return, he wouldn't know what he'd say or do. For the time being, he just wants to raise his sons and enjoy the new chapter in his life. Thanks to Renai, he wouldn't have made it out of that dark place. He would forever be indebted to her.
Leaning their faces closer to each other as well as their bodies, their lips connected in what would be their final action of affection.
_____
Ten years have come and gone and the twins, Bryson and Braylon, have grown into incredible ten year old boys walking into the fifth grade. It always made Michael question where have the time gone? Being s single father wasn't always an easy feat, especially when hard times fell on them just a decade ago before Evelyn's addiction surfaced. But every dark tunnel has a light at the end of it.
Not unemployed for long, Michael found a promising career as an investment banker. The pay was better than his last job that he bought himself and his sons a new home within four years. With such extraordinary qualifications, a hard working ethic, and leadership skills, he was recently promoted to senior vice president, making well over a quarter million a year. It's why today was a special day to celebrate his promotion at his mother's home. Come to find out, his siblings Janet and Jackie gathered the others and conjured up plans to throw such a well deserved celebration.
Collegues of Michael's and Renai and her husband Vincent were all in attendance. The smell of good barbecue on the grill, loud music blasting from speakers as the local DJ stood behind his turn table, laughter and chatter filled the huge backyard of the Jackson's residence. Michael stood near the patio sipping from a cold glassed bottle of Budweiser. It were moments like these he cherished with his brothers. They would always talk about everything and joke about their childhood. Nothing could get better than this.
