Even When (Ricky + Nini)

chapter 1 - everything has changed

[a/n : hi all. this is a sequel to second chances, but maybe could be read as a stand alone. Title is a Taylor Swift song.]

"Joel, buddy, go give your dad a hug before he leaves."

"No, Mommy." The 3-year old shook his head furiously.

Nini picked up the curly-haired brunette, Joel was essentially a mini Ricky, except for his eyes, he got that from her.

"You don't want to say goodbye?" She brushed a strand of hair from his eyes, to reveal his glassy orbs.

"I don't want Daddy to go." Joel burst into tears. Nini's heart broke a little, she didn't want Ricky to go either, she meant it when she said she would support him, but she just hated being apart from him.

Ricky had been traveling a lot for his work for the past three years. First it was a documentary in South East Asia, then he followed a band on tour for half a year (those was probably the hardest times for their family), and now he was going on this photojournalistic tour in Europe.

She loved that he's exploring who he is as a photographer and really making his dreams come true. It was a big step from the old Ricky who would sell himself short and give up before even trying. But she missed him all the time, and video calls just don't do it. Nini knows Ricky's been trying his best, ever since Joel was born, whenever he traveled he makes sure to come home every few weeks so he can be there for them.

"I know, baby. I'm gonna miss him, too, but Daddy has to work. He'll be back in a few weeks, okay? He'll call you every day."

"It's not the same." Joel said. "I want to play with Daddy everyday."

"Mommy will play with you. I know it's not the same, but I'm pretty fun, too." Nini said trying to comfort the boy. "Plus, you'll start school soon, that will keep you occupied, and you'll make lot's of friends. Before you know it, your dad will be back from his tour."

"Will school be fun? I think it will be scary."

"It will be both fun and scary, but we'll get through it together, okay?" Nini said rubbing his back to comfort him. "I'm sorry, buddy, your dad has to leave really soon, so let's say goodbye to him, yeah?"

The boy said nothing but shook his head furiously. Just in time, Ricky knocked on the door.

"Hey guys, I've gotta go or I'll miss my flight." Ricky stepped in, took one look at Joel, and shared a knowing look with Nini. "Hey, Joel, buddy, I'll be back before you know it, okay?"

The toddler shook his head and stayed put.

Ricky sighed and walked out of the room, he came back a few minutes later with a snow globe in his hands. He kneeled down in front of Joel by the bed. Nini watched and waited as Ricky worked his magic.

"Hold this."

The boy complied and took the object in his hands, examining it with his brown, curious orbs.

"This is New York City." Ricky said. "If you shake it gently, it'll start snowing. Now, I want you to remember that I won't be gone that long. I'll be back before it snows, buddy. Before Christmas. And when I get back, I'll make sure to get you another one from London, soon enough you'll have a collection."

Nini's heart felt warm and fuzzy whenever she saw her two favorite guys. Ricky was such a good dad, and she loved his relationship with Joel.

"Promise?" Joel asked.

"I promise, little man." Ricky picked him up and kissed his cheeks. "I'll see you soon, buddy. Love you."

"Love you, Daddy."