Aylin's new song had hit the airwaves just a few days ago, a sound echoing both her triumphs and struggles. Yet, as the melodies carrying her raw emotions filled the air, the heaviness in her heart lingered, reminiscent of a recent encounter she'd rather forget.
**Flashback**
"What are you doing here?" Aylin breathed, a rush of shock and disbelief washing over her as she stood in the doorway, her heart pounding.
"I got out yesterday," José said, his voice low and almost pleading. "I was wondering if I could see Aaron."
The mere mention of his name sent a flurry of emotions surging through her. José was the one person Aylin despised more than anyone else on earth, a shadow from her past, but also the man who had given her the greatest blessing of her life. She took a deep breath, trying to rein in her anger and protectiveness. "No, you can't see Aaron. He's not even home yet."
"Look," he continued, frustration creeping into his tone, "I just want to see my son. You don't have to lie to me."
Aylin glared at him, every fiber of her being screaming to shut him out. "And I'm gonna tell you again, José, he isn't home yet. But when he does come, I'll let him know your out bye." She turned, ready to close the door, but he wedged his foot in the way, blocking her attempt.
"You're gonna need my number," he said matter-of-factly, and Aylin felt a wave of irritation wash over her. Reluctantly, she pulled her phone from her pocket and handed it to him, not wanting to prolong the conversation. After a brief moment, he returned her phone. She took it and closed the door with a soft thud, frustration brewing inside her.
**Flashback Over**
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"Mama!" The soft voice broke through Aylin's dreams, drawing her out of a slumber filled with mixed emotions. She opened her eyes to see Amaia, her toddler, with drool trickling down her chin—an adorable sight that softened Aylin's heart despite the interruption. "Girl!" Aylin mumbled groggily, sitting up and pulling her daughter into her arms before heading to the bathroom, Amaia trailing close behind.
After a quick splash of cold water on her face, Aylin felt more awake. She brushed her hair back into some semblance of order before placing Amaia in Arron's room who decided to stay home from school.
Once she tucked Amaia in, she turned to Aaron's sleeping form and pressed a soft kiss on his forehead. "I'll be back soon," she whispered, reminding herself that what she needed to do today was essential—even if it weighed heavily on her heart. She quickly sent Aaron a text: *Hey babe, taking care of some things at Empire. Be back soon!*
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"So, what's been happening over here?" Aylin asked as she walked side by side with Becky toward the studio, their laughter echoing through the hall. Becky had become her confidante and friend through the tumultuous journey of motherhood and music.
Becky grinned, "Well, there's this guy, Devon, and I'm planning on getting him signed. He's got a sound that's so fresh and unique!"
"Okay, Becky! Look at you, all executive now!" Aylin teased, genuinely impressed as they walked through the glass doors of Empire.
"How are your kids?" Becky asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.
"They're good," Aylin replied, her smile widening. Aaron had recently shown a keen interest in music, often asking about the stories behind each of her songs since he had got a hold of her music book.
Just as happiness bloomed in her chest, her phone buzzed, shattering the moment. A surge of dread washed over her as she saw the caller ID—José. "Becky, let me take this call," she muttered, her tone clipped as she stepped aside.
"What do you want?" she answered tersely, forcing herself to remain composed.
"You never called," José said, his voice dripping with the kind of entitlement that made Aylin's stomach churn.
She rolled her eyes, refusing to let him get under her skin. "I was going to; I just haven't had the time. Aaron's been happy lately, and I—"
"He's my son too! I just want to talk to him, that's all I'm asking for!"
Aylin felt a heavy sigh escape her lips, the frustration bubbling inside her. "Okay, I'll tell him. But that doesn't mean he'll want to talk to you."
As their conversation ended, Aylin returned to Becky, the weight of her words hanging heavily in the air. "So, tell me more about Devon," she said, determined to redirect her thoughts. Yet, as her friend animatedly described the artist she was excited about, Aylin couldn't shake the unease settling in her gut.
She mentally prepared herself for the conversation she'd have with Aaron when she returned home. It was time to face the past, for the sake of her children, and for her own peace of mind. As the melodies of her life played on, Aylin was determined to remain the conductor, even as discordant notes threatened to drown her out.
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