A Second Chance at Love

Chapter 21 - So much for wanting to build a family

~  Chapter 21 -  So much for wanting to build a family ~

Seing as they were not far from the italian restaurant that Matthew brought her a while ago, Ellie found a spot a few blocks away to park.

Once she got to the restaurant, she requested a seat in the garden, knowing that the sunlight and decor will please the little girl.

The moment they stepped in the sun, Ellie smiled as the little girl whispered : “Woow”

They were seated in the middle of the garden, under a beige umbrella and given their menus. The little girl settled for marguerita as Ellie chose a seafood tagliatelle.

While they waited for their food, Ellie stole a look at her daughter and found her tracing the swirls on the iron table with her fingers pensively.

“Penny for your thoughts ?” She asked gently, anxious to know how the events that enfold earlier has affected her.

The little girl slowly lifted her eyes to her mother, she looked for vulnerable at that moment that Ellie could not help but feel guilty for bringing Amber to see her father. So much for wanting to build a family, her subconscious scoffed.

Ellie lifted the child from her seat and placed her on her knees and engulfed her in a hug. She felt her clothes being clutched by small hands as the shoulders of her daughter start to shake from her crying. Her heart broke at the despair of her child.

“It’s okay to cry baby, Mama is here.” she cooed gently, letting the girl release her emotions.

After a few minutes, she could only hear hiccups coming from the little girl. She moved back so that she can see her face better and cupped her small face to drop a gentle kiss on her forehead.

Once the little girl felt better she nudged her mom to let her down so that she can take her seat back. Ellie just watched her, knowing that when she is ready Amber will share her feelings with her.

“I’m sorry ladies but I believe that you are in my spot,” a voice said behind Ellie.

She turned to see Matthew standing behind her with a big smile. The smile faltered when he saw the red eyes of the little girl.

Without thinking, his legs led him to her and he crouched down to her side. “Hey Pumpkin, what’s happening ?” he asked gently stroking her cheeks.

“My daddy does not love me,” she wailed and hugged his neck, a fresh wave of tears spilled on her rosy cheeks.

Matthew’s heart squeezed at the words and he found himself hugging her tighter as she cried her little heart out. He lifted his eyes to Ellie, suddenly remembering that she was there. Her eyes were also glistening with tears.

He reached out a hand to squeeze hers gently. The gesture all but made Ellie feel even more guilty. She had a man who genuinely cared for her and her child in front of her and here she was trying to rekindle a love that was no longer there.