Creating Memories

Chapter Twenty Two

Pete sat quietly on the edge of the bed, the soft glow of the nightlight casting a gentle light over the room. He gazed at his children as they slept peacefully. Their small faces were serene, and Pete felt a wave of love wash over him. They were his reasons to live, the anchors that kept him grounded in the midst of his turbulent life.

He thought back to the days when he had lost Vegas. Vegas had an amnesia, and their life together had vanished in an instant. Pete never imagined he could love anyone else after that. He was lost, wandering through life without purpose, until he met Som. She had been a beacon of hope, teaching him to believe in love again and second chances. The years they spent together were filled with joy and laughter, and for a time, Pete felt whole again.

But fate had been cruel. Losing Som had shattered him. The pain was unbearable, and there were moments when he thought about ending it all. The only thing that kept him from doing so was the thought of Venice and Seoul. They needed him, and he couldn't bear the idea of Berm and Thida taking them away. He had to be strong, for their sake and for Som's memory. She had dreamed of raising their children in a world filled with love and happiness, free from the burdens of expectation that had weighed her down.

As these thoughts swirled in his mind, Pete felt tears welling up in his eyes. He quickly wiped them away, not wanting to wake the kids. But it was too late. Venice stirred, opening his eyes to see his papa sitting beside him, tears glistening on his cheeks.

Venice sat up, "Papa, why are you crying?" he asked, his voice soft and sleepy.

Pete smiled gently, brushing away the last of his tears. "These are happy tears, Ven-ven. I'm just so happy because I have you and Seoul."

Venice looked at him thoughtfully. "If you're happy, then you should be smiling, not crying."

Pete chuckled softly, nodding. "You're right, buddy. I should be smiling because I have you two."

Venice's expression grew serious, and he asked, "Papa, are we going to stay with Daddy someday?"

Pete was taken aback by the question. He studied Venice's face, wondering what had prompted it. "Why do you ask?"

Venice hesitated, then said, "I like being in Daddy's home. Uncle Macau, Auntie Cherry and Rome are there. I have my own room there, and you're always happier when we're with Daddy. But I also like staying here. I get to play with Jax and Max, and I like being around everyone."

Pete's heart ached at the innocence of his son's words. He leaned down and kissed Venice's forehead. "You can go anywhere you want, as long as it makes you happy."

Venice was quiet for a moment, then looked up at Pete with wide eyes. "I'm happiest when you hug me and give me kisses, Papa." he smiles timidly at his father.

Pete felt a lump in his throat. He pulled Venice into a tight embrace, peppering his son's chubby cheeks with kisses. Venice giggled, the sound a balm to Pete's aching heart. He held his son close, savoring the moment.

"I love you so much, Venice," Pete whispered, his voice choked with emotion. "And I will always be here for you and Seoul. No matter what happens, I will be here for the two of you."

As he held his son, Pete felt a renewed sense of determination. He knew that the road ahead would not be easy, but he was willing to face any challenge for his children. They were his world, and he would do everything in his power to protect them and give them the love and happiness they deserved.

The next day, after Pete drops Venice and Seoul in the playroom with Madee, Jax and Max, his phone vibrates. He took it out and stared at his phone. The message from Berm. His heart pounded as he read the message: "We need to meet with our lawyer to discuss some things. It's important. Please be at this address after lunch this Saturday."