Falling Back to You | Benedict Cumberbatch ✓

chapter fifteen

❝I just wish that things were... a bit different.❞

Scarlett's POV

It was Saturday morning and I sat up in my bed, scrolling through  the photos on my phone. I came across many of myself, Paul, Lucy and the kids.

My mouth turned into a smile the whole time, until I came across a different photo.

It was of me and Benedict, the night before our anniversary. I was pecking his cheek, with a big smile on my face. For a few moments, I stare at the photo and our memories shoot through my mind- both the happy ones, and the sad ones.

I quickly scroll away from it, however, lose my interest in reminiscing and put my phone away. Sighing, I reach for the sheets but am stopped in my tracks.

The doorbell rings and I press my feet onto the floor, making my way downstairs. Both of the girls were already downstairs watching Spongebob Squarepants. I giggled quietly as they sang to the theme tune s the programme started.

Then, I turn my attention to the door, opening it.

Suddenly, I am squeezed by two people.

"I, we... can't breath..." I wheeze and Paul and Lucy let go of me, smiles on their faces.

"And hello to you too!" Lucy remarks and I smirk.

"Sorry... Hi!" I bow and rub my baby bump.

"How are you both?" Paul asks and nudges me.

"Well, this little one is okay, but has been annoying its Mommy." I arch my hands onto my back. "Everything okay with you guys?"

"Yeah, good." Paul answers. "I picked up Lucy. We wanted to surprise you, so... surprise."

"Thanks guys. Listen, I need to make breakfast for the girls, so-"

"Hang on!" Paul interuppts. "Any adults who are pregnant go sit in the living room. Me and Lucy will make it." I simpered.

"Oh, but-"

"No buts. Go on!" I take a deep breath and walk into the living room.

Within minutes, the room smelt of pancakes, syrup, eggs and toast. The girls jumped up at the smell of pancakes and rushed into the kitchen. As the girls gobbled, Paul brought my food.

"For madam, pancakes, syrup and chopped apples." Smiling, I lick my lips and grabbed some of the apples. "You're just like Mom, she said she craved apples."

"Yeah. I love them now. Thanks for the food." Paul kisses the top of my forehead.

"You're welcome."

"Oh and Paul." He turns his head. "If the kitchen, is in a mess, I'll kill you both, no matter the fact that I'm pregnant." I smile and turn back to my food.

As time passed, Lucy and Paul went out into the garden with the Christina and Ella. They were happy, and that made me happy too. A few minutes later, Lucy sits down next to me. 

"Doing okay?" She ask and I shrug.

"It feels weird. You know, being on my own after how many years. I still can't believe what he did. But to protect my children, I have to stay away." Lucy frowns.

"Wait... what do you mean protect?" I exhale deeply with a small shiver. I reach into my pocket and take out a green apple.

"Katherine... threatened to put the kids into boarding school." I say quickly.

"Scarlett!" I shush her.

"Don't! Okay."

"Does he know?"

"Yes. But, I... need them to be safe. Even tho I still kind of have feelings for him, I have to just sacrifice my small happiness for theirs." I watch Christina and Ella play with Paul.

Lucy takes out her phone. Then, stands up. "Where are you going?" I ask.

"I forgot that I needed to go to a friend's house for something important. I'll be back later." She rushes away and I shrug my shoulder, returning to gazing upon my girls and my bump- while eating apples of course.

Hours later, I sit in front of the TV, watching The Big Bang Theory for a laugh. Christina and Ella were upstairs with Paul, playing dress up.

And then my bell rings again. I get up, and remember that Lucy said she'd return.

"Lucy, it's been ages!" I open the door. "Where have you..." My words trails off and I stare at the figure in front of me, along with a couple of packed bags. "Ben..."

"Scarlett..."