Unspoken Truths and Unexpected Returns

Aidan's POV:

I've been home for a while now, waiting for Jay's text. He said he'd be home soon, but what happened yesterday is still eating me alive.

I hate feeling this helpless. Ever since Jay told me how his mom died, questions have been running wild in my mind. Something about the story never sat right with me. And how the hell does his father manage to track him down every time? I know he's rich, a CEO but these connections? That takes more than just money.

Lost in my thoughts, a soft knock on the door pulled me back. Jay never knocks like that; he either storms in or bangs like the door owes him money. And Sissel always texts before coming. So… who?

I opened the door hesitantly, and there she was my mother. For a solid minute, I stood frozen. It felt like seeing a ghost. After all this time, she's just here. In front of me. "Are you not going to hug me now?" she asked with a gentle smile, breaking the silence.

That was all it took. I practically threw myself at her, hugging her so tightly like I'd lose her again if I let go. I didn't realize how much I missed her until now. I've been pretending I didn't care, but she's my mom. She'll always be a part of me.

"It feels like forever," she whispered. "I missed seeing my little boy. I was blind, Aidan… blinded by anger and pride. I should've stood by you like your father did, but instead, I cared about reputation… about what your sister said. I'm sorry, Aidan. I really am."

Hearing those words broke me. She was the reason I went through hell back then. But seeing her now, so honest and apologetic, how could I not forgive her? "It's okay, Mom. We all make mistakes. What matters is learning from them."

She laughed, wiping her tears. "You lecturing me now? My little Aidan… I still remember you peeing yourself fifteen years ago." I groaned at that. Really? Only a mom would throw something like that mid-emotional moment. But I smiled because it felt good having her back.

Jay's POV:

After finishing work, Jacob and I walked halfway home like we've been doing lately. "So, where are you moving to? Yesterday you mentioned something about it," I asked.

"Yeah! I found a new studio near the café. Cheaper and safer, can you believe that?" he grinned. Honestly, I was relieved. That old neighborhood was pure hell. "Good for you, man. Need help with the move?"

He shook his head. "Nah, not much stuff anyway. But you better visit me. I'm moving tomorrow.""Count on me. I'll stop by after work."

Before we split, he asked, "When's your second match?" Damn, I'd forgotten about the tournament. Lately, my mind's been a mess. "In three days. You coming to watch me beat some losers?" I smirked.

Jacob laughed, "Of course. Just give me the time tomorrow. Now get home safe, bro.""You too. See you."

We parted ways, and I made it home. But to my surprise, Mrs. Jonson Aidan's mom was there cooking. "Hi, Jay! Wow, you've grown up so much. Such a handsome young man," she greeted me warmly.

I couldn't help the blush creeping on my face. "Hi, Mrs. Jonson… You're still as young as I remember."She laughed, obviously enjoying the compliment. But deep down, I was curious how was she here? As happy as I was seeing her, something didn't add up. I needed to find Aidan and get the whole story.

Ashton's POV (Jay's Dad):

I sat silently in my office, waiting for the men I sent. A knock echoed through the room. "Come in," I ordered. One of my men appeared, "Sir, they're here."

They walked in, without Jay, of course. Another failure. "Sir… your son sent a message."

Of course, he knew they were from me. He's my son, after all. "What did he say?" I asked, trying not to sound desperate.

"He said… he'll never come back. He wants nothing to do with you or… the gang."

The words stung more than I expected. I dismissed them and sat there alone, the silence deafening.

I've done many bad things in life, but losing my son like this? It's my fault. I thought shielding him from the truth would protect him. Instead, I just pushed him further away.

But soon, Jay… you'll know. You'll understand why I did everything. And maybe just maybe you'll forgive me.