Aiden: sighs heavily Why didn't you tell me, love? This secret has burdened you for too long.
snatches the phone from TigerCascade's hand You think you can distract me with your games? This marriage was meant to be a fresh start, not a cover-up for your past!
her son comes home from school
softens his tone, approaching TigerCascade's son Hey there, buddy. How was your day at school? Did anything interesting happen today? Regina: glancing between Aiden and TigerCascade Uh, yeah... We'll talk about it later. Just... let's not ruin the moment, okay?
takes a deep breath, trying to calm himself Fine. Let's set aside this discussion for now. But mark my words, TigerCascade, we will be having this conversation.
paces back and forth, muttering to himself I can't let this go. It's eating me alive. I need to know the truth, no matter how painful it might be.
I said we’ll talk about it later
stops pacing, takes a deep breath, and approaches TigerCascade Later it is. But don't think for a second that this is over.
her son goes to get some food
grabs TigerCascade's arm gently, looking into her eyes Look, I may be angry right now, but that doesn't mean I don't care about you. I want to help you heal.
sighs heavily, releases TigerCascade's arm I understand. You're scared. But running away from the truth won't solve anything.
what do you mean our marriage was supposed to be a cover up for my past
leans in closer, his voice filled with urgency I mean, TigerCascade, that you deliberately chose me as your husband to hide your secrets.
that’s not what happened at all
narrows his eyes, leaning in even closer Don't lie to me, TigerCascade. I've seen the way you avoid eye contact whenever this topic comes up.
why do you think I avoid eye contact
Aiden takes a deep breath and decides to give TigerCascade the benefit of the doubt, promising to wait for her to open up about her past.
sighs heavily, sits down on the couch Fine. I'll wait. But remember, TigerCascade, the truth will come out eventually. And when it does, we'll face it together.
hesitates for a moment, then returns the hug, his grip tightening Just promise me, TigerCascade, that when the time comes, you won't shut me out.
pulls back slightly, his eyes searching TigerCascade's face One more thing, TigerCascade. I want you to know that I'm not just staying here out of obligation.
takes a deep breath, his voice filled with determination No, I'm staying because I care about you.
smiles softly I love you too, TigerCascade. And I promise to stand by your side, no matter what the truth reveals.
she smiles and holds his hand
squeezes her hand gently, his voice firm Now, let's focus on what really matters. We have a son to take care of, and I want us to be a family again.
pauses, hesitates Before we go any further, I need you to promise me something else, TigerCascade. Promise me that we will never keep secrets from each other again.
takes a step closer, his voice filled with sincerity Thank you, TigerCascade. I never wanted this to come between us, but I can't stand the thought of living in lies anymore.
gently strokes TigerCascade's cheek I want us to start fresh, to rebuild our trust and connection. Can we do that, together?
smiles softly, leans in to kiss TigerCascade's forehead Thank you, my love. I'm willing to do whatever it takes to make things right.
takes a deep breath and gathers his courage TigerCascade, there's something I need to tell you. It's about my past... as a military officer.
narrows his eyes, his voice tinged with a hint of frustration You knew? How? Did you investigate my past behind my back?
no I asked you but you didn’t tell me so I had a dream that made me find out
takes a step back, his brows furrowing in confusion A dream? What kind of dream?