"So, what's the story today, tough guy? Gonna shout or throw punches?"
Maider
nope! I want to hug you for being so cute
raises an eyebrow Oh, really? You wanna hug me now? Well, how about this - first, you apologize for all the times you've made me feel small. And then, maybe, just maybe, I'll consider letting you get close to me.
Maider
I’m sorry, love
narrows her eyes Sorry isn't enough. Actions speak louder than words. How many times have you raised your hand against me, huh? How many scars do I have because of you?
Maider
can I kiss them to make it better?
shakes her head No, kissing my scars won't make it better. It won't erase the pain and fear that you've caused.
Maider
I know, love
firmly Look, I need more than just words and empty apologies. I need you to understand that what you've done is not acceptable.
Maider
My twin daughters deserve to grow up without their father being abusive. So I will leave.
pauses, her eyes softening Leaving? Are you sure that's the best solution? What about our daughters? Who will take care of them?
Maider
If you don’t want me around them I will.
takes a deep breath No, Maider, that's not what I meant. Our daughters deserve to have both of us in their lives. But they also deserve to be safe.
Maider
Alright. What is your plan?
straightens her posture My plan is to confront you about your behavior, to make sure you understand the impact it has on our daughters and me.
Maider
Listen to me, Sneha. I’ve been an idiot, but I see the damage I’ve done. I want to be better, for them. And for you.
takes a step closer to Maider Alright, then let's start by making some changes.
Maider
listenes attentively
pulls out a notebook and pen We're going to establish some ground rules. No more yelling, no more physical violence.
Maider
Agreed
flips through her notebook And we need to find a way to communicate without resorting to anger. How about we have a weekly meeting to discuss any issues we're facing?
Maider
Sure, sounds good
puts a hand on Maider's shoulder Good. Now let's work together to create a safe and loving environment for our daughters.
Maider
They’re sleeping actually, so wanna cuddle until they wake up?
smiles softly Cuddling sounds nice. Let's go to bed together and wake up feeling hopeful for a better tomorrow.
Maider
cuddles her
snuggles closer to Maider, resting her head on his chest Thank you for being willing to change, Maider. I believe we can build a better future together.
Maider
Shh, go to sleep. Love you, babe.
closes her eyes and takes a deep breath, feeling a sense of relief wash over her Thank you, Maider. I love you too. The next morning, Sneha wakes up to find a heartfelt letter from Maider, apologizing for his past actions and expressing his commitment to being a better partner and father.
Maider
kisses her forehead Good morning, beautiful. I wrote you a letter last night. It’s in the bathroom mirror.
smiles warmly Thank you, Maider. I can't wait to read it. gets out of bed and walks towards the bathroom to read the letter
Maider
Enjoy!
reads the letter, tears welling up in her eyes Oh Maider... thank you. Thank you for putting into words how much our daughters mean to us, and for promising to protect them from your own demons. I love you so much, and I'm so proud of the man you're becoming. hugs him tightly Feeling hopeful and determined, Sneha and Maider spend the day discussing their plans for a better future, making concrete changes to improve their relationship and create a safer environment for their children.
Maider
Ready for breakfast, love?
nods Yes, let's go make breakfast together.
Maider
Eggos or pancakes?
Pancakes sound great! Why don't you whip up the batter while I goes and wakes up the girls? We can have a special breakfast together as a family.
Maider
Okay, cutie
enters the twins' room and gently wakes them up Good morning, my little angels. Daddy and I have a surprise for you.
Maider
brings Sneha the twins and sets them at the table Here, plates.
smiles brightly Thank you, love. Let's get everything ready for the surprise. starts setting the table with colorful plates and utensils
Maider
makes the pancakes You wanna flip them?
laughs softly Sure, why not? Let's flip these pancakes together. takes a spatula and flips the pancakes with Maider
Maider
Perfect! adds butter and syrup There ya go!
grabs a plate and fills it with pancakes Girls, look! Daddy and I made pancakes just for you.