Her Return, His Regret by Natie

Chapter 114~ The PTA meeting

The day of the annual Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) meeting had arrived and Ryan was present as promised.

"Are you sure you're not busy?" Lora asked worriedly when they arrived at the children's school.

"No, I'm not... I'll be going on leave soon so I've delegated most of my work," Ryan replied. "And I wouldn't miss this important moment for anything in the world. My father stopped showing up when I was young and it affected me... I don't want our kids to go through the same."

Lora bit her lower lip, her heart feeling full. There was just something attractive about a responsible, present father. Right at that moment, Lora loved Ryan a little more.

Ryan and Lora entered the school auditorium, holding Ethan and Ella's hands. The hall was buzzing with a low hum of parents and teachers chatting as they filled the seats.

Ethan and Ella immediately spotted their friends and waved excitedly. They wanted their friends to see that they came with both their parents to the PTA meeting.

"Ok, you two. Time to go and sit with your friends, your father and I will be in the audience," Lora remarked.

The twins gave both their parents hugs before going to join their classmates at the seats reserved for the children.

Ryan smiled and held Lora's hand before leading her toward the sitting area reserved for parents.

After they settled, Ryan suddenly said, "I need to get something, I'll be back."

Lora frowned and replied, "Can't you get it later? The program is about to start."

"No, I need it now. I'll be back soon, I promise," Ryan stated before getting up and leaving.

Ella saw Ryan leave. She looked worried as her eyes followed him where he was going.

Lora saw this and her stomach knotted when she saw the look on her daughter's face. Was she worried that Ryan would leave without watching her perform?

When Ella turned to look at Lora with watery eyes, Lora shook her head and mouthed, "Daddy is coming back."

Although it was far, she made gestures with her hands and Ella seemed to understand. She nodded her little head and turned to concentrate on the program.

After a brief welcome speech by the principal and a few updates from the PTA board, it was now time for the student performances.

Ryan returned with a huge gift bag and settled in

to get

them after," Ryan said before looking at the children and giving them a wave. Ella grinned when she

has planned?" Ryan asked. "She

no idea. Perhaps she's just happy we are here together to

whispered just as the

Ryan was nervous for

chuckled at his restlessness and

Ella's turn to perform. Her brother held her

so sweet," the audience cooed

piano at the corner of

when they heard the music. Even

five-year-old kid playing the piano

microphone to her

eyes but the moment she saw Ryan and Lora smiling and waving at her, her face

Ella Davis Kingsley, and I would like to share a special poem that I've written,"

and Lora shared surprised glances. They didn't expect Ella to add Kingsley

time, Ethan changed the tempo and played a slower piece that

smile growing

best Daddy in the

warm hugs when I feel sad,

our family

happiest girl in the world, because my Daddy is

is

there to catch me before I fall, always protecting

his love, I feel like the

proud to say he's my daddy, every single

I love you, Daddy."

already rushing towards

hush had fallen

small voice filling the place