Broken Memories, Intertwined Hearts novel Chapter 523

Ethan and Ines had been having the time of their lives. But as the days turned into two weeks, Ines began to feel the tug of homesickness. Her thoughts drifted to their two little babies back home. Were they eating well? Were bedtime stories being read?

The urgent voice of Phillip had already echoed through several phone calls, but Ethan had fielded each one, keeping the chaos caused by their dynamic duo close to the chest.

“Honey, shouldn’t we be heading back?” Ines mused. Her voice was tinged with guilt and longing.

Ethan frowned, not mentioning anything about the two little babies. “No rush, love. What else do you want to see? Let’s go back a bit later.”

But Ines was unwavering. “No, I miss Ivy and Ollie. We can always travel again. You said your life is with me, Ethan. Don’t think you can get off this easy. You owe me more adventures.”

Unable to resist her playful pout, Ethan caved, “Alright, we’ll head back tomorrow first thing. Let’s make today count.”

They returned home with suitcases laden with souvenirs, only to be met with the cold shoulder from Ivy and Ollie. Gone were the usual squeals and hugs -- this time, they didn’t even glance up from their toys as their parents entered the living room.

“Ivy, Ollie, Mommy and Daddy are home,” Ines called out again. Her voice was a blend of cheer and desperation.

The kids paid her no mind, treating her words like a breeze that had simply ruffled their hair.

Ines shot Ethan a glare. “This is your fault. I wanted to come back sooner.”

Ethan shrugged it off. “They’ll come around. Just let them vent a bit.”

Easy for him to say. Ines picked up Olivine, who didn’t resist but stayed stubbornly quiet in her arms. It was the embodiment of passive resistance. “Sweetie, Mommy’s sorry. I should have come back sooner,” Ines cooed apologetically, trying to plant a kiss on her daughter’s cheek.

Olivine turned her face away, which was the ultimate snub.

Phillip chuckled at Ines’ failed attempt, “What did you expect? You were gone for ages. Of course, they’re peeved.”

“Grandpa, I’m so sorry. They must have given you all a hard time,” Ines said with genuine concern.

Phillip gestured to his heart, “The ruckus wasn’t the issue. It was seeing them cry that really got to us.”

A flicker of amusement crossed Ethan’s face as he scooped up Oliverio, who, like his sister, ignored their dad completely, even letting out a disdainful huff.