PART–141
Logan
I didn’t know why I agreed to join Felix and his family for a trip to Vienna where they were going to celebrate his wife’s birthday along with her grandmother’s birthday.
The quietness and serenity of the place was good for my mental peace but seeing everyone happy together, clicking family photos, sitting together on dining table, I felt hollowness inside me.
I would have planned this kind of trip with Tessa.
“Mr. Wilferd, you forgot your tablet in the patio. I thought kids might take it so I brought it here for you.” Ashley’s voice pulled me out of my trance and I looked at the woman who was holding my tablet.
“Thank you, Ms. Steller.” I took it from her.
“Everyone is going to explore the city. Why don’t you join us?”
“I am fine here. Besides, I don’t think I am much of a shopper or an excited tourist.” I politely turned down
her offer.
She shook her head, “I know and I am not much interested in history but sometimes we find unexpected things and it becomes a lifetime memory for us.” She said.
I wanted to enjoy the morning alone but there she was trying to initiate a conversation. She was a good person but I wasn’t the one whom she should approach.
“Here you are, Ash. I was looking for you everywhere.” Amanda, the over energetic wife of my cousin walked towards us holding her small baby bump.
“I invited Mr. Wilferd to come with us but he refused.” Ashely replied to her sister and Amanda narrowed her eyes at me.
“Logan, don’t be a sulking old man and come with us.” Amanda rolled her eyes, “You have exactly fifteen minutes to get ready. We’re leaving and I don’t want to hear any excuse. I know you have managed your work schedule for this week.” She said with crossed hands.
“Amanda, you know I don’t like wandering around without purpose. I came here because you wanted to celebrate a memorable birthday. Please, let me stay here at the villa.” I tried to convince the stubborn, pregnant lady.
“You can carry our bags if you aren’t interested in visiting the places.” Amanda added.
“Mr. Wilferd, everyone is going. You’ll feel bored here and if you don’t want to go with us in group then you can explore places alone. There are many exotic cafes and art galleries.” Ashley added.
“Alright, I will come with you but don’t expect me to carry your bags.” I gave in.
Coming here was a bad idea from the beginning but I was already a part of their trip so I didn’t want them to bother about me
The mild air and lush greenery around the area was actually calming but I felt nothing except the gloominess as I strolled through the city lanes.
Far away from the crowdy big cities, I was actually feeling better because I didn’t have to worry about the safety or the stress of work
After walking for hours, I entered in a small café. The fresh aroma of baked sweet treats made me want to eat something with coffee so I ordered some pastries and whipped coffee
While waiting for my order to arrive, I looked out of the glass windows at the passing people.
“Uncle Eliot, I want cinnamon cakes.”
A girl’s sweet voice forced me to shift my gaze to the owner of such sweet voice. There was a girl with a man, she was pouting and glancing on the shelf.
“But they are out of stock for today, Lena.” The man said to the small girl.
My heart skipped a beat when I heard the name.
“Uncle Eliot, but I really want to eat it.” The girl looked sheepishly at the man.
“Here, take it.‘ I insisted and she shyly took the plate from my hand.
“Thank you, Sir.” She smiled widely as she thanked me in her sweet voice.
Her radiant face and priceless to have something she wanted, it was the best thing that had happened in my life in a long time.
“It’s my pleasure. Please, enjoy it.” I said.
“I can pay for it, Sir.” The man offered but I shook my head in denial.
“Oh, there’s no need to pay me. I am glad that I can make her smile. Please, enjoy.” I said and proceeded to walk out of the café when I felt a tug on my hand.
I turned around and saw the girl holding my hand.
“I will ask my Mamma to bake her dry fruit cookies for you. She makes the best cookies.” She said.
“Thank you, Lena but I think I won’t be coming here again. I am only a visitor here and day after tomorrow, I have to go back home.” I replied.
“Oh, okay. Thank you again for the cake, Sir.” She smiled again.
“It’s nice to meet you, Lena.” I said and with a heavy heart I left the café.
The unexpected meeting with the small girl made me even more miserable. I would have a daughter of the same age but Tessa’s stubbornness stole my precious girl from me.
I’d never forgive you, Tessa Wilferd.

Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Goodbye, Mr. Ex-Husband, I Won't Come Back