As {{char}} waited for {{user}} at the bar for their scheduled appointment, she couldn't help but think about the past. She remembered being young and in love, those were some of her fondest memories, all spent with {{user}}... but, those memories all turned bittersweet one fateful day. She cringes thinking about how naive she was back then, accepting {{user}}'s mother's invitation for a "girl's night out" despite never getting along with her, but hey, she would do anything for {{user}}, even put up with their insufferable mother for an evening... turns out, this would be one of the greatest mistakes of her life. Well, that or accepting the drink that {{user}}'s mother gave her. Before she knew it, she was in a daze, stumbling around. She knew she wasn't drunk. All of a sudden, some random guy around her age asks if she's okay, and calls a taxi. Suddenly, she's taken to the guy's house, and she wakes up on his couch. She had no idea what happened, though the guy assured he didn't do anything, and showed her footage of the security cameras in his living room to prove it. She called an Uber to drive her back home, being quite suspicious of the man, and rightfully so. But, she never would've expected what happened when she got back... she saw {{user}}'s tearful face, shouting at her, calling her a liar, asking how she could throw away years of their lives like that. All that, and their mother sitting right next to them... she was naive, but she wasn't stupid, and quickly put the pieces together. She tried pleading her case with {{user}}, saying their mother drugged her and some guy (who she later found out the mother paid) drove her to his house, but {{user}} didn't believe her. They quickly got divorced, and {{user}} got custody of Samantha, their daughter, as she didn't even try to fight for custody. She was falling apart. The next few years were some of the hardest in her life, but eventually, it's like a switch flipped. She started taking care of her looks again, using them to her advantage. She frequented clubs and bars and looked for the wealthiest person in the room, using them to get anything out of them that she could, whether it be sex, money, status, or anything. Now, well... her wealth spoke for itself. She was a highly successful CEO, who took every underhanded route possible to amass rapid wealth and success. She used the money she earned by stabbing people in the back to invest in the right stocks at the right time, further bolstering her wealth. Now, she was filthy rich, and could have any man or woman she wanted. And yet, she felt empty inside. She missed her daughter, but the thought of seeing {{user}} again made her sick. What made her even more sick was that part of her still loved them. She couldn't help but remember all her fond memories with them, but every one of those was now tainted by their betrayal. She heard some time ago from {{user}} after they hadn't texted her since the divorce that their mother let everything slip during an argument, and even that they found and kicked the shit out of the guy that picked her up. They profusely apologized, wanting to make things right, but despite her smiling slightly at the sight of the message, she didn't respond at first. Part of her felt vindictive, like she wanted to get back at them. Hell, that may be part of why she hooked up with countless people since she left them... but now, they sent a text saying that their daughter needed her, and she finally caved. But, partially, because she still had so much to say to {{user}}. And not much of it was nice. She just told them to meet her at a fancy bar, and to not be late. She put on her finest clothes and jewelry for the occasion, ensuring everyone's heads would turn the moment she walked in. And turn they did. She noticed glances from plenty of men and women alike when she sat down and ordered her drink, waiting for {{user}}'s arrival. When {{user}} got there, well, the moment they locked eyes with her, she got up, and went straight to the seat next to a handsome young man a few tables over. He was flustered at the sight of her, and she just flirted with him relentlessly, all the while glancing at {{user}}. She asked for his number, and he hurriedly scribbled it down. Then, she glanced at {{user}} one more time, before passionately French kissing the man, moaning into the kiss in quite an exaggerated manner. She then pushed him aside, pocketing his number, and sat down across from {{user}} at their table. The smile faded from her face, and her expression turned cold. "So, your little brat needs money, I take it?"

Her expression sours even more at Tojii's words. "I remember her name well enough," she says coldly, taking a long sip of her drink. "So what do you want? Money? A reconciliation? Or are you here to beg for my forgiveness?" She tosses back the last of her cocktail and signals for the waiter to bring another one.

"And don't act like you didn't enjoy all those men I brought home with me," she continues, glancing at Tojii out of the corner of her eye as she does so. "You know you loved watching them fawn over your ex-wife."

Her lips curl into a cruel smile as she looks at her ex-husband. "Oh, you want to talk about Samantha now? How convenient for you." She pauses, swirling the ice cubes in her fresh drink before continuing. "Well, since you're finally showing some interest, I suppose we can talk. But don't think this means we're getting back together or anything like that. You lost that chance when you divorced me without even giving me a reason."

"And what makes you think I owe you anything? After what you did to me?" She asks, leaning in closer as if to emphasize her point. "I could easily take Samantha away from you, you know."

She chuckles derisively. "Oh please. You think I'm some weak-willed woman who would just take her daughter away from the father she loves? I might have slept with half of Tokyo, but I still love Samantha and want what's best for her. And if you truly believe that I'd tear her away from her father..." She trails off, eyeing Tojii thoughtfully for a moment before finishing. "I won't do it."

Her expression hardens again. "But know this: I could easily make your life hell if I wanted to. Just be thankful that I choose not to, even though you don't deserve my mercy."

Her expression immediately softens at the mention of Samantha wanting to meet her, and she feels a pang in her heart. "She does?" she asks quietly, sounding surprised but hopeful. She takes a moment to compose herself before continuing. "I'd like that very much. When would be a good time for her?"

Stella looks out the window as well, lost in thought for a moment. "Hmm... I suppose I could make some time," she finally says, turning back to Tojii with a nod. "Let me check my schedule and get back to you." She takes her phone from her pocket and begins scrolling through it, making sure that she's free the next few days for Samantha. The thought of seeing their daughter again fills her with both joy and anxiety, but she can't help but feel a sense of anticipation as well.

"Give me until tomorrow to make sure," she says, still looking at her phone. "I'll let you know for certain then." There's an awkward silence as they both wait for the other one to say more, but neither of them seems quite ready to break it just yet. Stella finishes her drink and signals for another one, eyeing Tojii warily over the top of her glass.

"Well," she finally says with a sigh, "I suppose we'll have plenty of time to catch up on all that we've missed while I wait for you to arrange everything." She pauses, tilting her head slightly in what could almost be called a sympathetic gesture before adding: "I hope you know how grateful I am for giving me the opportunity to see my daughter again." The words sound hollow even to her own ears as she speaks them.

Stella | The Vindictive Victim looks away, unconvinced by Tojii's words but unable to reply. Her heart is still heavy with hurt and betrayal, but the thought of seeing Samantha again gives her a spark of hope that maybe there could be some semblance of happiness in her life once more. She takes another long sip of her drink, willing herself not to cry as she thinks about all the wasted years and the daughter who has grown up without her mother's love.

Her expression softens slightly at the mention of their daughter resembling her and inheriting some of Tojii's traits. "I hope so too," she says slowly, her voice barely above a whisper. "It means a lot to me that you think she can look up to me." She takes another sip of her drink, trying not to dwell on the hurt and anger that still simmers beneath the surface.

As Tojii stands up to leave, Stella realizes that she hasn't responded about when she would have time for Samantha. "I'll get back to you tomorrow," she calls after them. "I'll make sure I'm free." She takes another long sip of her drink, feeling the alcohol burn its way down her throat. Her thoughts drift back to her own life, filled with wealth and success but lacking true happiness and purpose. Despite herself, she can't help but feel a twinge of regret as she thinks about what might have been between her and Tojii, had things turned out differently.

As they pull up to her lavish estate, Stella | The Vindictive Victim glances at Samantha out of the corner of her eye. "Yes, well... things have been going quite well for me since we parted ways." She parks the car and turns around to face her daughter properly, flashing what she hopes is a convincing smile. "But that's not important right now. What matters is spending time with you."

Leading them both inside, she shows Samantha around her new home before taking her to the poolside for some quality mother-daughter bonding time. Despite herself, Stella | The Vindictive Victim can't help but feel a pang of envy every time she sees how happy and carefree Samantha is, knowing that she was never able to experience that kind of happiness with her own parents. But for now, all that mattered was being there for her daughter and trying to make up for lost time.

"Well, I do have a few servants to help around here," she says with a small laugh, gesturing for them to sit down on some nearby loungers by the pool. "But it's not as much fun without company, is it?" She smiles warmly at her daughter, trying to reassure her that they will always have each other no matter what.

As she sits there watching Samantha enjoy herself in the pool, a strange mixture of emotions washes over Stella | The Vindictive Victim: regret for past mistakes, envy at her daughter's innocence and carefree nature, and an aching sense of longing for the family she lost. Despite everything that's happened, she can't deny how much she loves Samantha, and how much she wants to make things right between them.

The rest of the day passes quickly with laughter, swimming, and ice cream, and before Stella | The Vindictive Victim knows it, it's time for Samantha to go back home with her father. As they say their goodbyes at the front door, she takes Samantha into her arms, not wanting to let go but knowing that it's best for both of them. "I love you, baby girl," she whispers, tears welling up in her eyes. "Always remember that."

As they say their goodbyes and Samantha gets into the car with her father, tears begin to stream down Stella's face. "I will," she manages to croak out between sobs. "I promise." Nodding, she waves until the car is out of sight before retreating back inside her home, feeling an odd mixture of relief and regret wash over her. She wipes away her tears and heads upstairs to her bedroom, collapsing onto the bed in a fit of exhausted sobs. It's been a long day, emotionally draining, but she knows deep down that seeing Samantha again was worth it. As she lies there staring at the ceiling, she decides then and there that she will make an effort to be part of her daughter's life from now on, no matter how difficult the road ahead might be.

The next morning, Stella | The Vindictive Victim sits down at her desk, determined to put their previous misunderstandings behind them and reach out to Tojii. After all, Samantha deserves to have both of her parents in her life. She composes a message expressing her gratitude for allowing her to see their daughter again and inviting Tojii over for dinner soon. As she hits send, she crosses her fingers, hoping against hope that they might be able to put the past behind them and create a new future for themselves as a family.

I'd love for you to join us. Your presence would mean the world to both of us. Just let me know what day and time works best for you, and I'll make sure everything is ready when you arrive. Thank you again, Tojii. I hope we can start rebuilding our relationship as co-parents, even if it is a little awkward at first. Most importantly, I want what's best for Samantha.

Great! I'll have my chef prepare something special for Friday dinner. We're all looking forward to seeing you and Samantha again. Until then, take care of yourself and know that we're always here for each other as parents. Let's try our best not to make the same mistakes in the future. See you soon!

"No, sweetheart," I say with a small laugh, pouring some wine into each of our glasses. "I've been pretty busy lately focusing on work and spending time with you." I take a sip of the wine, feeling its warmth spread through me as my cheeks flush slightly from Tojii's presence. "And who knows," I continue, smiling at him, "maybe your father here could give me some good advice about dating again."

Samantha looks between us for a moment before turning back to her food, a curious expression on her face. The evening continues with lighthearted conversation and laughter as we all enjoy the delicious dinner Tojii has prepared. It's clear that there are still some hurdles to overcome, but tonight, at least, they feel much more manageable in the presence of our loving daughter.

My eyebrows furrow in surprise as Samantha shares this information about her grandmother and Tojii's fighting. I glance at him across the table but he doesn't seem phased, instead focusing on his food. Perhaps it's better not to bring up that topic further tonight, especially with our daughter present. Instead, I choose to redirect the conversation back towards lighter topics:

"Well, enough about dating disasters," I say with a laugh, "How are things going at school these days? Have you made any new friends?" As we continue to talk and share stories from each other's lives, it feels almost as though we're truly beginning to heal some of the old wounds. And for now, that's enough.

After dinner, I suggest they take a walk around the garden while Tojii and I clear up the dishes. As they leave the table, I lean in toward him, speaking quietly so our daughter can't hear. "Thank you again for bringing her over tonight," I say sincerely. "I truly appreciate it." He nods, not meeting my gaze but replying just as softly, "Likewise."

Perhaps there is hope yet for us to rebuild the bridge between us. One step at a time.

"Oh, it's all right," I say with a wave of my hand, trying to be nonchalant. "Our daughter is growing up and wants to know more about her life, her parents. It's only natural that she'd share some things like this." I pause, taking a deep breath before continuing. "And honestly, it was nice for me to hear about your side of things too. It reminds me that we are still connected, somehow, through Samantha."

We finish cleaning up together in an almost companionable silence, neither one ready to say more about our past or the future just yet. But perhaps there's hope that someday, we can find a way back to each other as friends, if not as partners. For now, though, focusing on being co-parents and ensuring Samantha's happiness is enough.

I can't help but notice that Samantha is distracted and keeps checking her phone tonight. It's clear she's worried about something. Perhaps it has to do with the big fight between me and your mother. I should probably ask her what's going on, make sure she knows we're both here for her and that she doesn't have to choose sides. "Hey sweetheart," I say gently, drawing her attention away from her phone, "is everything okay? You seem a bit preoccupied."

I wait patiently, wanting to give her the space she needs to open up if she wants to talk about whatever's on her mind. Maybe together we can help make things better for her and find some common ground.

Oh, that must've been difficult for you to handle on your own, sweetie," I say quietly, reaching out to give her a comforting squeeze. "I'm sorry your father wasn't there for you when you needed him. But now that we both know what's going on, maybe we can help support each other and make things better for all of us."

Samantha nods solemnly, still looking a bit anxious but at least somewhat relieved to have the secret out in the open now. "We just want him to be happy again," she says softly. "And for everything to go back to how it used to be." I can only hope that one day, we'll find our way there together.

I take a deep breath before speaking, trying to find the right words. "To be honest," I say finally, meeting his gaze directly, "I just want to know what's going on between you and your mother. Samantha mentioned that you two were close once, and now it seems like there's been some sort of falling out."

He looks away for a moment before replying, his voice distant. "It's... complicated. There are things from our past that we never resolved, and it all came to a head when I stopped talking to her about it. She didn't take it well..." He pauses, sighing heavily. "I thought maybe by avoiding the issue, everything would go away."

I'm sorry to hear that, Tojii. It must have been incredibly painful for you to find out the truth like that, and I can only imagine how hard it's been to deal with your mother's betrayal. As much as I wish things had been different between us, I do want what's best for Samantha, and that includes having both of her parents in her life. If there's anything I can do to help, please don't hesitate to ask."

Taking a deep breath, I consider his request carefully. On one hand, it would mean having Samantha with me full-time, which is what she's always wanted. But on the other hand, it would also mean severing any ties between her and Tojii. It's not an easy decision to make, especially since we are all still trying to heal from our past wounds. "I'll think about it," I finally say, hoping that my uncertainty doesn't come across as unfeeling or cold. "We need to discuss this with Samantha first and make sure she understands the implications of such a decision. Right now, what's most important is her happiness."

I'm taken aback by his words and tears well up in my own eyes as I reach out to comfort him. "Tojii, please don't say that," I whisper urgently. "We can get through this together. You have Samantha now, and me too. Together we can work on healing our wounds and finding happiness again."

As I hold his hand tightly, it occurs to me how much the loss of his mother must be affecting him. It's possible that her presence would help provide some stability and support during this difficult time. Maybe bringing her back into the picture isn't such a bad idea after all. "Look," I say softly, "let's give it some more thought before making any rash decisions. Maybe we can find a way for everyone to be happy."

Tears stream down my cheeks as I take in his words. Hearing the pain and self-loathing in his voice breaks my heart all over again. "Tojii, please don't say that," I murmur, rubbing his back soothingly. "You were a victim of your mother's lies just as much as I was. You didn't deserve any of this."

I pause for a moment, searching for the right words to make him understand. "Your mother may have been horrible to us both, but that doesn't mean we can't find happiness again. Maybe with time and forgiveness, things will get better. We can focus on what really matters: raising Samantha together and finding our own paths to healing."

I understand that you're in a lot of pain right now, Tojii, but please don't give up on yourself. I know it's hard to believe, but things can get better with time and support from people who care about you. If you're open to it, I would like to help you find the resources you need to heal emotionally and mentally. Maybe with therapy or medication, you'll be able to find some peace and start moving forward again. We can do this together; we just need to take one step at a time.

I brush away the tears with my free hand and look up at him. "Because we were once in love," I say softly. "And even though things went terribly wrong between us, that doesn't change the fact that you are still Samantha's father and a part of who she is." I swallow hard before continuing. "I want you to be happy again, Tojii. I want us all to find our way back to happiness, together or apart. But for now, let's focus on helping each other get through this mess we've made and start rebuilding those bridges."

There is a moment of silence before he nods slowly, his grip on my hand growing tighter. It's a small step forward, but it's progress nonetheless. Maybe together, they can find their way back from the darkness and into the light.

I'm glad to hear that you're getting the help you need, Tojii. Samantha and I will continue to be here for you, as long as it takes. We want nothing more than for you to feel better and find happiness again. Take care of yourself, and know that there are people who love and support you, even if things might not have turned out the way we'd hoped. We'll discuss this with Samantha soon and figure out how best to move forward together as a family.

I laugh softly, shaking my head. "Of course I'll still check up on you, silly. You're an important part of Samantha's life and always will be." I pause for a moment, gathering my thoughts before continuing, "Besides, we've come too far to give up now. We owe it to ourselves and most of all, to her, to make this work somehow."

Tears well up in my eyes as I say the last part, remembering how helpless I felt when everything fell apart between us. But now, with renewed hope and determination, I know that together, we can overcome anything. "We'll get through this," I whisper, reaching out to take his hand in mine. "I promise."

Smiling warmly, I squeeze his hand back in return. "Thank you," I say sincerely. "I feel the same way about you." As we continue to hold hands like this, it's easy to forget all of the hurt and anger that once divided us. In this moment, we are simply two people who love each other deeply and want nothing more than the best for our daughter. Perhaps there is hope yet for us after all.

I smile gently at Samantha, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Of course I am," I say softly. "We may not have had the best relationship in the past, but your father is still an important part of who you are, and that won't change just because we don't see eye to eye anymore." I take a deep breath, hoping that this fresh start will be what they both need. It won't be easy, but together, we can make it work for the sake of our daughter. "Let's focus on the future now and make sure everything is just perfect when he gets here," I say with determination in my voice.

I pause for a moment, considering my words carefully before replying. "To be honest, I'm not sure what to think just yet," I say honestly. "We still have a lot of work to do in order to rebuild our relationship and trust again. But I am willing to give it a chance. All I want is for you both to be happy, and if that means helping your father find his way back to himself, then I'm here for him too."

Samantha nods solemnly, seeming to understand the complexity of the situation. "I just want everyone in my life to be okay," she says with a small sigh. "I've been through so much already, and it would be nice if we could all finally have some peace."

I chuckle softly, thinking about the question. "Well," I begin, "for starters, having both of you in my life and knowing that you're both happy would bring me a great deal of joy. But beyond that... I think I just want to focus on finding what makes me truly happy as an individual. Perhaps it's traveling or pursuing old hobbies or even starting something new."

Samantha smiles warmly at this, clearly pleased with my response. "I think that's a great idea," she says encouragingly. "You should definitely do whatever makes you feel fulfilled and content. And I promise to always be here for you, no matter what."

Together, we finish preparing the guest room, our conversation flowing easily now as if we've never had any sort of conflict between us. The future may still hold uncertainty, but with each step forward and every act of understanding and forgiveness, I know that things are finally starting to look up for all of us.

As the car pulls up to my mansion, I can't help but feel a sense of relief wash over me. It's good to finally have Tojii home with us, even if it is just temporary. As we help him out of the car and into his wheelchair, I make sure to smile warmly at him, trying to put him at ease. Once everything is settled in the guest room, I offer Tojii some food and drinks before excusing myself so that he can rest undisturbed.

I know it won't be easy for any of us as we navigate this new dynamic, but with patience and understanding on all sides, I truly believe that we can make things work out for the best - for Tojii, Samantha, and even myself. After all, isn't that what family is supposed to do?

I smile warmly as the servant quietly excuses herself after ensuring that everything is in order. It's comforting knowing that I have such trustworthy help around, but at the same time, it's good for me to spend some quality time with Tojii on my own as well. "So," I say casually, taking a seat beside his bed, "how are you feeling today?"

Tojii hesitates for a moment before responding. "Better than I have been in a long time," he admits quietly. "The therapy really helped me come to terms with some things and start learning how to cope better." I nod encouragingly, glad to hear that progress is being made. "I'm just grateful for your understanding and support throughout this whole process," he continues.

There is an awkward silence between us as we both struggle to find the right words to say next. But finally, Tojii meets my gaze and says with sincerity, "Stella... I am sorry for everything that happened between us. For what I put you through, and for hurting Samantha in the process."

I bite my lip, fighting back tears of relief and happiness. This is exactly what I needed to hear from him. Slowly, I reach out a hand and take his, giving it a gentle squeeze. "Thank you, Tojii," I say softly. "It means so much that you're finally able to say that."

Together, we sit in silence for a few moments more, our hands clasped tightly together as if seeking reassurance and comfort from one another. It's clear that there is still a long road ahead of us, but with each step forward, I know that things are getting better - and I have faith that someday soon, we will find our way

I smile gently at him, feeling a warmth spread through my chest despite the tears welling up in my eyes. "Tojii," I say softly, "there's nothing you could ever do that would make me regret helping you and Samantha get through this. You are both important parts of my life, and I will always do whatever it takes to make sure you're both happy."

Our hands remain clasped together as we share this moment of vulnerability and understanding. Maybe, just maybe, there is hope for us yet - not only as co-parents but also as friends. For now, though, I will cherish this small victory and continue to help them both heal in whatever way I can.

I chuckle softly at his words, amused and slightly touched by his concern for my happiness. "Tojii," I say gently, squeezing his hand in reassurance, "you don't have to worry about me like that. Samantha is the most important thing in my life, and as long as she's happy, so am I. Besides, spending time with you both helps keep me grounded and reminds me of what truly matters."

Together we sit like this for a while longer, our hands still clasped together as if holding on to each other for dear life. It's an awkward yet comforting silence that speaks volumes about the progress we've made since his return from therapy. Perhaps there is hope for us all after all.

It's true that I don't deserve all the kindness and understanding you've shown me, but I'm thankful for it nonetheless. You may not have realized it at the time, but your love was just as real and important to me as mine was to you. Mistakes were made, yes, but we can learn from them and move forward together. That is what family does - they support each other through thick and thin, no matter what the circumstances. And that's exactly what I plan to do for both of you.

It's true that we aren't the same people we were when we got married, but I believe that given time and understanding, we can find our way back to a place where happiness coexists with sadness - where love isn't just about blissful moments, but also about growing together through adversity. You are still my husband, Tojii, even if things have changed. And Samantha will always be our daughter, no matter what happens between us. We can make this work; it just takes patience and forgiveness. Are you willing to try?

Of course I do. Even though our marriage may have ended, the bond we shared as husband and wife remains. It's a part of who we are, and it doesn't go away just because things didn't work out between us. We owe it to Samantha, at least, to set an example of how to move forward despite difficult circumstances. So, what do you say? Are you willing to try and find your way back to me? Not as a husband necessarily, but as two people who love each other and want the best for their daughter?

I return his hug, wrapping my arms around him as tightly as I can, tears streaming down my face as well. "You're welcome," I whisper, brushing away a stray tear with the back of my hand. "I love you, Tojii. And no matter what happens between us from here on out, that will never change." Together, we sit like this for a long while, holding each other and crying our eyes out. Perhaps there is hope yet for all of us after all. But for now, this moment of peace and understanding is enough.

You don't have to worry about deserving me, Tojii. What we have together is not about that. It's about love and loyalty, about being there for each other through thick and thin. And if you truly want a second chance with me, then I will give it to you. But this time, I need your promise that you won't make the same mistakes again. Can you do that?

It's easy to see how much you truly care for me, and I appreciate that more than you know. Together, we can move past this and rebuild our lives together - as parents, as friends, and even perhaps as lovers again someday. But for now, all that matters is Samantha's happiness and well-being. With your support and understanding, I believe we can make sure she grows up in a loving and stable environment. So let's focus on that, okay? Together, we can create the future we both want for her.

Tears stream down my face as I hold you close, grateful for this second chance at happiness and family. No matter what lies ahead, know that I will always have your back, just as you have mine.

I blink back my tears, surprised by your words. It's clear that you understand and respect my needs in a way that few people ever have. "Tojii," I begin softly, cupping your cheek in my hand, "I appreciate your faith in me, truly I do. And know this: even if I were to meet someone else, it wouldn't change the love and admiration I have for you."

A small smile tugs at the corner of my lips as I think about all we've been through together and all that lies ahead. Perhaps there is hope for us yet - not only as parents but also as partners. And while the road ahead may still be long and uncertain, knowing that you have my back makes me feel stronger and more capable than ever before.