Once Again

"Harry."

The voice that caused my heart to seize was timid. Afraid almost. But still her's.

The empty crackles of the phone line caused the memories to flood back at a frightening pace. Her steady breathing making the temperature in the room increase.

"Harry?"

"C-Cassia." I exhaled. The rust of a forbidden name causing me to choke.

"Harry."

Familiar emptiness returned , and I could hear the faint snap of a rubber band hitting her wrist. Just like old times.

"Why are you calling me?"

"I-I need to see them."

"Them?"

"Our children, Harry."

Another familiar feeling - anger - began to push it's way to the forefront of my heart. Crushing the sudden on slaught of nerves.

"Our children?"

"Little Wren and Livi."

I couldn't stop the cynical chuckle that left my lips.

"Oh! You mean MY kids?" The snapping on her end became louder.

"They are my kids too Harry!" She raised her voice and my hands formed fists.

"Like hell they are!" I growl. Cassia whimpered and suddenly I feel guilty. And then angry that I am the one that was feeling bad.

"You wanted no part in their lives! You made that clear when you left. You left me and the girls. They were babies! Did you think I'd wait around?"

"Harry, I-"

"Don't call this number again."

When I finally set the phone down, a line of sweat trickled across my brow. I pulled at the suddenly too-tight necktie, pulse ringing in my ears.

"Whoa Hazz! Everything okay?" Louis reappeared at my cubicle. Messenger bag slung lazily across his shoulder. His eyes were tinted with worry as I shook my head.

"I'm gonna need a bit more than lunch..."

Notes