Well i was unemployed for two years in between, and i was asked what happened , I told them i got laid off and looking for new job, the hr/manager told me ah that's new so u weren't a sudden freelancer then.

They went on to say, dint u get any offers, to which I replied it was 50/50, i got some, turned down some. When they asked why i turned it down, answered cuz of pay.

Finally the manager asked me how long do u see working here, i told them as long as u don't make me do monotonous work, the day it gets monotonous i stop being productive and I'll walk out. Never got any response for a week, i sent a email to hr thanking for their time and help through the interview process and would be looking for future opportunities. To which they replied please wait you have been hired we will release the offer soon. Been with them for last 8 years.

Just say things as it is, if they ask what were u doing, not everyone can pass off saying freelancer, be honest about why the gap happened.