Chapter 212

Dominick watched Serena, bundled in the nanny’s coat, a shiver of concern running through him. He started towards her, the thought of a better room forming in his mind, before he even realized he was moving. Lauren saw him go, hesitated, then let him. The nanny’s bravery had earned her trust.

“Maria, I’m sleepy,” Serena mumbled, her eyelids drooping. Maria bounced her gently. “Rena, be good. We go home after the doctor.”

The doctor overheard, chiming in, “Yes, I’ll check you soon. Then home.”

Serena fought to stay awake, but blackness swallowed her. She opened her eyes to Dominick’s frowning face. She jumped, clinging to Maria. Dominick’s harshness towards her mother fueled her dislike.

His eyes darkened. “Do you need a room?”

Maria refused. “No need. We’ll—”

Paisley’s voice, trembling and choked with emotion, exploded from the speakerphone. “Maria, how are you and Rena?”

Dominick felt a knot tighten in his chest. She’s crying. Scared. He thought, It’s okay, Paisley. I’m here.

“We’re fine! Don’t worry,” Maria reassured her, sensing Paisley’s distress.

A car horn blared through the phone. “Paisley, are you driving?” Maria gasped.

Dominick’s heart pounded. Madness! What if something happens? He started to speak, but a man’s voice cut him off.

“Maria, don’t worry. I’m driving. We’ll be at the hospital soon.”

Max’s voice washed over Maria, a smile blooming on her face. “Oh, Max! Rena and I are fine. Take your time.”

“Alright,” Max’s voice was calm. “Rena, talk to your mom. She’s worried.”

“Mommy, Rena’s waiting for you,” Serena chirped.

Paisley’s voice cracked. “Maria, I’ll hang up. We’ll be there soon.”

Maria ended the call, then saw Dominick hadn’t left. His face was grim.

“Max?” Dominick asked, low.

Maria shrugged. “They live next door. Isn’t that normal?”

Dominick’s face paled. Next door? Millions of ants gnawing at my heart. He felt nauseous, his Adam’s apple bobbing.

“Dominick, we don’t need your help,” Maria said coolly. “Take care of your own son.”

He clenched his fists, a single word escaping, “Okay.” He turned and left, his sorrow palpable. Maria felt a flicker of sympathy, then quickly dismissed it. He’s a jerk!

Their conversation hadn’t been private. The Vanderbilts overheard.

“Hal!” Lauren hissed. “Paisley’s living with her lover, caring about that bastard’s child, not Sonny!”

Kayla tried to defend Paisley, but Lauren silenced her, her anger raw. Reginald patted Dominick’s shoulder silently.

Maria felt a surge of satisfaction. Then Serena tugged at her. “Maria, I’m so tired. I want to sleep.”