Chapter 221

Dominick’s face went murderously grim at Max’s “Mr. Ex.” Even Paisley, who considered Max calm and reserved, was startled. Before she could react, Dominick seized her wrist, twisting her around. "Paisley, what's this about letting my daughter call that man ‘dad’?"

"What are you talking about?" Paisley exclaimed. "Max and I are just neighbors!" She wasn't worried about Dominick misunderstanding; she just wanted to spare Max trouble.

"Neighbors? He takes Rena kite flying, runs errands for you, brings you food! Do you think I'm blind?"

"If you don't believe me, there's nothing I can do," Paisley snapped, her irritation rising.

Dominick stepped closer. "I won't let another man be 'dad' to my daughter!"

"Dominick, stop this! I haven't the energy for your tantrums!" Serena was still unconscious, the anesthetic soon to wear off.

Frustration boiled over as Dominick saw Max standing beside Paisley. He wanted to explode, but Paisley's clear impatience silenced him. He saw a reflection of his past self in her eyes.

Paisley shoved him away. "Fine. You know everything. It's late. Leave. And for Rena's sake, don't tell her the truth yet. She's already fragile."

The image of Serena’s avoidance, her whispered accusations of him being "mean and scary," choked him. How many stupid things had he done?

Paisley walked back to the ward, leaving Dominick behind. She heard his footsteps fade. Relief washed over her. Max handed Maria the food and sat opposite her.

"Thanks," Paisley said. "Sorry to have taken up your time."

Max smiled. "No problem. My people did most of the work. Besides, you've helped me twice."

Paisley smiled faintly.

"I should apologize," Max continued. "My actions caused you trouble."

Remembering Max's "Mr. Ex," Paisley laughed. "Why'd you do that?"

Max sighed, his voice calm. "Your ex-husband's family was preventing you from seeing Rena. I saw Rena alone and felt sorry for her."

Paisley recalled the scene, tears pricking her eyes. Thanks to Maria, she finally understood everything—including Lauren's earlier words to Maria and Serena.