Chapter 46

Marissa approached Dominick, composed. "I picked up Grayson early. Ran into Ms. Sutton."

Dominick shrugged. He figured she knew he was back, maybe called Grayson.

Paisley, shivering in the wind with Serena, was ready to leave. "Okay, he's with you. I'm going."

Dominick started to speak, but Grayson interrupted, "Oh, Dad, are those roses for Marissa?"

Marissa, noticing the pink roses, felt a pang of suspicion. He'd never given her flowers. Seizing the moment, she snatched the bouquet, feigning delight. "Pink roses! My favorite! Thank you, Dom." She eyed Paisley.

A chill ran down Paisley's spine. Dominick had never given her flowers. The irony—pink roses, symbolizing first love—was sharp. Marissa must have been his first love, just as his mother and sister claimed. A self-deprecating laugh escaped her. So, it was all me.

Before Dominick could explain, Teddy arrived, laden with fruit and supplements.

"Paisy! Got some stuff for you guys!" Teddy beamed, his arms overflowing. His spiky hair, white T-shirt, and jeans showcased youthful energy. His biceps strained against his sleeves as he raised his arms.

Serena, previously subdued, lit up. "Daddy!" she squealed, running to him.

Chapter 16

Paisley sighed inwardly. Geez, it's Teddy, not Daddy. Serena's mispronunciation grated on her nerves.

Dominick froze. The word "Daddy" hit him like a physical blow. He'd suspected Serena might be his daughter, even suspected Paisley of lying. He’d planned a DNA test. But hearing the girl call that man "Daddy"...

His hands clenched into fists. A searing pain ripped through his chest. So, Serena isn't mine. Paisley lied…