My rage ignited at Xavier's words. Yvonne and Jared had twisted his morals beyond recognition.

"Xavier," I said coldly, "remember this: no matter what happens to your mother and me, you two will always be brothers. Hurting Jonas hurts our family. Do you understand?"

Xavier huffed, turning and walking away. I shook my head, scooping Jonas into my arms.

"Daddy, can we go home? I don't want to go to the amusement park anymore," he whispered.

"Alright, son. Let's go home." I kissed his forehead.

After talking to his teacher, I took Jonas home. I messaged Yvonne, briefly explaining the situation and canceling Jonas's visit.

Her reply was curt: "Suit yourself."

A wry smile touched my lips. Once, I'd envisioned a happy family with her. Now, the thought felt absurd.

That night, I built blocks with Jonas, then read him a bedtime story. Watching him sleep peacefully brought a sliver of relief.

Later, I called Hayden. "Hayden, are you free? I need to talk."

He sensed my weariness. "What's wrong, Cole? Trouble?"

"The divorce," I chuckled wryly, "is far more complicated than I imagined."

"Told you so," Hayden sighed. "Divorce isn't the answer, especially not for the kids."

"Hayden, I know you want the best for me, but there's no turning back with Yvonne. I'm worried about the children."

I recounted the day's events. After a long silence, he said, "Cole, be strong. For Jonas, you have to endure. And we need to spend more time with Xavier. We can't let Yvonne lead him astray."

"I understand," I nodded, "but sometimes… I feel so powerless."

"Cole, remember you're a Joplin," Hayden's voice grew solemn. "A Joplin doesn't get beaten down. Your responsibility is Jonas. Give him a happy, healthy life. Don't dwell on the rest."

After hanging up, I stood on the balcony, gazing at the city lights. Hayden's words offered strength, but the emptiness lingered.

The next day, at school, we ran into Yvonne and Xavier. I crouched beside Jonas. "Go on, pay attention. I'll pick you up later."

Jonas nodded, gave Yvonne a shy greeting, and hurried inside.

As I turned to leave, Yvonne stopped me. "Cole, I need to talk."

I faced her, stoic. "What is it?"

She frowned. "Don't you think you're too cold to Xavier? He's still your son."

I scoffed. "Oh? He doesn't seem to think so."

Yvonne's face crumpled. "Cole, you've changed. You weren't like this before."

Exhaustion washed over me as I looked at her.