Chapter 18

My dad’s voice was weary. "Cole, your mom hasn't slept well. She's worried about you. When are you coming home?"

I sighed. "Dad, I know you're worried, but things are complicated. I'm afraid—"

"Afraid of what?" he barked. "You're a Joplin. What's there to be afraid of? Be home for dinner tomorrow night. Bring Jonas."

His tone left me no choice. After the call, I rubbed my temples. Tomorrow's dinner wouldn't be peaceful.

The next morning, dropping Jonas off, we ran into Yvonne and Xavier. Xavier glared. I crouched beside Jonas. "Have a good day. I'll pick you up later."

Jonas nodded, then hesitated before joining Xavier. Yvonne approached. "Cole, a teacher said Jonas is distracted. Do you know why?"

"I'll handle it," I said flatly. "Don't worry about him."

She frowned. "What's with your attitude? We should work together on our children's issues."

"Drop the act, Yvonne," I scoffed. "When have you ever cared about the children?"

Anger flashed. "Cole, you've gone too far! How could I not care?"

"Oh really?" I sneered. "What was Xavier's homework last night? How did they do on their midterms?"

Yvonne stammered. I shook my head. "Stop pretending, Ms. Langley. Take care of Xavier. You don't need to worry about Jonas."

I turned and walked away, ignoring her shouts.

Later, a secretary announced an emergency meeting. Jared Lawson was there. He stood, smiling, hand outstretched. "Mr. Joplin. It's been a while."

I didn't shake it. "Mr. Lawson, what are you doing here?"

His smile faltered. "I have a new project… a collaboration with Joplin Group."

"We don't work with unsavory characters," I said coldly. "Leave."

He frowned. "Mr. Joplin, business is business. Don't make it personal."

"Leave," I repeated, "or I'll call security."

He left. Then it hit me: this collaboration was why he'd called.