"It's done, Dad," I said, a wry laugh escaping me. "I can't turn back now. Besides, Yvonne's not worth it."

Dad sighed. "So, what's the plan? Raising the kids separately?"

I nodded. "For now, it's the only choice. I'll do my best for Jonas."

Silence hung between us before Dad said, "Cole, whatever happens, you're still our son. Your mom and I will always be here for you. Let us know if you need anything."

"Thank you, Dad," I said, touched by his words.

Late that night, Jonas slept soundly in the car. I carried him inside, tucked him into bed, and then quietly settled onto the couch. My phone buzzed; several notifications, all about Jared. One headline screamed, "Shocking! Award-Winning Actor Jared Lawson Spotted on a Date with Mysterious Beauty! Possible New Romance Exposed!" A blurry photo showed Jared and Yvonne at a fancy restaurant. Even blurred, I recognized her.

I scrolled through the comments—speculation ran wild. Some recognized Yvonne, but most were clueless. Just as I was about to switch off my phone, another notification popped up: "Exclusive! Jared Lawson and Yvonne Langley, CEO of Langley Group, Go Public with Their Relationship!" The accompanying photo showed them hand-in-hand at a charity gala, Yvonne radiant, Jared beaming. The article confirmed they were college sweethearts, reunited and rekindled.

I stared at the picture until the screen went black.

The next morning at school, Xavier spotted us. "Daddy, did you see the news? Mommy and Jared are together! They're so cool!"

"Mhm," I replied, masking my discomfort. "I saw it."

Yvonne approached calmly. "Cole, about last night—"

"No need to explain," I interrupted. "It's your personal life. I just hope you'll consider the impact on the children."

She looked surprised, then nodded. "I understand. We'll handle it."

I crouched to Jonas. "Go on. Pay attention in class." He nodded, following Xavier inside. Without another glance at Yvonne, I left.

Back at the office, I'd barely sat down when a secretary burst in, breathless. "Mr. Joplin, reporters are outside asking about your relationship with Ms. Langley. They—"

"Ignore them," I cut her off. "Don't answer any questions."

She nodded and fled. I leaned back, closed my eyes, and braced myself.