Chapter 27

Jared tried to intervene, but Xavier shoved him aside. "Jared, don't! This is mine!"

I stepped in. "Xavier, sharing is caring. Have you forgotten your manners?"

Xavier glared. "You don't want me anymore, so why should I care?"

A sharp pain pierced me, yet a burden lifted. My voice turned icy. "Fine. Then don't call me Daddy."

Xavier's eyes widened. The tension was thick. Peyton suggested, "It's late. Should we go?" I nodded.

Jared interrupted, eager, "Mr. Joplin, dinner? We could discuss the school."

Irritation flared. "I'm not interested. Do as you please." I took Jonas's hand and left.

Yvonne grabbed my arm. "Cole, we need to talk."

"About what? Custody's settled. We're divorced. Let's keep appearances in mind," I said, my tone laced with mockery. "I have no desire to fuel tabloid fodder about your relationship with Jared."

Yvonne winced. "Can't I even have dinner with you?"

"No. Frankly, you're not worthy," I said, my smile devoid of warmth.

Jared stepped in, protective. "How can you speak to her like that? You're a grown man!"

I laughed coldly. "I wish you and the twice-married Ms. Langley a blissful union. A generous wedding gift awaits. After all, your feelings for her ran deep before she married me. You even help raise my son. Truly, a debt of gratitude."

Jared's face flushed crimson, speechless.