Chapter 45

I ruffled Jonas’s hair. “Jonas, why do you care so much about your brother? He’s always picking on you.” I wasn’t trying to sow discord, just hoping for a bit more caution from Jonas.

“Because he’s my brother,” he said simply.

That was it? His unwavering sincerity silenced me. Jonas was so kind, so unlike Xavier, who constantly looked for trouble. How could two brothers, raised together, be so different? Xavier was a handful, pure and simple.

A door opened. Yvonne and Xavier entered, close together. In the mirror, I saw Xavier’s puffy, red eyes – he’d been crying.

“Back so soon?” I asked, keeping my voice light for Jonas’s sake. He deserved better than parents who argued constantly.

Yvonne’s sharp eyes landed on my packing. “Are you leaving?”

“It’s none of your business,” I snapped, grabbing my clothes. Passing them, I warned, “Don’t let Xavier bully Jonas.” Jonas was soft, but I wouldn’t stand for it.

Yvonne raised an eyebrow. “You care a lot about Jonas. Ever think how Xavier feels?” Her words seemed to hit Xavier; his eyes were even redder.

I laughed, a shaky sound. “Xavier’s never cared much for me. His heart’s always been with Jared, not me.”

“You’re right,” Xavier shouted, his small frame trembling. “I don’t like you!”

“Fine by me,” I replied calmly. Arguing with a kid was pointless.

Leaning against the wall outside, I sighed. Xavier was a lost cause. What had Jared done to my son? He acted spoiled without the privileges to match. How would he survive in the real world? Ten minutes of pacing, and I still couldn’t bring myself to knock on Lorraine’s door.

“Pathetic,” I muttered, slapping my face. I’d promised myself I’d figure this out, but I froze at her door. Maybe I should just find somewhere else to stay.

I was heading for the desk when I heard a door creak behind me.

“How long have you been there?” Lorraine’s voice was teasing.

Turning, I nearly tripped. She’d just showered, damp hair framing her flushed face, a pink towel wrapped around her, steam swirling around her.

“I heard your door ages ago. Why didn’t you come in?”

She’d heard everything – including my argument with Yvonne. “This place has terrible soundproofing!” I stammered. I’d been so confident, promising her no drama. Now, here I was, unsure of where I stood, with my ex-wife thrown into the mix.

“You don’t need to feel awkward,” Lorraine said, smiling warmly. “I get it.” Man, she was so laid-back.

Chapter 46