"Daddy," Jonas whispered, his small voice trembling. "Am I annoying?"

The question punched me in the gut. "Jonas, you're the sweetest kid. No one could ever think you're annoying."

"Then why does Mommy…" His voice trailed off, tiny hands clamping over his mouth.

"Will Ms. Sommerton be mad if she hears?" He worried, even with the bathroom door shut.

How could anyone not love him? "Jonas," I said gently, putting a hand on his shoulder, "not everyone will like you, but that's not your fault. Sometimes, they just don't deserve you."

His wide, confused eyes met mine. He was too young to understand. But he felt less safe, less loved. Seeing his earnest nod broke my heart. How could I have left him with Yvonne? Guilt swelled.

Lorraine's voice startled me. "I'm coming in."

"No rush," I said.

"Just wanted to make sure you two weren't…passing out," she chuckled, setting down water bottles. "Take your time."

Space was tight. "You two take the bed," I said, making a spot on the floor. The summer heat made it bearable.

While Lorraine showered, Jonas watched me intently. "Daddy, will you marry Ms. Sommerton?"

"Why?" I asked, surprised. He knew too much. Had Yvonne planted this?

"Mommy says if you like someone, you should marry them," Jonas said. "She says she still likes you, Daddy."

My chest tightened. He was too young, but Yvonne had clearly fed him this. Was this her attempt to win me back?

"Did Mommy tell you that?" Before he could answer, I heard the bathroom door. Lorraine hadn't returned.

"No," Jonas said softly. "Xavier."

Xavier? That Xavier? Impossible.

"Daddy," Jonas whispered hesitantly, "do you still like Mommy?"

"Go to sleep," I said firmly, dodging the question.

Jonas pouted, then obediently closed his eyes.