Chapter 50: Living With Vivian

Jonathan's face flushed crimson. He coughed lightly, lowering his voice. "Mommy, I'm not a child anymore, and Ms. Kennedy is still here."

His words lightened the tense atmosphere Nathaniel had created. It was Vivian's first time seeing the sly boy blush, so she teased him playfully. "I see someone's been spanked."

"I have not!" Jonathan retorted, behaving more like a child than he intended.

Cecilia watched her son's hurried explanation, her anger dissolving. Jonathan and Elliot were her precious sons; she couldn't bring herself to be angry with them. She'd thought it over on her way. She could continue avoiding Nathaniel, but what about her sons? Should they hide forever? They were innocent; why couldn't they go where they pleased? Why couldn't they return home? The day's events had solidified her decision.

During the meal, Vivian suggested someone escort Jonathan home, but Cecilia refused. "Vivian, I've thought this through. Constantly hiding isn't the solution. I've decided to let him stay. Nathaniel has already seen Jonathan and seems to accept him as your son. There's nothing to worry about. I'll speak with Martha and ask her to look after Elliot. Jonathan will stay with me in Tudela. We'll return once things improve."

Vivian agreed. "Although Martha has a caregiver, it's too much for an elderly woman to handle two children. Jonathan staying will also keep you company. Don't worry if Nathaniel finds out; you have Calvin and me."

Jonathan added, "You have me too, Mommy. I promise to protect you and Elliot."

Cecilia and Vivian shared a knowing smile. "Okay," Cecilia said.

After the meal, Vivian said, "I'll take Jonathan with me. He'll stay with me until you're pregnant. Feel free to visit anytime." It was their only option.

Cecilia cautioned Jonathan, "Listen carefully to Ms. Kennedy and don't wander off, understand?"

Assured he wouldn't be sent back, Jonathan nodded. Even though he couldn't live with his mother, being in the same city brought him peace of mind.

At Vivian's mansion, Jonathan opened his suitcase, filled with clothes, toiletries, and a laptop. Vivian was curious. "Jon, this suitcase weighs at least ten to twenty pounds! How did you get it on the plane? You even brought a laptop. Playing games already?"

"It's a secret," he said, choosing his clothes and heading for a shower.

Vivian found his pretense amusing. "Hey, sly kid, want help washing up?"

Jonathan was speechless. His only mistake was choosing to live with Vivian. He quickly climbed onto a small stool in the bathroom and locked the door, fearing Vivian might barge in.

Vivian chuckled. "Oh, look at you, all shy. Trust me, I've seen all kinds of men; you're nothing special."