“She’s alone, divorced, and raising a child. There are always going to be challenges,” he continued, his voice softening. “I’m just trying to help her because we grew up together.”
“Help her so much that you quit your job and start a business with her?” I pushed him away, unwilling to cling to the warmth that felt so foreign to me.
Erik looked taken aback but quickly regrouped. “You’ve misunderstood. The company is a joint effort. We’re all seizing an opportunity together.”
He adjusted his tie, his gaze unwavering and still full of affection. “Don’t overthink it. You’re going to be a mother soon. Why are you still so jealous? You wouldn’t want to raise a jealous child, would you?”
But our child is gone.
I opened my mouth to respond, but just then, Erik’s phone rang. The moment he answered, a small, cheerful voice filled the air. “Dad, why don’t you come see me? I miss you!”
Panic flickered in Erik’s eyes as he hurriedly covered the receiver with his hand, retreating toward the bedroom. Moments later, he emerged dressed for the outside world.
“I’m sorry, Alyce. Polly said her child is sick and wants to see me,” he explained, guilt etched across his features.