"Thanks, Dad. You really know how to make my life harder."
I hadn't seen Max Delgado in five years.
Back at the hospital, Tilda had somehow ended up in Xavier's arms. Renata walked in on exactly that scene, and she exploded. She jabbed a finger straight at Xavier's face.
"Well, well, well! No wonder Maggie's been a wreck. You've been sleeping with your own stepmother! You disgusting piece of trash!"
Xavier's brow creased. His voice came out flat and cold.
"Watch your mouth. What goes on between me and my stepmother is none of your business."
"And if you don't know how to speak properly, I'd be happy to teach you."
But Renata wasn't the type to be intimidated. She scoffed right back at him.
"You think being some Capital Circle golden boy gives you the right to push me around? I'm a Simmons. Try me."
"You look so polished on the outside. Who knew you were this rotten underneath? What an act."
Xavier was about to lose his temper, but when he registered her last name, he reined himself in. His tone shifted, measured and low.
"So. What exactly are you here for?"
Renata let out a cold laugh and straightened her blazer.
"Allow me to reintroduce myself. I'm your wife's divorce attorney."