Tobias nodded. “I used to avoid thinking about people like you. I thought they lived in a different world entirely.”
Jaxon let out a small laugh, tired but real. “Seems the worlds were the same after all.”
The hardest part came when August publicly acknowledged Jaxon as his second son. The press exploded with speculation. Reporters hounded both boys at the hotel entrance. Articles resurfaced about Mara Mirek’s disappearance. Statements questioned August’s integrity. Tobias remained at Jaxon’s side through every interview and hearing. Slowly, the frenzy ebbed to something manageable.
Spring arrived. Jaxon joined a high school equivalency program. He took boxing classes at a community gym. He made cautious friendships. Tobias felt pride watching him grow into someone steadier, stronger, more rooted.
Then came the charity gala. A crowd filled the ballroom of the Rainer Plaza. The proceeds were dedicated to youth facing homelessness. Tobias watched Jaxon step to the small stage, palms slightly damp, breathing slow.