chapter 7
Matthew looked surprised at my quick agreement. He gently said, “I’ll make it up to you both.”
I didn’t look up and remained silent. The hurt had already gone numb. No compensation could erase it.
Back at home, I packed our things and made my way out with Tyler. When I opened the door, I ran into Matthew returning with Quilla. He was pushing her suitcase with one hand. He looked just like a reliable boyfriend.
Our eyes met, and I saw a flash of panic in his gaze.
Quilla gasped in surprise and asked, “Ms. Langley, what are you doing at Mr. Grant’s house?”
The moment I heard her, I pulled Tyler behind me to block her view.
“They’re relatives of mine. They’re staying here for a while,” Matthew said, cutting me off before I could speak.
My grip on the suitcase tightened even though I had heard it before. Every time he said things like that, it pierced my heart.
I was about to speak, but Tyler beat me to it. “Hello, Mr. Grant.”
I turned to him in disbelief and saw his teary eyes. “Mom, let’s go.”
My throat closed up. I forced a faint smile and whispered, “Okay.”
As we brushed past, Matthew grabbed my arm. He stared at me, stunned. “What did Tyler just call me?”