Mark grabs my hand, and I look at him. He shoots me a wink as if to reassure me that everything’s okay. He knows how to read me so well.
I might not be saying much, but I’m falling apart inside.
This was what we were supposed to have before our lives were derailed by Patrick’s actions. Despite the years, and Mark’s love, I can’t pretend it doesn’t hurt.
And now watching father and daughter together—interacting as if none of it got in the way—is tough.
I love Mark.
I loved Patrick.
And more than anything, I love this girl who’s laughing and joking with the man she doesn’t realise is her bio dad.
I really don’t know how to handle this.
After dinner and two movies,Mark and Sophie take care of the limited dishes while I show Patrick the spare room.
“Spare towels are in the hall cupboard if you want ashower, and there are more pillows in the wardrobe.” I point everything out and turn to leave.
“Cassie.”
I hesitate. For so long I’ve thought about seeing him again, and this is nothing like I thought it’d be.
“For what it’s worth, I’m sorry that you didn’t know I was coming. Mark’s a bit light on detail.”
I turn back. “The way he’s been acting lately, I’m not really surprised about that.”
“He loves you. Your daughter was a surprise.”
My throat constricts.
“She’s a lot like you—like you were at her age. Whatever that is.”
“I’m really proud of her.”
“So you should be. I’m looking forward to spending more time with all of you. If that’s okay.”
The tension eases a little. He’s not pushing anything—not yet. But I’ll take what I can get.
“If that’s what Mark wants?—"
“What about you? What do you want?”
He takes a step closer, and my breath hitches.
“I just want my life back.”
“I understand that. I’m here to try and help you where I can. I do care, you know.”
“Thank you.” I take a step backward.
“What about your parents? Where are they in all of this?”
My throat tightens.
The memory of them dying is tied so closely to his betrayal and leaving. I don’t think about that now—it leads to other conversations I’m not ready to have.
“I’d rather not talk about them right now. How about I let you get comfortable?”
