"Thank you for letting me stay," I replied.
It wasn't much. Just a shared meal, a few stolen conversations, a tentative peace.
But it felt like a start.
It wasn't until after Casey went to bed that Palisade and I were truly alone.
"I talked to Sunny today," I said quietly. "She said I need to transfer my community service hours. Conflict of interest now that everyone knows."
Palisade nodded, something that looked like relief and maybe disappointment flashing across her face. "That makes sense. When?"
"As soon as possible. She's already spoken to the league and my probation officer." I rubbed the back of my neck."Apparently, having my… having Casey's mother supervise my court-ordered community service doesn't look good. For either of us."
"The media would have a field day," Palisade said quietly.
"Sunny said the same thing." I met her eyes. "I'm sorry. I know it leaves you short-staffed."
"Don't." She held up a hand. "You were helpful, but the clinic will manage. This is the right call." A pause. "Where will you go?"
"Shadow Wolves runs a youth hockey program for underprivileged kids. Inner-city, ages ten to fourteen." I glanced toward the hallway where Casey had disappeared. "Different age groups and a different rink. Sunny thought it was a good fit. So did the league."
"Teaching hockey," Palisade said, and something like warmth crossed her face. "That's perfect for you."
"Better than cleaning kennels," I admitted with a small smile. "Though I got pretty good at it."
"You did," she agreed. Then, more seriously: "You'll be great with those kids, Easton. They're lucky to have you."
The words meant more than she probably realized. Coming from her, after everything, they felt like forgiveness I hadn't earned yet.
"It starts next week," I said. "Sunny's finalizing the paperwork. I'll finish out this week at the clinic to make the transition easier for you."
"You don't have to."
"I want to," I said firmly. "I made a commitment. I'll see it through properly."
Before I could respond, Casey bounded back with an overstuffed binder, plopping down between us on the couch and launching into detailed explanations of her prized cards
She pointed out her favorite players and asking if I knew them personally. I understood one thing with absolute certainty.
Whatever happens next, I will be the father Casey deserves. I didn't know I wanted to be a dad until I found her.
But now that I have her, I'm never letting go.
CHAPTER TWENTY
Palisade
Iknew something was wrong the moment I pulled into the Lakeview Elementary parking lot.
There were twice as many cars as usual. Parents who normally used the bus line were here for pickup. And they were all staring.
My hands tightened on the wheel.
A black sedan with tinted windows was parked across from the school entrance. As I watched, a man with a camera emerged, aiming his lens at the building.
Paparazzi. At my daughter's elementary school.
I was out of my car and heading toward the building before I could think better of it. The man with the camera swung toward me, lens clicking rapid-fire.
