“No matter the fuckups,” Hazel adds.
40. Truth doesn’t change the way it hurts
Anxo
It’s terrifying to think that if this apology doesn’t work, I might lose the love of my life. And walking in empty-handed? That’s a rookie mistake I refuse to make.
The second I crossed the human realm, I made a beeline to McDonald’s and ordered everything my mate and son like off the menu. With bags full of hot, greasy junk food piled high in the passenger seat, I drove an hour to the nearest grocery store from the cabin.
As I check out two oversized bags with enough sugary and spicy snacks to keep my little family happy for weeks, I get a few weird looks from the cashier, but I don’t care. Everyone knows you never skimp on apology gifts.
But it still didn’t feel like enough.
So I made yet another pit stop at a charming little flower shop and found a bouquet that screamed,‘I’m a moron, but please take me back.’
Three hours later, after bouncing from one shop to another, the trunk was packed. So was the backseat. And the passenger seat.
Maybe I went a little overboard.
But now that I’m standing in front of her door, arms overflowing with gifts, I wish I had bought some courage, too, because I can’t bring myself to knock.
Nevaeh knows I’m here, I can feel it, but the door is locked tight, and the rejection slams into my chest. I know I’m responsible for my own misery, but her dismissal doesn’t hurt any less.
I draw a shaky breath, nearly choking on the mixed scent of fries, flowers, and enough sugar to rot a dragon’s teeth. Then I steel myself. I’m not leaving without earning my apology.
Wrestling the mountain of bags that’s climbing up to my shoulders, I knock with the only free thing I’ve got… my head.
When nothing happens, panic hits. What if I drop Nevaeh’s precious fries? That will be her final straw. Nobody messes with her food and keeps all their limbs.
Relief washes over when the door finally creaks open.
August’s wide blue eyes blink up at me through the crack, lighting up in surprise for a split second.
Then, like the mama’s boy he is, he schools his face into pure indifference… and shuts the door in my face.Ouch.
I thank Fates for my quick reflexes as I wedge my foot in the door before August can lock me out without giving me a chance to apologize.
The little guy ispissed.
August huffs, folding his tiny arms over his chest and glaring up at me like he’s daring me to cross the threshold. Intimidating… for a pint-sized bodyguard.
I drop to my knees, juggling with the bags, making sure to stay far enough so he knows I won’t come in until he lets me.Wholeheartedly.
“You have every right to be angry and disappointed.” I wince when August’s expression doesn’t change. Fates, Hazel really outdid herself, teaching him her signature glare.
“I hurt you. I hurt Nevaeh. I promised to protect you both, and I failed—” I stop when he sniffs the air and points to the bag of chicken nuggets. I quickly hand it over, swallowing the urge to scream in joy.
“I couldn’t protect you and fight the bad guys at the same time,” I start explaining, but I’m not sure how much he’s listening to as he rips into the bag. “I had to send you away. I’m so sorry, kiddo. But the bad guys are gone now. We can go back. I’m here to take you home.”
August takes his sweet time pickingapart my words for any traces of lies, all while stuffing his face with nuggets. I missed watching him devour food like a hungry little beast. Italmostmakes me laugh.
I check him from head to toe, happy that Nevaeh took such good care of him. But the pride quickly twists into guilt. She had to do it all by herself.
“Home, Papa?” August asks, his eyes lighting up with hope.
He called mePapa. That’s progress, right?
“Yes. I just need to apologize to your mama and make it right. Then we can go.” As soon as the words leave my mouth, his shoulders slump.
