Like a legacy.
Like a marriage.
This time, I’m not chasing.
I’m claiming.
And she’ll find out.Everyone will.
I don’t let go of what’s mine.
Chapter19
Kelly
“Hey there, Bud!”
I barely get the truck in park before I’m out the door, arms wide.
Evan rolls his eyes the way ten-year-olds do when they think they’re too old for something—but he still walks right into my hug.
Not a half one.
Not a quick pat-pat.
A real one.Arms tight around my middle.Face pressed into my jacket.
Most boys his age would’ve outgrown this by now.
But not us.
And I will hold on to that for as long as he lets me.
Behind him, my former in-laws step out onto the porch.
Gladys Stevens waves, all soft cardigan, and polite smile.
Paul stands beside her, posture straight, expression reserved.
He’s always been a man of few words and firm opinions.
Mike’s relationship with them was stiff at best.Transactional.Cold.
So when Paul’s gaze lingers on me hugging my son like I’m breathing him in, I know what he’s thinking.
Too much.
Too emotional.
Too attached.
I don’t give a rat’s ass.
The only reason I allow them time with Evan is because they love him.
Because they show up.
Because whatever their son turned into, they hadn’t raised him to be cruel.
