Janey was exceptionally attached to Mitchel that evening, wanting his embrace for everything except when she had to use the bathroom.
Mitchel looked at Janey lovingly, cherishing their time together.
However, Raegan noticed Mitchel was not in the best of health, spotting occasional beads of sweat on his forehead when he leaned over.
Clearly, he hadnât completely recovered from his earlier ordeal.
But he persisted in smiling and engaging with Janey.
Raegan approached and gently took Janey into her arms, softly saying, âJaney, itâs getting late.
Time for a bath and bed.
â
Janey was reluctant to part ways with Mitchel.
She wrapped her arms around Raeganâs neck, pleading in a sweet tone, âMommy, is it okay if Daddy stays over tonight?â
Raegan was caught off guard by Janeyâs request.
She froze, while Mitchel awaited her response with hopeful eyes.
Mitchelâs face was noticeably pale.
It was devoid of color.
A wave of heartache washed over Raegan.
Upon recognizing her feeling sorry for him again, she felt a surge of alarm.
She reminded herself not to be swayed by her emotions.
Regaining her composure, Raegan answered Janey, âNo.
â
Janey was puzzled and questioned, âErick stays over sometimes.
Why canât Daddy?â
Raegan responded, âErick is part of our family, so itâs different for him.
â
Raeganâs statement struck a chord in Mitchelâs heart.
He felt as though his heart was bleeding.
His already pale face lost even more color.
Janey was still confused and inquired, âIsnât Daddy part of our family too? My classmate told me his parents are the closest people to him.
Why isnât it the same with me?â
Raegan was at a loss for words.
How could she explain her relationship with Mitchel wasnât close anymore?
Luckily, Mitchel stepped in.
He gently caressed Janeyâs head, maintaining a smile as he said softly, âJaney, itâs late now.
You should listen to your mommy and go to sleep.
â
Janey had more questions, but she could sense Mitchel was somewhat weary.
Reluctantly, she Books Chapters Are Daily Updated Join & Stay Updated For All Books Updatesâ¦
Raegan, meeting Mitchelâs gaze, remained silent as she carried Janey to the bathroom.
Annis came to help with Janeyâs bath.
When Raegan went to get Janeyâs pajamas, she noticed Mitchel was still lingering at the entrance.
She eyed him with a frown.
âWhy havenât you left yet?â
Mitchel returned her gaze with a troubled look and asked in a raspy voice, âRaegan, would you mind seeing me out?â
Raeganâs initial impulse leaned toward refusal.
Observing the pallor on Mitchelâs face, Raegan restrained herself from speaking harshly and instead inquired, âHave you asked Matteo to pick you up?â Mitchel didnât seem in any condition to drive.
Mitchel paused briefly, and then a faint grin crossed his face as he softly replied, âYes.
â
Annoyed by his smile, Raegan responded icily by dousing him with a bucket of ice water, âDonât flatter yourself.
I just donât want you leaving my place and getting into trouble halfway, for which I would have to take responsibility.
â