Jason’s cheeks were wet, his expression broken. For a second, I saw the man I had once loved—the man who had pulled me from a burning building, the man I chose over Roy even when my family begged me not to.
“I deserve it,” Jason said hoarsely. “Go on, hit me. I’m a terrible father.”
I pounded on his chest, tears blinding me, waiting for him to admit the truth. But he didn’t. He just cried harder, playing the victim, whispering words that made me sick. By the time I was drained, he pressed a cup into my hands.
“Here, darling. Drink this tea and rest.”
Exhausted, I swallowed it without thinking. My body curled up on the sofa, my tears soaking the cushions until I drifted into a restless sleep.
—
When I woke, voices filled the room. My head throbbed as I forced my eyes open.
“You’re awake,” Jason said softly.
I blinked, only to see him standing protectively beside Chloe, their hands entwined.
My heart lurched. “What is she doing here?” I spat.
“Calm down, Amber,” Jason said.
Before I could speak again, a small voice broke through.
“Daddy, why is that bad woman yelling at Mommy?”
I froze. A little boy peeked out from behind Jason’s legs. My heart twisted. I had seen him before, but now, staring at him, the resemblance was undeniable. Jason’s eyes. Jason’s jawline. Jason’s son.
Jason coughed, caught off guard. Chloe quickly pulled the boy forward and smacked him lightly.
“Julius, I told you not to call Jason that,” she said sweetly, then flashed me a mocking smile. “I’m sorry, Amber. He’s just so attached to Jason.”
I turned to Jason, trembling. “What are they doing here?”
“Ever since the accident—”
“Accident?” My voice cracked like glass, interrupting him sharply. “She killed my son, Jason!”
Jason’s gaze hardened. “Don’t be difficult, Amber. People are threatening Chloe and her son online. Their lives are in danger, so I told them to stay here until it blows over.”
I choked out a bitter laugh. “Their lives? She killed my son, and you’re protecting her?”
Chloe sobbed dramatically. “It wasn’t on purpose. He wandered into the car… I should’ve been more careful.” She turned to Jason. “Maybe we should leave. I don’t care if I die, as long as Amber feels better.”
“You’re not going anywhere, Chloe,” Jason barked, gripping her hand tighter. He turned his glare on me. “Chloe and Julius will stay here and that’s final.”