“It would be if he actually showed up to one.” She hands me a vanilla cup. “He’s always busy.”
“This time, something came up last minute.”
“Something always does.” She gives me a spoon. “I have more rainchecks than real memories.”
I bite my tongue.
“Sometimes, I don’t think he wants me to be home with him at all.”
“You don’t mean that.”
She shrugs and tops my scoop with butterscotch. “Let’s pretend it was always just me and you for tonight. What other toppings do you want?”
End of Episode 15
Da capo
EPISODE 16
Ryder
Several Years Ago
Seattle’s rain is relentless tonight.
It drums violently against the jet’s windows, soaking the tarmac in chaotic rhythm. I watch it pelt the pavement in sheets, debating whether I want to wait it out before heading home. But streaks of lightning dance through the thick clouds, promising more to come, so I decide to take the risk.
Grabbing my umbrella, I motion for the pilot to open the door. The blast of cold air hits me instantly, and I descend the steps quickly, wading into the chill. I slide behind the wheel of my town car and take the back roads to the estate, tires slicing through flooded streets.
Fifty miles later, I coast down the winding driveway and press the gate button—but nothing happens. Frowning, I try again. Still nothing.
I step into the storm, prepared to force the gate open manually, but something stops me. A standing umbrella stand. And beneath it, a car seat.
Water lashes my face and runs down the back of my collar as I inch closer. Pink blankets fill the seat, each one stitched with delicate cursive:“Congratulations! It’s a girl!”
What the hell?
I peel back the top blanket, revealing a sleeping infant and a card taped to her chest.
Beyond confused, I scoop up the car seat and carry it to the passenger side of my car. Once it’s secured, I trigger the manual gate override and drive down to the garage.
“I thought you were going to wait out the storm.” Chester hands me a file as I step out. “Didn’t realize you were in a rush to get back.”
“I wasn’t.” I round the car, open the door, and lift the seat. “Someone left this by the gate.”
“Is that… a real baby?”
“I believe so.” Her eyelids flutter for a moment. “Pull the security footage. Let’s find out who left her.”
“On it.”
He follows me to the kitchen as I gently unclip the card from her chest.
Ryder—
I didn’t realize I was pregnant until months after we fell apart. And by fell apart, I mean you chose your life over me.
You always were selfish.
