try to manipulate me. My colleagues saw me focused and intense, the same Chloe as always. No one could tell that my entire world

rence call when my desk phone

r is here. She has

and Sarah had a four-year-old son

e tight. I quickly ended the c

of my office, holding a sleepy-looking Noah by the

ice a pathetic whisper. "W

ak desk between us. "What happe

t. She said she was going to her sister's. And Liam... he just left. He turned off his phone.

randmother, the poor, innocent child caught in the middle. It was a

partment, Mom. You know

her. "Just for a few nights, until Liam comes to his senses. P

. I knew if I said no, she would make a scene right here in my of

mouth. "One night. But you need to call a hote

er of triumph in her eyes.

oom, the television blaring cartoons. The space that was once my sanctuary was now occupied territory. I ret

droom door and entered wit

lk," she said, closin

wor

ack if he gives her money to show he's serious about the busines

ef. Even now, after all th

my voice dangerously low. "The answer is

ising. "His marriage is really over this time! Do

ment door. My heart jumped into my throat. I looked at the se

nd they pushed past

, modern apartment with unconcealed jealousy. "Nice place. Must be

ooping him up in a dramatic hug. "Oh, my poo

t looked

's side. "Liam! You're b

ointing a finger at me. "I'm here for the m

room, a united front of entitlement and

tanding my ground. "This is my apartm

ere. Not until you do the right thing. Look at your poor n

son again, holdi

, Liam was red-faced and yelling, and Sarah was looking at

, the air thick with

king but firm. "Get out right n

-