A cold, mocking smile flitted across Danielle's lips.
The door code had long since been changed; coming back here was just inviting humiliation.
The divorce papers weren't even signed, yet she'd already become a stranger in her own home.
"Mm." Danielle had no desire to explain herself to Julia. She was only here for one reason. "Has Alexander come back?"
"Mr. Mason isn't home yet," Julia replied. "He said he'd be working late tonight, might not make it back."
"Is my mother-in-law here?"
Just then, Raffy came bounding down the stairs.
He was genuinely happy to see Danielle. His mom hadn't been home in ages; though he'd never admit it, he'd missed her—especially the meals she used to cook. He hadn't tasted her food in far too long.
Without hesitation, Raffy rushed over and threw his arms around Danielle. "Mom, will you take me to school tomorrow? Can you make shrimp for breakfast? I miss your shrimp."
Whenever anyone else cooked shrimp, he'd break out in hives. Only his mom could make it just right—and it tasted so much better, too.
He nestled into Danielle's arms, seeking comfort the way he always had.
For a moment, Danielle felt disoriented, as if she'd slipped back to the happier days of another life. Back when Raffy and Niki were both sweet and well-behaved, before everything turned so hostile.
Some habits needed correcting, sure, but that's what parenting was for.
She'd raised this child for five years. To say she felt nothing would be a lie.
But in the end, Raffy was bound to love his birth mother most. That's only natural.
He didn't know Millie was his real mom, but even so, he'd lashed out at Danielle over and over, always on Millie's behalf.
He was slowly becoming a stranger to her.
Danielle took a deep breath and gently pushed Raffy away, her voice cool and distant. "Maybe you should ask your new mom to make it for you."
Raffy stiffened, uncertainty flickering across his face. "Mom, are you still mad at me?"
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