A Delayed Apology

Aaron found him right where he thought he'd be—their old spot at O'Malley's, half-hidden in the far corner booth. Nick was already halfway to sloshed, eyes dark and unfocused as he tipped his beer back, alone in his misery. When he looked up and saw Aaron, his lips twisted into a mocking grin.

"So you came, huh?" Nick's voice dripped with contempt. "Guess you're not disgusted enough with yourself to stay away?"

Aaron just let out a rough scoff, shaking his head. The way Nick had to find out—so damn messy. It wasn't just about finding out he was the twins' dad after all these years, but how he'd been blindsided by everyone, especially with Mrs. Wang stoking the fire by dragging Aiden's name into it. Aaron knew this wasn't just shock for Nick; it was a stab straight back into old wounds they'd both tried to bury deep.