Chapter 136

Emily’s heart broke at his words. She had always assumed she was enough for him—both mother and father rolled into one. But now, faced with his vulnerability, she realized how deeply he had been affected.

Nikon’s small voice continued, “In school, all my friends have their dads drop them off. I never really thought about it before, but…” He trailed off, his gaze dropping to his hands as he fidgeted with the blanket. “Mom, why isn’t he with us? Doesn’t he love me?”

Emily’s breath caught in her throat, tears welling in her eyes. She hadn’t prepared for this moment, for the questions she knew would eventually come. She cupped his cheek gently, her thumb brushing away a stray tear from her own eye.

“It’s… complicated, Nikon,” she said softly. “Your father and I didn’t work out. Sometimes, no matter how hard people try, they’re just not meant to be together. But that has nothing to do with you, sweetheart.”