Once, that sentence would’ve made my heart stop.
Once, I would’ve dropped everything and run to his side.
But Caleb hadn’t inherited my nature–only the worst of William’s. And there wasn’t a trace of motherly instinct left in me.
My voice was steady. “He’s sick? Take him to a doctor. Why are you calling me?”
“It’s not that simple. The doctors can’t help.”
“Then find better doctors.”
Silence.
Then, in a hoarse whisper, William finally admitted, “Caleb has depression.”
I froze
I hadn’t expected that.
Before I could fully process it, a message popped up from Lily–an issue had come up with my jewelry collection.
My mind shifted instantly.
“Then take him to a therapist. He doesn’t even like me. Ask Luna–he recognizes her as his mother.”
And with that, I ended the call and threw myself into work.
By the time I looked up from my sketches, the sky had already darkened.
Hunger gnawed at my stomach, so I decided to step out for groceries.
But the moment I opened the door, I saw him.
+15 Bonus
It’s William again,
Leaning against his car, hunched over, dark circles under his eyes, looking nothing like the arrogant, untouchable man he once
was.
The second he saw me, he dropped to his knees.
Grabbing onto my pant leg, he pleaded, his voice shattered.
“Susie… Caleb is really bad. The doctors say it’s psychological.”
His breath hitched. “Please, I’m begging you. Just see him. Just once.”
He shuffled forward, pressing his forehead to the tip of my shoe. “Please.”
A crowd had started gathering. Some people recognized him.
I hated scenes.
With a sigh, I finally agreed to go.
