Say Forever(8)

And just like that, Karri the tornado storms out of my apartment, and hopefully out of my life, in a whirlwind of emotion. She doesn't even bother saying goodbye to her sleeping baby. Not that she gives a shit about anyone but herself. Poor Grace. Violet doesn't know what she's gotten them into.


***


Jackson's stepmom shows up about fifteen minutes later with an escort built like a refrigerator, wearing dark shades, a black suit and tie, and a Bluetooth in his ear. I think he must be part statue, as I don't see so much as a muscle twitch on his face while he blocks my front door with his hands clasped in front of him.

As Mrs. James takes Ty from me, she explains Mr. James is in Paris on business.

Out of all of Jackson's family, his stepmom is the only person I've ever liked. She can be haughty at times, usually when Mr. James is around, but one-on-one, she's always been nice to me. She's only about ten years older than me and my height and dress size, a petite trophy wife, with hair so pale it practically glows.

Ty wakes up when I hand him to her, and I get choked up by his reaction.

"Mommy!" he cries before flinging his arms around Mrs. James's neck. Considering how young she is, I guess it would be odd for him to call her "grandma." Obviously, Mrs. James has assumed the role of Tyler's mother.

My heart warms at the way she snuggles Tyler and kisses his forehead. I remember Jackson telling me his dad had already had surgery that would prevent him from having any future children, making Jackson his only child. I often wondered how Jackson's stepmom felt about that, and if her husband even cared about her feelings.

Seeing her with Ty, it's plain how much this woman loves kids.

The irony is I once told Andrés I would never want a family. I didn't even consider what he wanted. I realize now how selfish I'd been.

Mrs. James lets out a shaky sigh as she whispers into Tyler's ear. "I was so worried about you."

When Mrs. James's eyes water with tears, I feel compelled to look away. At least I know she loves him. I doubt my adoptive mother ever worried this much over me.

Mrs. James walks over to a corner of the room, bouncing Ty in her arms. She's facing away from everyone, and I can tell she's trying to regain her composure. Finally, she clears her throat and turns to Andrés, a solemn expression in her darkening gaze. "I called my stepson. He told me you punched him in the face."

Andrés lifts his chin and meets her gaze with an unwavering stare. "I did."

I look from Mrs. James to Andrés and back to the big guy in the suit, hoping the shit isn't about to hit the fan. I place my hand on Andrés's forearm. If they mean to cause trouble, I'm determined to stand by my man, though I don't know how much help I'll be against that bodyguard.

Relief floods through me when Mrs. James breaks into a wide grin. "Thank you," she says to Andrés. Then she looks at me and her lower lip trembles as she speaks. "Thank you, Christina, for looking after Tyler."

"I'd do anything for Ty," I say through a tightened chest. "I've missed him."

Gawd, now I feel like crying. It suddenly hits me I haven't seen this baby in over a month, and I probably won't get the chance to see him ever again. The last time we were together, he was calling me his "Teeny." Now he acts like he hardly recognizes me.

Mrs. James walks over and lays a hand on my arm. "You know you can visit him if you like."

I shake my head. "I would, but I don't want to see Jackson."

The last time I tried to spend time with Tyler, I had to put up with Jackson's farty breath and marriage hints. As if I'd ever consider going back to that jackass. Besides, due to a misunderstanding, Andrés was so furious when I'd had dinner with Jackson and Ty, he walked out on me. We were broken up for over a week—the longest week of my life. I won't risk my future with Andrés again, no matter how much I miss Ty.

Mrs. James steals a glance at Andrés and then at me, a knowing look in her eyes. "Then maybe just us girls can take Ty out to the park or to lunch."

"I'd like that," I say on a rush of air. My chest feels ready to burst, and I practically jump out of my shoes. Andrés squeezes my hand and smiles down at me. His approval makes me feel even more elated.

"Teeny!" Tyler squeals and then flaps his hands.

I lean over and plant a kiss on Tyler's cheek, his very warm cheek, and realize this baby is probably coming down with a fever.

Mrs. James must see the concern in my eyes. She places a palm on Ty's forehead and then gasps. "I need to get him home," she says as she rushes toward the door. "I'll call you," she says over her shoulder.

I don't get to say goodbye to Ty, but I know his health comes first. He's already had a major health scare before he was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. I'd hate knowing he may be getting sick. Still, I cling to the hope that once he's better, I can see him again.