Chapter 31
31
Jonathan just grinned Even when I m making hundreds of thousands a year I m always trying to keep up with your shopping sprees
Teresa s brows furrowed as she handed the bag back to Jonathan her voice firm I don t roll that way she stated Despite her appreciation for the finer things she had her limits Tv e had plenty today I can t accept this
Jonathan brushed off her words with a casual flick of his hand The bag s no big deal
After a moment of silence Teresa spoke with a quiet resolve Jonathan we re history Let s keep it that way
The air grew thick with unspoken words
dutch it,” be bit out, winding up the car window and revving the engine. He shot
Jonathan s frown cut deeper If you don t want it just dich
her one last icy look before driving off
Let standing there Teresa frowned in confusion What s eating at my ex today she muttered to herself
Teresa walked into the house to see her son his irritation evident She shot him an apologetic smile but he just squinted back at her not buying it
Hey I m really sorry I m late Teresa said trying to sound cheerful There s ravioli in the fridge I can heat them up real quick for you
Michael wasn t lenin g it go that easily He huffed and folded his arms his voice accusatory I uw that black car Again
Teresa felt her face flush as her son s unwavering gaze made her feel like she was under a spotlight Look I ve told you it was just dinner with my boss It s not what you think she insisted her voice strained
Michael s skepticism was palpable as he blew out his cheeks You re not spreading the love around are you he asked clearly not convinced by her story
Teresa leaned down and pinched his cheek affectionately Who s been teaching you to talk like that she asked trying to shift
conversation.
With a casual shrug, Michael pointed to his phone. “I learn stuff from the videos I watch,” he replied,
Atwinge of guilt hit Teresa as she realized she hadn’t spent much quality time with Michael on Thanksgiving, with him often fixated on his phone.
Michael s eyes were filled with hurt as he accused her You said we d have a break and visit the Candy Castle in Jar is burg But you lied
Words failed Teresa as she tried to reply Her guilt weighed heavily on her She d been too cautious with Michael seldom venturing out with him never taking him on any big trips
She recalled how she had casually mentioned the plans to visit the Candy Castle see the sights and go to the amusement park the night before unaware of how seriously her son had taken those casual remarks
Teresa’s eyes sparkled as she turned to Michael with a plan. “Hey, kiddo, how about Miriam and I take you on an adventure to Jarisburg tomorrow? Just us, having a great time together”
Michael s face lit up his voice shaky with excitement You re serious Mommy
I promise Teresa said her voice full of conviction No work no boss just us It s going to be awesome
The next day they set off on a train journey accompanied by Miriam Opting for comfort they had booked business class tickets for the entire trip
Once they got comfortable Miriam glanced at Michael who was all dolled up in a black jacket sunglasses a hat and a mask with a cute T umb pat tem He looked like a little star in the making
Miriam chuckled, “You’re not going to cook him in that outfit, are you?” she teased, her concern playful but genuine.
Teresa knit her brows ensuring Michael s scarf was securely wrapped It s freezing she commented
Miriam noticed Teresa s discomfort but dismissed it with a wave of her hand Don t worry she reassured Teresa It s not like your ex honey s going to randomly show up in Jar is burg at the same time we are
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