Irwin's school drop-offs and pick-ups were usually Jeannie's job.

But Jeannie had come down with the flu, running a low fever for days and barely able to get out of bed. Stewart decided to have their driver, Bob, handle Irwin's transportation for the week.

Rosita arrived early and waited outside the school gates.

The moment she saw Irwin step out of the sleek black sedan, Rosita quickly put on her sunglasses and a medical mask, then hurried across the sidewalk toward him.

"Irwin!"

Irwin hesitated mid-step, thinking he must've imagined it. Shaking his head, he continued walking.

"Irwin, it's me!"

Rosita caught up and reached out, grabbing his arm. "It's Mom!"

Irwin was forced to turn around, staring in shock at the woman bundled up from head to toe.

It really was his mother.

But the excitement that flared inside him quickly gave way to resentment as memories of her sudden disappearance four years ago rushed back.

Jerking his arm free, Irwin glared at her. "I don't know you."

"Irwin!" Rosita pleaded, grabbing his arm again. "I know I was wrong. But I had my reasons for leaving. I know you need to get to class, but I'll be here after school. Let me take you out for dinner, and I'll explain everything-why I left without saying goodbye..."

"I don't care!" Irwin snapped, yanking his arm away.

"Ah!"

clutching her wrist in

He glanced down and noticed a bandage wrapped

stammered, "Y-You... what

wrist, trying

someone once

frowned, studying her closely. "You... you're still sick,

her lips together, looking too

pang of guilt.

scowled, hoisting his backpack higher. "Whatever. I have

be here after school to pick you

Irwin didn't

away, a small smile tugging at her

to have Irwin-she'd made the right

for the

through his classes. He barely heard a word the teachers

his backpack over

was already waiting at the

searching for Rosita, but there was no sign

His face fell.

Liar.

stalked toward

then, a voice called out,

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255