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!"

cried out, clutching her wrist in

down and noticed a bandage wrapped

stammered, "Y-You...

her sleeve over her wrist, trying to sound calm. "It's nothing. I'm fine, sweetheart.

someone once

her closely. "You...

lips together, looking too

felt a pang of guilt. He

higher. "Whatever. I

I'll be here after

time, Irwin didn't

him walk away, a

the trouble she'd gone through to have

for the decision

return left Irwin distracted all through his classes. He barely heard a word the teachers

bell rang, Irwin slung his backpack

was already waiting at

for Rosita, but there was

His face fell.

Liar.

stalked toward

then, a voice

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

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