Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

"Yes."

"Dad also said she killed my little brother... My brother's gone, so Dad must be really sad."

Just thinking about Stewart's furious face that night at Lunar Heights Estate made Irwin's heart pound all over again.

"I'm Mom's kid. Now that Dad hates Mom so much, do you think he's going to start hating me too?"

Jeannie's hazel eyes softened.

She smiled gently, ruffling Irwin's hair. "Sweetheart, how could you think that

about your dad? Think back-has he ever been harsh with you?"

Irwin thought for a moment, then shook his head. "Except for tonight, Dad's never raised his voice at me. He's always been good to me."

"Then, think again-why was he upset with you tonight?"

Irwin paused, confused. He looked up at Jeannie.

She met his gaze, her voice warm. "Because you went to see your mom behind his back, and you lied to him about it."

Irwin dropped his head, voice small and muffled. "But now Mom Bryn doesn't want me anymore. I just didn't want to be a kid without a mom."

much you need a mother's love. I've heard how, for five years, Mom Bryn cared for you with all her heart. She raised you so well. She really was a wonderful, loving mom

as he listened.

How could she possibly treat you like her own child now? From where I stand, the fact that she hasn't taken her anger and pain out on you is already something

"Irwin, look at me."

head to meet

cupped his cheek, her voice soft and sweet. "You have

ever face. Some wounds never heal. So you need to

nodded. "Ms. Radcliffe, I didn't understand before, but now that you've explained it,

to Mom Bryn and

my own mom who caused my little brother's death. I can't expect Mom Bryn to treat me like her son anymore, but I can

the right way to think about it." Jeannie paused, then added, As for your mom, I do think she was wrong. Your dad's right not to let you see her.

now. "When Dad gets back, I'll apologize to him. From now

won't

is so mature." Jeannie glanced at the clock.

ready for bed—I'll tidy things

talk. "You're still getting over your cold, Ms. Radcliffe.

you for worrying about me, Irwin. I'm feeling

"Mm-hmm."