Where is she going with this?
“Then you’re used to complicated situations.”
A beat of silence. Her gaze shifts to the staircase.
“Stella must love it here,” she says. “It feels safe. Familiar. Warm.”
“She does.”
“She’s lucky.” Jessica’s smile doesn’t quite reach her eyes. “A mother who can handle anything—that’s rare.”
The compliment has teeth. “Thank you.”
Richard clears his throat. “We were hoping you’d consider letting her come with us for fall break. It’d mean a lot—to both of us.”
“You’re going through a lot right now.” Jessica adds softly, “I’d love to help with her. I volunteer with kids; they keep me grounded.”
“Let’s revisit that closer to break.”
Richard shifts his weight. This was the real reason for coming inside—not just to verify security, but to push for this.
“Of course.” Her agreement is smooth, instant. “We just want what’s best for her.”
The security panel beeps twice—the carport entry.
Richard stiffens. Jessica’s head tilts.
Noah’s voice carries from the hallway. “Evening.”
He steps into view—steady, unreadable, his stature and presence emanating a quiet authority.
Jessica’s smile sharpens the second she takes him in. “You must be with security.”
“That’s right,” Noah says.
“It’s comforting to know Alicia and Stella are in good hands. Richard worries about them.”
Warm words. Cold edges.
Richard exhales. With that one subtle, disciplined sound, I know what he’s going to say before he says it. “We should go.”
Jessica threads her hand through his arm. “Take care of yourself, Alicia. I’m sure things will settle soon.”
“Goodnight,” I say, holding the door.
They step into the night, and Jessica’s perfume lingers—something sweet and youthful.
The latch clicks.
Noah studies the closed door, then me. “Friend of your ex?”
“Girlfriend.” Though wife is probably the goal.
“She asked a lot of questions.”
I meet his gaze. “That’s what she does.”
Chapter