Chapter 16
Lane Talia some relief.
After that conversation. Trevor stopped showing up at Isabella’s preschool, which gave
But then he moved into the neighborhood and started coming by her house five or six times a day,
Talla never once let him inside. The most she’d allow was for him to stand outside her door like some pathetic stalker.
There were many times that she and Isabella would be having a perfectly normal evening at home–playing games, watching movies, just enjoying themselves–and then Talia would glance up to see Trevor standing outside like a lost puppy.
He rarely spoke. Never tried to force his way in. Just… stood there. For hours sometimes.
It was clearly some kind of psychological warfare–trying to wear her down through sheer persistence.
But he was dead wrong.
She wasn’t the same pushover she’d been five years ago
Even when it was pouring rain and lightning, even when Trevor was standing there soaked to the bone, Talia wouldn’t give him so much as a second glance.
The only time he got any closer was on Isabella’s birthday. He crouched down by the door, slid a wrapped box inside, and said softly, “Happy birthday, Isabella.”
Isabella looked at the gift, then up at her mom. Only after Talia nodded did she run over to get it
Thank you,” Isabella said quietly.
Thank you,” Isabella whispered politely.
Then it was back to the birthday routine wishes, candles, cake.
When they were cutting slices, Isabella whispered in Talla’s ear. “Mommy, my teacher says birthday cake is supposed to be shared with everyone. Should I give some to that sad man outside? He looks really lonely.”
Talia was quiet for a moment, then nodded. “If you want to.”
So Isabella climbed down from the couch, carefully cut a piece of cake, and carried it over to Trevor.
This is for you. It’s really yummy.”
Trevor looked genuinely shocked. He took the plate and looked up at Talia with something like hope in his eyes.

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