I Don’t Need Your Fake Love by Melandia

Chapter 129

Antonio frowned, his annoyance evident. “Don’t be so dramatic. Molly’s stay is temporary.”

“No one knows we’re married. She thinks I’m single,” he added, as if in explanation.

My chest tightened. I took a deep breath.

“You know I prefer to keep my marriage private. You understand that, right?” Antonio continued, justifying himself.

So, Ivan and I were inconveniences, obstacles to his love life.

I couldn’t bear to look at him, “Fine. I’ll pack and take Ivan out. We won’t disturb you.”

I had planned to leave anyway; sooner was better.

My ready agreement seemed to surprise him.

His voice softened, “I’ll make it up to you and Ivan.”

I continued working without looking up.

The scars Antonio had inflicted on Ivan and me ran deep; no amount of “making up” could erase them..

I packed our bags and we left the apartment.

Just as we were leaving the building, we ran into Antonio returning with Molly.

He was wheeling her suitcase and they were both beaming.

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Chapter 17

eyes met, panic

widening. “Grace, why are you

me, shielding him. “I…”

with me for a

tightened on

each time felt like a

Ivan

tears welling in Ivan’s eyes. “Mom,

right away,” I

we walked past, Antonio

just call me?”

replied calmly. “Aren’t you his uncle?”

six years, Antonio had maintained his charade, forcing Ivan to call him “Uncle Antonio,”

was finally detaching, and Antonio was surprised? Shouldn’t he be happy?

to pull my arm free, but his grip was firm.

his expression a mixture of emotions. “Wait. Give me a few days.

explain to Ivan.”

Chapter 129

reminded him, “Molly is waiting. Let

if realizing what he was doing, he reluctantly

and took Ivan’s hand. We turned to

“Wait!” Antonio called.

a box, and handed it to Ivan. “Happy birthday, Ivan,”

cake was actually for

ago.” I said, starting to hand the cake

look of anticipation on Ivan’s

the adult world. “Will you eat it with me?”

then agreed.

ran into the living room, urging me to open