The Lies He Told Me (Grace and Antonio)

Chapter 226

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.

When our eyes met, panic flashed across Antonio's face.

Molly gasped, her eyes widening, "Grace, why are you at Mr. Kaufman's place?"

I pulled Ivan behind me, shielding him. "I..."

"They are relatives, staying with me for a while," Antonio butted in.

My grip tightened on the suitcase.

but each time felt like a fresh stab

Ivan said, "Hello,

to see tears welling in Ivan's

I

past, Antonio grabbed my

call me?" he

"Aren't you

six years, Antonio had maintained his charade, forcing Ivan to call him "Uncle Antonio," forbidding him

detaching, and Antonio was

arm free, but his

his expression a mixture of emotions. "Wait. Give

"I'll explain to Ivan."

reminded him, "Molly is waiting.

he was doing,

and took Ivan's hand. We turned to leave

"Wait!" Antonio called.

hurried back to his

box, and handed

yday, Ivan." he said.

s to .net swappy

me. "This cake was actually for

birthday was two weeks ago." I said, starting to hand the cake

then I saw the look

He didn't understand the

the adult

you

it with me?" He

Antonio.

Antonio hesitated then agreed.

cheered and ran into the living room, urging me to open

followed, stroking his hair, and cut him a

and his smile

it out! Don't swallow!" I cried, grabbing the