Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

Nicholas's sudden appearance shattered the delicate hint of romance that had formed between Pete and me.

Once the moment dissolved in the air, it was impossible to restore. Some topics were no longer suitable for a second discussion.

He dropped me off at the Jones residence. He hesitated for a moment before saying, "Aren't you going to invite me in for a bit?"

"I just got back too. No one has lived here for a long time, so I'm not sure how Wendy has arranged to clean up the place. Can we do it another day?"

I reached across the wide center console to take his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. When I released it, Pete smiled helplessly.

He grabbed my hand again, looking at me with a smile. "You still treat me like a child."

He leaned closer, propping his hand above my head while holding my hand against his cheek. His deep voice enveloped me as he asked, "How much do I still look like I did as a kid?" His palm was warm and soft, and I couldn't help but look up at him.

Pete had indeed changed a lot. I never imagined that one day I would be cared for by Pete. I used to hope not to be bullied when we were kids.

I teased him on purpose, "You look just like you did as a kid!"

Pete let out a sigh. Reluctantly, he let me out of the car, and I watched him turn around at the intersection and head back toward the Shelman residence.

that the Shelman residence would be brightly

living room with Tabitha, watching cartoons. When she saw me return, she patted Tabitha's little

casually set my bag aside and squatted down with open arms.

and mumbled slowly, "M-Mommy." Her pretty

stood up and turned to Wendy. "What cartoon is this?

said watching

more aware of the outside

Wendy to select a few shows that she reacted

Swno

just staring blankly at the

them in a circle

her.

in her own world, pondering something

I crouched down in front of Tabitha. "Tabitha,

nodded her little head.

look at Mommy, okay? When you talk to anyone, you should look at them. That's how a good baby behaves." "Tabitha, this

cutely repeated, "You..