Trouble in Paradise by Three Way

Chapter 0523

When Nicholas reached out to embrace me, the touch of his skin felt almost magical, as if it peeled away my soul from my body.

My spirit floated above, watching the two people who should never have intersected, now tightly wrapped in each other's arms.

To make me more comfortable, Nicholas adjusted the hem of his shirt again and again, eventually taking off his coat and draping it over me. He treated me as gently as if I were an infant and even patted my back softly.

In that instant, my soul felt nourished. It seemed like it had been years since I had felt this relaxed, where I could let go of everything and focus on the simple act of sleeping. I found the most comfortable position and drifted off.

I have no idea how long I slept. But when my consciousness returned to my body, I was jolted awake.

today's gathering for noon so I could pick up Tabitha after

the other kids had been picked

I sprang from the bed, rushing toward the door bare feet. But when I flung it open and saw the scene outside, tears instantly streamed

the other was raised as if he were about

large and small, stared at me. For a moment, I didn't know how to tum from a near-broken mother into the warm,

about to cry along with me. If she screamed or acted out in front

man she might one day call "Daddy" left her with nothing but fear

faster than I did. He lifted his hand to shield Tabitha's eyes

so happy to see you. Let's go grab

arms around Nicholas's neck. She wasn't screaming or repeating his words and was

Tabitha away, I felt my strength drain away. My grip on the doorknob loosened as I collapsed onto