Who's Crying Now, Ex-Husband?

Chapter 444

Mila eased herself into the armchair, rubbing her lower back as she sat down. She couldn't help but notice how much taller her son had grown again. Honestly, his hugs were getting stronger every time-a testament to being raised by a retired military man, she thought. There was no shortage of discipline or exercise in this household.

But that was a good thing.

Plenty of physical activity meant he'd stay healthy, and she wouldn't have to worry about him being pushed around later in life.

"Mom, you haven't been here in ages!"

Adrian wrenched his hand free from Carrol and latched onto Mila's instead, his voice edged with reproach.

"I've been busy lately," Mila replied quietly, gently withdrawing her hand from his tight grip.

She knew all too well that Adrian had only her now; his father was gone. She was supposed to be there for him, to care for him. But the truth was, she still felt a splinter lodged deep inside, and the past year had been swallowed up by work. She hadn't spent nearly as much time with Adrian as she should have.

Maybe it was also that Adrian looked more and more like his father each day, and Mila instinctively shied away, unable to face certain memories.

People always say time heals.

But some pain is carved into your very bones; letting go takes more than a year. For her, twelve months was hardly anything.

From behind his desk, her grandfather watched it all without a word. He could see the struggle Mila was having, but simply shook his head. "You two haven't seen each other in a while," he said at last. "No need to fuss in here-go on and play."

He returned to his calligraphy as soon as he finished speaking.

Mila blinked. “Grandpa, didn't you call me in here for something?"

But even as she asked, it dawned on her. Adrian stayed here with his great- grandfather, and Mila had never been close to the old man or his strict household rules. Every time she returned to the country, she'd try to avoid visiting. That's probably why he'd used some excuse to have her come by today.

hidden her discomfort well, but years of experience had given her grandfather a knack

was more than

day off!" Adrian, blissfully unaware of any tension, piped up and tugged at

against the doorframe. She leaned back into the study, her mind still turning over something she'd overheard when she arrived. She couldn't just let it

but I heard you mentioning something about the border... and Lysander. What's going on? Did

her grandfather

door with a sharp thud.

What?

supposed to ask about military matters-but did she really mishear the name

"Mom, let's go."

tightened, catching her off guard and dragging her away toward

own room.

...

"Mom, look!"

they stepped into Adrian's old-fashioned bedroom, he darted

measuring stick marked on the doorframe.

Four foot eleven.

bad for an eight-

expression softening. "Looks like someone's been eating

course!" Adrian

be taller than-" He broke off, glancing nervously at Mila. Her gentle smile

your grades?" she

the class!" Adrian declared, instantly perking up. He lined up a pile of tests and report cards on his desk with pride. Mila wasn't surprised-Adrian was bright. Even when he wasn't interested

to worry about. She smiled and