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.

thought she'd hidden her discomfort well, but years of experience had given her

more than

tension, piped up and tugged at Mila's hand, eager to lead her

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 go. Since it was obvious they knew she'd heard, she decided to come right out

mentioning something about the border... and Lysander. What's going

misheard," her

Carrol walked over and gently pried Mila's fingers off the doorframe, shutting the door with a sharp thud. Only his words lingered

What?

did she really mishear the name 'Lysander'? Was it not

"Mom, let's go."

off guard and dragging her away toward

own room.

...

"Mom, look!"

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

on the doorframe. "See? I'm

Four foot eleven.

for an

hair, her expression softening. "Looks like someone's been eating well and keeping up with their

course!" Adrian

off, glancing nervously at Mila.

how are your grades?" she cut

of tests and report cards on his desk with pride. Mila wasn't surprised-Adrian was bright.

worry about. She smiled and praised