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“That’s beside the point. There are . . .” I pause, arching a brow. “How many kids did you say there are?”
“Two. The boy’s just a few weeks old . . .” she mutters absently, attention still fixed on her phone screen.
I nod decisively. “We get the kids secured first.”
Panic flares in her eyes. “But, Gabe, I can’t care for them. I only came to talk to Izzy, then leave for good.”
“Well, there’s been a change of plans,” I state gently but firmly.
“Though I’d love to help, I’m afraid that I’ll be busy—and so will the rest of the Decker women,” Lyric, who has been impressively quiet, speaks.
Ameline’s jaw sets stubbornly. “Doesn’t matter, I’m still leaving. For good this time.”
“After listening to your story, I really hope that this isn’t the end. You both deserve a second chance. Though, you should make sure that my broody brother grovels,” Lyric says with a slight smirk.
Before I can tell my sister to take a hike, she goes upstairs, leaving us alone.
“Ame, let me at least take you to check on the kids,” I offer.
She bobs her head in agreement.
“Okay, I’m texting Seth. He can provide us with car seats if we need them.” I point at her backpack. “Bring only your purse. I doubt you’ll be leaving today.”
“This is unreal,” she murmurs more to herself than to me.
“Sorry,” it’s all I can say, because I can’t promise much until I learn what’s really happening with Izzy and her children.
I almost remind her that this time is different. We’re older. Back then it was . . . messier and more painful because I didn’t have the maturity to handle it myself or to acknowledge that I needed my family’s support. But then, I think maybe it’s best if she heads back to New York. I could handle Izzy’s situation, sparing her the pain.
Honestly, I don’t want her to go through that kind of heartache again.
* * *
My cousin Seth uses his resources to research Isadora’s information. We’re halfway to pick up the children when he calls.
“Hello,” I say, pressing the answer button on the steering wheel, my gaze steady on the road.
“Hey, Doc, I’m puzzled about your request. Would you like to share why we’re doing this?” he asks. “Is this another patient who lost insurance coverage, and you plan to sponsor them?”
“Izzy is my sister-in-law,” I clarify. “She summoned Ameline. It seems like she needs help with her children. What do you have for us?”
“Oh. Ameline? Your ‘estranged’ wife is back, interesting. You think this time we’ll get to meet her before you fuck things up again?” The asshole chuckles.
“Fuck you.” I grip the steering wheel tighter, irritation rising. “Just tell me what you found.”
Seth finds out she’s divorced and has a four-year-old daughter with her ex. Isadora moved back to Seattle almost two years ago. She has a three-week-old boy. The father’s name isn’t disclosed on the birth certificate.
“If necessary, we can track down the girl’s father. The boy will be very difficult, but not impossible,” he states matter-of-factly. “I’ll meet you at the apartment building where she lives with the car seats.”
“Thank you for your help.” I end the call.
“He knows about me?” Ameline asks with a confused, yet angry tone.
“Of course, they may not have known that you’re my wife but they knew you were a very important part of my life,” I reply.
“You’re delusional,” she laughs, but it’s a hollow sound. “We haven’t seen each other in years.”
“I never claimed sanity was my strong suit,” I admit, offering a brief smile before refocusing on the road. “Losing my wife and daughter . . . it fucked me up pretty bad.”
