Page 395 of Rangers Unexpected Return

At Cole for disappearing after the funeral.

Maybe even at myself for caring that he did.

“You could've called me,” he says quietly.

I stare at him.

“Excuse me?”

“The other night. You could've called.”

A bitter laugh escapes me.

“I could have called?”

His eyes narrow.

“Yes.”

“Do you know how many times you called me after Nathan died?”

Silence.

“Claire.”

“None.”

Sophie shifts in my lap.

I immediately lower my voice.

Cole looks away.

“I know.”

“No. I don't think you do.”

“This isn't the time.”

“Then don't tell me I should've called you.”

His gaze comes back to mine.

Pain flashes there.

Real pain.

It steals some of my anger.

Not all of it.

But some.

“Mommy?”

I kiss Sophie's hair.

“It's okay.”