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“Just checking in,” she concurs, then relaxes her shoulders. “When I first moved to France, it seemed like the most amazing thing, but the novelty soon wore off, although I was in denial at the time. Living my so-called best life with no one by my side.”
“France is beautiful.”
“It is, and you know you’re welcome to use the chateau at any time.”
“Thank you. It’s hard to get away. I don’t like leaving Bentley, and Benedict has a busy schedule. In addition, his company is launching some new buildings, so trying to get him to even sit down for dinner can be hard at times.”
Bentley squirms in Dad’s arms, fussing while rubbing his eyes.
I quickly check my phone. “He’s due for his afternoon nap. I can call Eliza over to put him to sleep.”
“Give the nanny a rest. I want to rock my grandbaby to sleep.” Kate takes Bentley off Dad’s lap, then stands up with him in her arms. They both walk away as Kate sings a song, leaving the tumbleweed to pass by as Dad and I sit alone in silence for what feels like an eternity.
“How’s work?” I ask.
“Busy,” he manages. “Lex and I have some projects in Singapore, so traveling too. Much like yourhusband.”
And there it is—the judgment he just can’t seem to hold back.
“Why did you say husband like that?” I ask, annoyed.
“Just pointing out what you mentioned.”
I throw my napkin on the table, frustrated while I cross my arms beneath my chest.
“Just spit it out, whatever it is you want to say.”
Dad purses his lips, keeping his expression at bay.
“I have nothing to say, Jessa. But, perhaps, you have a lot to say?”
“Yes, well, let me guess. You think I made the wrong decision by marrying Benedict. I don’t know how you can even say that. Without him, you wouldn’t have a grandson.”
Dad wipes the corner of his mouth with his napkin. Then, places it gently on the table. His hazel eyes pierce into me, but behind them, I struggle to see the loving man who I once admired.
“You’re a grown woman, and these choices you have made are your choices. My opinion may vary, but in the end, it’s your life, just as you reminded me on your wedding day.”
I shake my head, knowing exactly what he thinks.
“I’m happy, okay? So, I don’t live in the States anymore, and so what if I don’t have a job. I have a husband who loves me, a son I adore, and this beautiful house to call home. What more could I want?”
His merciless stare doesn’t waver until Kate walks back outside without Bentley.
“That was quick. The poor little fella was asleep in my arms by the time I got to his room.” Her glance darts between Dad and me. “I’m sorry, did I interrupt something?”
Dad rises from his chair. “No, in fact, your timing is perfect. I need to head into town.”
We walk in silence to the front of the property. Dad nods goodbye, unable to even say the words, then enters the black Mercedes parked out front.
Kate places her hands on my arms, clutching them with assurance.
“We’re still here for a few days. Can you come for lunch? Just us girls.”
I nod, then smile back, ignoring the mixture of anger and guilt inside me.
Slowly, Kate raises her hand and touches a curl hanging near my cheek.
“Jessa, your father loves you. But he just misses you, okay? This distance thing is hard for him.”
