I felt like I had been punched in the gut.
“I can’t believe this!” I shouted. “Why? Why would you lie to me and steal from my family?”
“I started gambling.
I thought I could win it back, but I kept losing. The debts grew faster than I could handle. I borrowed more to cover the old ones,” he confessed, his voice cracking.
“How could you?!” I yelled.
“I thought you were spending time with Milo, being the father he needs. Instead, you wasted my money, Jane’s money, and Mom’s things!”
“I didn’t mean to hurt anyone,” Kaden said quietly.
“And yet you didn’t stop me from blaming Jane,” I said, my anger boiling over. “You let me attack her while you hid.”
“I know.
I hate myself for it,” Kaden said, his eyes downcast. “I’m ashamed.”
“I want you to leave,” I said firmly.
“Do you want a divorce?” he asked, his voice barely audible.
“I don’t know. What I do know is I can’t look at you right now.
Pack your things tomorrow while I’m at work. I’ll text you when I’m ready to talk.”
He nodded slowly, tears in his eyes. “I’m so sorry, Violet.
I love you and Milo so much,” he whispered before leaving.
As soon as the door closed, I broke down, tears pouring down my face. After checking on Milo, who was sound asleep, I drove to Jane’s house.
When she opened the door, I could barely speak. “I’m sorry,” I managed, tears streaming down my cheeks.
Jane pulled me into a hug without hesitation.
“And thank you,” I said through sobs.
“For everything. Even for helping Kaden.”
“I didn’t do it for him,” Jane said softly. “I did it for you, Violet.”
“Please forgive me, please,” I begged.
“It’s okay.
I’ll always be here for you,” Jane said, holding me tightly.
