Haley sighed, walked around the bed, and sat down beside Chase. She gently pulled him from under the blankets and held him in her arms.
Resting her chin lightly on top of his head, she spoke, her voice carrying a faint trace of exhaustion.
“Being together isn’t just about loving and liking someone.”
“There are things two people have to go through—some good, some bad…”
Love.
Chase had used the word like, but she had said love.
His breathing deepened as he listened, his gaze drifting into the void. The weight behind her words carried more depth than the bedtime story she had just read to them.
“You’re still young,” she murmured, gently stroking his hair. “But when you grow up and meet a girl you like, make sure you treat her well. Don’t let your eyes wander. Don’t hurt her.”
Chase frowned. He didn’t understand.
Why would someone look around when they already liked someone?
Did that mean Justin liked Mommy… but also liked Emma?
Why would he do that?
Hal
