THIRTEEN

FRAY

THE BREAKFAST WENT WELL AND I loved the fact that Sev enjoyed scones more than pancakes like I did. He was a quiet kid and the whole meal, all he’d said was “Mommy, this is my new favorite food” to which Autumn replied with a small laugh and eye roll. It showed as if they had their own private joke. Autumn must’ve noticed something on my face as she explained that Sev had said that at least two dozen times now, claiming food as his favorite which troubled her when I’d asked her earlier about his favorite food.

Sev and Autumn had a whole ritual, a whole life that I knew nothing about, and that had nothing to do with me. Seeing it made me a little uncomfortable, and I really couldn’t say why.

When Autumn said goodbye to Severus, he didn’t get teary at the fact that he was going to spend the day with me, someone he had just met today, and I took it as a good sign. It didn't look so good after the front door closed behind Autumn. Sev put down his toy and stood in front of me. I was