Chapter 13

Briar’s POV

“Come here, you!” Liam called out to Knox in a monster voice as they played the game of chase.

“Noooo!” Knox screamed amidst laughter when he got tackled to the ground.

They can be quite noisy when at it. But I have learned to get used to it. Moreover, I really enjoy seeing Knox so happy with him. No matter how hard I try to keep them away from each other to avoid any misunderstanding, it feels like a punishment to each of them.

Knox had fallen sick for a whole week about two years ago when I had an argument with Liam and told him not to try to contact my child or me. Liam had pleaded that I shouldn’t bring our adult problems into the child’s life. But I was determined. It happened to be the only way to break them apart as they were getting too close for comfort.

However, I had to accept the situation and allow Liam to visit. His presence practically brought Knox back to life. He was chatty and ate all the meals he refused before Liam’s arrival. It didn’t take long before he got better.

“They actually look like a father and son,” Rissa said, wiggling her brows at me playfully.

I snorted, kneading the cookie dough. Knox happened to resume at the time the kindergartners were having their bake sale. So I thought of making some chocolate chip cookies. Becoming a mother has turned me into a full-time chef. There is barely anything I can’t prepare now.

“Stop with your projection,” I warned.

Rissa did her signature snicker. “I won’t stop. Not until I push you to reason. You know he would make an amazing parent to him.” She said in a hushed tone.

“It is unfair to want him based on that.”

“He wouldn’t mind.”

I looked over at the duo playing as if they had no worry in the world. “His feelings matter, Rissa. Also, I don’t think he wants me like that. He is just being kind.”

She did a dramatic gasp. “That sounds like a huge zoning, Briar. You are not nice.”

I rolled my eyes playfully. “Leave me the hell alone, Rissa. You promised to help me but you are barely doing anything.”

“Sitting here with you is the greatest help a person like me can offer.” She muttered, raising her wine glass.

I chuckled, shaking my head. She is a piece of work. Since it’s the weekend, Rissa and Liam came to spend the day with me. It is our usual routine from Florida and I love every bit of it. But Knox seems to be the one who loves it the most.

“Hey, beautiful ladies!” Liam bellowed with Knox in his arms. “So I was thinking of getting ice cream with Knox. Is there anything you two would like?” He asked, a smile plastered to his face as he held my gaze.

My lashes fluttered rapidly, as I turned my attention back to the dough. “I don’t think I want anything.”

“I can decide for her. Some bowls of ice cream and cookies will do. She hasn’t done much junk shopping yet” Rissa said.

“But I am making cookies.” I protested.

“Just to be on the safe side.” She mumbled with a mischievous grin.

“I hate you.” I mouthed with a snort.

“Don’t say curse words, mum. You don’t hate Aunt Rissa.” Knox corrected.

Rissa ruffled his hair proudly. “That's right, my baby. She can’t hate me. It will never happen.”

Liam laughed, “That’s enough with you two. Briar is an amazing cook. I am sure the cookies will turn out well. I will just get some ice cream then. We will be back soon.”

“Don't say I didn’t warn you!” Rissa called after him.

I reached for a chocolate chip and threw it at her, thankfully it hit her right on the nose.

“Ouch!” She exclaimed, rubbing at the spot.

“You deserve it,” I said, letting my tongue out at her.

We stayed quiet for a while as I rolled the dough, cutting out the shape. Rissa refilled her glass and I could feel her eyes on me.

“Do you have plans to dig a hole into my head?” I questioned.

“What’s going on with you?” She asked

I raised my head with a questioning gaze. “What do you mean?”

“It’s only been a week of work, yet you have been more jumpy and anxious than usual. I haven’t seen you this rattled before.” Rissa said with a serious expression.

I shrugged nonchalantly. “It is probably just the feeling of settling in a new place, that's all.”

“I have known you for a while, Briar. That is not your usual way of adjusting. It’s as if you are worried about something popping up on you unannounced.”

“And is there a reason why that could be?”

“I have a strong feeling you have a history with this place, Briar.”

My throat bobbed with difficulty as I held her gaze. “What do you mean?”

Rissa sighed, “Girlfriend, you know I would never judge you. Also, I am most proud of you for how far you have come. It is why I would hate to see you get rattled by a place that once took life out of you. It shouldn’t have that much power over you. It doesn’t seem right.”

I exhaled feeling exhausted all of a sudden. Truly I have had the most emotionally draining past few days. My encounter with Adrian in the elevator made me quite jittery. I contemplated many times telling Liam that I would like to go back to Florida. But it felt stupid to even think of doing that. At the same time, I am not sure I am ready to be exposed to my past.

However, I felt a bit relaxed when Adrian didn’t barge into the office to demand my resignation. I hate that he has that much effect on me despite him being in the wrong. He is the one who hurt me. Why should I be troubled by him?

I wish I could express myself to Rissa, she has been my confidant over the years. I tell her things I couldn’t express to Liam. She knows about the situation that led to Knox’s birth and the accident that brought me in contact with Liam. But I never told her where the place was or who the man I was married to is. I just didn’t think it was necessary information as I was certain that it would never be an issue.

“Briar?” Rissa called out, pulling me out of my reverie. “I am not asking you to tell me what is happening now. I just need you to know that I am here for you, that's all.” She said.

I nodded, fighting back the tears in my eyes. “I hope to find the courage, Rissa. It is harder than I expected.”

“I know. You can’t expect yourself to just act unbothered. This is a part of you and it is okay to feel all the emotions. But don’t let yourself be buried in it for long. Not when it is taking your peace.”

“I won’t let it take my peace,” I muttered in determination.

She snapped her finger, smiling brightly at me. “That is the spirit. Now let’s get these cookies done to know exactly where we are to pick up again.” She teased.

“Shut the hell up.” I laughed, shaking my head while she joined me in cutting out the cookies to bake. Relieved for her thoughtfulness not to probe further. I still need time.