Game over.
I want to reach for her, I want to tell her I love her, and I want her and the children in my life.
Instead, I say quietly, “I’m not taking them from you. I never will. But I am here now, and I’m not leaving.” She looks back at me, eyes glassy, face pale. For a moment, she doesn’t speak. Then Carmen’s laugh echoes from outside, followed by Connor yelling orders at a bewildered guard. Maddie wipes her eyes quickly and straightens.
“This isn’t over,” Maddi says, voice cold.
“No. It’s just the beginning,” I agree with her.