A Divorce He Regrets (Alissa Nexus) novel Chapter 167

"I mean it, Raina," he said, his voice firm but full of warmth. "Stay inside. Keep the kids safe. No unnecessary risks, okay?"

I nodded again, biting my lip. "Okay."

The smell of pancakes filled the kitchen as I flipped another one onto the plate. In the meantime, Ava was sitting at the table, her little legs moving back and forth while she hummed softly to herself. Liam was scribbling on a piece of paper, his small hands clamping tightly onto a crayon. I couldn't help but smile over at them, their innocence so vivid against the storms that raged around us.

"Here you go," I said, setting the plate in front of them. "Dig in before it gets cold."

"Thanks, Mom," Ava chirped, reaching for the syrup and dousing her pile with entirely too much of it.

I mussed her hair before heading toward Grandma's room. She was still in bed, her tiny frame nearly swallowed by the heavy quilt. "Morning, Grandma," I said softly, sitting on the edge of her bed.

Her eyes fluttered open, and she gave me a weak smile. "Morning, dear. You're up early."

"Had to make sure the kids were fed," I replied, helping her sit up and arranging the pillows behind her. "How are you feeling today?"

"A little better," she said, her voice thin but steady. "But I wouldn't mind some of those pancakes I smell."

I chuckled, kissing her cheek. "Coming right up."

As soon as Grandma was set with her breakfast, I went out into the hall with the phone. As soon as I had dialed Faith's number, this feeling of dread settled in over me.

"Raina," Faith's voice came through thick with emotion.

"Hey," I said, leaning back against the wall. "I just wanted to check in with you. I'm really sorry I couldn't make it, but Alex is on his way."

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