Evan watched Fitch’s performance with an approving nod, then turned to Rebecca and said, “Mom, let’s go.” With that, he slipped his small hand into hers and began to lead her away.
Before leaving, Evan glanced back at Fitch, offering a parting shot: “Take some time to think about how you might do better next time.”
Fitch stood there, stunned for a moment, his mind racing. Did that mean he might actually have a chance?
Was the kid hinting that, as long as he made a good impression, they’d consider letting him in?
He could hardly believe it, frozen in place. But Evan’s words revealed something important: Raina and her husband’s marriage was already on the rocks. The kid obviously didn’t care for his dad and seemed eager to find himself a new stepfather.
If that was the case, maybe his odds weren’t so hopeless after all.
Fantastic!
Meanwhile, Rebecca and Evan climbed back into the car.
Rebecca glanced down at Evan, concern lacing her voice. “Evan, why did you say those things back there? I don’t like that man, and I’m not interested in him.”
Evan, ever the cheerful optimist, tried to reassure her. “Mom, you haven’t brought Dad home in ages. That means you don’t like him anymore, right? So why not give someone else a chance? If another man treats you well, maybe you could consider it.”
Rebecca gave him a helpless look, sighing softly. “Evan, my priority right now is taking care of you and your sibling. I’m not thinking about dating anyone else. Honestly, having you two by my side is all I need.”
Evan grinned, his eyes sparkling. “We’re happy with just you too, Mom, but you work so hard to take care of us. We want you to have someone by your side—to give yourself a chance. Who knows? You might be surprised.”
He squeezed her hand, his tone earnest. “Mom, I just want to help you find someone who truly makes you happy.”
Rebecca was taken aback for a second, then asked, “By the way, sweetheart, how did you know that man gave me flowers and gifts earlier?”
As soon as he saw him, Fitch blurted out, “Dylan, I need to ask you something.”
Dylan was busy at his desk, barely looking up. “What is it?”
Fitch hesitated, choosing his words carefully before leaning in. “I just want to know—did anything ever, you know… happen between you and Raina?”
Dylan finally looked up. “Happen? Like what?”
Fitch scratched his head, raising an eyebrow. “You know, anything intimate? Like, did you ever sleep together…?”
Dylan’s expression darkened, irritation etched across his face. “Fitch, are you out of your mind? If you’ve got issues, go see a doctor and stop bothering me. I’ve had enough of your nonsense.”
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