The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 15

Back at our new home, I gave Jonas a bath and checked his injuries. Fortunately, they were all superficial and weren't serious.

Lying in bed, Jonas asked me softly, "Daddy, are we still a family with Mommy?"

I sat by his bed and stroked his hair gently. "Jonas, no matter what happens, you'll always be my and your mom's dearest son. We'll always be a family."

Jonas nodded and slowly closed his eyes. As I sat there, watching his sleeping face, I felt conflicted. I pulled out my phone, hesitated for a while, and eventually sent Yvonne a message.

"I reflected on what happened today. Admittedly, my attitude wasn't the best. I'll be careful next time. Also, Xavier seems a bit rebellious lately. Please watch over him."

After sending the message, I stared at the screen. However, even after I fell asleep, I didn't get a reply.

…

The next morning, I drove Jonas to school as usual. At the school entrance, we bumped into Yvonne and Xavier. When Xavier noticed us, he rushed at Jonas right away.

He said excitedly, "Jonas, Jared said he'd bring us to an amusement park tonight. Come with us!"

I looked at Yvonne, but she avoided my gaze and just said calmly, "If you're free, bring Jonas over."

Just as I was about to speak, Jonas tugged at my hand. "Daddy, can I go?"

Noticing my son's hopeful eyes, I forced a smile. "Of course, you can go. I'll bring you over tonight."

After watching the two children enter the school, I turned to leave.

Yvonne called out to me, "Cole, wait."

I stopped but didn't turn around.

"What is it?" My tone was calm and impassive.

My heart was in my throat as soon as I heard that. I immediately set my work aside and rushed to school.

Jonas had always been a sensible child. Despite his young age, he was quite smart. Even in his younger years, he rarely cried.

In the classroom, I saw Jonas curl up in the corner with streaks of tears running down his face.

Xavier stood beside him, looking nonchalant.

"What happened?" I crouched and asked Jonas softly.

He sobbed, "Xavier… Xavier said Mommy doesn't want me anymore. He said I'm an unwanted child."

I shot up and glared at Xavier. "Why did you say that to your brother?"

Xavier pouted. "I'm not lying. It's true that Mommy likes me better. Besides, it's not my fault that we're separated."