The Heart Left Behind

Chapter 28 Looking at the pair before me , I found the situation increasingly amusing .

I leaned in closer to Jareds ear and said softly , What a coincidence , huh ? Just when I got bored , someone stepped in to pick up the pieces and even volunteered to help raise my son .

If that person isnt a saint , I dont know who is .

My tone dripped with mockery as I gave his shoulder a condescending pat .

Turning to Jonas , I smiled and said cheerfully , Son , its time for us to go .

I kept my tone light and pleasant , determined not to let Jonas feel the tension in the air .

Dont forget , you have school tomorrow , I reminded him .

Jonas nodded obediently , stood up , and followed me out of the unpleasant scene .

After we left , Jared stood frozen , his expression shifting between anger and composure .

Eventually , he managed to suppress his frustration and forced a smile at Yvonne .

Since Mr.

Joplin isnt too keen on having me here , lets leave as well .

Jared , I dont know whats gotten into Cole today .

He wasnt like this before … Yvonne said , frowning in confusion .

Jared didnt respond .

Instead , he hailed a cab , took Yvonne by the arm , and left .

I had no idea what transpired after I left , nor did I care .

Having finally voiced the words I had buried for so long , I felt a renewed energy coursing through me .

Even the simplest tasks seemed more enjoyable .

Jonas must have sensed my unusually good mood as he playfully suggested we go out to eat .

Naturally , I agreed … I asked softly as we sat down at the restaurant , Jonas , what did you think of todays event ? Jonas put down his spoon and said earnestly , I felt really happy , Daddy .

Seeing those kids .

smile when they got their new school supplies felt so meaningful .

Did it ? Thats wonderful , I replied with a smile .

Just then , my phone buzzed .

It was Yvonne again .

What do you need ? I answered curtly .

There was a brief pause before she said in a deliberately casual tone , When are you planning to bring over Xaviers toys ? Hes been asking for them .

This weekend , I replied offhandedly .

Ill send you a list .

Let me know if anythings missing .

Alright … Thats all , then .

Call less often if its not important .

Goodbye , I said before ending the call .

Back at the office , I had barely sat down when my secretary walked in .

Mr.

Joplin , Mr.

Lawson is here to see you .

1 frowned .

Again ? Let him in .

Jared then walked in with his usual smile .

Mr.

Joplin , I hope Im not intruding .

Feeling somewhat surprised , I gestured for him to sit .

What brings you here , Mr.

Lawson ? He smiled as he explained , I have a proposal .

recently took on a charity endorsement and thought it would be great to invite you to collaborate .

It could really help your project .

I let out a cold laugh .

Mr.

Lawson , my project doesnt rely on anyones celebrity status .

If you genuinely want to help those children , you can donate directly .

Jareds smile faltered momentarily but quickly returned to his face .

I understand your reservations , Mr.

Joplin .

But for the sake of the children , shouldnt we set aside our differences and work together ? I looked him straight in the eye .

Mr.

Lawson , let me be blunt .

Theres nothing for us to collaborate on .

You can continue being a star , and Ill continue my charity work .

Lets stay out of each others way .

Jared sighed .

I know you have issues with me , Mr.

Joplin .

But I hope youll consider the childrens feelings especially Xavier .

He really wants- I cut him off , Mr.

Lawson , please dont use the children as an excuse .

Xavier is with Yvonne now , and I trust shell take good care of him .

As for Jonas , you dont need to concern yourself .

Jared was silent for a moment before standing .

Alright , if thats how you feel , I wont push further .

I do hope , though , that we can be friends one day .

I chuckled lightly and shook my head .

Well , Ill be waiting to see that day .

After seeing Jared out , I let out a long breath , feeling a wave of exhaustion wash over me .

Just then , my phone rang it was Peyton .

Cole , great news ! he exclaimed .