I Used To Cling To Him At Night, Now I Turn My Back Chapter 11

I Used To Cling To Him At Night, Now I Turn My Back Chapter 11

It was the weekend, so Callan wasn’t working.

Milo had become unusually clingy. The little guy kept glancing at Callan like he had something to say but didn’t want him to hear.

Callan had been acting strangely too. The moment his phone alarm went off, he’d disappear into the study. Every time I walked past the door, I’d hear him talking to someone inside. Sometimes it was “Baby.” Other times, “Honey.”

As soon as Milo saw Callan head into the study, he tiptoed over and pulled me to the dining table. His tiny mouth opened, and what came out nearly stunned me.

“Aunt Selene, you’re getting divorced.”

“I still remember my dad’s number. You want it?”

Before I could answer, he snatched my phone. His little fingers flew across the screen as he entered a string of numbers. Then his eyes went wide.

“Aunt Selene! You already have my dad’s number!”

I followed his gaze. Sure enough, there was a porcelain doll profile picture already sitting in my contacts. I remembered that doll. I’d made it myself and given it to Lila. She’d complained it was ugly, then stuffed it into her pocket and refused to give it back.

Milo’s smartwatch suddenly chimed. Lila’s familiar voice came through.

“Babe, why didn’t you tell me you were getting divorced sooner?”

“My brother’s liked you for years.”

“He’s never gotten married because he’s been waiting.”

“By the time your baby’s born, the two kids can grow up together.”

I had no idea when Callan had come out. He’d just returned from picking up a delivery. Two bags hung from his hands. He walked in just in time to hear every word. His expression shifted.

Without a word, he strode over and dropped one of the bags in front of Milo. It was packed with ice cream.

Milo kicked his legs excitedly and jumped to his feet.

“Thanks, Goofball!”

Callan looked at him.

“What did you call me?”

Milo’s round eyes darted around before he dug through the bag and switched sides without a second thought.

“Uncle Callan! You’re the best, Uncle Callan!”

Callan answered with a flat “Mm.” Then he delivered the next blow.

“Your dad’s picking you up tomorrow morning. I’ll call him to confirm.”

“What?!”

Milo jumped up, flailing his arms dramatically.

“You big meanie! You always ruin my plans with Aunt Selene!”

Before he could finish, Callan hoisted him over one shoulder.

“Bedtime. Now.”

Milo squirmed and kicked the whole way upstairs. He earned a couple of light swats on the bottom for his trouble.