Chapter 9

Shane opened the Maybach's trunk and found Aaron inside. Thinking the boy was just being defiant, he hit him in a burst of rage. But the stubborn boy didn't make a sound, not even a whimper. Shane decided to take Aaron back to the manor first so he could start building a bond with Tess. When Tess saw Aaron, her smile froze. She'd only agreed to take Aaron in to force Holly to leave, never expecting Shane to actually bring him over. "Tess, Aaron's going to live with us from now on," Shane said. "I'll have him call you Mom." Tess stared at Shane, thinking she'd misheard. After a pause, she asked, "Did Holly agree to that?" Shane pulled her into his arms. "She's gone, but I'll bring her back. You'll stay on the Eastbay, and she'll be on the Westbay. You won't get in each other's way. "She gave birth to Aaron, and she lost her mother in Havenport. I can't ignore her. Don't worry, Tess. You're my wife, and nothing will ever change that." Tess swallowed her anger, forced a smile, and