#Chapter 42-An Unexpected Rescue

“Is she always like that?” Derek asks, amused. I feel absolutely whiplashed but know I can’t just sit here with my mouth wide open. I swallow, hesitant. “Yes?” “Well, she seems quite old-school.” I snort. “You genuinely do not know the half of it.” “Go, Daddy!” one of the girl’s yells, and we each look to see them. Bea claps her hands. “You showed her!” Derek stifles a laugh. “Thank you, honey. Remember what I say. There’s no need to be rude to the ones you love.” I look at his face again. “That’s a sweet sentiment.” He smiles, shrugging at me. “It’s the truth. I try to teach my girls what’s right and wrong.” “Oh, I don’t doubt that,” I admit, hands in the air. It’s strange. Having him stand up for me with a work issue comes across as nothing but a genuine and kind boss who wants the best for me—but coming to my rescue against Angie like it’s nothing more than a neighborly deed? “Your mother does