Chapter 44

** Paige’s POV ** Jaxon falls asleep quicker than I expect, probably thanks to the deep breathing and gentle bedtime routine Ryder had done with him. After a warm bath, a new storybook, and at least three stuffed animals tucked around him just right, he’s out cold. I can’t deny how positive an impact Ryder has had on him already. He’s really stepped up as his father and I couldn’t be happier, but it also makes me so sad. Because it proves that all those years without him would have been so full of love and happiness, and we can’t ever get that missed time back. I linger beside Jaxon for a while, watching the steady rise and fall of his chest as he sleeps and wondering what he’s dreaming about. It calms me. I’m also stalling, because I know that when I go downstairs, everything’s about to change. By the time I make it back to the kitchen, Ryder and Callen are already sitting at the table. Ryder’s sitting in his usual chair, arms crossed, and his eyes suspicious. Callen looks a little mo