Chapter 180

He wanted to stay. Every part of him longed to remain with them—to linger in their warmth, their laughter, the illusion that he was still a part of this little family. But Austin also knew his place. Knew the painful truth looming ahead. He looked at Joxan, wondering silently: Once they find out I’m not their real father, that it’s Daimon… will they stop loving me? Will they stop calling me Dad? He had raised them with his own hands, loved them with a depth that no blood relation could dictate. How was he supposed to endure being separated from them? Even though his heart was restless, he managed a calm smile. “All my things are still at the hotel,” he said, brushing a hand over Joxan’s hair. “So it’s best if I head back. I’ll see you later, alright?” “You can stay here,” Elyana said, entering the room with Oasis beside her. Austin looked at her, and for a fleeting moment, he almost agreed. But then he forced himself to smile again. “I’d love to. But I’ve got a conference to attend, yo