Part of me still believed he could sound cruel over the phone and change once he actually saw her.
I rang the bell and promised myself I would ask only once, calmly, for help.
His girlfriend, Tessa, opened the door wearing Eric’s shirt.
“I’m not asking for money for myself. Her treatment is expensive.”
She looked at Chloe, then at me, and smiled without warmth.
“Eric, your baby mama’s here looking for another handout.”
I felt my face burn.
Behind her, Eric appeared barefoot, annoyed.
“Just look at your daughter,” I said. “I’m not asking for money for myself. Her treatment is expensive.”
Eric glanced toward the carrier briefly.
I stood there staring at painted wood, listening to Chloe make soft noises behind me.
“I have a life now. Stop showing up with your little brat.”
