Page 135 of Fractured Future

“Dad.” He breaks out into a big, cheesy grin. “You’re back!”

As he launches himself into my hurriedly thrown open arms, it’s like no time has passed at all. I sweep Luke off his feet and hug him tight enough for him to squeal in protest.

“You were gone for so long,” he complains.

“I know. I’m sorry.”

“Where were you?”

“Working, bud. You know how it is.”

“I know.” Unhappy, he juts out his bottom lip.

Cupping the back of his head, I steal a deep pull of his scent before I release him. Leaning against the Jeep, Jayce watches us cuddle and chat with tears still brimming in her eyes.

“Thank you,” I mouth sincerely.

Lips pursed, she swipes underneath her eyes. “Don’t make me regret this.”

Luke wriggles out of my arms to wish his mum goodbye, squirming when she covers his face in kisses. Then he grabs his bright-red Spiderman backpack and returns to my side.

“Come on, bud.” I ruffle the top of his head. “Let’s get going.”

His hand feels tiny wrapped in mine. Like I could break his little bones with a single squeeze. No one warns you how terrifying it is to become a parent, knowing full well you have the power to make or break your kid.

Inside the elevator, Luke punches several buttons so we end up stopping on multiple floors. By the time we reach the top, I’m laughing my ass off.

“You’re as bad as Uncle Axel.”

“Is he here?” Luke spins towards me excitedly.

“Yeah, he’s in.”

“Oh, cool! I want to learn more karate.”

Shit. I should find the kid a few less insane uncles.

Unlocking the front door, I frown at the sound of yelling emanating from somewhere in the apartment. Luke peeks around my leg to follow the noise, but when I pick out Ember’s voice, I relax.

“It’s alright. We have someone new on our team who I need to introduce you to.”

“Really?” Luke brightens up.

“She’s nice. You’ll like her.”

“She’s a girl?” He looks up at me with a wrinkled nose. “I don’t want any of her germs.”

A laugh spills from my chest. “Girls don’t give you germs, Luke.”

“They so do. Emily at school said she was my girlfriend, but by break time, she said Morgan Reeves was her boyfriend!”

Pinching his cheek, I fight to hold in a laugh. “I’m sorry, kid. That’s mean.”

“Yes!” He stomps his foot. “And that’s why girls have germs.”

“Well, this girl doesn’t have any germs. I promise.”

As we walk into the living area, the sound of yelling intensifies. Though it sounds like only Ember is shouting while Axel’s voice is punctuated by guffaws of laughter.