Page 39

Chapter thirty-eight

Bear Jake doesn’t play nice when his territory’s threatened

Jake - 12 Years Ago

T he campfire sparks into the night sky as the kids huddle closer, their eyes wide with a mix of fear and curiosity.

"Are there bears out here?" Tommy asks, voice trembling a little.

A couple of kids shift nervously, and I catch Charlie’s eyes flick toward me. She sits up straighter, her eyes darting around the kids and out to the woods, like she’s scanning the shadows.

"Nah, no bears around here," I say, keeping my voice calm. "You’re safe."

Tommy exhales with relief, but tension lingers in the group. I can feel it—even Charlie’s trying to play it cool, but her shoulders are a little tighter than usual.

"But... what if we were somewhere with bears?" Annie pipes up.

I chuckle, hoping to ease the mood. "If we were, you’d be fine. Bears don’t mess with people unless they feel threatened. They’re mostly protective of their territory and their young, so as long as you give them space, they’ll leave you alone."

Charlie’s watching me now, her eyes steady but with a flicker of unease. It’s subtle, but I catch it. And I don’t like it.

Without thinking, I add, "And if you ever ran into one, I’d be right there to make sure it didn’t come close. You wouldn’t have to worry about a thing."

The kids relax, a few leaning back on their logs with reassurance. But it’s Charlie’s reaction I’m watching for. Her lips curve into a small smile, and the tension in her shoulders eases. It’s like she needed to hear that as much as they did.

A warmth settles in my chest, knowing I made her feel safe.

"You got a lot of bear facts, huh?"

I shrug, smirking. "Guess I just know how to deal with danger when I see it."

***

Jake - Present Day

Noah and Meadow’s laughter fills the living room as I chase them, pretending to be a bear. It’s chaos—the kind I’ve come to love. Meadow tumbles over the rug, landing in a pile of cushions, her laughter infectious as she clutches her teddy bear.

A month’s passed since Christmas at the cabin, and every time I hear Charlie say she loves me, I feel it just as strong as the first time. Whenever I’m back from an away game, I’m here with Charlie and the kids. Every time I see her, I’m reminded of how much I love her, and I make sure she knows it.

I’m playing better than ever, and Coach has noticed. But when he asked me what’s changed, I just smirked. Can’t exactly tell him it’s because I’m head over heels for a woman who I get to rail every chance I get. Who makes every day a win.

“Gotcha!” I scoop Meadow up, growling playfully. Noah jumps onto the couch, dodging me as I pretend to swipe at him.

"Bear needs a snack," I rumble, carrying Meadow around as Noah squeals.

Across the room, Charlie leans against the kitchen counter, watching us with a smile. There’s something about the way she looks at me, that familiar pull always wanting her closer. Her hair’s piled in a messy bun, cheeks flushed from the heat of the stove. She’s cooking, glancing over every now and then to make sure no one gets hurt. But I know she trusts me. We’ve built that trust over these past few months.

"You're too good at that," Charlie teases, shaking her head as she slices vegetables. "Bear Jake might need to retire soon.”

I chuckle, setting Meadow down and kissing her forehead. "Bear Jake’s got a few good years left."

Moving to the kitchen, I brush my fingertips on the small of her back. The warmth of her skin through her shirt sends that familiar jolt through me. I’ve just got back from a string of away games and I’m desperate to get her alone.

She glances up at me, eyes glimmering with a playful challenge. "Careful, or I’ll add you to the dinner menu. Bears might not like that."

“Depends what’s on the menu,” I murmur just for her, leaning in. “Could be worth it.”

Her lips curl into a smile, and our eyes lock. My grin slips for a second as I let my gaze coast over her face, drinking her in. I’m about to pull her closer when the doorbell rings.

Charlie steps back, frowning. "Who could that be? It’s almost bedtime." She wipes her hands on a dish towel and heads for the door.

I follow on instinct. We weren’t expecting anyone, and an unannounced visitor at this hour is never a good sign.

When she opens the door, every bit of the evening’s warmth is sucked out instantly.

Because standing there, all smug like he owns the place, is Alex.

"Surprise," he says, his voice laced with fake enthusiasm. "Thought I’d swing."

Charlie's hand tightens on the door and her body goes rigid. "Alex? Wh-what are you doing here?"

Alex shrugs, glancing past her into the house. His eyes land on me, and his smile falters before snapping back. "I’m in town for business, so I figured I’d drop by. Spend some quality time with my kids.”

I stay back, leaning against the wall with my arms crossed, but every muscle in me is coiled tight. The memory of him telling Meadow she was too old to call him Dada still burns, let alone the way he speaks to Charlie. My hand flexes at the thought, but I force myself to stay calm. This isn’t about me. It’s about the kids, and I won’t let him rile me up in front of them.

"It’s late, Alex," Charlie says, her voice taut. "The kids are getting ready for bed."

He smiles, but it’s all teeth. "Perfect timing then. I can read them a bedtime story." He steps forward like he’s going to push past her, but I move instinctively, closing in behind Charlie.

"Bedtime’s usually a family thing," I say, keeping my voice calm but eyes locked on his. "And right now, that’s us.” There’s no mistaking my possessiveness, but I don’t care. He needs to understand that it’s not just about him.

Alex’s eyes narrow at me, just for a second. He’s not used to being challenged, especially not by me. But I don’t back down.

Charlie glances between us as the tension builds. She knows I’m holding it together, but she’s worried how this could go.

I look at her, giving a small nod. I’ve got this, Charlie girl.

"Look," I say, turning to Alex, "it’s great you want to see the kids, but next time, give us a heads-up."

His jaw ticks, but instead of pushing back, his voice softens, dripping with faux sincerity. "I’m just trying to be a good dad, Lottie. You know I miss them."

I see the flicker of frustration in Charlie’s eyes. She hates that nickname. I know it, and he damn well knows it too. But he continues to call her that, just to needle her.

"Fine," she says, stepping back and opening the door wider. “But you don’t have long. They need to go to bed.”

Alex smirks, strolling in. He brushes past me, his chest puffed out like he’s the king of the damn castle. "I won’t take long.”

Meadow spots him first and bolts toward him, squealing. “Daddy!” She’s too young to remember the broken promises.

"Hey, sweetheart!" he says, all smiles and his voice sickly sweet.

As this nightmare unfolds befor e me, I bite down hard on the inside of my cheek, watching as Alex scoops her up and spins her around. It's the perfect father act. He’s all smiles and sweet words, lavishing her with attention.

Noah doesn’t move from the sofa. He watches, assessing and unsure. And I know that look. The uncertainty, the wariness. He doesn’t trust it. Doesn’t trust him .

That protectiveness flares in me, stronger than ever. I know what it’s like to be that kid, watching someone play the role of a parent but never really being one. He looks at me, his expression asking a question he’s too young to verbalize: Is this okay?

I cross the room, placing a hand on Noah’s shoulder, crouching to meet his eye. "Hey, buddy. You can go say hi to your dad if you want."

He hesitates, glancing at me before looking back at Alex. I squeeze his shoulder gently, letting him know I’m here, whatever he decides. It’s his choice, and I want him to know he doesn’t have to if he’s not comfortable.

Finally, he nods and takes a few steps forward. But he doesn’t rush in like Meadow. He’s cautious. Observing. And Alex doesn’t even notice.

He’s too busy putting on his show for Meadow, his voice dripping with compliments. Noah stands there, uncertain. He watches as Alex sits on the sofa with Meadow on his lap, lavishing attention on her. I’ve been there before—watching my father dote on someone else, feeling invisible. Wondering why you’re not as special or needed.

"You’re getting so big, Princess," Alex coos, still ignoring Noah, who stands there like he’s lining up to wait his turn for some sort of reward.

My fists clench. Charlie stands beside me, her arms crossed tightly, frustration mirroring mine. She’s torn, it’s obvious. She’s fighting the urge to pull the kids away.

"You know, Lottie," Alex says, glancing back with a smirk, "you could’ve invited me to stay. Might do the kids some good to have both parents under one roof again."

Fuck this.

I step forward before I can stop myself, but Charlie ’s hand on my arm stills me. The longer this goes on, the more I want to throw Alex out on his ass. And the fact that he keeps calling her Lottie ? It’s just making me want to punch him harder.

"We agreed on boundaries, Alex," she says firmly. "This isn’t the time."

"Right, boundaries ," he chuckles, ruffling Noah’s hair as he flinches slightly.

I watch as Alex continues to give Noah the bare minimum and lavish his faux adoration on Meadow. It’s like he’s making the kid pay a price for his uncertainty. I can’t take it anymore. Noah clearly doesn’t want to be there.

“Noah," I say softly. "How about we get your PJs on, bud? I’ll help you brush your teeth before bed."

Noah’s eyes flick to mine, and the relief in them is almost immediate. He doesn’t say a word, but I can tell he’s ready to get out of here. I give him a small nod, a quiet reassurance. I’ve got you, bud.

Alex watches, his smirk fading. "You don’t even want to say hi to your dad, Noah?" His voice is soft but manipulative. Playing the victim.

Noah freezes. His eyes bounce between me and Alex, like he’s waiting for someone to tell him what the right answer is. It tears me up inside.

I crouch down, hand on Noah’s back. "It’s okay, buddy," I say gently. " You can decide. You don’t have to do anything you’re not comfortable with."

There’s no hesitation this time. Noah moves fully into my side, and I place a hand on his shoulder as we turn toward the stairs.

I catch Charlie’s eye over my shoulder, seeing the gratitude in her expression. She’s thankful I stepped in, but all I can think about is getting Noah out of this shit show.

As we climb the stairs, I feel Alex’s eyes burn into my back, but I couldn’t give two shits. My job right now is to protect Noah, not use him as some pawn.

Once upstairs, I kneel to Noah’s level. “You okay, buddy?”

His head dips, and he shrugs. “I don’t think Dad likes me much.”

The words of his small voice hit hard, pulling me back to my own past. I see myself in him—in the way his voice wavers, in the way he shrinks under the weight of what he just said. That hollow ache of wondering why you’re not enough. The memory is visceral, clawing its way back from a part of me I’d thought I’d buried. I won’t let him feel like that. Not ever.

“Hey,” I say. “Look at me.”

He hesitates but eventually lifts his tear-filled eyes to mine, so heartbreakingly small and unsure.

“You’re important, Noah. You matter so much more than you ever know. And if anyone makes you feel different, they’re wrong. Okay? They’re dead wrong.” My voice wavers, and I take a breath, willing myself to stay steady for him. “You’re smart, and kind, and brave. Anyone would be lucky to know you. And I’m so glad I get to be someone who does.”

He looks at me, uncertain for a moment. Then his lip quivers, eyes flicking between mine, searching for something—hope, reassurance, anything to cling to. And then he breaks. His little face crumples as he stumbles forward, wrapping his arms around me like I might disappear.

I freeze as the force of his trust seeps into me, but then I pull him in, holding him close. My hand moves to the back of his head, smoothing his hair as he buries his face in my chest, his small body trembling against mine. I close my eyes and just breathe, the weight of his body solidifying something in me. A protectiveness like no other.

I’ve always known I cared about these kids, but this is different. This feeling is embedded into the very bones of who I am. Who I want to be for them. I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve this kid’s trust, but I know one thing with absolute certainty: I’ll never break it.

“I’ve got you, buddy,” my voice cracks a little. “Always.” I clear my throat, hoping he doesn’t notice. But he squeezes me tighter, like he knows exactly how important this is.

When he pulls back, I ruffle his hair, trying to ease the mood. “Let’s get those teeth brushed.”

He nods, and as we head toward the bathroom, I make a silent vow. I will never let this kid down. I’ll be there for him, for Charlie, for Meadow. No matter what Alex does, no matter what happens.

I’ll protect them.

***

We’ve all said goodnight to the kids, and I’m the last t o come downstairs. I close Noah’s door quietly. He fell asleep fast, curled up with his stuffed shark, safe and sound.

As I head down the stairs, the tension hits me like a wall. It prickles at the back of my neck and sets my jaw tight. When I step into the living room, Alex is sprawled out on the sofa, one arm draped lazily over the backrest, that smug grin plastered across his face.

It’s the kind of look that makes me want to knock him out cold. Charlie stands by the kitchen counter, arms crossed, her face tight with frustration.

I walk up beside her, my palm instantly finding the flat of her back. holding back the urge to tear into him. I need to stay calm for Charlie—this isn’t about me.

"You don’t have to act so defensive, Lottie," Alex sighs, his tone dripping with condescension. "I’m just trying to be here for my kids."

Charlie closes her eyes slowly like she’s holding back a storm. Another deliberate dig. He knows exactly how to push her buttons, and it’s infuriating.

“Still calling her Lottie?” I say. “Cut the crap.”

Alex barely acknowledges me, but the corner of his mouth twitches like he’s pleased he got under my skin. He keeps his eyes on Charlie, ignoring me like I’m just background noise.

"I’m in town for business, Lottie. It makes sense that I’d see my kids. That a crime?”

Inhaling a slow breath, her voice is measured when she replies. "A heads-up would’ve been nice, Alex. You can’t just show up whenever it suits you. We agreed."

He shrugs, leaning further back into the couch. "I don’t see the problem. I’m their father, it’s not like I’m some stranger."

I push off the counter, stepping closer, my eyes locked on him. "Maybe not, but you sure act like one."

His eyes finally flick to mine with a flash of irritation, but he doe sn’t bite. Not yet. Instead, his voice turns softer, smoother—more manipulative.

"Listen, I just want to spend time with them. What’s the harm?"

Charlie’s voice tightens. "The harm is you don’t communicate, Alex. It’s 9 p.m. on a school night. The kids need stability. You agreed to that.”

He leans forward, smirking. "They seemed pretty happy to see me, especially Meadow."

That smirk nearly does me in. The urge to knock him out is growing, but I force myself to stay quiet. Charlie’s in charge here.

"That’s not the point," Charlie says, her voice firmer. "They need consistency. You can’t just drop in and expect everything to be fine. If you want to be part of their lives, show up in ways that matter.”

Alex hesitates, his bravado slipping for just a second. But he shrugs it off. "I don’t need to check in every time I want to see my kids. Last I checked, I’m still their dad."

I can’t hold back. "You sure? Because it looks like you breeze in when it suits you. That’s not being a dad—that’s being a visitor."

His stare sharpens, locking onto mine. "And what do you know about being a dad, huh? You think playing house with my wife for a few months makes you an expert?”

" Ex-wife ," I bite back.

The air shifts. But I catch Charlie’s gaze—pleading for calm—and I take a breath. "I know enough to show up. Every day. That’s what they deserve."

Alex stands, finally facing me. "You think you can replace me, Jake? Think you’re their father now?"

He’s good-looking in that polished, too-perfect Ken doll kind of way—lean, six feet tall, blond hair combed back like he’s just come from a business meeting. I could easily pummel him. The way he’s sizing me up tells me he knows it too, so I stand my ground, glaring down at him.

"I’m not replacing anyone. But I’m sure as shit not gonna let you screw them up."

Charlie steps between us, her voice sharp. "Enough. The kids need us to be adults about this, Alex.”

He glances at her, then smugly back at me. "Well, isn’t this cozy? The perfect little family playing ho use, huh? But let’s not forget, I’ve got more of a right to be here than he does.”

Charlie’s voice is cold as ice. "We talked about this. You don’t get to come and go whenever you want. Communicate or don’t come at all."

Alex’s smirk falters, just for a second. But he recovers quickly, sliding his mask back on. "Alright, I’ll play by your rules, Lottie."

"Her name is Charlie ."

Charlie crosses her arms tighter, but I can see how drained she is. This whole thing is taking a toll on her, and it pisses me off how easily Alex plays the victim. "You don’t care about them, Alex," she says. "If you did, you’d stick to the plan. Not just pop in on the off chance.”

Good girl.

Alex shrugs nonchalantly, but there’s an edge to his voice now. “You know Lottie, maybe we should rethink visitation, then. If you’re going to be strict about this, maybe it’s time to revisit that custody agreement.”

My fists clench. It’s bullshit, but the way Charlie stiffens tells me she’s taking him seriously. He’s a snake, throwing out empty threats just to get a rise out of her.

"Don’t, Alex." Her voice is steady despite the tremble. "This isn’t about you or me. It’s about what’s best for the kids.”

“Oh, I’m sure you think so. But it’s funny—just when I thought you couldn’t do any worse, you bring him into their lives.” He flicks his gaze toward me like I’m dirt on his shoe. “Must be nice, though. Handing off your responsibilities to someone who doesn’t know better.”

I’m done.

I step in front of Charlie, shielding her from the venom spouting from this asshole.

“You don’t get to waltz in and act like you give a damn. You don’t get to threaten custody like you’re some devoted father when you’re anything but. And you sure as fuck don’t get to stand here insulting Charlie because your ego can’t handle the life she’s built without you. ”

He stiffens, like he knows I’m two seconds away from putting his face through the wall. But he doesn’t back down completely. Instead, he throws on that fake smile, like he’s won.

Charlie steps up to the front door, opening it with steel in her voice. "If you can’t stick to the boundaries we a greed on, then we’ll definitely revisit custody. And trust me Alex, you won’t like how that turns out."

Silence. I can see the wheels turning in his head. Then he sighs, grabbing his coat. "Fine. Have it your way. But I’ll be back to see them. I’m here for the next week."

He throws one last look my way as he heads out the door. "I’ll be in touch, Lottie ."

It takes everything in me not to kick him down the stoop.

When the door clicks shut behind him, the room feels like it’s still buzzing with tension. Charlie’s still facing the door, her shoulders sagging with the exhaustion of it all.

I’m across the hall in two strides, wrapping my arms around her waist, pulling her against me. "Hey," I whisper, pressing a kiss to her temple. "You okay?”

She leans into me, but I feel the weight on her shoulders. "Yeah, I’m fine," she says, but her voice trembles.

I turn her to face me, tipping her chin up. "You handled that so well."

Her smile is tired. "I just hate that it always feels like a fight. Like we’re always in a battle.”

"That’s because he’s a manipulative asshole," I spit. "But I’ve got you, Charlie girl. We’re in this together. He doesn’t get to control this."

She looks up, her eyes a little glassy under the stress and pressure. I rest my forehead against hers, protective instincts flaring. She’s mine. Those kids are mine too, even if they don’t have my DNA. And I’ll be damned if Alex thinks he can mess with their emotions like this.

I press a slow kiss to her forehead, then her nose, then to her lips.

“Come on, let me take you to bed... I’ve got a way to help with all that stress.”

She scoffs softly. “Jake Brooks, are you seriously using this moment to get me naked?”

I brush my lips against her ear. "Stress relief is important, y'know."

She rolls her eyes but links her hands behind my neck. "Fine. But if this is your idea of therapy, you’d better be good at it."

"Oh, Lady Lightning," I whisper, pulling her toward the stairs. “I’m the best at this kind of therapy."