Page 79 of Sexting My Ex's Dad

STELLA

The automatic doors whoosh open, and the familiar scent of antiseptic fills my nostrils as we enter the facility.

“Excuse me,” I say, approaching the front desk with purpose. The receptionist looks up, her practiced smile faltering as she takes in my stony expression. “I need to know the process for removing someone as a licensed user on my brother Leo’s account. Specifically, Kendall March.”

“Of course,” the receptionist replies. “Let me pull up the necessary forms for you.”

The receptionist hands me the completed forms, her gaze flickering between Elio and me.

She’s checking Elio out which isn’t that surprising to me. I don’t know a woman in this world who wouldn’t do the same thing.

Briefly, I think back to the first time I’d laid eyes on him.

I make a decision – not only will I ensure my mother can’t access Leo’s account anymore, but I’ll replace the money she took. It won’t be easy, but I’m not going to let my mom ruin this.

“Is there any way I can arrange a payment plan?” I ask, steeling my resolve. “I’d like to cover the next three months of Leo’s full care.” Even if it takes every penny I make for the next two months, I’ll do it. I don’t ever want to fall behind again.

“Sure is,” the receptionist replies, quickly typing on her computer. “We can set up an automatic withdrawal from your account, or you can pay by check each month. Whichever works best for you.”

“Automatic withdrawal is fine,” I say, providing her with my banking information.

“Do I still have time to visit him?” I ask. “I know it’s starting to get a little late…”

She looks up at the clock. “Usually I’d say ‘no’ but go for it.”

“Thank you.”

Elio follows me down the familiar hallway toward Leo’s room. When I catch sight of him sitting at a table, playing with some bubbles, behind the slightly open door, I can’t help but break into a run.

“Leo!” I call out.

“Stella!” he exclaims, his eyes lighting up as he abandons the bubbles to rush toward me.

Once we breakaway, we sit at the table and he shows me his new bubble wand, waving it around and laughing at every bubble that comes out of it.

“You try,” he pushes it into my hand.

“Sure, bud,” I say, taking the bubble wand from Leo’s hand and dipping it into the soapy solution. I bring the wand to my lipsand gently blow, sending a flurry of bubbles soaring into the air. Leo’s eyes widen with wonder, and he claps his hands together in excitement.

“Your turn,” I encourage him, handing the wand back to him. He mirrors my actions, blowing into the wand with concentrated effort. The bubbles multiply, and we both laugh as they dance around us, some popping, while others continue their flight away from our reach.

I look up, expecting to see Elio against the wall, but he’s nowhere to be seen. A part of me is disappointed, but I get over it. He probably went back to the car. That’s what Owen used to do all the time. He never really liked coming here; he said he didn’t like to be around sick people. I should have noticed he was a walking red flag then.

“Leo, would you like to paint with me?” I ask. His eyes light up, and he nods eagerly.

“Yes, yes, yes!” He exclaims.

“I hope you don’t mind if I join,” Elio’s voice surprises me, and I look up to see him carrying a tray filled with snacks and drinks. “I got us a few snacks.”

“Snacks!” Leo exclaims, clapping his hands, as Elio puts the tray down on the table.

So, Elio hadn’t left after all?

Leo immediately grabs a bag of chips. “These are my favorite!”

“Mine too.”

“I like you.” He beams from ear to ear. “What’s your name?”