Chapter 58

“Yeah.”

Alex shrugged. “She hasn’t made an effort to contact him since she sent the flowers. I wonder if that was a farewell token.”

“And Dad hasn’t asked for her since the first time Mom left the room.”

“Could we be wrong? Maybe we shouldn’t have interfered.”

“He can sort it out himself.”

“I guess he’ll have to.” Although as reluctant as Alex was to admit it, he wasn’t sure their father would survive to do so. “So, how long will you be away?”

“Not too long. I plan to stay with Parrish for a few days and then come back.” He cocked his head. “Want to meet him?”

“You bet your ass I do!”

“I’ll see about bringing him with me.”

“Sounds like a plan.” And if he discovered that Rutledge was just using Ran for what he could get out of the relationship, Alex would kick his ass, as well as Scott’s. “Now, let’s get this coffee to Mom and break the news you’ll be gone for a few days.” 21