Chapter 6

Ainsley stared back at his mother before he switched his gaze to Callum. “I’m sure your mom is great, too.”

At this, Callum’s heart grew heavy. “Maybe. I don’t know. I have no memories of her.”

“We’ll take care of you while you’re here,” said Tirzah.

“While I’m here…I don’t even know why I’m here, let alone know whether I’m going to stay or leave someday.”

Ainsley swallowed and looked at the floor. There was something off in his manner but Callum couldn’t put his finger on what it was. He decided to tease him.

“And you? You’re going to take care of me, too?”

Ainsley looked up at him but the pain in his eyes startled Callum. What’s going on here?

“Ainsley, are you okay?”

After a beat, Ainsley gave frantic nods. “Yes. Yes, I’m okay, and yes, I’m going to take care of you as long as I can.”

Something was definitely going on here. “What’s wrong?” Callum demanded. “You seem…terrified.”

“I don’t,” Ainsley denied quickly. “I’m not terrified.”