Chapter 28

For Christine, motherhood took precedence over all else. It was her first, second, and third priority, with everything else demoted to a distant fourth. Being separated from her son was a heartache she never enjoyed, even if Ethan could be a handful - a trait that seemed to have amplified since he'd met Hunter.

For the moment, she had to content herself with communicating with him over the phone.

"Grandpa's spoiling me, but I miss you so much, Mommy!" Ethan's endearing voice was like a tug on her heartstrings, eliciting an ache within her that echoed the profound longing she felt for him.

"Oh, my sweet angel, I miss you too! How I wish I could return home tonight!"

"Mommy, did something happen? Is Daddy not treating you well?" Ethan's concern was palpable, and Christine could practically envision the worried frown creasing his small face.

A soft sigh escaped Christine's lips, followed by a gentle smile that she was grateful Ethan couldn't see. His delight at her potential union wi