Chapter 546

Jason’s POV

I crouched down, opening my arms to catch him as he barreled into me, wrapping his arms around my neck in a tight hug.

“Hey, buddy,” I said, forcing a smile as I ruffled his hair. “What are you doing here?”

He grinned up at me, his innocent eyes shining. “We’re shopping! Mommy and Daddy said we could get ice cream!”

I glanced up at Isabella and Logan, who had noticed Damien’s sudden dash toward me. They were walking over now, their expressions unreadable. My heart raced as I braced myself for whatever conversation was about to unfold.

As Damien barreled into me, his small arms wrapped tightly around my neck, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of warmth despite the heavy thoughts clouding my mind. 

His innocence, his joy…it was something I hadn’t experienced in what felt like forever. I bent down to his level, balancing on one knee so I could look him in the eye.

“Hey, champ,” I said, my voice soft