Aleena bit down on her l
ip and nodded. “I agree. I think we need to get Larkin involved.”
“You think she’d help me?”
“Oh, God, yes. She loves you.”
Nia covered her face. She couldn't hold back the sobs anymore. They felt like they were burning inside her chest, and if she didn’t release some of the pressure, she’d explode.
Aleena held her for a long time and cried along with her.
Nia tore the tissue up in her lap. “I knew it would happen.”
“I still can’t believe he would go to another woman. He loves you so much.”
She looked away and blinked her eyes. “Yeah, I thought he did, too.”
Aleena perked up. “Oh, God, I hear daddy. Hide, just in case. I have to go. I’ll bring you up food.”
Nia knew she wouldn’t be able to eat but couldn’t decide on anything at that moment. “Okay. Thank you.”
“That’s what friends are for.”
****
Aleena walked down the stairs and heard voices in the office. When she recognized both, she turned to walk the other way.
“Aleena. Come here.”
She froze and schooled her features. Then she turned, skipped over to him, and tried to act nonchalant.
“Has Nia called you?”
“No, daddy.” The lie felt like bile on her tongue, but she had to protect her friend.
“Are you sure?”
“I’m positive. Why?”
Both Kaleb and Travis stared down at her, but she kept her gaze on her daddy because she was afraid if she looked at Travis, she wouldn’t be able to hide her anger.
Her daddy narrowed his eyes as he studied her, making her stomach tighten.
“Are you sure she didn’t call you or the house?”
“I’m positive,” she said with conviction.
“Hello, Aleena.”
She turned to Travis. “How are you?”
“Miserable.”
She looked shocked.
“I’m sorry.”
“Do you want to know why?”