His words detonated like a silent bomb.

The chubby boy’s parents visibly trembled.

They never imagined the quiet child they’d dismissed was the son of Ethan Blackwood.

“Our deepest apologies, Mr. Blackwood. We had no idea—” The father rushed forward, pulling his son from behind his wife. “Apologize to Mr. Blackwood and his son. Now!”

The terrified boy could barely lift his head. “Sorry,” he mumbled, voice shaking.

Ethan ignored their frantic pleas.

He turned away, his focus entirely on the little boy. “It’s alright, Liam. I’m here.” His voice was a low, steady anchor. He gently stroked Liam’s hair.

Liam clung to him, burying his face in Ethan’s shoulder. A wave of relief finally washed over the child.

The other parents watched Ethan leave, their faces pale with dread. They knew they’d just made a powerful enemy.

Ethan scanned the playground. Isabella was nowhere in sight.

“Liam,” he asked, his tone softening unconsciously. “Where’s your mother?”

Liam sniffled, pulling back slightly. “Mommy… she isn’t here yet.”

A faint pang echoed in Ethan’s chest.

He set Liam down and took his small hand. He led him to a quiet corner where toys and colorful play dough were set out.

“Shall we play for a bit?” Ethan suggested.

Liam nodded eagerly, immediately grabbing a lump of blue dough. He let go of Ethan’s hand and began shaping it.

Ethan sat beside him, watching the small, focused hands. His own mind, however, drifted far away.

Wasn’t Lucas supposed to be Liam’s father? That man had always presented himself as so devoted. It was clearly all a performance.

No one here seemed to know who Liam’s real father was.

Meanwhile, Isabella was stuck in gridlock.

Lunch hour traffic was a nightmare. She tapped her steering wheel, frantic not to miss Parents’ Day.

She finally screeched to a halt outside the kindergarten, jumping out and sprinting toward the playground.

Then she froze.

Ethan was there. He was sitting calmly with Liam, both absorbed in play dough.

Her breath hitched.

What was he doing here?

“Isabella.” His voice pulled her from her thoughts.

She walked over as he stood. “Why are you here?” she asked, confusion clear in her eyes.

“Just passing by. Thought I’d stop in,” he replied with a casual shrug.

Their conversation was cut short.

“Children, time to gather round!” Emma Collins clapped her hands, calling the class together.

Isabella moved past Ethan, waving to Liam. “Go on, sweetheart. Your teacher is calling.”

Liam obediently stood and toddled off to join the other children.

Isabella turned to head for the parents’ area. Ethan’s hand gently caught her wrist.

“It seems Lucas doesn’t prioritize you and Liam very much.”

She whirled around, stunned by his blunt words. “That’s not true,” she said, awkwardly pulling her hand free. “Lucas is just… busy.”

Ethan’s gaze was intense, piercing. “Have you ever considered finding a stepfather for Liam?”