Chapter 76: A Strange Unease Twisted in Harrison Caldwell's Stomach

A strange unease twisted in Harrison Caldwell’s stomach. He couldn’t explain the sudden dread. Sienna Bennett moved without warning. Her leg shot out in a sharp, controlled arc. A crisp, crushing sound tore through the air. The vibrant angel trumpets were instantly destroyed. Only broken stems remained in the bouquet Harrison still clutched. “We’re done here,” Sienna said coldly. “Leave. Now.” She was once so gentle. So obedient. When did she become this fierce? This untamable?

Inside the car, Noah Harrington clapped his small hands. “Mommy is amazing! That was so cool! Daddy, you have to try harder! Go get her! Don’t let anyone else take her!”

Lucas Harrington considered his son’s words. Pursue her? How? With Sienna’s fiery spirit, she’d likely dismiss him completely. He glanced at Sebastian, irritation flaring. “Weren’t you the expert on romance? Why are you so quiet now?”

“I know nothing,” Sebastian replied quickly. “I’m just the driver. A very dedicated driver.”

Dedicated? Lucas’s mouth curved into a faint, humorless smile. “I have a plan,” he told Noah. “Just follow my lead.” The confrontation over, Sienna strode toward the parking lot. She swung a leg over her motorcycle, ready to depart.

“Mommy! Mommy!”

She turned. Lucas was walking toward her, Noah perched high on his shoulders. The boy looked tiny and adorable up there. Lucas’s frame was solid and powerful. The contrast was striking. A handsome man. A precious child. It was a captivating image. Sienna’s brow furrowed. “What are you doing here?” Her tone was sharp, unwelcoming. Lucas was accustomed to her coldness. “Last time, your advice was invaluable,” he stated calmly. “I remembered every word. Noah’s school has a trip today. I took the day off. We’re going to the amusement park.”

Her expression softened slightly. She was surprised he was actually trying.

“However,” Lucas continued, his voice earnest, “this is my first time taking him out like this. It’s a crowded place. I’m concerned I won’t be able to manage him properly. That’s why I sought you out. For your guidance.”

“Well…” Sienna studied his serious face. She began instructing him in a firm tone. “He’s still small. Avoid extreme rides. No rollercoasters. No pendulum swings. The park will be packed. You must watch him constantly. It’s easy to get separated. Also—”

Suddenly, Noah began to sob. Loud, dramatic tears. “I—I want Mommy to protect me! Daddy is a man! He’s not careful! He’s already lost me ninety-eight times!”

“Ninety-eight times?” Sienna gasped, horrified.

Noah nodded pitifully. “Shopping. Work. Parties. Banquets. He always forgets me! I don’t feel safe! I don’t want to go with Daddy! I won’t go!”

“Noah, be reasonable,” Lucas said patiently. “I’ll watch you closely this time. It’s a school trip. All your friends will be there. They’ll tease you if you don’t go.”

This only made Noah cry harder. He was hysterical. “No! No! I’m not going! I refuse!” He thrashed in Lucas’s arms, his small limbs flailing. In the struggle, he launched himself forward. He landed squarely in Sienna’s embrace.