Meryl's POV
Andre collected Gavin from school first. The instant Gavin spotted my tear-stained face, concern creased his small features.
"Mama?" he questioned, clutching his backpack straps. "You've been crying."
I quickly averted my gaze, brushing away the moisture with my sleeve, feigning composure.
"How come I'm leaving school early?" Gavin pressed while climbing into the vehicle. "Am I in trouble?"
"Of course not, sweetheart," I murmured, securing his seatbelt. "You haven't done anything wrong."
"Then what's happening?" his questions persisted. "Where are we headed? Mama? Why won't you answer me?"
I pressed my teeth into my bottom lip, fighting back another wave of tears.
Andre ignited the engine and caught my eye through the rearview mirror. "Just relax, little man," he said, working to maintain an even tone. "We're taking a small journey."
Gavin's frown deepened. "But if we're going somewhere fun, why is Mama sad?"
