“Yay. Bye, Mommy. You go now. I stay.” Kayden patted both my cheeks. Even through the turmoil, laughter puffed out, and I leaned in and pressed a kiss to the crown of Kayden’s head. “I see how easily I can be replaced.” Ryder came striding our way, and he leaned down and scooped Kayden up, pulling him to his chest. I stood at the same time as he did. He was so close. A raging fire. Those arms so strong and sure as he held onto my son. “No, Dakota, you can’t be replaced.” My knees knocked, and I wobbled on my feet, my breaths so shallow I couldn’t speak. But what was I supposed to say? What,
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