“None of that now,” she whispered. “It’s okay, my sweet boy. Mommy’s sorry.” “Sounds like he could use some food in his belly.” Mrs. Martin appeared behind the counter while Aiden toddled over to her with his box of cookies in his hands. “This should help you out for a couple of weeks. Remember, if you need anything, the pack is here for you. We’re all here for you.” “Thank you.” Danielle grabbed for the cold bag and Mrs. Martin stayed her hand. “Is something wrong?” “You can’t keep sliding into the shadows. You’re not a whisper on the wind. You’re not even a willow. You’re a reed. Hollow. You go through the day pasting a smile on your face. Laugh when appropriate. Saying thank you. Please. You’re welcome.” Mrs. Martin leaned toward her. “I see your pain. I feel it. It’s electric. A current in the water so strong it takes a person’s breath away. You’re not fooling anyone.” “Uh...” Danielle didn’t know what to say. “Thanks.” She smiled at Aiden. “Tell Mrs. Martin thank you.” Aiden gave her a toothy grin. “Tank ‘ous.” “You’re very welcome, my boy.” Mrs. Martin waved at him. “Danielle, remember what I said.” Danielle gave a curt nod. “See you in a couple of weeks.” She couldn’t get out of there quick enough. The air surrounding her became oppressive as Nicolas began to cry harder. She realized it was because the black mass of negative emotions seeped through the wall like an oily sludge. The quicker she tried to re-enforce the construct, the more holes appeared. She needed to get home. She couldn’t fall apart out in public. She couldn’t let anyone see how much Caden’s betrayal hurt her. “Mama?” Aiden blinked at her as she lifted him into his car seat. “Ou ‘kay?” She swallowed hard and took a second, afraid he’d hear grief in her voice. “I’m fine, big boy. How about a cookie and some milk when we get home?” He nodded emphatically. “Yes, Mama. Nic too. Hungee.” “Yes, he is. Silly Mama. Forgot his bottle.” She made a show of frowning at him then rolling her eyes. Each practiced movement meant to keep Aiden from seeing the frayed ends of her emotional state. “Looks like you could use a hand.” Caden. Icy fingers of dread slid down her spine. At one time, the sound of his voice brought her so much pleasure. Just a whisper of it filled her with anticipation. Those nights she spent curled in his embrace talking about their future and the idea of falling in love with him had been so effortless. She’d instantly felt the connection to him the day they arrived in Window Rock. The cocky smirk on his face. The way his blue eyes twinkled with a hint of sensual heat and the feel of his hand curling around hers when he said, “Pleasure...” It was like he said, “I’ve spent my whole life waiting for this moment. Welcome home.” “No, I’ve got it.” Danielle took the opportunity to push a strand of her hair behind her ear to cover the track of tears sliding down her left cheek. “No need to interrupt your day to help me.”