Mark exhaled slowly. “Because Cole thinks he can spin it. He called you ‘emotional.’ Said he could always come back home because he knows how to ‘handle you.’”

I looked at the breakfast table, at my kids wandering around deciding what to do with their day.

“I have six children, Mark. Leah is twelve. I can’t hide something like this from her.”

“I know,” he said quietly. “That’s exactly why you need to come.”

I hit mute.

My youngest tugged gently on my shirt.

“Mommy?”

I crouched down to meet her eyes. “Go sit with your brother for a minute, baby. I’ll be right there, okay?”

She nodded and shuffled off, dragging her stuffed bunny behind her.

I unmuted the call. “Fine. I’m coming.”

I ended the call and immediately dialed Tessa next door. She answered on the first ring.

“I need a favor,” I said.

“I’m already tying my sneakers, Paige,” she replied. “Just go.”

I didn’t bother changing my clothes. I grabbed my purse and keys, kissed each kid on the head, and hurried out the door.