Naomi's expression didn't so much as flicker. No ripple in her chest at all.
She'd heard some version of that same line more times than she could count by now.
Lily gripped her hand tighter, voice clear and steady. "Mom, don't listen to Julian. I'll always love you."
Naomi crouched down, looked at her with real tenderness, and tapped the tip of her nose gently. Something in her chest settled at that. "Thank you, baby. Mom will always love you too."
She pressed a kiss to Lily's cheek.
Julian, arriving just in time to catch the whole exchange, felt his face twist with something ugly.
She's never that gentle with me. Why does Lily get all of it?
She's just playing favorites.
I'll never forgive her for this.
Once both kids were handed off to their coach, Naomi exchanged a quick goodby
