Whispered Promises

Dex met Caitlin’s direct gaze. “Yes. He should be here sometime this morning.”

She regretted asking about Clayton the moment the question had left her lips. She knew why he was coming. Dex had summoned his attorney brother to do whatever was necessary to undo what her father had done. He wanted to make sure he was free of her as quickly as possible. However, there was the issue of Jordan. She wasn’t certain what Dex’s plans were regarding their daughter, but she was more than sure he wouldn’t be one of those fathers who would be satisfied with just seeing his child whenever the mood struck. He had been cheated out of three years already, and she had a gut feeling that was the limit. What she wasn’t sure of was just how far he would go to be a part of Jordan’s life. Would he try to get full custody of her? Not wanting to even think of that possibility, Caitlin decided to stay clear of any conversation concerning Clayton’s visit, too.

“How’s your brother Justin?”

Dex smiled. “Justin couldn’t be better. He’s married with two kids and lives in Ennis, Texas. His wife, Lorren, is the author of the Kente Kids books.”

“Really? Jordan has all of those books, and the Kente Kids Show is her favorite Saturday-morning cartoon.”

Dex nodded. He then brought her up-to-date on his other family members. Caitlin couldn’t help noticing that Dex’s love for his family ran deep. It showed in his discussion of them.

“I understand you’re no longer living here in San Antonio, Caitlin.”

She leaned back in her chair. “I moved away six months ago. I was offered a teaching job in Fort Worth.”

“I’m surprised your father didn’t try and convince you not to go.”

She inhaled deeply, hearing the sarcasm in his voice, but deciding to ignore it. “He actually encouraged me to take the job. I should’ve known then that something was wrong. He was dying and he didn’t want me or Jordan around to watch. According to Dr. Flores, it was too late for chemotherapy. Unfortunately the disease hadn’t been diagnosed early enough. By the time Dad began experiencing symptoms, the cancer had already spread to other parts of his body. He and I talked on the phone often and not once did he tell me about his condition. I can only imagine what it cost him to pretend nothing was wrong so I wouldn’t find out.”

“When did you find out?”

“A few days ago. Dr. Flores called and told me. By that time Dad had been in the hospital a week already. He had ordered them not to contact me until it became absolutely necessary.”

Caitlin signed heavily. “He was a wonderful father and I loved him dearly. What you told him at the hospital was true, Dex. It was my decision to remain here in the States with him and not join you in Australia. I couldn’t turn my back on him.”

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