“Oliver.” Ben’s voice came from behind me. “Is he doing alright?”
“Better than when he was with you,” I replied coldly and walked towards Oliver, who was hiding behind the swing. “Oliver, your dad is here.”
Oliver timidly peeked his head out and whispered, “Dad.”
Ben forced a smile, his arm stiffly outstretched. “Sweetie, come here. I will give you a hug.”
A flicker of anticipation flashed in Oliver’s eyes, but it quickly dimmed. He hesitated for a long time before slowly shuffling over to Ben.
Ben picked him up and gave him a perfunctory kiss on the cheek. “Is everything fine at the new school?” His tone was gentle, yet distant.
“It’s... okay,” Oliver’s voice was barely audible. He stole a glance at Ben, his eyes filled with unease, then jumped down and clung tightly to my leg.
I g
