Page 116 of The Challenge

Evan rolled his eyes. “Xavier apparently surprised her with a trip to Germany to see the Christmas markets. She says the tickets are non-refundable and claims she’ll make it up to Effie in the new year. Can you believe that?”

“She’s unreal.” My hands balled into fists. “What did you tell her?”

“I told her the only person she owes an apology to is her daughter.”

I stared blankly out my apartment window. “Effie is going to be devastated.”

“She’ll be upset, but unfortunately, thanks to Katerina, Effie’s been conditioned to brace for this.”

I walked over and placed my hand on his chest. “You think on some level she was expecting her mom to leave again, even though Katerina said she wouldn’t this time?”

He let out a long sigh. “Despite what Effie wrote you in that email, when we talk at night before bed, she’s expressed that she was worried Katerina would take off.”

My heart broke for that little girl. But more than that, I felt a love so strong in my heart—for both of them.

“I need to pack,” I announced, racing to my closet to grab my suitcase.

“Why?”

“I want to be there for Effie. I’m going to try to get a seat on your flight.”

Chapter 43

EVAN

The moment Chloe and I landed, I dropped her at my rental home and raced to Lydia’s, where Effie had been staying with Katerina. Chloe had no desire to meet my ex, so I figured I’d let Effie be surprised to see her back at the house later. Hopefully that would cheer her up after what I knew would be a tough day.

When I pulled up, I had no idea whether Katerina had broken the news to our daughter that she was leaving. But after I knocked and Katerina opened the door, I looked past her to find a stoic-looking Effie. And then I knew.

I rushed over and bent to take her in my arms. “I missed you so much, baby.”

“I missed you, too, Daddy.” Her sweet voice tugged at my heart. I’d never gone so long without hearing it in person. I couldn’t even look at Katerina.

“Can I have a couple more moments with Effie in private?” she asked from behind me.

No way in hell I was gonna leave my baby alone when I’d just gotten back unless she told me it was okay.

I looked at Effie. “You want me to stay or wait in the car for you?”

“You can wait in the car, Daddy.” She pursed her lips. I could tell she was trying to be strong, even if she was broken inside. My brave girl waited patiently for her mother to crush her heart for the umpteenth time.

“Okay, baby.” I kissed her on the forehead and stood.

Anger settled in my chest as I stalked back to the truck. I could only hope Katerina wasn’t feeding Effie any lies about coming back again soon. We all knew damn well she wasn’t a woman of her word.

After Effie exited the house alone and ran to my truck, I couldn’t turn the ignition fast enough.

“Are you okay, honey?” I asked as she buckled in.

She shook her head no but didn’t say anything.

We drove in silence for a bit before I turned to her. “I know it’s late, but Chick-fil-A is still open. Should we pick up some chicken and fries on the way home?”

“That’s okay. I’m not hungry,” she said as she stared out the window.

“Okay. If you change your mind and get hungry later, we can always make waffles.”

The rest of the ride back was quiet.