His Destructive, Toxic Love

Eliza was probably worried about saying too much, unsure if Caroline would be willing to listen. Caroline just hummed in response and didn't add anything else.

The conversation then shifted to the latest developments at Welton International. "Zach's under scrutiny; they're going to audit some accounts. This time, it looks like he won't dodge prison." Tristan, who cared deeply for Zach, had been fighting for him and pleading with Casper on his behalf. But Caroline knew Casper well enough to guess that Casper wouldn't let it slide. "...Regardless, Zach needs to face the consequences of his actions. Even if Casper lets it go, the law won't."

Breaking the law leaves no room for leniency.

"He brought this on himself."

"Let's not talk about him anymore." Caroline was curious about Eliza's next steps. "What about you? Are you planning to stay in Falconridge?"

"With my dad's situation, there's no way we can return to Oak Falls anytime soon." She needed to care for him and felt quite uncertain about her future.

Caroline, sharing Casper's perspective, hoped Eliza would hire a caregiver for Mikey. This would not only ease her burden but also allow Eliza to find a job, as everyone needs to make a living. "Why not go back to working at the auction house? I'll talk to Casper; he won't say no."

Eliza shook her head slightly. She hadn't considered returning to work at Welton International.

"Sis, I can make a living by selling my paintings now. If things get really tough, I'll look for a job, but for now... my life is manageable."

Caroline could somewhat understand Eliza's thoughts and didn't push the matter.

"If you ever run into trouble, promise you'll tell me."

"I will." Eliza lifted Brock onto her lap, her face glowing with tenderness. "Sweetie, how about we go back to our own home today?" "Yes, yes!" The little guy was thrilled.

Eliza turned to Caroline, "Sis, I'm going to take Brock home today. You guys have been taking care of him for so long; it must have been tough."

"Of course not." As Caroline was

leaving, Audrey had made her promise to bring him back safely. "...Eliza, Why don't you let Brock stay with Mom a bit longer? She really likes Brock, and you know how Mom's been since the divorce. Brock is like a ray of light..."

Eliza felt torn, Caroline added, "Look, your dad needs care, and you need to paint. Plus, Brock will need some time to adjust from Oak Falls to the preschool in Falconridge. How about letting Mom take care of him for now? What do you think?"

Eliza didn't respond. She knew Audrey wasn't trying to take Brock from her. She was just worried that if Audrey spent too much time with Brock, it would be harder to bring him back later.

"Sweetie, do you want to go home

with Mommy or stay with Grandma Audrey?" Eliza asked Brock. The little guy clung to Eliza, wanting to go with her. But the toy in his hand reminded him of how much

Grandma Audrey loved him.

"Mommy, Brock doesn't know."

"Brock, how about this..." Caroline suggested a compromise. "...once Mommy's situation is stable, I'll bring you back right away, okay?"

The little guy leaned against Eliza and nodded, "Okay then."

"Eliza, don't worry. Even if Mom loves Brock, she knows that kids should be with their mom. You can rest assured we won't keep Brock from you." Eliza smiled slightly, "Sis, that's not what I meant."

"So, it's settled then."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

In the end, Caroline took Brock with her. Eliza felt an emptiness inside.