Chapter 42: A Misunderstanding?
As Alex walked to the door, the sharp knock echoed through the house again, louder this time, telling Alex that whoever was at the door was getting impatient now.
Alex squared his shoulders, a pulse of irritation rising in his chest as he strode to the door. He swung it open, wanting to snap at whoever it was.
When he saw the people standing outside, his heart skipped several beats, and for a moment, he was glad the household staff were not home.
Standing on his porch were Claire, her arms crossed and her jaw tight in anger; Margaret, with a disapproving scowl etched onto her face; and Jake, looking forlorn like he was going to burst into tears any moment.
He sighed, the sight of them all together setting him on edge.
"What's the meaning of this?" Claire snapped, her eyes blazing as she stepped forward. "Alex, what in the world is going on with you? Do you have any idea what's being said about our family right now?"
Alex sighed, gripping the edge of the door for a moment. "It's a misunderstanding, Claire. I—"
"A misunderstanding?" Jake's voice cut through, sharp and dripping with accusation.
He stepped up beside Claire, his expression a mix of hurt and anger. "Fine, I understand the fact that it was a lie when they said you were Emma's child's father since you were out of the country. But was it also a misunderstanding or a lie that you were seen with Emma at the hospital that day? You were guarding her like—like she was someone who mattered to you. What is she to you, Uncle?" he asked, looking at Alex with a hurtful look while hiding a smirk.