Page 82 of Truck Hard

“It looks worse than it feels.” The lie comes automatically, but Liam’s raised eyebrow calls me on it. “Okay, it hurts. But I’ll be fine.”

“You should sit,” Liam says, pulling out a chair. “I can heat up some pizza if you’re hungry.”

My stomach turns at the thought of food. “Just water for now.”

Cam stares as I sink into the chair, clearly uncertain whether to go back to his homework or stay close to me. The need to reassure him wars with bone-deep exhaustion.

“What are you working on?” I ask, trying to sound normal.

“Math.” He makes a face. “Mr. Stevens gave us extra homework because some kids were talking during class.”

“That seems unfair.”

He shrugs, some of the tension leaving his shoulders as we slip into familiar routine. “Yeah, but Dad’s really good at algebra. He showed me a trick for solving equations that actually makes sense.”

The casual way he says Dad still gives me all the feels. It makes something warm unfurl in my chest.

“Your son’s a quick learner,” Liam says, setting a glass of water in front of me. His hand brushes my shoulder briefly—casual comfort that somehow means everything—before he sits back down in the chair next to me.

I can’t help but stare at him. His handsome face and thoughtful eyes have always lured me in. He’s freshened up—showered and put on clean clothes. I can still smell the clean scent of soap.

“Gets that from his father,” I say without thinking. The words hang in the air for a moment, loaded with meaning.

Cam’s expression turns serious. “About that... Can we talk about Charlie?”

My heart clenches. “Of course. What do you want to know?”

He glances at Liam, who starts to stand. “I should give you two some privacy.”

“No.” Cam’s voice is firm. “Stay. Please? This involves you too.”

Liam sinks back into his chair, surprise and something like hope flickering across his face.

“I don’t want to see him again,” Cam says bluntly. “Ever. I know the court said he gets visitation rights but after today... I won’t do it. I won’t let him near either of us again.”

“Cam.” The protective fire in his voice makes my throat tight. “It’s complicated. Legally—”

“I don’t care about legally!” His fist hits the table, making me jump. “He hurt you! Again! He’s never been a real dad to me andwe all know why. I want him gone—completely gone. No more visits, no more rights, no more anything.”

“We can talk to my lawyer,” I say carefully. “This incident might be enough to get the visitation order reversed. And if not... Well, there are other options.”

Cam leans forward intently. “Like what?”

I glance at Liam, seeing my own uncertainty reflected in his eyes. “We could request a paternity test. Have his name removed from your birth certificate.”

“Yes.” The word comes out fierce and immediate. “That’s what I want. I don’t want his name anywhere near me, even on paper.”

“Are you sure?” I reach for his hand, needing him to understand the weight of this choice. “It’s a big decision.”

“I’ve never been more sure of anything.” His fingers squeeze mine. He looks at Liam, determination etched on his young face. “I want your name on my birth certificate instead. You’re my real dad.”

My breath catches. I watch Liam’s expression shift from surprise to pure joy, though he tries to contain it. His eyes glisten as he reaches across the table to squeeze Cam’s shoulder.

“I’d be honored,” Liam says, voice rough with emotion. “But only if you’re absolutely sure.”

“I am.” Cam’s chin lifts with that stubborn tilt he inherited from Liam. “I want to be a Mutter, not a Fisher. I want to belong to this family for real.”

The tears I’ve been holding back spill over. “Honey, you already belong. You always have.”

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