Page 127 of One Eye Open (The BlackWater)

“What about IVF?”

She shook her head. “Why are you asking?”

He froze as if he’d gotten that he’d pushed it too far.

“You’ve met Richard’s children I assume.” He said after minutes of awkward silence.

“Yeah.” Maddie said. She didn’t want to talk about Richard. It felt unfair, it felt like a betrayal.

“And his wife too I’d imagine.”

“Yes.”

“She’s a bitch.”

“What? No she isn’t.” Maddie said. “She’s a damn good mother and she looks after Richard too.”

“How would you know what a good mother is if you’re not one yourself Maddison?”

“Well we both know I’ve seen first-hand what a shit mother is like.” She said before she could stop herself.

He nodded. “I should have taken you away. I should have fought harder for you. You would have grown up wanting for nothing.”

“I would have been like Kelsey then.” Maddie said back.

“No. Kelsey’s like she is because of her mother. It’s in the genes. It can’t be helped.”

Maddie bit back the retort. It wasn’t worth the argument.

They ate the rest of the meal with Alfred asking questions and Maddie trying to play as nice as she could. When they were done Alfred made her walk with him. Clearly her quick flight last time had annoyed him.

They walked along the street. Maddie clenching and unclenching her fists trying not to lose her shit.

Alfred was busy talking about something when he suddenly stopped. Maddie paused looking at him and frowned.

“I know I wasn’t the father you wanted Maddison but I am trying.”

Maddie sighed. “I don’t know what you want me to say.” She muttered.

“You do look so like her.” He said raising his hand and touching her cheek.

She flinched. “Don’t touch me.” She snapped.

“Maddison.” He said.

“Don’t ever touch me.”

“I’m your father.” He growled.

“Some father you are. You’re blackmailing me.” She hissed. “What kind of a father does that huh?”

“Maybe you should watch what you say then?” He retorted.

“Great. Now we’re going with the threats.”

“It works doesn’t it?” He said. “You care more about Cole than you do about your own flesh and blood.”

“You’re not my flesh and blood.” She said. “You were little more than a sperm donor. You didn’t want me. You didn’t intend for me to even exist.”

---