Kate couldn't move. The door was still half open, and Grayson stood there, looking at her with a fierce, raw intensity that stripped her defenses bare.

"Why didn't you tell me you had a kid?" It wasn't an accusation. His voice was barely a torn whisper, but it carried the weight of an open wound.

She frowned—and then she understood. He knew. He knew about Oliver. But he didn't know the truth. He thought Oliver belonged to another man.

That hurt more than she ever expected.

Grayson lowered his gaze for a moment, like the weight of meeting her eyes was too much. When he spoke again, his words came out bitter.

"There was no reason to hide it from me, Kate. Not when he's sick…" His voice faltered. "Not when you're going through this alone."

He lifted his eyes again, and the sadness etched into his expression was almost tangible.

"I'm not anyone to judge you. I wouldn't dare. I've been an idiot—one who's made mistakes, and probably still will. But if you'd asked for help… if y