CHAPTER 10 PROMISES AND PRIORITIES

Claire’s bow furrowed. She couldn’t help but wonder whether this was another of his ploys, another way to get his hands on her money. After all, he’d always been extravagant with his lifestyle, squandering his earnings on expensive cars and designer clothes, while she struggled to make ends meet. She hadn’t even the slightest idea what braces meant and why it was a necessity. “What about your job?” “I got laid off last month,” he said, his tone taking on a note of self-pity. “I’ve been looking for work, but it’s been tough. You know how it is these days.” Claire felt her resolve waver. Despite their tumultuous history, he was still the father of her child. And she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of sympathy, knowing that finding a new job was never easy, even for those with his charm and experience. “I’m sorry to hear that. Okay, I’ll send you money for the braces,” Claire said, her voice resigned. “It’s important for our daughter’s dental health, and I want her to have the best c