Chloe zipped up the last suitcase, exhaling slowly.
This wasn't just moving out—it was leaving behind everything that no longer belonged to her.
Carter sat on the floor beside her, stacking his toys into a box, quiet but focused. He understood, in his own small way, that things were shifting.
Kevin leaned against the doorway, arms crossed, eyes scanning the half-empty room.
"So that's it," he muttered.
Chloe straightened, turning to face him. "Yeah."
He exhaled sharply. "And Carter?"
She didn't hesitate. "He'll be with you tonight until tomorrow afternoon. I need time to find a new place."
Kevin blinked, processing. "You're leaving tonight?"
She nodded once. "I have to."
Silence stretched between them.
Kevin sighed. "I'll cover whatever he needs." His voice was steady, more certain than before. At least in this, he wouldn't fail Carter.
Chloe exhaled softly. "Good."
Kevin glanced down at Carter, kneeling beside him.
"Come here, bud," he murmured.
Carter shuffled over. "Yeah?"
Kevin rested a careful hand on his son's shoulder. "Mom and I—we won't be living together anymore."
Carter's brows furrowed. "Why?"
Kevin swallowed, choosing his words carefully. "Because sometimes people change, and sometimes families need to adjust. But no matter what, I'm still your dad. I always will be."
Carter stared at him, thinking hard. "I'll still see you, right?"
Kevin nodded firmly. "Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Those are our days. No matter what."
Carter considered. Then—slowly—he nodded. "Okay."
Kevin exhaled, pulling him into a careful hug. "Love you, kid."
Carter wrapped his arms around his dad's neck, squeezing. "Love you too."
Chloe swallowed, watching the moment unfold. Whatever Kevin had been to her, at least Carter never had to doubt his place in his father's life.
She lifted the last box, standing tall. "I'll be back tomorrow afternoon."
Kevin watched her, unreadable. "And where exactly are you going tonight?"
Chloe met his gaze, unwavering. "That's my problem."
And just like that, she walked out—no turning back.