ask.
“Did you really used to change his diapers?”
Hazel chuckles. “I did. I’ve been with Mr. Healey’s family since before he was born. I was their housekeeper, and eventually, Jackson’s nanny. When he turned twenty-one, he inherited his trust fund. The very next day, he announced that he was buying this penthouse and taking me with him. I didn’t mind. We’d grown incredibly close, as you can imagine. Don’t tell his sister, but Jackson was always my favorite. I love Dana, but she’s a little—”
“Opinionated. Foul mouthed.”
“Your words, not mine.” Hazel laughs. “So, Jackson took his money and bought this place. The rest is history.”
My eyes sweep the room, and I can’t help but laugh at the absurdity. I have a studio apartment about a mile off campus. Jackson Healey’s college housing had been this amazing penthouse.
“And he's a lawyer?”
She nods. “He was always very focused and determined. Honors student. Graduated from high school when he was seventeen and was accepted at Vandy. Finished law school when he was twenty-four. He started working at his father’s firm the day after graduation.”
“Wow.”
“Mr. Healey is quite resolute when he makes a decision.”
“You must be very proud.”
“I am.”
I glance over my shoulder to make sure we’re still alone.
“Tell me about Mrs. Healey?”
Hazel’s face falls. “Must I? We’re having such a lovely conversation.”
I grin.
“I really shouldn’t be telling you these things,” she says softly.
I nod, because she probably shouldn’t. But that doesn’t stop her from leaning close and spilling her guts, anyway.
“Jackson and Natasha were high school sweethearts. His parents never approved. She was a gold digger and everyone knew it. But nobody could convince Jackson. He was young and in love.” She shakes her head at the memory. “Anyway, they got married as soon as he inherited his trust fund. Natasha—Mrs. Healey—had never been the nicest person, but once she had access to his money, she became unbearable. She and Jackson fought constantly, and he threatened divorce more than once. But she’d cry, and when that didn’t work, she’d remind him that judges typically side with the mother when it comes to custody. Since he’s an attorney, he knew that was a fact, so he bit his tongue and suffered. We all suffered.”
“Why did she finally leave?”
“She found someone with even more money than Jackson. He’s a businessman who splits his time between here and Chicago. Jackson introduced them at a fundraiser. One month later, Natasha packed her bags and was gone.”
I can’t imagine it. I mean, sure, if you’re unhappy in your marriage, get out. But to leave your son behind? What kind of mother does that?
“How did Mr. Healey take it?”
“Honestly, he was relieved. The divorce still isn’t final because she wants half of everything. And she could get it since Jackson didn’t take his father’s advice and make her sign a prenup. So, they’re in limbo. But Natasha is gone, and she left Jackson with the one good thing that came from their relationship.”
Ryder.
“Where is she now?”
“She and her new boyfriend live here in Nashville.”
“And she never sees her son?”
“Nope. Doesn’t even call. Natasha Healey left her husband and child and never looked back.”
“That woman needs slapped.”
The words are out before I can stop them.
Hazel laughs and hugs me tight. “Oh, we’re gonna be good friends.”
Just then, a voice clears behind us. We both turn to find Mr. Healey standing just inside the living room. His tie’s gone and his clothes are completely disheveled.
“How is he?” Hazel asks.
“Sleeping.” His eyes flicker to mine. “You’re still here.”
“Yes . . . unless you’d prefer me not to be?”
“No, no. That’s not what I meant. I’m just surprised, that’s all. I’m . . . ” Mr. Healey’s voice grows soft as he tiredly collapses against the sofa. “I’m glad. I’m glad you stayed. Thank you for staying. And thank you for your help. You may not believe this, but that actually wasn’t too bad. Except for poor Mrs. Langham.”
Hazel nods. “We’ve definitely seen worse, as far as tantrums go. That’s the first time he’s caused serious bodily harm, though.”
“Have you called to check on Mrs. Langham?” he asks Hazel.
“Yes. Her son has taken her to the ER.”
Mr. Healey winces and tiredly rubs his face. Hazel and I exchange glances before joining him on the sofa.
“Are you okay, Olivia?” he asks softly.
“I’m fine.”
“I’m sorry he kicked you.”
“No harm done. Honestly. Can I do anything else?”
“He’ll probably sleep for an hour or so. He always naps after a tantrum.” Mr. Healey exhales a noisy sigh and