Patrick watched the signed divorce papers, barely concealing his glee, though his voice dripped with mock sympathy. "Ah, Wilfred, I hate to say it, but you really are being unreasonable."
"Someone like you—marrying Hildegarde in this lifetime? That was karma from a past life."
"If it were me, getting to be with Hildegarde? I'd be laughing in my sleep."
Wilfred looked up at Patrick.
"Then you got your wish. I hope you two are happy together."
He had no interest in wasting words on a man like Patrick.
Crouching down, he took Hilary's small hand. "Hilary, Daddy's leaving now. If someday you miss me, tell Penelope. Daddy will come see you."
"Save your crocodile tears!"
Hildegarde scooped up Hilary, her face hard. "Hilary is my daughter. Don't pretend to be the good guy here. Without you, I'll make sure she's happier than ever."
"She'll never think of you!"
"And Penelope—if you miss Mommy, you can come home anytime."
"That's right, I won't miss Daddy. I have Patrick-Daddy, and that's enough." Hilary pouted in agreement.
"Daddy..."
Just then, Penelope's voice rang out. Her small face was already streaked with tears. "Daddy, let's go. I don't want to watch them bully you anymore!"
"Mommy!"