His Destructive, Toxic Love novel Chapter 407

In that moment, a quiet guilt seeped into Casper's heart. He felt like he couldn't even measure up to a child. He hugged the little guy tightly. "Brock, you're worried about mommy, right?"

"Uh-huh," the little one nodded.

"Well, Mr. Casper will help you find her." He extended his pinky, linking it with Brock's in a promise, "Pinky swear, okay?"

The little guy lit up, his clear eyes sparkling with anticipation, "Mr. Casper, you have to keep your word."

"Of course, buddy. Uncle always keeps his promises," Casper nodded with a smile.

Brock wrapped his arms around Casper's neck, full of affection. "Mr. Casper, you're so nice. I really wish you were my dad."

Those words hit Casper like a sharp blade, piercing his heart.

He felt an intense bitterness inside. He wished he could rightfully be Brock's father. But would he ever get the chance? Eliza probably wouldn't give him that opportunity.

During dinner, Eliza made a video call on Audrey's phone. She chatted with the little guy for a bit.

Casper was sitting nearby, physically there but mentally elsewhere. Brock's camera occasionally caught his stern profile.

He silently held his phone, head bowed, eyes glued to the screen, seemingly engrossed in something important. He wasn't really paying attention to the mother-son conversation.

"Brock, have you been a good boy at Grandma Audrey's?" Eliza asked softly, her eyes full of tenderness and hope.

"Mommy, Brock has been very good. I've listened to Grandma Audrey," Brock's little face beamed with rare pride. "Mommy, you take care too. I'll miss you."

Hearing her son's response, a warm feeling surged through Eliza's heart. "Mommy is doing well too, Brock. Don't worry."

"Oh my, little guy, who are you video-chatting with?" Susan suddenly barged into the frame, catching Eliza off-guard.