~Abuse~

Chapter 143

The first day after spring break was always tough, and Ashlyn was in the midst of a full-blown tantrum.

Downstairs. Jay was busy packing her lunch, trying to ignore the throbbing in his head.

"Daddy! I don't wanna go to school!" Ashlyn protested loudly.

Jay tucked the sandwiches into the brown bag and turned to face her.

"We talked about this yesterday, Ashlyn. You're going to school, and you'll be just fine," He reassured her.

But Ashlyn was having none of it; she shook her head fiercely and sent the lunch bag tumbling to the floor.

"Ashlyn, there's no time for arguments today..." Jay let out a weary sigh.

Ashlyn folded her arms and stamped her tiny feet defiantly.

"Ashlyn! Put on your uniform and wait for me by the door!" Jay commanded.

Ignoring the order, Ashlyn shook her head and waddled off to the couch.

Cassie descended the stairs in her uniform and addressed Jay.

"Dad? Can I ha-" She was abruptly interrupted.

Already in a sour mood, Jay retorted sharply.

"What is it. Cassie?" He snapped.

Observing Jay's weary eyes, Cassie realized his fatigue.

"I wanted to ask if I could have some PB&J sandwiches for lunch," She completed her question.

Jay gave a nod and reached for the bread.

"Is everything okay?" Cassie inquired.

Leaning on the table, Jay exhaled deeply.

"Ashlyn is having a meltdown, and I've got a splitting headache. So, of course, everything's just perfect!" he said with a heavy sigh.

Cassie exhaled and accepted the lunch bag.

"I'll get Ashlyn dressed in her uniform. She'll calm down," Cassie reassured with a nod.

Jay offered a gentle smile in gratitude.

"Thank you, sweetheart," He said warmly.

Cassie returned the smile and nodded.

Fifteen minutes later, Ashlyn was secured in the truck, tears streaming down her face.

As Jay pulled up to the school, his smile returned.

"Have a wonderful day, kids! I love you both!" he said cheerfully.

Cassie smiled back and unbuckled Ashlyn from her seat.

"Goodbye, Dad!" Cassie shouted.

With the door slamming shut, Jay clenched the steering wheel, a sharp pain piercing his head.

Jay brushed away the tears and headed toward the district.

Ten minutes passed before Jay entered the bullpen, greeting everyone with a smile.

"Yo!" Adam greeted.

Returning the smile, Jay made his way to his desk.

"You look how I feel..." Erin commented.

With a sigh, Jay took a sip of his coffee.

"Yep!" He agreed with a nod.

Erin's gaze met Jay's.

"How did this morning go?" She inquired.

Jay let out a heavy sigh before recounting the morning's events.