FIFTY FIVE

SLYVIA'S POV

I woke up early, feeling a sense of determination mixed with nervous energy. Grayson’s message about wanting to talk was still nagging at me, and I couldn’t shake the thought that I needed to confront him about meddling in my life. Today was the day I would pay him back every penny of the kids' tuition fees.

I headed to the kitchen, starting breakfast for the kids. Pancakes and fruit—something simple yet comforting. While the pancakes sizzled, I kept thinking about the message Grayson had sent when I was on the date with Raymond. I couldn’t let him keep controlling aspects of my life, no matter how well-intentioned he might be.

“Mom, are you okay?” Zendaya’s voice pulled me out of my thoughts. She was already dressed, her backpack slung over one shoulder.

“Of course, sweetie. Just a lot on my mind,” I said, forcing a smile. “How about you help me set the table?”

As we set the table together, I could feel Zendaya watching me closely. She’s always been perceptive, my little