Amanda's heart gave a jolt the moment she heard Claire's name again.
"Gilbert, put the children down and talk to them properly," she urged, trying to calm the storm.
But Gilbert had reached his breaking point.
"You little brats," he snapped, "make your choice. Do you want to be grounded, or do you want to stay here in the Watson home and behave? Start listening to your father and your grandparents."
Adam stood his ground. "I want Mommy! I only want to be with Mommy, not you!"
Gilbert's fury ignited. He set Dean aside, grabbed Adam, and landed two firm smacks on his backside before tossing him onto the bed.
"Stay here and think about what you just said. When you're ready to be sensible, we'll talk. Until then, no meals, and no school tomorrow."
"I don't care," Adam shouted, eyes red but defiant. He stood up and glared at his father, refusing to back down.
Gilbert returned the stare, the air between them charged with tension. They faced off like two enemies, not father and son.
