Kayden buried his face into the pillow, his cheeks burning red, and Thaddeus chuckled softly before pulling him tighter into his arms.
The phone buzzed again. When Thaddeus didn't reply at first, Ryland called in, and this time Thaddeus picked it up on the second ring.
"Hello, how are you?" Thaddeus greeted calmly.
"Have you checked on Kayden for me?" Ryland's voice carried a trace of worry.
Thaddeus's eyes softened as he glanced at the boy sleeping in his arms. "I did. He's already asleep. Probably just exhausted from the stress of the exam."
"I thought as much." Ryland sighed in relief.
"You have nothing to worry about," Thaddeus reassured gently. "He's perfectly fine."
"Thank you, Thaddeus. I really appreciate how you care for Kayden like he's your own son."
A faint smile tugged at Thaddeus's lips. "You really don't have to thank me. Kayden is my responsibility now, that's enough reason for me."
