I reach for another chunk, grab my phone, and dial Maria. I’ve been avoiding her because I can’t handle the guilt. Now that I know Jett dumped my mom, I’m sure she fired Maria. I tried to get my dad to hire her, but he said no, so now I’m stalling until I have some way to get her here. Maybe she can cook for us?

Right, like you have that kind of money.

“Hello.” Maria’s voice sounds way better than mine.

I straighten. “Maria, I’m so sorry I haven’t called you back, but I’m working on trying to get you over here. Don’t you worry about anything. I have everything under control.” I say all this so fast my face heats up.

“What are you talking about?” she snaps, and I can almost see her frowning at the phone.

“Well, I heard about Jett, I mean Mr. Powers, dumping my mom…”

“It’s so wonderful, right?” She snickers, and this time I look at my cell. Did the phone cut out? Like is this bad reception?

“Raven? I’ve been worried. I expect you to return my calls.” Her voice sounds like it did when I was a kid.

“I’m sorry.” I sigh, looking up at the ceiling. “I just wanted to find a way to support you. Did my mom fire you?” When I say the last part, I shake my head, knowing she did.

“Of course.” Again, Maria’s voice sounds better than I’ve heard her… ever.

“I’m so sorry.”

“Raven, what is going on? Your mother is a sicko. And don’t you worry about Maria. I’m working for Mr. Jett. He said since I’m the one who raised you, I deserve my own house. And he set up a retirement plan for me.”

After swallowing the dark chocolate, I shout, “He did what?”

“He bought me a house, and—”

“Oh my God.” I look around my room as if my yellow walls can actually talk and tell me what to say because I’m at a loss. He bought Maria a house? Because she raised me?

“I can’t wait for you to see it: two bedrooms, so you always have a home.” Her voice brings tears to my eyes.

“That… I… that’s very kind of him,” I croak out.

“Yes, it was. I figure I’ll hang around, and then when you and Mr. Jett have babies, I’ll help.”

I bite my lip. This is so surreal that I’m going to start laughing. It’s like he’s Mr. Wonderful, except he’s not. If Maria knew what he did…

“Raven?” she snaps.

I jump. “I need to go. I’m not feeling well.” I close my eyes. It’s like in a matter of a week, he’s completely turned the tables and made himself the good guy.

“Okay, but you call me sometime.” She laughs.