Sharpay turned silently from Beverley at the news. She drew in a breath, and walked up the stairs and into the room she shared with Winona.
Ryan stood silently, before falling back into Beverley's arms.
"I don't want to see him," he whispered to her.
"I know, sweetheart," she said, stroking the back of his head, "Not until you're ready. Not until he's ready."
Ryan leaned back from her embrace and sat down down on the stool in the corner, generally used for Mickey's time-outs. He took off his hat and ran a hand gingerly through his hair, careful to avoid the still-tender cuts. "What if...what if he wants us back? What if he tries to take us away from you?"
Beverley sighed. She had been through this situation many times before. Sat with all sorts of children in the kitchen, while the children either fretted or rejoiced over the idea of the return of their parents. She watched Ryan now, sitting on Mickey's stool, looking so tired and fragile and being able to offer no real comfort.
"I don't know, dear," she took a step forward, taking his face in her hands "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. For now, though, I want you and Sharpay to be happy for me, okay?"
Ryan nodded.
Beverley nodded, satisfied. Kissing his head once more, she exited the kitchen, "I'm going to go talk to your sister."
Ryan sat in the kitchen, alone, and drew a breath.