The constant insults and belittling directed at Charlotte had pushed Kayden to the edge. He was furious, but he knew he could not openly defend her. All he could do was drop his fork with a loud clatter and huff. "I'm done. You can all keep eating."
Without waiting for a response, he slid off his chair and ran out of the private dining room.
"Kayden…"
Several people at the table called after him, but he didn't even look back.
Estelle frowned and muttered, "What's wrong with that child?"
"Maybe he's just restless, being the only kid here. Don't worry about it, Mrs. Norman. Keep eating. I'll go look for him," Lydia offered sweetly, still trying to play the understanding and considerate one.
But before she could get up, Brian's voice cut in. "There's no need. I'll go."
"Henry."
"Yes, Mr. Norman."
Henry stepped inside from the hallway and helped Brian to his feet, then followed him out of the room.
Meanwhile, Kayden had made his way toward the restaurant's viewing deck that was right by the glass railing. He crouched there, his little frame curled into a sulking ball, shoulders tense with frustration.
Henry guided Brian over and called out softly, "Mr. Kayden."
Kayden turned his head slightly, glaring at them. He made it clear he had no interest in talking. He let out another huff and pointedly looked away.
Standing before him, Brian asked, "Why did you run off like that? You know that was rude."
Kayden pouted, snorting in frustration. "And the way they were talking about other people, was that polite? The pretty woman from the kindergarten… She's your ex-wife, right? She's so beautiful, like a fairy. But they keep saying terrible things about her."
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Mr. Norman, She's Out of Your League Now