The Billionaire Ex-Wife's Return (Cynthia and Ethan) novel Chapter 38

#38

Chapter 38

Cynthia’s POV

Kevin crossed the finish line, securing first place in the opening race of the tournament. I was on my feet before I even realized it, clapping and cheering along with everyone else. Julian stood beside me, a rare smile on his face as he watched Kevin take his victory lap.

Kevin’s voice crackled through the team radio, breathless but triumphant. “That’s what I’m talking about! Home soil, baby!”

The energy in the VIP lounge was electric. People were congratulating each other, champagne corks were popping, and cameras were flashing everywhere

I was so focused on the celebration below that I didn’t notice someone approaching until a voice called out behind me.

“Mrs. Walker?”

Damn! How many more familiar faces do I have to see? I turned around, my stomach twisting with apprehension.

Standing before me was a woman in her late fifties, elegantly dressed with kind eyes behind wire–rimmed glasses. Recognition hit me immediately.

Mrs. Sam. Amber’s headteacher from Westbridge Academy.

“Mrs. Sam,” I said, forcing a smile as I extended my hand. “What a surprise to see you here.”

She shook my hand warmly. “I could say the same. I didn’t expect to find you at the Grand Prix.” Her eyes flickered briefly to the Laurent insignia on the VIP box behind me, and I could see the questions forming.

“L.. I’m here supporting a friend,” I said carefully, the lie tasting bitter on my tongue.

“I see.” She nodded slowly, “Well, I’m glad I ran into you. I’ve been trying to reach you for some time.”

My heart sank. “Is everything alright?”

Mrs. Sam’s expression grew more serious. “May we speak privately for a moment?”

I glanced back at Julian, who was engaged in conversation with some of Kevin’s team members. “Of course.”

We moved to a quieter corner of the corridor, away from the celebration noise. Mrs. Sam folded her hands in front of her, and I could see the concern etched in the lines of her face.

“Mrs. Walker, I know… well, I can sense that something has changed in your family situation,” she began diplomatically. “And I don’t mean to pry into your personal life, but I am deeply concerned about Amber.”

The mention of my son’s name made my chest tighten. “What’s wrong? Is he hurt?”

“Not physically, no.” Mrs. Sam paused, choosing her words carefully. “I recently spoke with Mrs. Pierre… she’s Amber’s new teacher for grade six. Amber is preparing for his entrance exams for grade seven, as you know.”

I nodded, I knew very much that Amber would soon be getting to grade 7, a whole new season of his life

“Mrs. Pierre informed me that Amber has been struggling drastically with hits studies”

“Oh.” The word came out small, uncertain. I didn’t know what else to say.

Mrs. Sam continued, her voice gentle but firm. “This is particularly concerning because I remember how bright Amber was Ho was always at the top of his class, eager to learn, engaged with his peers. But according to Mrs. Pierre, he’s not just struggling academically. He’s also having difficulties with his social connections. He’s become withdrawn, Isolated”

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I was surprised and a little hurt, though I tried not to show it. Amber used to be such a bright kid when I was around, holding on to the bit of structure I managed to give him. But since I left, it seems he’s been drifting–spending more time on things he shouldn’t, and now it’s starting to show in his schoolwork.

“Amber received numerous white cards throughout last term,” Mrs. Sam said, and I knew what that meant… behavioral warnings, signs of a child in distress. “I’ve sent several letters to both you and Mr. Walker requesting a meeting, but I haven’t received any response. A woman came to represent Mr. Walker a few months ago…”

Anna. It had to be Anna.

“…but I haven’t seen any changes since then. If anything, things have gotten worse.”

My throat felt tight, I didn’t know what to say. “I… I’m….”

Mrs. Sam’s expression softened with sympathy. “Mrs. Walker, in my experience, when a child who was once thriving suddenly begins to struggle in this way, it’s usually connected to something happening at home. Children are remarkably perceptive. They internalize stress, conflict, changes in their family structure.”

I felt a surge of guilt as she said that. It was obvious what she was insinuating, it was because of my absence in his life, because I

left.

The rational part of my brain knew I’d had no choice. Staying in that house would have killed me. But the mother in me, the part that still ached for my son every single day, felt crushing guilt.

“I understand this might be difficult to hear,” Mrs. Sam said gently. “But Amber needs support right now. He needs consistency and attention from his parents. I strongly encourage you to reach out to Mrs. Pierre and arrange a meeting. We want to help Amber, but we can’t do it alone.”

“I…” I swallowed hard, trying to find my voice. “Thank you for telling me. I’ll… I’ll look into it.”

Mrs. Sam nodded, though I could see she wasn’t entirely convinced. “I hope so. Amber is a wonderful child, Mrs. Walker.

After Mrs. Sam excused herself and disappeared back into the crowd, I stood there with my mind reeling over if should just act like I didn’t hear that or take responsibility for my son.

“Cici?”

Julian’s voice pulled me back to reality. He was standing a few feet away, concern written all over his face. “You okay? You look pale.”

“I’m fine,” I lied automatically.

Before he could press further, an announcement came over the loudspeaker.

“Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome your winner…Kevin Laurent!”

The crowd erupted in cheers as Kevin emerged from the pit area, still in his racing suit, his helmet tucked under his arm. His face was flushed with victory, his grin wide and infectious.

“Come on,” Julian said, gently guiding me back toward the VIP box. “He’ll want to see us.”

I followed numbly, my mind still spinning with Mrs. Sam’s words.

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