What She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 306

Brynlee listened intently, then looked up, her gaze shifting between her parents. "Just like you and Mommy? You'll protect me and watch me grow up?"

A lump formed in Kaia's throat. She crouched down, gently tucking a stray curl behind Brynlee's ear. "Of course we will."

Finnian glanced at Kaia. Her voice was trembling, betraying the calm facade she was desperately trying to maintain.

"What about you, Daddy?" Brynlee turned to him. "Will you always stay by my side too?"

Finnian nodded, his eyes filled with warmth. "Always. You'll forever be my little princess."

Satisfied, Brynlee giggled and ran toward the next display.

Kaia slowly turned her head and looked at Finnian. Her eyes were burning with a hatred so raw and intense that Finnian actually flinched.

Without a word, Kaia stood up and hurried after their daughter.

Finnian felt as though he had been plunged into ice water. He had never been sure if Kaia actually harbored any deep feelings for him when they married, but that look of pure resentment was a vicious blow.

He looked around at the other families laughing and pointing at exhibits, then back at the empty space where his wife and daughter had stood. The reality hit him hard. Their days as a family were numbered. Once the divorce was finalized, their lives would fracture, and Brynlee would be caught in the crossfire.

A shadow fell over his eyes, heavy with unspoken regret.

By the time they left the museum, it was past four in the afternoon. Brynlee was exhausted. She collapsed onto Finnian's shoulder, her eyes drooping until she fell fast asleep.

Feeling her small, warm breaths against his neck brought a fierce wave of paternal satisfaction over him. It was a simple joy, yet profound.

"Let's go. I'll take you home," Finnian said quietly.

Kaia nodded in agreement.

Once they were in the car, Finnian broke the silence. "Thank you for putting everything aside today for her."

Kaia looked at him, her expression icy. "Don't thank me. I didn't do it for you."

Finnian was quiet for a moment. "I know."

When they returned to the apartment, Layla carefully took the sleeping Brynlee to her room. Finnian stood in the living room, feeling entirely out of place in this new environment.

As he turned to leave, Kaia stopped him. "Let's talk in the hallway."

Finnian's expression hardened, knowing exactly what was coming. He followed her out and pulled the door shut behind him.

"You said you had a condition to add to the agreement," Kaia said, crossing her arms.

Finnian leaned against the wall. The evening sun cast a warm glow over Kaia, but her eyes were devoid of any warmth.

"If this agreement is meant to bind us both, it needs to be fair," Finnian started, keeping his voice low. "You demanded I not take Brynlee to see Noelle. Fine. But you have to agree to something in return."

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