The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 120

Rachel's eyes glimmered for a moment. She furrowed her brow and spoke up, "Haynie, what's the deal with that kid Marvin and Ms. Cameron? I swear she's treating Marvin better than her own son, Keen."

Haynes hadn't noticed Stella until Rachel mentioned it. He raised an eyebrow and looked over.

Whatever Marvin had said must've been charming, because Stella gave him a warm smile and dabbed the corner of his mouth with a napkin.

Marvin looked up at Stella with a beaming smile, his eyes filled with admiration and trust, as if she were his mother.

This scene was like a dagger to Keen's heart.

Once upon a time, his mom had treated him that way. But now, she hardly ever came home and acted like he didn't exist.

"Dad, since Mom's got that other kid, does she not want me anymore?"

Before Haynes could respond, Rachel jumped in to reassure him. "Of course not! Ms. Cameron's just temporarily fooled by that boy. You're her own flesh and blood; she'd never abandon you."

"She's always taking his side!" Keen snapped, his resentment toward Stella boiling over. "Whatever! If she doesn't care about me, then I don't need her either!"

Rachel squeezed Keen's little hand, speaking gently, "It's okay. Even if Mom's not around, Rachel will always be here for you."

Keen looked at Rachel with gratitude. "You're the best, Rachel..."

Then, something seemed to dawn on him, and his eyes glossed over with tears.

"But... Rachel, you can only stay for another six months... After that, you won't be here anymore."

Rachel's face fell.