The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance novel Chapter 68

"All the other kids have their parents with them, but my dad doesn't care about me. I don't want the other kids to think I don't have a mom or dad."

The thought of Marvin losing his mother at such a young age tugged at Stella’s heart, stirring a pang of sympathy.

There were so many classes in the kindergarten, and taking a day off to accompany Marvin wouldn't necessarily mean running into Haynes and Keen.

And even if she did, it didn't matter. She just wanted to avoid seeing people she didn't like.

Stella gently nodded. "Alright."

Stella deliberately avoided the start time of the event.

When she and Marvin entered the kindergarten, the parent-child activities were underway. The playground was buzzing with noise and excitement.

Still a little kid, Marvin instantly got drawn to the commotion. He glanced toward the activity area. "Stella, can I go watch for a bit?"

Stella nodded gently. "Go ahead. I'll wait for you here."

Marvin asked, puzzled, "Aren't you coming, Stella?"

Stella shook her head. "No, I'll stay here."

Marvin thought about it and then didn't push Stella any further. "Okay, I'll just look and be right back."

Keen was nothing like Marvin. Whenever Keen wanted something and Stella said no, he’d sulk and freeze her out—a habit he’d picked up straight from Haynes. He never lashed out, but that icy silence was just as cutting.

A few minutes later, Marvin returned, grinning ear to ear. "Keen's mom and dad are amazing! They're in first place now!"