Beyond the Divorce by Third Blossom

After our banter, I told Lauren about Liora, leaving her astonished. "Looks like Liora really is pushing her luck. She's reckless; do you think she might have hidden Melanie somewhere, or has she silenced her for good?"

"It's not that extreme. Atlas says it's not time to deal with Melanie yet. Anyway, I'm sure she feels like she's in prison, no matter where she is. Even if she is outside, she wouldn't dare show up anywhere." Lauren sighed. "She's made her own bed, and now she has to lie in it. Melanie's definitely not a good person. She's just as bad as Liora."

Talking about Liora reminded me of Stella. I told Lauren about Stella's situation, whispering, "I think Jared isn't with Trinity. But I can't figure out how Trinity got involved with Stella."

I was willing to confide in Lauren about certain things, especially since she had considerable influence in Foswood. Knowing some insiders would help me greatly.

Lauren looked at me and speculated, "I suspect there must be a business deal between her and Stella."

I nodded. "I agree."

At that moment, Ava ran in and asked, "When can we eat? I'm starving!"

We shared a smile, and Lauren remarked, "That little girl's a clever one."

three of us and the two little ones, ate, chatted, and played, nearly

her hand resting on her belly. I assumed that Ivanna was thinking about her future baby. Her absent-minded smile hinted at

sleepy. I made a quick call to my mom, telling her we'd sleep here tonight and I'd take the

was an

said, "It's late. I'm guessing your

my head confidently. "No. Atlas wouldn't knock like that."

door, and to our surprise,

He looked weary.

past Lauren as he peered into the room. Atlas stood behind

help but feel a

I saw Jared in the flesh, which was exactly what I had wished for. That was quick. We had agreed

even been 10 hours.

Atlas needed a talking-to; he played too loose with his plans. Despite seeing

to walk in. He quickly approached Ivanna, who was sitting on the sofa, staring blankly as