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,

noticed that Ivanna's eyes were fixed on Ava as she laughed with her hand resting on her belly. I assumed that Ivanna was thinking about her future baby. Her absent-minded smile hinted at her daydreams. Lauren and

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

were about to leave, there was an urgent knock on the door. We exchanged

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

knock like that."

hurried to open the door, and to

waiting for. He looked weary. His crisp shirt was

as he peered into the room. Atlas stood behind Jared, smiling and observing my

but feel a

what I had wished for. That was quick. We had agreed on 24 hours,

even been 10 hours.

Atlas needed a talking-to; he played too loose with his plans. Despite seeing Jared right in front of me, the rapid turnaround left

to walk in. He quickly approached Ivanna, who was