Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled

Chapter 405

The rain outside was pouring down, and its staccato rhythm against the window pane was enough to keep Serena awake. Those big eyes of hers were wide open, staring at me,

Despite my own fear of thunder, seeing my delicate child made me feel a mother’s courage. Every time I sensed a thunderclap was about to explode, I’d cover Serena’s ears right away.

It was as if the heavens had a personál vendetta against us that day. Rather than the quick, passing storm one might expect, the rain seemed to have been increasing in intensity. Outside, shadowy figures occasionally rushed by, their outlines blurry in the deluge.

The phone rang. It was my mother. “Rena,” she said. “Where are you and Serena? You didn’t take an umbrella with you. Try to find shelter; you can’t let the child get wet!”

“We’re fine. We’re waiting out the storm inside a shop.” I reassured her.

“If it gets too bad, your father can bring you an umbrella, or you could buy one,” she suggested, her voice laced with concern.

After a short conversation, I hung up. That’s when Faith spoke up. “Irene, if you need to get home quickly. Neil can run out and get an umbrella, and escort you to your car.”

At her words, Karina instantly glanced at Neil. Faith seemed oblivious to any potential awkwardness, and urged Neil on. “Go buy an umbrella, Neil. A little rain won’t hurt a big guy like you. Can’t let a lady and a child get soaked.”

Neil, already in a sour mood, only looked at me, his eyes a cold steel.

“No need. I can order an umbrella online,” I said quickly.

Ignoring my objection, Faith insisted. “Why bother with that when there’s a mall right across the street? It’s much easier to just have Neil go.”

She didn’t seem to care that her own son might get soaked and catch a cold.

Getting them home would be better, and less worrying for her

shot her a look,

His silhouette disappeared across the street, into the

my arms, I watched Neil’s retreating figure through the glass door,

up. “Mommy, did Daddy go to the

father went to buy an umbrella for Ms. Finch. It’s raining heavily outside. Next time we’ll get you a Transformer toy, okay?” Karina gently

I want to play now!” Hiram pouted.

chimed in. “Just call Neil and have him bring a toy. He’s already at the mall. One extra toy won’t make

Neil’s number and relayed his

at his grandfather’s support. He dashed over to Ryan, giving him a loving peck on the cheek. Ryan’s eyes crinkled up with delight.

their warm interaction in silence,

down relentlessly. Neil emerged from the mall, holding a large,

clothes were soaked through. When he returned to the shop, I could clearly see his shirt clinging to

”

politely as he handed me the umbrella.

wet, water still dripping from the tips. His face was covered with damp mist, giving him an

stare. It wasn’t

boxed doll with black hair and blue

not understanding

got it while buying Hiram’s gift. For your daughter,” Neil said quietly, not meeting

In Neil’s eyes, Serena was my child with Russel. So,

my confusion, Neil clarified, “It wasn’t my idea. My mom texted me and insisted

a change of heart, that he was ready to bury the hatchet with Russel