Regretting the Wife He Threw Away

Chapter 452

"Since you're aware of all this, Ms. Riley, I'd appreciate it if you'd watch your

words around my son in the future. No matter what happens, I'll always be Mario's mother. Even if I lose custody, loving and caring for him is both my right and my responsibility as his mom. You really don't need to worry about that—or ask me for permission."

Lorna arched a brow at that.

Briony turned away, walked around the front of the car, and slid into the driver's

seat.

Carol said goodbye to Lorna, then climbed in as well.

The car started up and pulled away from Southcreek Manor.

Lorna turned and walked back inside.

Through the floor-to-ceiling windows, Stewart's gaze lingered on the car as it disappeared from view.

It was the height of summer, but the man was still wearing a black leather glove on his left hand.

"Still not done staring?" Lorna moved to his side and shot him a glance, taking in his sharp, gaunt profile. "She just snapped at me, you know. Mother hen in full force-pretty fierce."

"Don't use the kid to get a rise out of her," Stewart replied, his voice cool. "She's been through hell for those children, especially for Mario. Losing him and then getting him back-no one values him more than she does."

in the first place?" Lorna said, unable to resist stirring the pot.

pressed his lips into a thin

woman like that decides to cut someone out, not even a herd of wild

brief, indifferent glance.

her eyes. "You're

got home, she called Dr.

He arrived soon after.

gentle massage, Ferdinand prescribed

medicine was ready, Briony coaxed Mario

but Mario was a good kid-he

Mario started to sweat, and the

fever gone, Mario perked up considerably. Ever the disciplined child,

at his little desk to get

heard about Mario's situation

apart, Ferdinand could tell Mario had changed

a sip of tea and said, "Mario's a bright kid. Maybe being with Stewart is for the best-Stewart can give him every opportunity,

I'm

will

was diligently working, and felt a pang

for him to be healthy

guidance, Ferdinand replied, setting his teacup

going?"