The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 13

The implication was clear. These weren't things Keen could have picked up on his

own.

Haynes stayed silent, but the tight line of his lips and the sudden chill in the room spoke volumes about his displeasure.

As a perceptive child, Keen sensed Haynes' unhappiness even though he hadn't said anything. He opened his mouth, instinctively wanting to explain.

"It wasn't Mom who said it. It was..."

Before he could finish, Rachel interrupted him. "Keen, I understand. These aren't things Ms. Cameron would say. It must've been some stranger talking nonsense, right?"

Keen didn't quite catch the subtle hint in Rachel's words. He thought she was incredibly perceptive, nodding earnestly. "Yeah, I overheard it at the diner. Some people at the next table were talking."

Rachel's voice was gentle as she said, "Keen, I believe you."

expression turned serious.

would you become the

when Rachel stopped him with a gentle shake. She turned to Keen and said, "Keen, remember? I only have a little time left, no more than

His sudden formal address as Ms. Pearce sent a ripple of concern through Rachel's heart. Though only five, this child couldn't be treated like

if remembering this fact. He didn't know why he'd asked such a question. Regret and frustration ate away at him. Rachel was always so kind and gentle; how could he ever doubt

his age, Keen was still just five years old and didn't realize that Rachel never gave him a straightforward answer. He bit his lip instinctively and

it anymore. Think about what you want to eat later, and I'll take you

moment and

I want some fried chicken

without

"Rachel, remember the doctor

often." She glanced back at Keen, "Besides, Keen wants it. Life's too short to always

forbade these things and suddenly felt