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."

Keen was about to smile, a thought crossed his mind, and his expression turned serious. He looked at Rachel sitting in the

you become the other

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

ripple of concern through Rachel's heart. Though only five, this child couldn't be treated like an

question. Regret and frustration ate away at him. Rachel was always so kind and gentle; how could he ever doubt her?

Rachel

anymore. Think about what

quickly forgot the awkward moment and joyfully chatted with Rachel

want some fried

without hesitation, "Sure

"Rachel, remember the doctor

often." She glanced back at Keen, "Besides, Keen wants it. Life's too short to always play by the rules. A little indulgence makes

forbade these things and