The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 101

Haynes' eyes narrowed as he saw Stella injured, his voice dropping to a grave tone. "Mom, ease up a bit, will you?"

Deanna, instead of calming down, only grew more incensed. "Haynes, how can you still side with her at a time like this? She's been a threat to me, and now Keen's getting bullied because of her."

"Isn't her role supposed to be taking care of the family? She's failed at that. What's the use of her now?"

Sensing the tension, Callie O'Brien played the peacemaker, trying to smooth things over. "Look, Stella, don't take it too hard with Mom being upset today. This is about Keen. Whatever happens between us adults is one thing, but we can't let the child suffer, can we?"

She then shot Deanna a meaningful look. "Mom, calm down, Keen's right here. You don't want to scare him. Let's have Stella apologize, and we can put this on hold for now. Keen's situation is what matters."

reluctantly suppressed her rage. Her voice was tense as she said, "Fine, since Callie's speaking for you, just apologize

her cheek, the pain setting in at last. She looked up at Deanna's condescending expression and suddenly smiled.

but today,

For the sake of the child, she'd tried to swallow her anger, but Stella had the nerve to

longer. "How dare you speak to me like

for a day. Why should I listen to you? Because of your title, Deanna? Your title means nothing to me, not a cent. Demanding people kneel-do you think you're the Queen? If you're still dreaming,

furious her chest heaved, her finger trembling as it

mother nearly faint from anger, turned

impassive. "Respect is mutual. I'll treat others