The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Chapter 495

A long, black luxury van waited at the curb.

When the door slid open, Haynes, Rachel, and Keen were already inside.

Keen looked up as Deanna and Callie climbed in, greeting them politely.

"Grandma. Aunt Callie."

Deanna's response was little more than a dismissive nod. Her gaze, however, lingered on Rachel.

Rachel was dressed beautifully that day—a tasteful, elegant dress that made her look delicate and gentle, every bit the picture of grace.

Deanna's brows knitted together. "Why are you bringing her to Mr. Burton's birthday party?"

Haynes's voice was calm. "The invitation I received included Rachel."

Deanna looked genuinely surprised. "They invited her? Since when does the Burton family have ties with her?"

Rachel spoke softly. "Maybe it's because I'm now Mr. Walden's apprentice. Perhaps that's why they asked me to come."

a little at

out of the question. But lately, Haynes hadn't mentioned Stella at all. Maybe

mind began to turn over

from a distinguished family, why settle for Rachel? Rachel was certainly better than Stella, but there were plenty of young women from good families who were

opportunity to meet those young

someone like Aurora or Lauretta, but the Burton family still had several eligible daughters. It wouldn't hurt to see if any caught Haynes's eye. If

apprentice, she was a catch-if only

"Is Mr. Walden

nodded. "Yes,

Deanna looked away from Rachel and turned to Keen, who had been silent

Are you keeping up with your

shook his head to say he wasn't falling

his downcast mood and gently asked, "What's wrong, sweetheart? Are

to bring Keen along to the party on purpose. Older folks always adored children, and Keen was clever and sweet—maybe he'd win Mr. Burton's favor, and they could start building

his head, his voice barely above a

her. Not too long

troublemaker from kindergarten a few times, but

mother was doing anymore.

mom would be there-hovering, bustling around him,