The Ex-Wife's Burning Elegance

Haynes looked deep into Stella's eyes. "Star, I want you to be prepared for what's coming."

Her expression was calm, steady. "I understand. Thank you for the heads up."

He shook his head. "You're Keen's mother. I owe you far more than you know, and this is the least I can do. There's no need to thank me. If there's anything else you need, just ask. I mean it."

Stella hesitated, then asked, "Has Keen been going over to the Williams house lately?"

"Mr. Williams has sent for him a few times, but I turned them down every time," Haynes replied, meeting her gaze. "For now, I won't let Keen go over there. You have my word—I'll keep him safe. I won't let the Williams family use him against you."

Stella's look grew more complicated. She wasn't worried about much, except that the Williams family might try to hurt Keen.

Haynes seemed to sense her concern and wanted to put her mind at ease.

After a moment, Stella added, "Also, for the time being, please don't take Keen to my mother's house either."

Haynes agreed without hesitation. "Alright."

in surprise. "You're not

eyes darkened. "I

she pressed, still not quite

"My mother's way of raising Keen... there are problems. From now on, I'll

never actually done Keen any good. It was only after he and Stella divorced that Haynes learned the truth-Deanna would belittle Stella right in front of Keen, constantly pointing out her supposed

this, Stella's

be busy these days, so I'm counting on you to look after Keen," she said. Even though Haynes had custody, she was still Keen's mother. She couldn't just hand him over and

eyes warmed with a

him up together and go out for dinner? With the international competition coming up, you'll probably be away for a while-it might be your

a moment, then nodded.

talk to Keen about

Haynes, she said, "Wait for me outside. I need to let

stepped out of the

she'd be leaving early to pick

Stella walked

what he's doing. Even with Star resenting him so much, he still manages