Beyond the Divorce

After our banter, I told Lauren about Liora, leaving her astonished. "Looks like Liora really is pushing her luck. She's reckless; do you think she might have hidden Melanie somewhere, or has she silenced her for good?"

"It's not that extreme. Atlas says it's not time to deal with Melanie yet. Anyway, I'm sure she feels like she's in prison, no matter where she is. Even if she is outside, she wouldn't dare show up anywhere." Lauren sighed. "She's made her own bed, and now she has to lie in it. Melanie's definitely not a good person. She's just as bad as Liora."

Talking about Liora reminded me of Stella. I told Lauren about Stella's situation, whispering, "I think Jared isn't with Trinity. But I can't figure out how Trinity got involved with Stella."

I was willing to confide in Lauren about certain things, especially since she had considerable influence in Foswood. Knowing some insiders would help me greatly.

Lauren looked at me and speculated, "I suspect there must be a business deal between her and Stella."

I nodded. "I agree."

At that moment, Ava ran in and asked, "When can we eat? I'm starving!"

We shared a smile, and Lauren remarked, "That little girl's a clever one."

At dinner, the three of us and the two little ones, ate, chatted, and played, nearly turning the house upside down.

I noticed that Ivanna's eyes were fixed on Ava as she laughed with her hand resting on her belly. I assumed that Ivanna was thinking about her future baby. Her absent-minded smile hinted at her daydreams. Lauren and I exchanged glances, silently sharing a sense of relief.

As it got late, the two little ones grew sleepy. I made a quick call to my mom, telling her we'd sleep here tonight and I'd take the kids to kindergarten tomorrow morning.

Just as we were about to leave, there was an urgent knock on the door. We exchanged glances again.

Lauren said, "It's late. I'm guessing your man is here to pick you up."

I shook my head confidently. "No. Atlas wouldn't knock like that." Lauren and I looked at Ivanna. Ivanna suddenly sat up straight.

Lauren hurried to open the door, and to our surprise, there stood

Jared the one we had been waiting for. He looked weary. His crisp shirt was wrinkled, giving him an O exhausted appearance.

His eyes went past Lauren as he peered into the room. Atlas stood behind Jared, smiling and observing my reaction.

I couldn't help but feel a little

doubtful, even as I saw Jared in the flesh, which was exactly what I had wished for. That was quick. We had agreed on 24 hours, but it hadn't

even been 10 hours.

It seemed Atlas needed a talking-to; he played too loose with his plans. Despite seeing Jared right in front of me, the rapid turnaround left me skeptical.Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.

Lauren stepped aside, allowing Jared to walk in. He quickly approached Ivanna, who was sitting on the sofa, staring blankly as the man drew nearer.

When Jared reached out toward her, Ivanna erupted in a hysterical roar. "Get out! I don't want to see you!"

Her outburst frightened Ava, who clung to my leg. Even Jenny was scared.

I knew Ivanna's pent-up rage had finally burst forth.

I glanced at Lauren, signaling to her.

We packed our belongings discreetly

and quietly retreated, leaving the

two

of them to deal with the storm that was brewing in their hearts.