Category: Reborn Reawakened Rekindled

Chapter 514

A couple of days later, I received a call from Faith.

She sounded pissed off. “Rena, Karina is actually in Rosemont! We’ve been fooled!”

I was taken aback. How did Faith find out?

“Faith, where are you?” I asked.

“I’m back in Eldoria. I’ve had a hunch something was off. Hiram is usually so clingy, always begging me to come back home whenever I step out. But this time, he kept insisting I take my time. So, I decided to go back to Eldoria without telling anyone. Surprise, surprise, only Hiram was home alone with a nanny who looked after him, and no sign of Karina at all!” Faith’s voice was seething with anger, and she continued without waiting for my response.

“Hiram and the nanny lied to me, saying Karina was at work. I visited her hospital where she should be working at, but they told me she was on an extended leave! What is she doing sneaking back to Rosemont? I bet it’s no good!”

Indeed, it was no good. Karina had returned to see Russel. Whether or not she was involved in the previous attacks on Whitmore Co., I still had no concrete proof. Russel certainly wouldn’t give me that.

I didn’t know what to say, so I just listened to Faith.

Finally, she was done, and I asked, “Faith, how do you plan to deal with this?”

“Deal with it? I’ll find a way to get Karina out of the Whitmore family. Hiram has to stay. She’s using her own child as a pawn! She’ll ruin him if this goes on!” Faith sounded firm.

“And what if Hiram insists on keeping Karina?” I asked.

Faith seemed stumped by my question. She sighed, “Yeah, if Hiram wasn’t so infatuated with Karina, I would have kicked her out ages ago.”

I didn’t know how to solve this either, so I left it to Faith.

Now that Faith knew Karina was in Rosemont, Neil must’ve known it, too.

I had no idea how he would deal with Karina.

However, I didn’t expect Karina to reach out to me and propose a meeting.

I was curious about the secret between Dylan and Karina, so I agreed to meet.

“Irene, did you tell Neil’s mom that I’m in Rosemont?” As soon as we met, Karina asked straight out. She was abrupt, even calling me by my first name, unlike her usual “Ms. Finch”.

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08:25

Chapter 514

“I didn’t. Why would I have anything to do with this?” I took a sip of my water, responding coldly.

“But Russel told me you knew I was in Rosemont. Who else could have told her?” There was suspicion in Karina’s eyes. “I know you might be wondering why I am with Russel. There’s nothing between us. I just came back to dissuade him from targeting Neil because of you.”

She sounded so innocent. But it was completely different from what Russel had told me.

In fact, I didn’t realize Karina was so obsessed with Neil. She was willing to risk everything, including Whitmore Co., as long as she could marry Neil.

She was as ruthless as ever.

“Then go explain to Neil. Why are you here with me?” I was more puzzled.

Karina put on a troubled face. Finally, she revealed her true purpose.

She was here to persuade me to go back to Russel.

This surprised me. But with a second thought, it made sense. With Russel and I separated, she was bound to worry. What if I went back to Neil, considering my two children were his?

“You’ve got some charm, to have a man go to such lengths for you. I admire that.” Karina said, even praising me begrudgingly in the end.

Throughout our conversation, she was emphasizing everything that Russel had done for me, hoping I would appreciate it. Besides, the true identity of my two children was something I didn’t want the Whitmore family to know, so staying with Russel was my best option.

Everything she said was nonsense to me, since I had already thought it through.

“Karina, there’s no need for you to say all these. Even if Russel and I break up, I would never go back to Neil. As for whether you can win his heart, that’s your problem.” I finished my water, got up, and prepared to leave.

Karina seemed desperate. She stood up abruptly and raised her voice, “You’ll regret losing a man who loves you so much!”

I stopped, turned around, and looked at her. “I won’t.”

Karina looked at me, her brow furrowed, as if she wanted to say something but held back. I quickly left. I had driven Stella’s car today, and it was parked not far from the entrance. As soon as I got in, I received a call from Stella.

She knew I was meeting Karina today and was worried, and I reassured her. I was about

to drive home when I saw a familiar figure rushing into the same cafe I had just left.

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09.25 !

Chapter 514

It was Louis Aldridge.

Was he also in Rosemont? I remembered what Russel had said, even if he didn’t target Neil, there were others who would. Was he referring to Louis?

Louis hated Neil deeply. He was convinced he was the illegitimate son of the Whitmore family, deserving the same status and lifestyle as Neil.

And he was close to Russel. It wouldn’t be far-fetched if the two of them were collaborating.

Poor Neil, the two childhood friends he grew up with turned into his enemies.

I felt sad for Neil for a moment, then drove back to Stella’s house.

“Just when we had a few days of peace, they’re at each other’s throats again?” Stella was deeply invested in the affairs of Russel and Neil. During my time at her place, she spent two-thirds of it fretting over their issues.

When I had just met with Karina a couple of days ago, Stella had spent some time analyzing her psyche for me.

“Neil’s the type who never allows himself to suffer. After what Russel did to him, he’s definitely out for revenge.”

I was trimming Brandon’s nails when I recalled the words Neil had said, and my mood turned heavy.

I didn’t want Russel to target Whitmore Co., and I certainly didn’t want Neil to stir up trouble with the Dawson family.

But it seemed like I didn’t have any power to stop it.

“This is turning into a full-blown battle.” Stella sighed wistfully, “Their feud is starting to affect my family’s company. They really are using their personal interests to throw

tantrums.”

I stayed silent, moving on to trim Serena’s nails. I wanted to speak to Neil and try to dissuade him, but after I had asked him to cut back on visiting other people’s kids, he seemed to be angry. He hadn’t contacted me since, nor sought me out.

Besides, with Karina’s situation probably causing him much stress, how would he even have the time to pick a fight with Russel?

Chapter 513

I started to feel anxious.

In the pit of my stomach, a voice was screaming at me that Neil knew everything about the kids!

But in the next moment, his words deflated my fears. “Only if his family doesn’t accept your two kids, considering the Dawson family never approved of your affair”

“Hmm, I don’t care, that could be a reason.” I let out a sigh of relief.

Neil remained silent, his gaze locked on me, as if trying to see through me. Just then, Stella came out, cradling Serena in her arms, “Rena, what’s wrong with your little princess? She suddenly started crying.”

Serena’s tiny face was flushed red from crying, her mouth pouted, tears pouring down her cheeks like crystal beads, her crying was heartbreakingly pitiful.

I hurriedly got up to take Serena, but the little one seemed to know Neil was there. Her eyes were fixed on him. She continued whimpering in my arms and made her look more miserable.

Was my motherly embrace not comforting enough? This six-month-old baby, barely learning to sit, had already mastered the art of looking pitiful?

As Neil’s gaze met Serena’s, he immediately stood up and reached out, taking Serena from my arms.

Stella’s eyes widened at the scene, and once more, something magical happened. As soon as Serena was in Neil’s arms, she instantly calmed down and seemed delighted.

“This…this is impossible.” Stella’s petite face was filled with confusion.

But I could understand. It was probably a blood connection.

Neil walked out with Serena in his arms, strolling around the yard, while I went back inside to bring out Brandon. The sun had risen. It was a perfect time for a bit of sunbathing.

On the white bench in the yard, Neil held Serena on his lap, supporting her tiny arms and helping her sit up.

Neil’s actions were gentle, his face filled with indulgent smiles as he looked at Serena. For a moment, I was taken aback. Was this how one should look at someone else’s child?

Stella brought out the mat and her three kids, setting them up in the yard to play. She .juggled between caring for the kids and stealing glances at Neil.

And then she looked at Brandon.

This made me feel anxious because Brandon and Neil looked uncannily similar.

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Chapter 513

“Rena, come here.” Stella couldn’t hold it in any longer. She pulled me to a corner and bluntly asked, “Tell me the truth. Are they really Russel’s children?”

I was taken aback, “Otherwise?”

“Why do they look more and more like Neil? Damn…” Stella was pretty straightforward, and we were close, so she didn’t beat around the bush.

“No!” I vehemently denied, thinking of Neil’s words that if the kids were his, he’d take them away. My heart was filled with unease.

I was a bit lax recently. What if Neil really took something from the children to get them tested? What about Karina – did she destroy the paternity test report that she had testified? Would Neil find it eventually?

I grew more anxious and abruptly took Serena from Neil’s arms, my tone cold, “Neil, you can go home if there’s nothing else. From now on, you don’t need to come looking for me, and you don’t need to be so nice to Serena. She has a real dad.”

Neil frowned at me, seemingly finding my outburst ridiculous, “What’s gotten into you? I have my own child too. I just find Serena cute; why are you freaking out?”

Hearing Neil say he had his own child, my anger flared up even more, I glared at him coldly, “So stop holding other people’s kids.”

This comment angered Neil. He rose, giving me a cold look, then he strode away without a second glance at Serena and Brandon.

As the front door opened, Mitch appeared again. It turned out that he had been waiting by

the door.

He wanted to come in again, but a stern glare from Stella stopped him. He obediently followed Neil out.

Stella then locked the door and came back to me, “Rena, what’s wrong? Did something inappropriate…”

“Serena and Brandon are indeed Neil’s.” I felt somewhat broken, because no ma much I denied it, everyone could see that Serena and Brandon looked a lot like Neil.

Stella was dumbstruck, and it took her a while to retrieve her voice, “Really?”

“Yes, really. Only you, my parents, Russel, and Karina know this.” My gaze fell on the children playing with their toys on the mat. I felt my mind was in chaos.

“What?? Russel and Karina too?” Stella was so shocked her words stuttered, “Russel! He accepted it? And Karina, she didn’t even tell Nell?”

I shook my head, my tone heavy, “No, Russel not only accepted it, he even got a fake paternity test report to deal with Neil. As for Karina, if she wanted to stay firmly in the Whitmore family through the children, she wouldn’t tell anyone about this.”

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08-24

Stella nodded vaguely, seemingly overwhelmed and confused.

“Let me process this…” she sat down, seemingly playing with the children, but her mind was elsewhere pondering my words.

I sighed, “Stella, don’t tell anyone else. You speak too quickly, so please be careful. Once Neil knows about this, he’ll fight me for the kids, and that’s what I’m most afraid of.”

Stella snapped back to reality and nodded seriously, “Okay, I absolutely won’t let it slip.”

Then, as if just remembering something, she sighed, “So, Russel is really good to you, Rena. He could even accept Neil’s children, and he treats both kids well.”

I had nothing to say, because she was right.

Putting other factors aside, Russel’s care towards Serena and Brandon alone would make anyone think he was their biological father. When he took them out, he’d present himself a perfect dad.

“No wonder your kids are so close to Neil; it’s because…” Stella started to say but was cut off by me.

Tshook my

head at her, “Let’s not talk about that. We have nannies in the house. We wouldn’t want them to overhear.”

Stella closed her mouth quickly. She took a deep sigh, her gaze on Serena and Brandon softened, filled with pity and affection.

Although she had divorced Mitch, their kids at least knew who their father was, and Mitch would visit them. However, Serena and Brandon’s case was different, as they might grow up without a father in their lives.

08:24

Chapter 512

Mitch, the wimp, acted as if he’d seen the cavalry arriving at the sight of Neil. He took refuge behind Neil, his voice a notch louder, “Let’s talk this out! There is no need for violence. Aren’t you just taking advantage of the fact that I never bully women?!”

“What’s going on? The front door wasn’t even closed.” Neil asked.

Stella rolled her eyes dismissively, not in the mood to talk. I, on the other hand, stared coldly at Mitch, “Ask your buddy here. What drove him all the way back from Eldoria?”

“What did you do, Mitch?” Neil turned to Mitch, demanding an explanation.

Mitch stuttered, unable to articulate a clear answer. I decided to speak on his behalf, “Russel sent him some pictures of Stella and me at the bar the other night. He rushed all the way back here just to accuse us of dressing inappropriately and neglecting our kids.”

As I summed up the situation, Mitch’s face turned awkward.

Neil’s brow furrowed. Then, he asked, “Is this true?”

“Neil, I’m not lying. You didn’t see how they dress. I used to spend my nights at bars, and I knew what kind of men hang out there. They have several kids at home, so they couldn’t just abandon them and go partying even if they’ve got nannies, can they?” Mitch argued, even though he looked embarrassed.

“I saw it.” Neil interrupted Mitch coldly.

“What? What did you see?” Mitch looked confused.

“I saw what they were wearing. I was there that night too.” Neil bent down, picked up a pillow from the floor and shoved it into Mitch’s arms. “I heard that you’ve been working overtime these past few days, almost pulling all-nighters, so as to spare some time to come back and question them, haven’t you?”

Stella and I exchanged glances. No wonder Mitch looked like he was on his last legs; he’d been working excessively for the past few days.

I had to hand it to him. He really went all out just to come here and pick a fight.

Mitch hung his head, looking somewhat ashamed.

“Alright, Mitch, done with your nonsense? You can piss off now!” Stella was done with Mitch. She walked over and shoved him towards the door.

Before Mitch could utter another word, he was already out the door.

The living room became quiet again. I felt much better without Mitch’s noise.

If Neil had said a word more to defend Mitch, he would have been kicked out by Stella too.

 “What are you doing here?” I asked, somewhat puzzled. 

“How is Serena doing?” Neil looked around, and, not seeing the kids, he asked, “Where are they?”

The kids were now in their room with the nannies. I didn’t tell Neil that but simply replied, “She’s been doing well these past few days, and there’s no need for you to worry.”

Stella quickly added, “Yeah, why are you so concerned? Even Russel doesn’t seem to care that much.”

Upon hearing these words, Neil shot her a glance, “When was Russel here?”

That was a couple of days ago. I had no idea what Russel and Karina were up to now, but I admired Karina for being able to hide it from the Whitmores for so long. I knew Hiram must have been helping her.

Therefore, Karina could stay in the Whitmore family as long as Hiram was around to help. Stella gave me a look but didn’t answer Neil. Instead, she turned and went to check on the kids in their room.

“When are you planning to go back to Eldoria?” It was just Neil and me left in the living room, so I took the initiative to ask.

“Why, are you eager to send me back there? What about you?” Neil sat down on the couch, crossing his long legs elegantly, his hands resting casually on his thighs. His eyes questioned me as well.

I wasn’t exactly hoping for Neil to return to Eldoria. Once he got back, he’d find out Karina wasn’t there. If that caused any trouble and delayed me from getting information from Dylan, I didn’t think it would be worth it.

“I’m not sure yet. My parents aren’t there, so it doesn’t matter whether I return early or late.” I answered casually. Even without Dylan’s appearance, I might still stay here a little longer. Neil, however, thought of something else, “Is it because Russel is here?”

I was left speechless. At this point, Neil believed I had feelings for Russel, while Russel thought I was still in love with Neil. It was all very confusing.

But all I wanted was to live a simple life with my kids, free and easy.

“I’m back here just to tell you both to stop being ridiculous, okay?” I replied, feeling helpless.

“What’s going on with you and Russel? Are you breaking up?” Neil seemed quite pleased at the mention of this with a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, “I was surprised when he suddenly turned against Whitmore Co., but I figured something must have gone wrong between you two. He wouldn’t have done that otherwise.”

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08:35

Chapter 512

I took a deep breath and met Neil’s gaze calmly, “Yes, Russel and I are breaking up. We’re not a good match, so you don’t need to keep suspecting that there’s something between us, and there’s no need to hold a grudge against him because of this.”

Neil’s smile widened, he nodded approvingly, “Hmm, it’s a good decision. It would’ve been even better if you made it earlier. You were never a good match. But what about the kids? Didn’t he ask for custody?”

“The kids are mine. I won’t give them to him.” I stated firmly. The kids weren’t even Russel’s to begin with; even if they were, I would fight for them with everything I had.

The two kids were my life. To put it selfishly, men could still father children with a younger woman in their forties or fifties, but I couldn’t. Serena and Brandon were the only two

children I would ever have, and there would never be a third.

“Is it because you refuse to give them to him, or because he didn’t ask for them at all?” Neil questioned, not quite believing my words.

“What do you mean by that?” I asked, taken aback.

“Nothing much, it just strikes me as odd. Doesn’t Russel value his own kids? He was okay with them taking your maiden name and didn’t even fight for custody when you split up. If

it were me, I would never be able to allow it,” Neil said, his gaze holding mine as though hinting at something. “Irene, you know me. I can’t stand the thought of my child being taken away.”

A chill ran down my spine. Seeing the way Neil looked at me while uttering those words, I couldn’t shake the feeling that he might know something and was subtly trying to warn

I tried to maintain my composure and nodded, “Yeah, I get it. But Russel is not you.”

“He should be the same in this regard. We’ve been friends for years. I’m absolutely sure.” Neil’s smile faded, his tone becoming more serious.

Chapter 511

“Sure, I’ll let you know as soon as I have any news.” I replied casually.

Until the day Dylan revealed his secret with Karina, I wouldn’t disclose her whereabouts to him, unless he found out on his own, which would be beyond my control.

After ending the call, Stella asked, “Is your friend trying to find a doctor?”

I nodded my head, pondered for a while, and decided to spill the beans about Karina and Dylan. After hearing the whole story, Stella shared my intuition that something fishy was going on between Dylan and Karina, and it wasn’t something small.

“Yeah, that’s why I want to figure out what’s going on. Karina has been relentlessly plotting against me, and I can’t just sit and do nothing.” I responded.

“Absolutely!” Stella agreed with my approach, “She’s cunning and even more manipulative than that Bonnie Bitch we knew. We need to be prepared.”

As I glanced outside, darkness had fallen again. I realized I had been back in Rosemont for a week now. Time flied.

Only here did I feel a sense of belonging. The environment and the cultural vibe made me feel comfortable. I secretly made up my mind that if I could clear things up with Neil and Russel and avoid any future entanglements, I would return and live in Rosemont for the rest of my life.

After all, my best friends were here.

Suddenly, the doorbell rang. The housekeeper went to answer it, but she didn’t recognize the visitor and came back to inform Stella.

Before the housekeeper could finish her sentence, I saw a shadow darting in. It was literally darting, for it was as fast as a dog. But it wasn’t an actual dog; it was Mitch.

He looked disheveled with unshaved chin and red eyes, looking like he hadn’t slept or cared for himself for days. He seemed to emanate an aura of resentment.

Seeing Mitch, Stella practically jumped, and without a second thought, picked up a toy from the floor and threw it at him, “Who let you in? Get out!”

“Stella, you’re being unreasonable!” Mitch pointed angrily at Stella, “How could you dress like that and go to the bar? And leave the kids at home, huh?”

I was stunned. How did Mitch know about this?

Was it Neil who told him?

“I have three babysitters here and I don’t hire for nothing! And we’re divorced, what I wear to the bar is my business, not yours!” Stella retorted, “This is my house! Leave now, or I’ll call the police!”.

Mitch, inflamed by Stella’s defiance, stormed over to the mat. After identifying his three children, he attempted to carry them all at once. Stella tried to stop him, “What are you doing? Are you here to snatch the kids?”

“I haven’t seen them for a long time! They’re my children too! Stella, don’t be a shrew!” Mitch stared at Stella, mustering the courage to retort.

“I don’t care, I have their custody now, my word is the law!” Stella grabbed the children from Mitch’s arms, but the older two recognized their dad and insisted on being held by him.

The situation escalated, and the children might be frightened if it kept going on. I stepped in, trying to end their quarrel, “That’s enough. Please calm down and talk. The kids can easily be scared!”

Stella looked down at the children in her arms. They were indeed frightened. She softened her tone and summoned the babysitters, who took the children to the playroom. Only the three of us adults remained.

Mitch looked exhausted, with prominent dark marks under his eyes. I asked, “Aren’t you busy in Eldoria? How could you find time to come back?”

“Huh, if it weren’t for Russel’s message, I wouldn’t have known you two left the kids to go to a bar dressing like that. Unbelievable!” Mitch was clearly angry discussing it.

To my surprise, it wasn’t Neil but Russel who had leaked the information. How could he… “Why the hell did Russel tell you all this?” Stella was also furious.

“What did he say wrong? And you, Irene, your kid had gastroenteritis, and you went to a bar?” Mitch suddenly turned his anger towards me.

I found it amusing, “I went to the bar first. Then my kid got sick, and I rushed to the hospital. Did you think I’d go out when my child is sick?”

“Divorced women sure are bold, Irene. Don’t you have anyone to answer to?”

I realized today just how chauvinistic Mitch was.

I scoffed, “Answer to whom? I haven’t broken any laws.”

“Exactly, Rena. Let’s not waste our breath on him. Mitch, if you don’t leave now, I really will get violent!” Stella had had enough. She got up to fetch a broom, a handy tool for chasing people away.

Mitch adopted a desperate stance, “Go ahead and kill me. I won’t leave without a satisfactory answer today!”

Stella laughed sarcastically, “Oh? What answer do you want?”

“You give me a promise, in writing, that you won’t dress like that and go to the bar

anymore,

and you can’t abandon the kids!” Mitch boldly voiced his demands.

He was practically asking for trouble.

As expected, the moment he finished speaking, a cup flew towards him. Stella was livid; she pointed at Mitch and yelled, “Who are you to criticize me? When did I ever neglect my kids? Mitch, remember, we divorced because you were flirting with a vixen, not because ! wronged you. Didn’t you think of our children then?”

Though Mitch avoided the flying cup, he couldn’t avoid Stella’s verbal lashing. His face turned pale, probably reminded of his foolish actions in the past.

Men, sometimes they can be such conceited beings that nobody could communicate with.

Even if Stella was about to take a swing at Mitch with a baseball bat, I wouldn’t lift a finger to stop her.

“I messed up, okay? Wasn’t that being why I let you have all the kids?” Mitch said, his voice much softer than before, not daring to look Stella in the eye.

“So get out!” Stella barked, grabbing a throw pillow from the couch and hurling it in Mitch’s direction with all her might.

Mitch dodged it again, but the pillow hit Neil square in the chest as he walked in. He caught it reflexively and then frowned at us all.

Chapter 510

After hearing Stella’s words, a sense of urgency and concern flashed across Russel’s eyes, tinged with a hint of reproach. He questioned me, “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

“Weren’t you with Karina at that time?” I retorted.

Russel seemed to be taken aback by my response and just stared at me in silence.

Stella defended me, “Don’t look at Rena like that. I used to encourage her to accept you, thinking you were a decent and loyal man, not like Neil. But it seems I was wrong. Birds of a feather flock together, huh? How could clear water spring from a mire?”

Russel’s face darkened at her harsh words. Luckily, we were alone, so there was no one else to witness his humiliation.

“I had something important to deal with last night,” Russel started, pausing to glance at Stella. His gaze was slightly hesitant, but then he regained his composure and asked, “Since you knew Karina was here, did you tell Neil?”

“Why would I tell Neil? It’s their business, not mine.” I replied nonchalantly.

“Alright, I understand.” Russel contemplated for a moment before turning towards the front door. “Is Serena in there too? I’d like to see her.”

Stella looked at me questioningly, but I subtly shook my head, not wanting her to stop Russel.

Russel’s affection for the kids was genuine, untainted by any pretense. I wasn’t heartless enough to keep him away from them.

Still, I felt compelled to say, “Please wait here for a minute. I’ll bring Serena out.’

Russel halted in his tracks.

I went inside to get Serena, who was doing better today, though she seemed less lively and energetic than usual.

Russel’s face softened as soon as he saw Serena. He took her from me and gently rocked her in his arms.

“Serena, do you remember Daddy?” He asked softly.

Hearing the word “Daddy” stung a little. For the past six months, everyone saw Russel as Serena and Brandon’s father. He often referred to himself as such, especially in public.

It must have become a habit by now, hence his slip of the tongue.

Stella didn’t seem to notice anything amiss. She was just frowning at the scene, probably comparing Russel’s actions to Mitch’s.

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11.12

Chapter 510

Serena seemed to enjoy being in Russel’s arms, occasionally laughing and reaching out to grab his shirt.

I didn’t interrupt them and let them have their moment. But then Russel’s phone rang, forcing him to take the call.

I took Serena from him and glanced at his phone. It was Karina calling.

Karina sure was bold, taking risks as she always did. If Neil and Faith found out she was in Rosemont, and that she might have had a hand in Russel’s dealings with Whitmore Co., she could kiss her chances of marrying Neil goodbye.

“Please go ahead. I’m going home with Stella.” I told Russel dismissively. He had changed too much, and I wasn’t interested in prying into his business with Karina.

“Alright, and I’ll explain everything later.” Russel replied, sounding a bit impatient.

I didn’t need his explanation, but I kept that to myself. I carried Serena and left with Stella. As we stepped inside, Stella closed the door tightly behind us.

Stella spoke up once Russel’s car had driven away, “Rena, you really don’t plan on getting back together with Russel, do you? It seems like you’re rather indifferent towards him.

“Really?” I was a bit surprised. I didn’t think I was being cold; I was just keeping a safe distance to avoid any unnecessary complications.

“Definitely. It feels like there’s nothing left between you two.” Stella sighed, “It’s a pity for the kids. He’s a good father, I could tell. I noticed it back in Eldoria. I guess all men are the same – incapable of being a good husband but can be good fathers.”

But Russel wasn’t even the father of my children. I thought to myself guiltily.

Feeling more guilty, I decided to stay at Stella’s place for another day. I was planning to go back to Bailey’s, but she pointed out that it wouldn’t be convenient for him as a married man, especially since his wife Hannah was pregnant. So I’d better stay here with her, who was living alone with a handful of hired help and no husband or in-laws to worry about, until I decided to return to Eldoria.

I accepted her suggestion. Now the complications between Russel and Neil were temporarily settled, but not completely. Plus, Dylan had showed up. I had to remain at Rosemont to make clear of what it was between him and Karina.

It was indeed enjoyable staying with Stella. Apart from taking care of the kids, it felt like being single again. Barbara and Alicia would occasionally drop by for a meal and some girl talk.

After Alicia’s falling out with Sean last time, she declared she wouldn’t waste any more time on him. She was determined to focus on her career instead of a man.

I found it hard to believe.

פור

11:43

“Rena, your phone is ringing. Who’s this Dylan? Stella asked as she handed me my phone when I was playing with the kids.

“Just a friend.” I took the phone and answered the call, keeping my reply as simple as possible.

I hadn’t been in touch with Dylan for a few days and it was clear he was growing anxious. He thought I’d forgotten about the promise I’d made to him and so, he rang me up and pressed about it. I tried to soothe him, “Dylan, take a deep breath, alright? I’m on the lookout for her as well. You know she’s got these amazing medical skills and a lot of people are after her expertise. Tracking her down isn’t as easy as picking up a phone. It takes time and effort. You can also try reaching out to her from your end as well.”

“I can’t, Ms. Finch,” Dylan blurted out. “She’s deliberately avoiding me!”

At this point, I was certain there was something more to Dylan and Karina’s relationship and it wasn’t anything pleasant.”

I decided to probe a bit more. “Why would she be avoiding you? Is it because your condition is serious and she can’t treat it, so she doesn’t want to waste your time and money?”

“No, no, no, it’s not like that. Anyway, I’m hoping to hear from you soon. Please let me know the moment you find something, okay?” Dylan didn’t want to discuss his relationship with Karina any further. He just repeatedly impressed upon me his urgency.

11:43

Chapter 509

Neil and I wandered around the hospital, and we returned to the nurse’s station when time rolled around for Serena’s medication to be changed,

After a couple of hours of bustling around, we finally got her IV removed, and it was time for us to head home for some much-needed rest.

Neil drove me to Stella’s place. I thanked him after I got out of the car with Serena. “I appreciate your help tonight.”

“Please get some rest.” Neil merely advised before driving off.

It was already after four in the morning. After settling Serena down to sleep, I went to remove my makeup and take a shower. Tonight had been incredibly exhausting, and I was asleep almost the moment my head hit the pillow. Thankfully, the nanny at Stella’s house was fantastic, allowing me to sleep in without being disturbed by the kids.

Upon waking up, I noticed a lengthy text message from Neil, filled with advice on how to care for a child with diarrhea. I was a bit dazed, wondering if I was still dreaming.

My phone rang, jolting me from my confusion. The name “Russel” on the screen immediately sobered me up.

“Are you home yet?” Russel’s voice was icy as it came through the phone.

“Hmm, what happened?” I sat up, glancing around. My voice was slightly hoarse, likely due to last night’s drinks.

“Nothing. Just got caught up with some urgent matters last night and couldn’t see you and Stella home. I was a bit worried.” Russel replied, then asked, “Are you at Stella’s place?”

I didn’t deny it, “Hmm, what’s up?”

“Please come out. I’m waiting for you at the front.” Russel hung up before I could reply. I was taken aback. How did he know Stella was living here? And how come he was already waiting for me at the door?

I quickly freshened up and dressed. Stella was in the living room playing with the children on a mat. “Rena, are you hungry? Lunch will be ready soon!” She asked when she saw me. “I’ll just slep out for a bit. Be right back.” I replied hastily not wanting Stella to know Russel was waiting outside.

The day was overcast, not a hint of sunlight could be seen. Russel was leaning against the wall and waiting for me.

I wasn’t sure why Russel was here, but I felt an inexplicable pressure, making each step

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08:40

Chapter 509

towards him feel heavier than the last.

Upon seeing me, his stern expression softened a bit. But his brow was still furrowed, hinting at his underlying discontent.

“When did you get home last night?” Russel seemed particularly concerned about my departure from the bar last night, his tone unusually stern.

“Four in the morning,” I replied.

“Four in the morning?” Russel’s face darkened at my answer, a clear sign of anger flashing in his eyes.

I nodded, intending to explain, but Russel cut me off, “Why so late? Were you with Neil?”

I indeed was with Neil, but there was a reason for it.

“Russel, please, let’s not talk about this. I know you’ve stopped fighting with Whitmore Co. I appreciate that.” I avoided his question and deflected the subject.

Russel’s brows furrowed further, “First, you will answer my question. Were you with Neil till four in the morning?”

I didn’t like the feeling of being interrogated and doubted, so I just nodded in response.

Russel’s eyes darkened, and he seemed to be repressing his emotions. He took a deep breath, struggling to control his anger.

He kept staring at me, sending chills down my spine.

“Am I not doing enough?” He eventually muttered, his words cold and laced with accusation, “What do I need to do for you to think I’m better than him?”

“Russel, you’re overthinking. Neil and I can never be together again. You’ve never been worse than Neil in my heart, and I sometimes think you’re a good person. It’s just my bad luck that I fell for Neil first, and after breaking up with him, I’ve lost the ability to fall in love again. I’ve rejected you many times, but you refuse to give up. You’re driving yourself crazy; do you know that?” My emotions got the best of me, and I spoke rapidly.

“I just want you to stay by my side, even if you don’t love me!” Russel seemed a bit out of control. It was part of him I rarely saw. His hands gripped my shoulders tightly, which scared me.

I was startled by his intensity and struggled to break free.

“Russel, calm down!” I couldn’t help but shout.

Russel didn’t let go of me. Instead, Stella, hearing my shout, rushed out holding a broom.

Seeing Russel, she stormed over and brought the broom down on his arm.

The blow on his arm caused him to release me, and he seemed to have regained some

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Chapter 509

composure.

“What are you doing, Russel? Harassing someone in broad daylight? How did I never know that you were such a scoundrel? Rena, call the police. Did he try to assault you?” Stella stood protectively in front of me, pointing at Russel and cursing.

Russel didn’t say anything but just stared coldly at Stella.

My shoulder was throbbing, but it wasn’t bad enough to call the police, and besides, Russel hadn’t tried to assault me.

“Stella, it’s okay. We just had a disagreement.” I reassured Stella.

“Is he here to take the kids?” Stella speculated, still under the impression that Russel was Serena and Brandon’s father. For her, since I no longer wanted to be with Russel, he was here to take them.

I laughed at her assumption, “No, don’t worry.”

“That’s good.” Stella suddenly adopted a disappointed tone as she addressed to Russel, “Russel, you’re the children’s father. How could you disappear when they needed you? Oh, and with that Karina. What is wrong with both you and Neil? You both like to mingle with women like her.”

Russel’s expression changed, “What happened to the kids?”

“You don’t even know?” Stella questioned. Her eyebrows were knitted in confusion as she turned to look at me. She couldn’t fathom why I hadn’t informed Russel. After all, he was the father of the child.

“I’m clueless. What happened to the kids?” Russel, who genuinely treasured the two kids as if they were his own, turned towards me. He was puzzled as to why I hadn’t shared the news with him.

Stella blurted out, “Serena had a severe case of gastroenteritis last night. She was vomiting and having diarrhea, and had to be rushed to the ER. Neil was there with Rena and the child, but where were you? Hooking up with Karina?”

Chapter 503

After playing with the kids for a while, I bathed them and got them ready for bed. After a moment of hesitation, I sent a message to Faith, telling her about Neil’s visit and his

attitude.

Faith quickly replied: [I get it, he’s always been set in his ways.]

Indeed, there was nothing I could do about it.

Once I got it off my chest, I felt much more relaxed and quickly fell asleep.

Stella called while I was helping the kids get dressed. I put her on speaker and tossed my phone aside. Her voice was loud and clear, “Rena, you’re back in Rosemont. Let’s get the girls together; it’s been too long!”

“I barely have time with two kids to look after; how do you manage with three?” I asked, laughing.

“Come on, if you have the money, why worry about taking care of kids? My sister hired three nannies for me, one for each kid. They’re all great, I’ve checked. I can trust them!” Stella replied cheerfully, a far cry from the gloom that surrounded her divorce. She was back to her old, bubbly self.

True, but I couldn’t exactly go out to a gathering at the moment, my nanny was still in Eldoria.

Understanding my situation, Stella suggested we meet at her place. She said her nannies. could help look after my kids too, making the most of the resources!

Under her insistent urging, I agreed to go and we planned to meet in the afternoon.

After lunch, I mentioned my plans to Bailey and Hannah. Bailey said it would be inconvenient for me to travel with two kids, so he offered to drive me to Stella’s place. I nodded in agreement.

Stella was now living in a house under her name, with her three children, three nannies, and three housekeepers. She was living a comfortable life. When I arrived, Alicia and Barbara were already there.

The biggest surprise was Alicia. I hadn’t seen her in a long time, and she had lost a lot of weight. She looked as skinny as me, and there was a sickly look to her. She wasn’t as lively as before, and she kept frowning, as if she wasn’t in the best mood.

“How adorable!” She picked up Serena and a smile finally appeared on her face. She kissed Serena’s little cheek.

“I didn’t bring my kid, I left Silas at home to look after him, so I could come and have fun.” Barbara took Brandon from me, grinning from ear to ear.

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na na

We all went from being single ladies to women with kids and family. When we got together, the conversation mostly revolved around our children, with other topics sprinkled in between.

“Rena, has Neil contacted you?” Stella suddenly asked.

“Yes, he’s come to see me twice.” I sighed. “It was mostly about Russel, but now that Russel is quiet, Neil won’t leave me alone.”

“Men can be so selfish, he still has feelings for you, but you must stay strong. Don’t fall for his sweet words!” Barbara advised me earnestly.

But Neil wasn’t one to use sweet words. He liked to manipulate and guilt people into doing what he wanted. I didn’t want to keep talking about Neil and Russel, so I changed the subject. Stella then turned her attention to Alicia.

Alicia was unusually silent and rarely contributed to the conversation. It felt like she had something on her mind.

My intuition told me it was still about Sean. For someone like Alicia, who never took relationships seriously, falling in love could be a deep and consuming experience.

“Ali, you and Sean need to end things. Stop torturing yourself.” Stella was always straightforward, and there were no secrets among us.

Alicia seemed stunned, then a bitter smile appeared on her face. “I want to end it, but every time I decide to, he comes back. I can’t bring myself to ignore him. Do you know what that feels like?”

We all knew what it felt like. Alicia was the only one among us who hadn’t been in a relationship before. We all knew what it felt like to be uncontrollably smitten with

someone.

So we didn’t mock or blame Alicia. Instead, we empathized. Sean, who we thought was a decent guy, turned out to be a jerk who liked playing with people’s feelings.

“But you even went abroad with him and got nothing out of it. You have to be strong. We’re not young girls anymore. Do you want to waste your time on a man who’s not worth it, like Rena did?” Stella thumped her chest. “Look at me, I divorced Mitch as soon as he cheated on me, and we have three kids!”

We admired Stella for that, but knowing what to do and actually doing it are two different things. I added, “Let’s give her some time to get over him.”

Stella and Barbara exchanged a look and sighed.

Just then, the doorbell rang. Stella looked puzzled, “Who could that be?”

She got up to answer the door. I didn’t move, but soon I heard her voice, “What are you doing here?”

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08:09 @

Chapter 503

Who was it? I was curious. Could it be Mitch? Impossible, he definitely couldn’t leave

Eldoria.

I went to check and wished I hadn’t.

Neil was standing at the door with bags in his hands, looking rather grim. Stella clearly wasn’t welcoming him.

He looked surprised when he saw me, but quickly composed himself and said to Stella, “Mitch told me you returned all the stuff he sent for the kids. These are some clothes and toys he asked me to bring.”

“You knew I returned everything and you still brought more?” Stella retorted, indicating she wouldn’t accept what Neil brought either.

“That’s your problem.” Neil dropped the bags near the door and added, “If you don’t need it,

throw it in the trash.”

“Neil!” Stella looked angry as she saw the toys and clothes scattered on the floor. She instinctively bent down to pick them up.

Mitch was smart, he knew Neil would do his bidding and deliver the goods effectively.

Watching Stella stoop to pick something up, a satisfied grin spread across Neil’s face. Suddenly, a round ball rolled by, stopping at the entrance of the living room. Stella called out to me, “Rena, could you fetch that for me? What’s Mitch thinking, buying all these toys? Does he think I can’t afford to spoil our kids?”

Poor Mitch, he just wanted to show some love to the kids, but all he got was a scolding.