Beyond the Divorce

Chapter 950 The Man on Their Minds

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."

and asked, "When

shared a smile, and Lauren remarked,

little ones, ate, chatted, and played, nearly turning

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

my mom, telling her we'd sleep here tonight and I'd take the kids

were about to leave, there was an urgent knock

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

my head confidently. "No. Atlas wouldn't knock like that." Lauren and I looked at Ivanna.

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

had been waiting for. He looked weary. His crisp shirt

into the room. Atlas stood behind

a little doubtful, even as I saw Jared in the flesh, which was exactly what I had wished for. That was quick. We had