Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

James didn't coddle the boy for even a second. Without hesitation, he hoisted him over his shoulder and delivered a sharp smack to his backside. "No wonder your mother left you, you little rascal! Such a troublemaker!"

Irwin's wailing was immediate. "Mom! Mom, help me! Waaa-this awful man is hitting me-!"

No matter how much Irwin kicked and screamed, it didn't change a thing-James carried him straight down the stairs.

Parked by the curb was a sleek Maybach.

The passenger window was down.

Irwin, still sniffling, spotted Stewart in the driver's seat and shrieked, "Dad! Dad, help me—!"

Stewart opened the door and stepped out, walking over with his usual calm.

Without a word, James dumped Irwin right into Stewart's arms.

The moment Irwin landed in his father's embrace, he clung to Stewart's neck, his sobs fading into pitiful little hiccups. He slumped against Stewart's shoulder, his small body shaking with every breath-he looked every bit the picture of misery.

If James hadn't just witnessed Irwin's wild tantrum upstairs-punching and kicking

with all his might-he might have actually been fooled by this act.

child would turn

"Mr. Wentworth, heir to the most prestigious family in Northborough, yet

gaze, magnified behind his glasses, didn't waver

men had certainly heard of each other

voice

replied, sticking one hand in his pocket as he sized Stewart up. Then he flashed a crooked smile. "If you've got a message, I can pass it

face remained impassive as he studied James for a moment before saying, "Tell her the results are in for her mother's and brother's bone marrow

Irwin,

away,

shrink into the distance, a thin,

...

James returned to the studio, Briony was just stepping out of the

"All done?" he asked.

herself a cup of

she glanced at James. "Do you

to his personal assistant to book his flight. "I've seen your skill these past few days. Since the restoration's complete, I'll take the artifact back tonight and hand it in.