Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

That gentle, loving mom-she was supposed to be his.

"Grown-ups' feelings can get really complicated." Lauren gently ruffled Irwin's hair, her voice full of sympathy. "So, Irwin, do you want to see your mom Bryn?"

"I do! I really do!"

Irwin's eyes grew hot, and he swiped away his tears with his sleeve, choking out, "But Dad told me on the plane that I shouldn't bother Mom anymore. He said if I really, really want to see her, I have to ask him first, and only if he says yes, then I can go."

"How about this-what if we just... run into her by accident?"

"By accident?" Irwin's eyes went wide. "Grandma, do you have a plan?"

Lauren stroked his cheek and gave a mysterious smile. "Of course I do. I've come up with something perfect, just for you."

"Wow!" Irwin's sadness vanished in an instant. He threw his arms around Lauren, hugging her tight.

"Grandma, you're amazing! You're the best, and you're always so good to me. I love you so much!"

Lauren hugged him back, smoothing his soft hair, but behind her gentle eyes lurked a hidden malice.

...

Briony didn't get home from work until six that evening.

door to the apartment across the hall was wide open, with movers

attention, and unlocked her own door to head

Gina poked her head out, spatula in hand. "You're

wandered in. "Looks like the

the

and leaned

couldn't leave the stove. "I made you some chicken soup-it's in

Briony stepped into the

...

after breakfast, Briony grabbed her bag and changed her shoes. "Gina, I'm heading

a

took a step outside, the strap of

bag tumbled

She froze in surprise.

saw Briony holding her

back into her house slippers, and headed to her room.

thought much of

returned with a different bag, a sudden loud crash echoed from the hallway