Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

"No matter what I do, I'll always be Mario's biological mother. It's not just Ms. Riley —even Stewart has no right to stop me from loving my son."

Lorna looked at Briony, her gaze steady.

It had only been a day, but Briony already seemed different.

"Ms. Kensington, I think there's been a misunderstanding. I'm simply raising Mario the way Stewart asked me to," Lorna replied with a calm smile. "If you don't approve of Stewart's methods, perhaps you should discuss them with him directly."

Briony had come for two reasons: to see her son, and to finally have a clear conversation with Stewart.

She turned to Carol. "Where is Stewart?"

Carol glanced at Lorna.

"He's in the study," Lorna answered. "But I can't promise he'll want to see you."

Briony ignored her, still addressing Carol. "Let him know I need to talk to him about Mario's upbringing."

Carol nodded. "Of course, I'll let Mr. Wentworth know."

She set down what she was carrying and started toward the stairs.

"I'll go," Lorna interjected, stopping Carol. "He's been busy lately and doesn't like interruptions."

looked at Briony, caught

said nothing, which was as good as

her voice. "Ms. Kensington, please don't take Ms. Riley's words to heart. She's not the warmest person, but she

trust you'll look after Mario. But that doesn't mean I

her lips together, wanting to say more

Lorna returned from

Briony coolly. "Stewart

and

eyes darted

daughter. The little girl hadn't said a word

Little Nina missed her father too. Kids were kids, after all. After hearing Mario praise Stewart so many times, Little Nina Couldn't help but feel a twinge of envy, though she'd never admit it and

she could see

was ajar.

window, and as he heard footsteps,

voice was cool

Little Nina

on his daughter's cherubic face. A faint smile touched his lips. "Little Nina, it's

face away. "I'm just here to help Mom find Mario. I

endearing. Stewart couldn't help but smile, his heart melting a little. But he had no idea how to talk to a little girl-any affection he