Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

"You're incredibly talented. With your family background, you could easily find an excellent mentor."

Vernon was only halfway through his sketch when Briony's voice cut through the quiet. He paused, lifted his head, and met her gaze.

Briony's expression was frosty. "My gallery won't be representing you. You should leave."

Vernon set his pencil down, staring at her. "Is it because Galen married my mom? Is that why you don't like me?"

"That's right." Briony looked at this boy whose mind seemed far older than his eight years and kept her voice impassive. "Because of Xenia Cooper, and because of Stewart. I want nothing to do with anyone or anything connected to them."

A flicker of panic crossed Vernon's face. He frowned, scrambling to explain, "Galen really cares about you. He and my mom are just business partners—they don't even live together."

Briony only gave a cold, dismissive smile. "I don't care. You're a child, and I'd rather not be cruel to you, but please don't come here again."

Vernon stared at her, unwilling to give up.

Briony broke eye contact and turned to Arnold. "I'm leaving now. If he still refuses to go, call the police."

Arnold nodded. "Understood."

Without another word, Briony headed straight for the exit.

catch up, refusing

and he slipped in right after

felt a wave of exasperation-why was this

down at him, brow furrowed. "Wasn't

up, and as if fearing she'd throw him out, said coolly,

that, Briony fell

showed no sign of letting

"Ms. Kensington?"

the elevator wall, making it

Unbothered by her chilliness,

air slipped a little as he spoke anyway. "Galen told me I should be polite

distant. "Thank you, but honestly, I'd prefer if

you're really nice. Gentle with people." Vernon frowned, lowering his voice to a mutter, "But

gave a sharp, indifferent

if she cared what he

the

loud metallic bang—the elevator shuddered and

Inside, darkness swallowed them.

Briony and Vernon were in the