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.

up, refusing to let things

the elevator, and he

of exasperation-why was this

down at him, brow

him

that, Briony fell

sign of

"Ms. Kensington?"

gaze on the elevator wall, making it

Unbothered by her chilliness,

anyway. "Galen told me

but honestly, I'd prefer if you just acted like you didn't

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

gave a sharp,

she cared what he

the elevator

bang—the elevator shuddered and came to a dead

Inside, darkness swallowed them.

Briony and Vernon were in the