Regretting The Wife He Threw Away

Their eyes met, both surprised to see each other.

Vernon stared at Briony, stunned.

It was a long moment before he finally stood up, looked at her, and asked, "Are you the owner of this gallery?"

Briony approached, eyeing the boy's serious expression-so mature for someone so young. After a pause, she said, "You're still a minor. If you want to sign up for classes, you'll have to bring a parent or guardian."

"My mom doesn't care about what I do." Vernon looked straight at Briony; although he was only eight, he spoke with the composure of an adult. "I can make my own decisions. Sunday afternoons are mine to spend however I want."

For a boy his age, he already had an air of authority about him.

To put it plainly, he seemed far too grown up.

But he was Xenia Cooper's son-Stewart's stepson.

Briony didn't much want to take him on.

"I'm sorry," she replied, her tone strictly professional. "Our gallery doesn't admit minors without parental consent. That's the policy."

"Is it because my mom is Xenia Cooper that you don't want to let me in?"

paused. "Yes. So let's not force this. I run a business, but I don't have to take

your sign out front says that gifted students could represent the gallery in international competitions," Vernon shot back, lifting his

For someone so young, he

family's heir. You have all

Vernon froze.

looked at Briony, a flash of disappointment in his

mean he couldn't even have the

hated being the Cooper

like

on his face so obvious

Briony. "Ms. Kensingtoet he really seems eager

clearly loves painting—and he's got a mind of his

after another, making it harder for Briony lite with a sigh, she relented a you

Vernon nodded. "I do."

pick a painting from the wall and try to replicate it,

problem." Vernon's gaze swept over the artwork displayed on the

all Briony's own