Chapter 2
Even though it was summer, I shivered uncontrollably.
After six years of marriage, I had thought Keith’s indifference was just his nature, even towards our child, where he always seemed distant.
But now I see he has a tender side–one that only appears in front of Acelynn.
The playground was a chaotic scene of free play. Keith and Acelynn were strolling hand in hand with Lynley. Lynley occasionally bounced on his toes, thoroughly enjoying himself.
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I forced a smile, trying to appear cheerful as I approached them.
When Keith saw me, his previously warm expression turned cold, and his brows furrowed deeply.
“What are you doing here?”
His words made it seem as if I shouldn’t be here. And indeed, my presence might disrupt his date with Acelynn.
“Today is Lynley’s parent–child activity. Am I not supposed to be here?”
I then smiled at Acelynn. “Thank you, Ms. Norris, for covering for me. How about
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having dinner together with us after the event?”
I reached to take Lynley’s hand, but Keith grabbed my wrist firmly. His grip was so tight it hurt.
The smile on my lips faded, replaced by a cold look as I met Keith’s dark eyes.
“Lesley, stop it,” he warned sharply.
I forced a cheerful smile, though my eyes remained cold. “Keith, I’m here for our son’s activity. What exactly am I doing wrong?”
While I was at a standstill with Keith, Acelynn spoke gently, “Lesley, this is the playground with Lynley’s classmates around.
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Your behavior might make Lynley the subject of gossip.”
“If you don’t like me, I’ll leave right away. Please don’t get upset.”
I hadn’t said anything, and I was just calm. When did I get angry?
I scoffed, “Then why don’t you let go?”
Acelynn’s face flushed as she bit her lip, looking deeply humiliated. Keith called my name with a heavy tone.
As Acelynn released her grip, Lynley quickly grabbed her hand.
“Mommy, don’t go.”
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His eyes were welling up with tears. My heart tightened at his call of “Mommy.”
I stood right in front of Lynley, and yet he called another woman “Mommy.” And Keith didn’t stop him.
Acelynn looked troubled, and Keith glanced at me before speaking, his voice cold.
“Lesley, do you have to embarrass Lynley today? You’re the one who arrived late to the event. What right do you have to force Lynnie to leave? Ask Lynley if he wants Lynnie to go.”
I looked at Lynley, who was still trying to hold on to Acelynn. A little kid ran over and asked
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Lynley if he had two mommies.
Lynley shook his head and hugged Acelynn, saying, “This is my mommy. I only have one mommy!”
My breath caught. It was a statement from five–year–old Lynley.
Keith’s gaze was mocking and scornful. “See, Lesley? Even a five–year–old knows who treats him well. You, as his mother, are truly failing.”
