Chapter: 39
"He's my ex-husband," Kaitlin replied with a dismissive wave, her indifference to their previous marriage apparent.
"Oh, the ex-husband," Quintin mused, adopting a falsely earnest tone.
"Sir, perhaps you'd like to join us? You could share some insights into Kaitlin's likes and dislikes. Would that be alright?"
He didn't stop there, his curiosity seemingly piqued.
“And why did you two part ways? I must say, your temper doesn't seem the best. Kaitlin tells me she values my easygoing nature the most. It's no wonder things didn't work out between you."
Stung by Quintin's boldness, Alan bristled. "Do you have any idea who I am? How dare you speak to me in such a manner!"
"Just her ex-husband, right? It's clear why Kaitlin left. Every woman deserves kindness. It must have been tough, being with you," Quintin shot back, his smile sharp, his words anything but friendly.
Kaitlin set her fork down with a clatter and turned to Quintin.
"Let's not waste any more time here. We're almost done with dinner. Let's just leave."
Quintin nodded in agreement. "You're right. He's just your ex-husband after all. What could he possibly know about your thoughts now? His insights aren't necessary."
As they prepared to leave, Alan stood up, intent on stopping them.
Observing the scene, Lilliana rushed to his side. “Alan, what's going on? Haven't I told you Kaitlin isn't trustworthy? She's probably been seeing other men long before your divorce was final!"
“And how is that any of your concern?" Quintin interjected sharply, standing up for Kaitlin. “If you're here to eat, then focus on your meal. Sticking your nose in others' affairs isn't going to satisfy your appetite."
"You!" Lilliana spat out, turning to Alan in frustration. “Alan, did you hear that? Defending a divorced woman so fervently? He clearly lacks any sense of judgment."
Alan gave Lilliana a silent, contemplative look. If Quintin lacked judgment, what did that say about him, Kaitlin's ex-husband?
“Kaitlin, let's just ignore them and go," Quintin said.
Kaitlin nodded and made her way to leave, but Lilliana, driven by spite, pushed her harshly.
Why did Kaitlin get to be with such a good man again?
He was handsome and protective-it just wasn't fair!
Near the top of the stairs, Kaitlin lost her balance from the push.
She tumbled backward, a sharp crack echoing as her head collided with the railing. Slumping to the floor, she lay motionless.
Alan's face drained of color as he rushed to her side.
“Lilliana, what have you done?" he exclaimed, panic lacing his voice.
"I... I just can't stand her!" Lilliana snapped back. "She's a fucking bitch!"