Reborn, Reawakened, Rekindled novel Chapter 510

Chapter 510

After hearing Stella’s words, a sense of urgency and concern flashed across Russel’s eyes, tinged with a hint of reproach. He questioned me, “Why didn’t you tell me sooner?”

“Weren’t you with Karina at that time?” I retorted.

Russel seemed to be taken aback by my response and just stared at me in silence.

Stella defended me, “Don’t look at Rena like that. I used to encourage her to accept you, thinking you were a decent and loyal man, not like Neil. But it seems I was wrong. Birds of a feather flock together, huh? How could clear water spring from a mire?”

Russel’s face darkened at her harsh words. Luckily, we were alone, so there was no one else to witness his humiliation.

“I had something important to deal with last night,” Russel started, pausing to glance at Stella. His gaze was slightly hesitant, but then he regained his composure and asked, “Since you knew Karina was here, did you tell Neil?”

“Why would I tell Neil? It’s their business, not mine.” I replied nonchalantly.

“Alright, I understand.” Russel contemplated for a moment before turning towards the front door. “Is Serena in there too? I’d like to see her.”

Stella looked at me questioningly, but I subtly shook my head, not wanting her to stop Russel.

Russel’s affection for the kids was genuine, untainted by any pretense. I wasn’t heartless enough to keep him away from them.

Still, I felt compelled to say, “Please wait here for a minute. I’ll bring Serena out.’

Russel halted in his tracks.

I went inside to get Serena, who was doing better today, though she seemed less lively and energetic than usual.

Russel’s face softened as soon as he saw Serena. He took her from me and gently rocked her in his arms.

“Serena, do you remember Daddy?” He asked softly.

Hearing the word “Daddy” stung a little. For the past six months, everyone saw Russel as Serena and Brandon’s father. He often referred to himself as such, especially in public.

It must have become a habit by now, hence his slip of the tongue.

Stella didn’t seem to notice anything amiss. She was just frowning at the scene, probably comparing Russel’s actions to Mitch’s.

Serena seemed to enjoy being in Russel’s arms, occasionally laughing and reaching out to grab his shirt.

It was indeed enjoyable staying with Stella. Apart from taking care of the kids, it felt like being single again. Barbara and Alicia would occasionally drop by for a meal and some girl talk.

After Alicia’s falling out with Sean last time, she declared she wouldn’t waste any more time on him. She was determined to focus on her career instead of a man.

I found it hard to believe.

“Rena, your phone is ringing. Who’s this Dylan? Stella asked as she handed me my phone when I was playing with the kids.

“Just a friend.” I took the phone and answered the call, keeping my reply as simple as possible.

I hadn’t been in touch with Dylan for a few days and it was clear he was growing anxious. He thought I’d forgotten about the promise I’d made to him and so, he rang me up and pressed about it. I tried to soothe him, “Dylan, take a deep breath, alright? I’m on the lookout for her as well. You know she’s got these amazing medical skills and a lot of people are after her expertise. Tracking her down isn’t as easy as picking up a phone. It takes time and effort. You can also try reaching out to her from your end as well.”

“I can’t, Ms. Finch,” Dylan blurted out. “She’s deliberately avoiding me!”

At this point, I was certain there was something more to Dylan and Karina’s relationship and it wasn’t anything pleasant.”

I decided to probe a bit more. “Why would she be avoiding you? Is it because your condition is serious and she can’t treat it, so she doesn’t want to waste your time and money?”

“No, no, no, it’s not like that. Anyway, I’m hoping to hear from you soon. Please let me know the moment you find something, okay?” Dylan didn’t want to discuss his relationship with Karina any further. He just repeatedly impressed upon me his urgency.