Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

Mila was at a loss for words. This is exactly why she couldn't stand guys who were oblivious. They never got a clue when they needed to, and talked endlessly when they didn't have to. She didn't bother with any more explanations and just gave him a little shove. "Go now, unless you're really planning on not having a wife anymore."noveldrama

Everett shot her a quick glance. He wasn't sure if she was serious, but even the slightest chance was worth taking. With long strides, he dashed out.

Selena returned to the kids' room to find Mateo and his little sister having a blast. Haley was red-faced and sweaty from all the playing. Smiling, Selena walked over and wiped Haley's face with a handkerchief. "Haley, it's time to get ready to go home."

Haley immediately looked like she was about to pout. "Mom, I still want to play with my brother."

Mateo wrapped his arms around his mom's neck. "Mom, don't go."

"If you don't want to leave, why not stay here for the night?" Everett suggested as he entered, his deep eyes locked on Selena. His voice was low and smooth. "It's New Year's Eve. Stay with the kids and celebrate."

Mateo eagerly added, "Mom, I want to celebrate with you."

Selena looked at her son, then met Everett's gaze. She knew what he was hoping for, but she couldn't just give in like she used to. She offered a small smile, but her words were firm, "No, I want to go home."

Disappointment flickered across Everett's face, but he knew healing old wounds would take time. He couldn't expect Selena to take him back right away. So he relented. "Then let me drive you home. You're pregnant, and it's not safe for you to travel alone with the kids."

Selena was tempted to mention her chauffeur, which made it perfectly safe. But Everett continued, "Let Mateo go with you. I'll come pick him up after New Year's Day for the family gathering."

This threw Selena for a loop. She didn't expect Everett to let Mateo spend New Year's with her, especially since Mateo was the eldest son and heir to the Bennett family, which meant lots of ceremonies and events during the holidays. Realizing Everett was trying to shield Mateo from all that, she swallowed her refusal. "Alright."

Mateo cheered, "Hooray for Dad!"

Haley blinked her big eyes and copied, "Hooray for Dad!"

Everett's lips curled into a slight smile as he advised Mateo, "Make sure you wear your coat properly. It's cold outside, and don't bother your mom too much while she's expecting."

Mateo nodded, "Got it."

Everett grabbed the car keys, ready to help Selena, but she gave him a sidelong glance. "I can manage on my own, no need for help."

Undeterred, Everett picked up Haley, who was more than happy to snuggle into her dad's arms.

Half an hour later, the car rolled up to the entrance of Moon Bay. Everett got out, holding Mateo's hand and carrying Haley inside. Ava saw him and her eyes went wide as she reached for her big scissors. This guy had the nerve to show up and spoil her New Year's vibe? She was ready to give him a piece of her mind.

Selena came up behind her, chuckling at Ava's reaction. "Ava, don't bother. He's leaving right after he drops us off."

Ava paused, eyeing them with suspicion. What's going on? Did they patch things

up?

Haley and Mateo ran upstairs hand

in hand, while Everett turned to

Selena with a hopeful tone. "Could I

come in for a cup of coffee before I head out?"

Selena's smile was more of a smirk. "Mr. Everett, coffee this late will keep you up

all night. No need to entertain. Safe travels."

Everett awkwardly rubbed his neck.