Chapter 70
Kristina’s fingers flew over her phone as she got the address: Whispering Delights, the top breakfast spot downtown.
She knew Elaine was still playing nice, just like in her past life. But Kristina wasn’t worried–she always had a way to handle Elaine’s games.
Meanwhile, Trenton frowned as he found the voice on the other end oddly familiar. “Who’s calling? You’re heading out?” he asked, his voice tinged with suspicion.
“It’s Elaine,” Kristina said, still tapping away at her phone, checking out the restaurant. She missed the way ‘Trenton’s eyes darkened. He was clearly on edge when he realized Kristina was involved with his brother and the others again.
Trenton’s mind raced. He and his eldest brother, Charlie McClain, had been faking harmony for years. He knew his “accident” hadn’t been an accident at all. He had a hunch Charlie’s family was involved.
Trenton had many matters to deal with. Kristina had become his wife, and he suspected she might be a spy sent by Charlie’s family. He needed answers, but the moment wasn’t right.
After a beat, he turned to Kristina and said, “I’m coming with you.”
Kristina’s eyes widened in surprise. She knew Trenton hated Elaine’s guts and figured he’d bail on the plan. But he seemed genuinely eager to go.
Trenton caught her look and mistook it for guilt, like she was about to be caught with her hand in the cookie jar.
They skipped breakfast since they were headed to the restaurant. They just ran upstairs, changed clothes, and headed out.
When Kristina walked into the restaurant, she froze. It wasn’t just Elaine waiting for them–Caroline was there too.
Elaine waved with a big smile. “Trenton, Kristina, over here!” she called to Kristina and Trenton.
As soon as they sat down, Elaine got straight to the point, skipping apologies and diving into friendly conversation with Kristina. “Kristina, these pastries are amazing. Try them with the juice–they go perfectly together.
“And don’t miss the BBQ ribs and fried chicken coming up. The grilled vegetables are also fantastic.”
Elaine’s cheerful attitude made it tough for Kristina to stay frosty. She glanced at the pastries and softened a bit.
Trenton was on edge. He kept thinking, “This feels way too friendly for just acquaintances. What’s really going on?‘
Kristina didn’t waste time on small talk. She skipped the pastries and got straight to the point. “So, why’d you call me?” she asked, her voice steady.
*Kristina, it’s just a chill day for us girls–breakfast and then a spa,” Elaine said with a grin.
“Caroline told me about this place. We’ve been here a few times, and the food’s awesome. I figured since we’re all meeting up today, we might as well make it a fun morning. Don’t stress. I’ve got it all figured out,” she continued.
Caroline nodded, then blurted out with a smile, “Like we’d take you anywhere sketchy–like to see male strippers or something?” She froze, pretending to be flustered as she glanced over at Trenton.
Elaine gave Caroline a gentle nudge. “Trenton’s right here. Tone it down. Even if Kristina did go somewhere like that, you don’t need to mention in front of him.”
Elaine and Caroline were just joking, but their words made it seem like Kristina had really done something to hurt Trenton.
They glanced at him, but he just sat there, expressionless and silent. They couldn’t help but wonder if Trenton was completely clueless.
Kristina knew exactly what they were up to–trying to make it seem like she’d been checking out male dancers. ‘Like I’d fall for that? If they want to play dumb, they need to try harder,’ she thought.
Kristina glanced at Trenton, deciding to play along. “Hey, don’t get the wrong idea,” she said, forcing a worried look. “I didn’t go looking for any male dancers. I just saw one at the bar by accident. Don’t listen to their crap.”
Kristina figured Trenton was still thinking like a kid, so he wouldn’t catch on to any of this. But she knew she had to act perfectly, especially in front of Elaine and Caroline–who were clearly her rivals.
In just a few minutes, Trenton’s whole view of Kristina had changed. ‘She’s tried to kill me–her own husband–and she went to clubs to watch strippers? She’s really something else, Trenton sneered inwardly.
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