Scars Of A Broken Bond

Being gazed at by Jennie, Keilani explained, "I'd love for the three of us to have dinner together."

"My dad is a big fan of lamb!" Jennie responded with an eye

roll. "He loves it braised, steamed, roasted, and even in soup."

"Is that so?"

"Indeed," Jennie replied with a steady voice.

"Got it. I'm wondering if your dad's had his lunch yet. Jennie, why not give him a call and check on him?" Keilani offered.

Jennie frowned. How could Keilani give herself away this soon and easily? Such eagerness Keilani had shown!

Jennie slightly smiled and responded, "Nah. I don't want to disturb him. He might be busy with work right now."

"You won't disturb him. He'd be thrilled to hear from you!"

Jennie just shook her head, pressing her lips together. "No." Keilani stared at Jennie with a sullen face, but Jennie seemed unfazed.

Keilani was quite frustrated. Jennie was quite vigilant.

After their meal, Keilani drove Jennie back to the kindergarten.

Before nap time was over, Jennie settled into her bed for a nap.

Once the bell sounded, the kids gathered back in the classroom.

Elin couldn't contain her curiosity, asking, "Jennie, was that your mom who picked you up today? She looked different from the person I saw at the school gate last time."

"I know! I know!" Exclaimed a boy from the back. "My dad says Jennie is illegitimate"

As the niece of the city leader, Keilani drew the eyes of many. They sought her company, eager to forge a connection with the leader through her. Keilani's actions in recent days were observed by some, and it wasn't long before word of what had happened spread.

"Is Jennie an illegitimate daughter?"

"What do you mean?"

"Jennie's mom was not the one Jennie's dad had married. Kids born this way are often looked down upon!" Gary remarked.

Jennie was rendered speechless.

The other children started whispering among themselves. "Jennie, it's okay. Even if you were born out of wedlock, I won't hold it against you," Elin assured her.

"That's right! Jennie has always shared yummy treats with us. It's not her fault!"

Jennie hung her head low. She clenched her lips together and remained silent. It was all so frustrating. Keilani was becoming a nuisance. Why did Keilani keep showing up at school?

Keilani aimed to get closer to Tyrone through Jennie, yet she never took Jennie's feelings into account. 

Jennie felt down for the rest of the afternoon, choosing not to play outside. Instead, she slouched over her desk during break time.