Chapter 196

Noon. Eklonna’s product launch concluded. The staff ushered guests to the banquet hall. Hayden, carrying Lillian, followed by Stacey with Kevin, and Debra and her assistant, exited the conference room. Royal family members immediately surrounded Hayden.

Debra quickly took Lillian, freeing Hayden to chat. They reached the banquet hall, where tables displayed name cards. Debra and Stacey found their secluded corner; two high chairs sat between them, labeled “Lillian” and “Kevin.”

“So thoughtful,” Stacey murmured, though she considered it standard for Eklonna, a supplier to Epean’s royal families.

Lillian pointed at the throng surrounding Hayden. “What’s Daddy doing?”

“Working, sweetie. Let’s not bother him,” Stacey said, diverting her attention to the spread of cakes and drinks. She divided a cake, offering pieces to Lillian and Kevin.

“Yes!” Lillian declared, her father forgotten.

“Okay!” Kevin chimed, equally enthralled.

Debra sampled the tea, her eyes widening. Delicious! Stacey, noting the other guests dining quietly, tried a cake. Exquisite.

The main course arrived. Afterward, socializing began. Eklonna’s products were available only through on-site orders. Debra, instructing Stacey to watch the children, approached the staff to place an order.

Half an hour later, a happy Debra returned. Guests were departing. Hayden, however, remained deep in conversation.

“Just a little longer,” Debra reassured Stacey, who nodded. They hadn't anticipated several more hours. Finally, Hayden joined them, Eugene already gone.

“Let’s go back to the hotel,” Hayden said, taking Lillian.

Back at the hotel, Queenie stood in the hall. Hayden ignored her, walking past.

Queenie rushed to him, hands on hips, her eyes welling. “What’s the matter?” Hayden asked impatiently.

Queenie trembled. “Hayden, did you send Hugo to distract me this morning?”

“Or what? Embarrass you in front of the Epean royals?” Hayden retorted coldly. “I don’t care about the Leavey family’s reputation, but I respect Jeremy’s legacy. I won’t let anyone associate his name with a mother like you.”

Queenie’s face paled. “So you took another woman to the launch, without worrying about embarrassing Jeremy?”

Hayden sneered. “I’m divorced. Why shouldn’t I move on?”

Queenie’s silent shock and sorrow were evident. Hayden, carrying Lillian, headed for the exit, Stacey following with Kevin. Debra briefly glanced at Queenie as she passed.