Mission: From Divorcee to Millionaire

He listened to Alex's report at the door and quickly made his way back inside.

"Selena," he said, his voice gentle but firm, "I've got some work stuff to handle. It's late, and this snow isn't letting up anytime soon. Please, just stay put and rest until I get back."

He paused, pressing his lips together like he was sealing a promise. "When I get back, I'll explain everything, okay?"

Selena didn't say a word.

Everett swallowed hard, struggling with his words. "Selena, please, don't make me worry. I'll be back as fast as I can. Even if it feels like I'm on trial, I deserve a chance to explain myself, right?"

With that, he leaned in, aiming for a quick kiss on her cheek.

Selena turned her face away. "Just go."

Her tone was as cold as the snow outside, but Everett knew she was letting him go.

Feeling a bit of relief, he wrapped his arms around her waist, gave her lips a soft kiss, and then turned on his heel, striding out the door.

In the elevator, Everett's face was calm, but his mind was racing.

His dark eyes narrowed as he instructed, "Make sure Yasmine is sent to the estate. She shouldn't come near Selena, and keep her quiet."

Alex nodded, "Got it."

...

Selena sat quietly on the sofa for what felt like forever.

It wasn't until her phone buzzed that she snapped back to reality.

It was a video call from Mateo, and when she answered, his adorable face filled the screen.

Seeing her son melted the ice around her heart.

"Mom, did you see Dad?" Mateo asked, his voice full of curiosity.

Selena forced a smile. "Yes, I did."noveldrama

Despite her efforts, her voice wavered, betraying her emotions.

Mateo noticed immediately, his little face falling, "Mom, are you crying?"

Turning away from the camera, Selena tilted her head back, taking deep breaths until she felt more composed.

"No, it's just snowing here in New York. It's really cold, and my throat's a bit sore. Don't worry, sweetheart."

Mateo blinked, not quite convinced but willing to accept her answer for now.

After a moment of silence, Selena asked, "Do you love Mom more, or Dad more?"

It was a tough question for any kid.

After pondering for a bit, Mateo softly replied, "I love you both."

"But if you had to pick one?" Selena

d it be?" Content belove

of us in the future, who

There was a time when she would've left with Mateo if things went south with Everett. But recently, Mateo and his dad had been bonding

Swn well.

Mateo admired his father, and Everett could give him so much.

She would honor her son's choice, even if it hurt her.

Mateo's eyes turned misty, but he didn't hesitate long before declaring, "I want to be with Mom."

Kids don't get tangled in adult

hplications; they just follow t

ications; they just follow their

He liked his dad, sure

he

his mom.

Selena felt tears welling up.

"That's my good boy."

"Now, off to bed. No staying up late, alright?"

Mateo nodded and ended the call obediently.

As the clock struck midnight, Christmas arrived.

Fireworks lit up the sky, and outside, the world was celebrating, filled with joy and laughter.

Yet, on this festive night meant for togetherness, Selena's pillow was damp with tears.

She hardly slept, waking up now and then, and by dawn, her eyes were wide open.

The skies had cleared outside.

And Everett hadn't come back all night...