Chapter 101 Kiss Me

• “Daddy, why's mommy over there is she trying you?“ Kelly asked looking up at Ivan. Her question seemed innocent enough, but it hung in the air like a fragile thread, threatening to unravel the delicate balance I was trying to keep.
• Ivan glanced at me, his eyes searching for some kind of permission or understanding. I shifted uncomfortably in my seat, not sure how to handle the moment. How could we explain this tangled mess to Kelly without breaking her heart?
• Ivan smiled down at Kelly and gently stroked her hair. “No, sweetheart. Mommy’s just giving us some time to enjoy our ice cream. She’s not avoiding me.” He tried to keep his tone light, but even Kelly could sense that things weren’t right.