Dorothy spilled the beans because she wanted Kenneth to brace himself, and also because she didn't want to upset Everett.
He was touchy about these matters, especially when it came to anything regarding Kenneth.
As they drove towards Kenneth's place, Dorothy tried a few times to strike up a conversation to lift the heavy mood. It just didn't seem right, given what was coming, but she couldn't quite figure out what to say.
It was only as they were nearly there that Everett spoke up in a low voice.
"Don't worry, I promised no bickering," he paused for emphasis, "for the kids’ sake." "That's a relief," Dorothy finally felt relieved; she gave him a smile, "Just think of Kenneth as my big brother, okay?" "I can do that. But can he treat you like a sister?" Silence.
The tension was still as thick as ever.
Choosing to stay quiet, Dorothy decided to wait and see how the meeting would unfold.
They pulled up to Kenneth's place and Everett got out first, then went around to the trunk to retrieve a paper bag.
By the time Dorothy got out, Everett was waiting by the car.
Before she could ask what was in the bag, Kenneth appeared. He was dressed in a casual black tracksuit, walking towards them.
"Dorothy, you've lost weight." His first words were ones of concern for Dorothy.
Everett's brow furrowed instantly, and his lips formed a cold retort, "She hasn't lost weight.” Wasn't that basically accusing him of not taking good care of Dorothy? How could he possibly neglect her?! "Uh..." Dorothy hadn't expected a clash right from the first sentence.
Fortunately, it seemed Kenneth had no interest in a verbal spar. He merely offered a half-smile, "Alright then, I must be mistaken.
Come in, let's talk." He turned and walked back inside. Dorothy gave Everett a tug, signaling him to dial back the jealousy.
It was too potent! Despite his reluctance, Everett knew he had to keep up appearances for Dorothy's sake.
"Make yourselves comfortable.” Once inside, Kenneth poured them some water and played the perfect host.
Everett glanced around.
The place wasn't large - a modest one-bedroom with simple decor. Toys were scattered everywhere, yet he got things tidy in general.
Kenneth waited for them to sit before he gathered up a large pile of Abigail and Langston's favorite toys.
"There are more, but I figured Mr. Lopez would probably buy new ones, so there's no need to take these.” "Mm-hmm." Everett grunted in acknowledgment, placing the paper bag on the table. "I want to thank you for all you've done for Dorothy and my kids over the years. This is for you." Dorothy was surprised Everett had thought of this.
Kenneth glanced at the bag but didn't reach for it, instead just offering a smile, "What has Mr. Lopez brought me?" "Take a look." "Ah, the Lopez family's style shines through." Kenneth's smile didn't falter, though his true feelings were unclear.
He took the bag and looked inside.
There was a deed to a villa, keys to a luxury car, and a contract for transferring ownership of a medium-sized company.
What was in the bag could easily catapult someone to the upper echelons of Eldorria City's wealthy elite.
"Mr. Lopez, it seems you're offering these in good faith." "I told you that I came to express my gratitude.” Everett could sense the challenge but chose not to rise to it, not wanting to embarrass Dorothy.
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