Unsettled History

The following morning, Mallory got the kids ready for school, and herself ready for work, as usual.

She had breakfast with the kids in the room because she didn't want to sit with Heather at the dining and listen to her nags.

Done with the kids, she proceeded out of the house but was greeted by Ronan's familiar car parked some feet away.

Mallory paused to throw a keen look his way. Good lord! Why was he there so early?

He was robed in a plain white curve-hugging shirt, which was tucked neatly into a pair of black tailored pants. His relaxed hair had a sheening texture. And man, he looked handsome.

Mallory advanced forward and stopped in front of him.

"Good morning, uncle Ronan," Cassius and Lyra chorused happily.

"Hey... look at these cute pumpkins," Ronan leaned over, enough to tousle their hairs with his fingers.

They giggled.

"Hi." Mallory tucked some strands of hair behind her ear. "Seems you're getting fond of coming over without informing me lately," she added a subtle chuckle.