Chapter 1326

Dahlia had never been a competent mother, especially to Keegan.

After listening to his story, Stella struggled to find the right words. She wanted to ask Keegan why he cared about someone who treated him so poorly. But the question itself was unanswerable.

‘People often cling to what they cannot have. Maybe he’s hoping to receive some motherly love from Dahlia. Or perhaps he wants to fulfill his father’s dying wish. Keegan is not a heartless person, which is probably why he suffered so much in his complex relationship with his mother,’ thought Stella.

“We can’t rewrite our past, but we can choose not to replicate our parents’ behavior,” she sighed.

“Swimming really isn’t as intimidating as it seems. I promise I’ll be right there to save you if you fail.”

Stella’s gaze was soft yet determined. She was like a light in the darkness.

Noticing this, Keegan smiled and said, “I’ll try my best.”

Stella smiled back. ‘Hold onto me, and let’s practice breathing a few more times.”

Just as Keegan was about to take her hand, Trevor showed up and asked,” What do you think you’re doing?” He then positioned himself between them, effectively creating a barrier.

His actions rendered Keegan speechless.

“I was just teaching him how to swim,” Stella replied.

Trevor glanced at Keegan and said, “There are professional swimming instructors here. We can arrange something if Mr. Kane wants to learn. He shouldn’t use it as an excuse to get close to you.”

“He’s not—” Stella tried to defend Keegan, but Trevor cut her off. “A few male strippers are going to put on a show later. Come on. Let’s get you the best seats in the house.”

Hearing that, Stella’s eyes lit up. “What male strippers?” She asked, momentarily forgetting she had a boyfriend.

Keegan’s face turned pale. ‘Why is Trevor always giving me a hard time?’

“Jaylene’s friends hired them from a strip club for her birthday celebration, and I figured you might be into it.”

Sensing Keegan’s intense gaze, Stella chuckled awkwardly and said, “I’m not into it. I’m just curious.”

“Well, let’s go over to have a look. Stop giving out free swimming lessons to people who are clearly trying to take advantage of you,” said Trevor as he led Stella away, leaving Keegan dumbfounded with his flamingo-shaped pool float.

Marshall, who saw the whole ordeal, leaned against the poolside and laughed.

Hearing that, Keegan looked over and said, “See that? You don’t stand a chance with Trevor in the equation.”

“Are you trying to trick me into putting myself in a dangerous situation and diverting it from you?”

Marshall inquired.

Keegan did not say a word.

Marshall was clever. Even if he was unaware of Stella and Trevor’s connection, he could still detect Keegan’s tolerance toward Trevor. He knew Keegan was prodding him because he was not brave enough to challenge Trevor directly. ‘Does he take me as a fool?’ thought Marshall.

Since his attempt at persuading Marshall failed, Keegan resorted to another tactic. “I guess you don’t really like her after all.”

“Why don’t you worry about which male stripper Stella would want to sleep with later?” Marshall could not help but respond.

This left Keegan speechless.