Mr. Kane Got Blacklisted

Stella answered the phone, hearing Darcie's gentle voice, "Stella, it's me.
How are you feeling? Have you been resting well?" "I'm good," Stella lied, as usual.
"I haven't been to the office these past few days, so I'm behind on work.
Sorry for the trouble, Darcie.
uy "You always speak so politely," Darcie paused for a moment.
"A friend gave me some top-quality bird's nest.
I asked Jaylene to bring some to you.
It's very good for your health if you drink it regularly." "Thank you, Darcie, but it's not necessary.
I already have some at home.
You should keep it for yourself." "This bird's nest is of excellent quality, not something you can easily buy.
Even your father loves it.
He always tells me to save some for you if I get more.
If you don't take it, he might think I'm being unfair," Darcie paused again, then continued, "Jaylene is already on her way and
should be there soon.
Just try it, and if you like it, I can send more later." Stella cursed silently but replied politely, "Alright, thank you, Darcie." "By the
way, the preliminary round of the fragrance competition is about to start.
I'll have someone send you the list of participants.
Look it over and submit it if there are no issues." "Okay." After hanging up, Stella jumped up and ran downstairs, shouting for
Keegan.
Keegan was in his study, printing documents.
Hearing her shouts, he thought something was wrong and came out to see her rushing around.

He asked, a bit exasperated, "What's going on?" "Hurry, Jaylene is coming.
We need to tidy up the house!" "Tidy up what?" Keegan asked.
"Photos, couple stuff.
If Jaylene sees these, she'll think we're up to something!" Keegan's eye twitched.
"We're married!" "Just clean up!" She started stuffing the couch cushions, cups on the table, and slippers from the shoe cabinet
into Keegan's arms.
Keegan frowned, holding the pile of items.
Where should I put these?" "On your head!" Stella glared at him.
"Just stash them somewhere, anywhere!" The doorbell rang.
"So fast!" Stella frantically grabbed her hair while Keegan put the items back on the couch.
Stella was stunned and grabbed his arm, her eyes questioning him, "What are you doing?" Keegan calmly replied, "Just act like
you’re infatuated with me." Stella was baffled.
Before she could respond, Keegan was already heading to the door.
Stella cursed under her breath and rushed upstairs to change.
Keegan opened the door.
Jaylene was fixing her hair and looked surprised to see him.
She quickly straightened up, beaming.
" Keegan, you're home." Keegan nodded.
"What brings you here?" "Didn't Stella tell you? My mom asked me to bring her some bird's nest," she said softly, showing him
the bag.
"Where is Stella?" "Upstairs.

Come in, I'll go get her." Keegan stepped aside to let her in.
Jaylene lifted her skirt gracefully and walked in.
Keegan handed her a pair of disposable shoe covers, Aunt just mopped the floor.
Please wear these." Jaylene glanced at her high heels, then at the shoe cabinet with its pairs of matching slippers, frowning
slightly.
Pretending not to notice, she asked softly, 'Keegan, these shoe covers aren't convenient with my heels.
Can I wear slippers instead?" Keegan replied, "It's better not to.
She has an athlete's foot."