Chapter 55 I found myself a cozy spot at the family gathering, swirling the tea in my hands. The aroma was pleasant, and the first sip was a smooth blend of bitterness and sweetness, comforting to my nerves.
I couldn't help but smile, "Timothy always thinks of us when he comes across something special," "No wonder Timothy has a soft spot for you, always sweet-talking!" Bryant's aunt chuckled.
I offered a polite smile in return, saying nothing more.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtAfter a bit more light-hearted conversation, Gary ushered us to the dining table for dinner.
The seating was meticulously pre-arranged. Timothy at the head of the table, with Bryant's uncle, aunt and cousin on his right. To his left were Bryant, who had recently taken over the Ferguson Group, myself, my father- in-law, and Margaret.
The hierarchy was clear at a glance, leaving Margaret no choice but to simmer in silence. She might challengeanywhere else, but not here, not within the walls of the Ferguson Mansion. Even if Bryant and I were to divorce, she wouldn't dare overstep. Here, Timothy had my back.
As I savored my meal, Bryant's aunt eagerly suggested, "Jane, try the lobster bisque." "I heard from Gary that it's your favorite. Timothy made a special request for it. Freshly caught and flown in just for you. We're all basking in your glow here." Hearing this, I glanced towards Timothy, his hair now more salt than pepper, and felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. For years, he filled the void of missing familial bonds in my life.
"Thank you, Timothy," I said with a genuine smile, preparing to enjoy the bisque when suddenly, a wave of nausea overcme. I excused myself to the restroom, where I had a fit of retching, feeling slightly better afterward.
Upon my return, Timothy looked concerned, "Are you alright, dear? Should we call the doctor?" Bryant's aunt, with a knowing smile, chimed in, “I think Jane might be expecting. It looks like our family is about to welca new member!" The unexpected revelation of a pregnancy caughtoff guard. My heart skipped a beat as I felt the piercing gaze of everyone at the table.
Timothy's face lit up with hope, "Is it true?" Amidst the mix of anticipation, surprise, and envy, I felt incredibly uneasy.
1/2 Chapter 55 I scrambled for a convincing excuse.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmFacing Timothy's eager eyes, I couldn't bear to deceive him, yet I couldn't reveal the truth either.
With a heavy heart, I responded,. "Timothy, I'm not pregnant. It's just sstomach trouble lately that's been makingfeel unwell."
To my surprise, Timothy's first reaction wasn't disappointment but concern, "Have you been to the hospital? You've lost weight recently. I'll have Bryant take you for a thorough check-up." I instinctively wanted to refuse, knowing a check-up would reveal the pregnancy.
Before I could object, a stern glance from Grandpa swept over Bryant, who then agreed, "Of course."
I remained quiet, planning to find an excuse later to avoid the hospital Besides, it was unlikely Bryant would remember this conversation.
After dinner, while it was still early, Timothy unexpectedly asked to speak withprivately a first.
om Anxiety me.
Anxiety gnawed at me. Had he seen through the facade Bryant and I had been upholding? In his study, Timothy took a seat in his chair and motioned for Gary to close the door before invitingto sit, "Jane, sit." 2/2 X