Chapter 402

Evelyn released her grip on Amelia's sleeve and smoothed out her own clothes before lifting her chin defiantly. Her piercing gaze held both pity and challenge. "Nathaniel never mentioned we have a child together, did he? Still so confident about trusting him blindly?"

The corners of Evelyn's eyes tightened slightly. "How old were you when you got pregnant? Where is this child now?"

Seeing Evelyn's sudden interest in details, Amelia knew she'd struck a nerve. A triumphant smirk played on her lips. "I thought you claimed to trust Nathaniel completely? Why not ask him yourself? Though I doubt he'd admit the truth even if you did."

Evelyn arched an eyebrow, feigning curiosity. "Fine, let's say I believe you. If you two share a child and are so in love, why not marry? The Graysons are desperate for an heir. What possible reason could there be to hide this?"

A shadow crossed Amelia's face as painful memories surfaced. "Surely you're aware of the century-old feud between the Rivers and Graysons. Our families would never approve. If they'd discovered my pregnancy..." Her voice dropped to a whisper. "They would have forced me to terminate. Neither family would allow a child bearing both bloodlines to exist."

She lifted her chin with forced dignity. "Nathaniel protected me by sending me abroad. He arranged everything - ensured no one, especially our families, learned about the pregnancy or birth. Why do you think I disappeared overseas for over a year?"

Evelyn's brow furrowed. "You still haven't told me where this child is."

Amelia's expression turned mournful, the picture of a grieving mother. "My baby was weaned and left with caretakers overseas. Nathaniel promised to resolve the family feud so he could officially bring us home." Her voice cracked. "But then his grandfather demanded he marry immediately. You were just... convenient."

A bitter laugh escaped her. "I'm not surprised he's distracted by you. Men always chase novelty. But I'm the mother of his child - that fact won't change. When he tires of playing house, he'll return to me. I saved his life and gave him an heir. You're just temporary entertainment."

Evelyn listened impassively before nodding. "Fascinating story. Anything else? If not, I have chicken wings waiting." She turned to leave.

Amelia gaped in disbelief. 'What kind of woman prioritizes food after learning her husband fathered a child?' Spotting movement from the villa, she suddenly lunged forward, grabbing Evelyn's arm.

Evelyn spun around, annoyed. "What now, Amelia?"

Without warning, Amelia dropped to her knees. "I'm sorry! Please don't be angry!" Then she flung herself backward as if violently kicked, landing hard on the pavement with a pained whimper. "I apologized... why would you hurt me, Evelyn?" Her voice trembled with theatrical anguish.