Ch. 101..110

Chapter 101

"Eliza, what... what's going on in this video..." Fiona held her phone and was as flustered as an ant on a hot pan.

In the video, which was getting more and more attention, Eliza and Dominic were making out in the bridal shop.

Someone took the video subtly, revealing only Dominic's upper body and Eliza's face. It was not too erotic, but everyone knew what they were doing.

The key was that Eliza and Dominic's names were openly on the trending topics.

Some people even revealed that the video was taken when Eliza accompanied Audrey to the bridal shop to try on the wedding dress.

In other words, Eliza approached Audrey in the name of a friend. She took the initiative to accompany Audrey to try on the wedding dress but slept with Audrey's fiance at the bridal shop. This matter was too ugly and disgusting.

The discussions around them were too loud. Even Fiona and Albert were judged by everyone.

Fiona felt so embarrassed. She pushed Eliza hard and scolded, "Eliza, say something. Is this you or not?"

"I don't know. I don't know anything." Eliza was completely flustered.

She hugged her head with both hands. She was in so much pain that she wished she could hide in a crack in the ground. She denied it at the top of her lungs. "This isn't me. Someone wants to harm me. It's photoshopped by technology. Stop looking. Stop looking." Unfortunately, no one would believe her anymore.

Everyone judged her with a high and mighty attitude.

"It's her. Previously, Audrey also said that Eliza snatched her boyfriend. The truth is out, yet she still quibbles. She's so shameless."

Faced with everyone's disdainful gazes, Eliza was so embarrassed that she wished she could poke their eyes out.

Fiona reacted quickly. After the initial shock, she defended Eliza hurriedly. "Everyone, don't listen to rumors. The news online is fake. Eliza and Dominic are mutually in love. It was Dominic who took the initiative to pursue Eliza. This is not Eliza's fault." Anyway, Dominic was not around now. Fiona thought Eliza could not bear the blame alone.

Everyone was stunned. They did not expect Fiona to say such words.

However, Fiona didn't know how to read people's expressions. She thought that she was right.

She continued, "There's no such thing as first come, first served in a relationship. Since Dominic has changed his mind, why can't Eliza be with him?

"It's Audrey who is not tolerant enough and keeps obstructing them. Audrey is the third party."

This time, someone couldn't hold it in anymore. She spat on the floor and said mercilessly, "Bah, shameless old thing. How can you say such words?" "How shameless. Indeed, like mother, like daughter. How can you be so self-righteous after snatching someone's fiance!"

Fiona had never been humiliated like this by a group of juniors. For a moment, she was so angry that she felt dizzy.

She clenched her fists and retorted indignantly, "Did I say anything wrong? It's Audrey who can't keep a man herself. How can you blame Eliza?"

The surrounding people clicked their tongues in wonder, their eyes filled with naked disdain. They no longer wanted to waste their breath on her. Seeing Fiona and Eliza were speechless at the scoldings, Albert felt he had to defend their dignity although he felt embarrassed.

However, he sensed a shadow in front before he could say anything.

When he looked up, he saw three burly security guards in the same uniform.

It was obvious from the security guards's postures that they did not come with good intentions.

Albert's heart skipped a beat. He frowned and asked, "What's the matter?"

"Your invitation is fake. Please leave immediately," said one of the security guards.

Hearing the security guard's expressionless words, Albert was stunned...

On the other side.

Audrey followed Alistair into the private room upstairs.

When she pushed open the door, she saw no one in the luxurious private room.

For a moment, Audrey had mixed feelings.

She used to think that although she did not know Alistair very well, she knew his basic information and thought it was enough.

But at that moment, she felt that Alistair was like a mystery.

Other than knowing his name and that he had a child, she knew nothing else.

Previously, she felt she didn't need to ask everything in detail since they would get married hastily. Everyone could have their little secrets, after all.

However, as they spent more time together, she gradually could not accept his mystery.

She saw him but couldn't see through him, which made her very uneasy.

Even if Alistair had always been good to her after getting married, it could not make up for the panic in her heart.

She could not understand why Alistair would lie to her.

She wondered, 'Was he worried I would covet his assets after knowing his identity? Was he also testing me when he gave me his bank card after we registered our marriage?'

 

 

Chapter 102

Various guesses filled her mind, and Audrey felt a little uncomfortable.

She sat in the private room and poured herself a cup of coffee. After drinking it in one gulp, she finally mustered the courage to look Alistair in the eye. She asked, "Don't you have anything to say?"

Alistair had sensed something was wrong with Audrey's emotions from the beginning.

Hearing her take the initiative to ask, he knew that she had most likely guessed his identity.

Initially, he did not want to continue hiding it. Today was the perfect time to confess...

Alistair was about to explain when the sudden ringtone of the phone broke the short silence.

He took out his phone and looked at it. It was a call from his residence in Willowdale, and he had to answer it.

However, he still asked Audrey for her opinion. "I'll take this call first, okay?"

Afraid of delaying his business, Audrey did not stop him.

Alistair stood up and walked to the window to answer the call.

After the call connected, Evelyn's anxious voice immediately came from the phone. "Alistair, Sunny's condition isn't good."

Hearing the trembling in his mother's voice, Alistair's heart was also in his throat. "What happened to Sunny?"

Audrey suddenly looked at him, thinking, 'Sunny... Is it his son? Did something happen to the child?'

Evelyn sighed and said in a tired and hoarse voice, "I don't know what happened to Sunny in school, but he locked himself in his room after he got home. It's been a few hours now. No matter who called, he wouldn't answer. "We're afraid of provoking him, so we don't dare to break in rashly."

Sunny not only had autism but also had stress mania.

As long as the sound was too sharp, it would agitate him.

Alistair frowned. "What about the surveillance cameras in the room?"

At the very least, he could see if the child had any self-harm behavior in the room.

Evelyn said awkwardly, "I don't know when the surveillance camera broke. It was all black when I opened it just now. Maybe Sunny turned it off himself. Alistair, you should come back."

"Alright, I'll rush back immediately."

After hanging up, Alistair turned to look at Audrey.

Although he did not say anything, Audrey saw the dilemma in his eyes.

The matter between them could not be explained in a few words.

Audrey smiled at him and said gently, "Go back first. I'll wait for you to come back."

She hoped that he would no longer hide anything when the time came.

Alistair felt at ease when he heard she would wait for him to return.

At least Audrey did not sentence him to death for his deception.

Just as he felt relieved, he heard Audrey say, "Do you need me to go back with you?"

Alistair's heart trembled slightly.

Of course, he wanted to bring Audrey back with him. After meeting his family, he would give her no chance to back out.

However, in the end, his rationality overcame his selfishness. He shook his head and said, "There's no need. Sunny gets agitated and easily hurts the people around him every time his illness acts up. I'll bring you back next time." Audrey understood how dangerous it was when children's autism acted up, so she did not force it.

Alistair was not in a hurry to leave. Instead, he took a step forward and hugged Audrey.

He said, "Audrey, I'll settle things over there as soon as possible and come to explain it to you."

He stroked her head and reminded her, "Don't let your thoughts run wild during this period. Eat well and take good care of yourself. Wait for me to come back."

"Okay." Audrey nodded gently in his arms. Hearing Alistair's concerned words and sensing his concern about her, Audrey felt her frustrated and disappointed feelings eased.

However, as soon as Alistair left, she felt empty. She felt as if a part of her heart had also been emptied.

Not wanting to be alone, she returned to the banquet hall again.

Seeing her come down alone, although the others were a little curious, they wanted to seize the opportunity to please her even more.

The CEO of Salman Group even forced his daughter, Jacqueline, to apologize to Audrey.

"Ms. Rhodes, I heard my stupid daughter offended you when she entered the venue. I've already taught her a lesson and asked her to come over and apologize to you. You're magnanimous, so don't lower yourself to her level." Forced by her father, although unwilling, Jacqueline still said, "Audrey, I'm sorry."

Audrey looked at her coldly without any emotions.

Byron Salman was still trying to get close to her. He smiled and said, "Ms. Rhodes, this is considered burying the hatchet. I even hugged you when you were young..."

Audrey said calmly, "I'm sorry, I still have something on. Excuse me."

She had just gotten rid of Byron when she turned around and met more people who took the initiative to befriend her.

Even if she put on airs, these people did not mind and rushed over.

Audrey knew these people were not trying to please her, but the "Mr. Hayes" behind her.

However, at the mention of "Mr. Hayes", she was furious.

 

Chapter 103

Audrey did not want to deal with these people or attend the hall. So she went to say goodbye to Logan.

Logan appraised her expression and asked tentatively, "Mrs. Hayes, are you unhappy that Alistair left you here alone?"

Audrey did feel a little uncomfortable, but it

was not because Alistair

ir had left

She smiled and waved her hand. "No, 1 just feel bored and want to leave first. Have fun.".

Logan could tell at a glance that she was smiling reluctantly. It was obvious that she was angry.

To save his friend's happiness, he had no choice but to explain, "Mrs. Hayes, although it's indeed too much for Alistair to leave you alone, he didn't do it on purpose. It's not easy for Sunny to be bum. There can't be mbtakes," Sunny's mother was dead before giving birth to him successfully. And he had autism and stress mania. Therefore, the Hayes family paid extra

attention to him

Logan did not know if Alistair had told Audrey about Sunny. It was not appropriate for him to cross the line and say anything. He could only vaguely remind her. Audrey's eyes darkened. Then, she could not hold back her curiosity and asked, "What about Sunny's mother?

is she now!"

Will Alistair meet her when he gets home? They must have loved each other. Otherwise, there wouldn't be a child, Audrey thought

Hearing her words. Logan's expression suddenly tumed cold. He gritted his teeth and said. "Dead."

His expression and one were filled with disgust and dislike for that person.

He hated the bad woman who killed his idol

He even rehearsed the scene of her not ending well ten thousand times in his heart.

Audrey was too stunned to notice Logan's expression.

People said one could never forget their first love if their first love were dead.

"Moreover, she had given birth to a son for him. How coul

could he let it gor Audrey thought.

She assumed Alistair cared so much about his son because he loved that woman too much...

For a moment, Audrey's mood worsened

She could accept that Alistair had been married and had a child.

However, she could not accept that he was still so gentle and always teased her when he had a woman he loved deeply in his heart.

couldn't accept that he approached her with concealment and deception even more.

She almost... fell into the trap of love again because of his caring and tenderness..

Annoyance swept over her. For the first time, she wondered if she should continue with the marriage.

On the other side.

The security guarda lad mercilessly thrown Albert, Eliza, and Fiona out of the banquet hall.

Thinking of the humiliation he had suffered at today's party, Albert's face turned ashen. He raised his hand and slapped Eliza.

The crise sound of the slap eded. Eliza felt her eardrum buzz. She was stunned

Hutry, hum rould you slap Elica Fiona's cart ached.

"Dad: "Eliza was also stacked

was fierce, "Don't call me that. If I had known that you were so useless, I might as

Albert glared at Eliza berly His gaze was unfriendly and has tone was

well not ackneraledge you as my daughter"

Eliza's pupil constricted and star looked skral

Albert was still angry. He scolded. "You don't have any real ability, but your tricks are first-rate. You made me make a fool of myself. I won't be able aise my head in the entire upper-class circle."

Eliza was on the verge of collapse. She was in extreme pain and sadness.

She had never been humiliated like this in the Harper family. Not to mention being slapped, she had never even heard a harsh word from them.

However, she had no choice but to pretend not to care and defend herself. "Dad, I didn't know that the invitation was fake. I didn't expect Dominic to lie to me...

At this point she had no choice but to blame Dominic

Unexpectedly, Alberts expression turned even darker. He said in a harsh tone, "At the end of the day, it's all because you're not capable enough. In the past, when Dominic was with Audrey, he never fooled her like this." Eliza was speechless. Why did he compare me to Audrey? Doesn't he know how I hate Audrey now?"

Although furious, she could only grit her teeth and suppress the resentment in her heart. She apologized humbly. "Dad, I'm sorry. I've disappointed you. I'll definitely-"

"Get out of my way. I don't want to see you now. How unlucky!" Albert did not buy it at all. He raised his hand and pushed her away.

Eliza lost her balance and stumbled to the ground.

She wanted to get up by herself, but she felt a sharp pain in her lower abdomen

Warm blood slowly flowed down Eliza's legs.

god! Eliza, why are you bleeding?" Although Fiona was also a little angry that Eliza had embarrassed them, she could not bear to see her daughter injured. She panicked the moment she saw the blood.

Eliza was shocked. She covered her lower abdomen with a pale face and begged with a painful expression. "Mom, Mom, please help me to the hospital quickly, Save my child

Fiona hurriedly helped Eliza up. She said to Albert, "Honey, drive quickly. Let's send Eliza to-

Before she could finish her sentence, Albert drove away...

 

Chapter 104

They watched as Albert left them behind and drove away.

While Fiona was in disbelief, she felt her vision go dark. She quickly chased after him and shouted, "Honey... Albert!"

Unfortunately, the car ran further and further away. Soon, even the taillights could not be seen.

Fiona stomped her foot in anger and heard Eliza crying bitterly again. "Mom, save me... It hurts, it hurts."

Eliza could barely stand. She clutched her stomach and swayed. Tears and cold sweat flowed down her face.

Fiona quickly went over to support her. She freed one hand to hold her phone and said in a panic, "Don't be afraid, don't be afraid. I'll call someone to pick us up now. I..." For a moment, she couldn't think of whom to look for.

Eliza said shakily, "Dominic, call Dominic..."

She was in so much pain that she could barely speak. She grabbed Fiona's arm with one hand.

Fiona nodded frantically. She found Dominic's number and dialed it, but it only rang once before it was hung up.

She called him again with Eliza's phone, but the call was still hung up.

Eliza was in so much pain that she was about to faint.

Fiona had no choice but to call an ambulance.

At Riverdale Women's and Children's Hospital.

Eliza had already been pushed in for a checkup. Fiona paced anxiously back and forth outside the corridor. After some unknown time, the examination room's door opened, and a female doctor in her forties walked out. She asked, "Are you the patient's family?"

Fiona went to her and asked anxiously and worriedly, "Yes, yes, doctor. How are my daughter and her child?" "Your daughter is fine. She's just exhausted. She'll be fine after some rest. As for her child..."

The doctor paused for a moment, looking troubled.

Fiona's heart tightened. "What happened to the child?"

'Did we fail to keep it?' she wondered.

The doctor didn't say anything explicitly. Instead, she asked, "Where's your daughter's husband? You might have to discuss this with him."

Fiona's face tensed up when she thought of the two phone calls that Dominic had hung up. She said firmly, "He's busy. You can tell me if there's anything. I can decide."

Hearing her say this, the doctor did not insist and said truthfully, "The results of the examination show that the fetus in your daughter's womb is at high risk of having trisomy 21 syndrome, which is commonly known as Down syndrome. The hospital's suggestion is to terminate the pregnancy."

Fiona's pupils constricted and she staggered. She held onto the wall and barely stabilized herself.

The doctor held her arm and sighed. She patted Fiona's shoulder and comforted her. "Your daughter is still young. There's no need to take the risk of giving birth to a child who might be born stupid. Think about it carefully."

Fiona nodded blankly. Her eyes were empty.

After the doctor left, she sat on the metal chair in the hospital corridor for a long time until the nurse said that Eliza was awake. Then she entered the ward.

Eliza struggled to hold her hand immediately after she saw Fiona and asked anxiously, "Mom, is my child alright?"

"Don't move, Eliza. The doctor said you need to rest now." Fiona stepped forward and held Eliza's shoulder to let her lie down, but she avoided Eliza's question.

Eliza panicked and her voice trembled. "Mom..."

Fiona pursed her lips and said with difficulty, "Eliza, let's not have this child."

"Why not? Mom, what are you talking about? This is my child with Dominic." Eliza immediately became agitated.

She must have this child.

Fiona said ruthlessly, "But Dominic doesn't seem to care about this child. Moreover, the doctor said this child has a high risk of Down syndrome, so he might be a retarded when he's born. "Eliza, listen to me. We're not giving birth to this child. You're already very weak now. There's no need to hurt your body to give birth to him."

Eliza was completely stunned.

She lay stupidly on the hospital bed and stared at the white ceiling. Her eyes were blurry with tears.

She couldn't help but wonder, 'Why did all these bad things have to come to me? Why am I always the unlucky one?'

Fiona hugged her with heartache and comforted her carefully. "Eliza, don't be sad. You're still young. You'll have another child in the future."

Eliza was silent for a long time like a log. When she spoke again, she said, "Mom, I want to give birth to him."

It was just at a high risk of Down syndrome.

She was going to take her chances.

"Are you crazy?" Fiona widened her eyes in shock.

"I'm not crazy. I'm sane now." Eliza's hand hanging on the edge of the bed tightened its grip on the iron railing.

She wanted to give birth to this child with a congenital deficiency.

It was not because she liked children but because she knew her child was the only thing she could rely on to control Dominic.

If she were not pregnant with this child, Dominic would have abandoned her long ago.

She saw the true colors of these people from upper-class society at Brightview Group's anniversary celebration this time.

She was determined to gain a foothold in the upper circle of Riverdale.

She wanted those who looked down on her today to kneel at her feet and repent in the future.

She wanted to embarrass those people who kicked her when she was down.

Therefore, no matter what, she had to get Dominic.

Fiona did not know what Eliza was thinking and tried her best to dissuade Eliza. "Eliza, giving birth is not a small matter. After the child is born, you must be responsible for his life. Don't be rash, okay?" Eliza pursed her lips.

She did not want Fiona to know about her schemes and ambitions. She touched her abdomen with one hand and said softly, "Mom, stop talking. I've already made up my mind. Since this child is here, I can't abandon him easily. "I'll go through it with him no matter how difficult. Moreover, medicine is advanced nowadays. Even if the baby is not healthy when born, we can cure him."

 

Chapter 105

Although Fiona was Eliza's biological mother, they had only been together for a short time, and she didn't dare to force Eliza to abort the child.

Helpless, she could only sigh and say, "Since you've thought it through, just don't regret it in the future."

She tucked Eliza in and said softly, "Don't go anywhere for the next two days. Stay in the hospital and protect the baby. I'll pay for your hospitalization fees." Eliza nodded obediently.

But as soon as Fiona left, she called Dominic's mother. "Hello, Mrs. Hayes. I'm Eliza."

Zephyra's expression darkened when she saw who was calling. She said sullenly, "Why are you still calling me?"

The thought of the company's stock price plummeting and the scandal of Dominic having an affair with someone at the bridal shop made Zephyra furious.

She thought Eliza caused all of this to happen.

Zephyra thought, 'Ever since Dominic met this woman, he had been unlucky. Could this woman be Dominic's jinx?'

At the thought of this, Zephyra's tone became even worse. She scolded coldly, "Shameless bitch, our family has been ruined by you. Why don't you take a look at the occasion when you're seducing men? Stay away from my family in the future." Zephyra didn't feel that Dominic had done anything wrong. Instead, she pushed all the blame to Eliza.

Hearing that, Eliza's expression did not change at all. She only said calmly, "Mrs. Hayes, I'm pregnant." Zephyra was stunned. Then, she heard Eliza say, "The child is Dominic's."

*****

This was the first time Audrey slept alone after getting married. She found it difficult to fall asleep.

When she woke up the next day, she saw dark circles under her eyes and sighed deeply.

Even though she and Alistair had only been married for less than half a month, Alistair had influenced her deeply in her daily life and other aspects.

She even hoped to smell the fragrance of breakfast, as usual, the moment she opened her eyes.

Her phone on the dresser suddenly vibrated with a buzz.

Audrey picked it up and took a look.

It was a message from Alistair. [I've arrived safely. Don't worry.]

Audrey knew he must have arrived last night. He must be afraid it would affect her sleep, so he sent a message in the morning to inform her that he was safe. Audrey watched silently for a while and did not reply in the end.

She didn't know how to reply.

Audrey could not get over it when she thought about how Alistair had lied to her.

She was too afraid that Alistair would hurt her like Dominic.

She feared falling into the whirlpool of love again and being hurt badly.

Taking advantage of Alistair's return to Willowdale, she had to sort out her thoughts and decide whether to continue with him.

After putting on makeup, Audrey rushed to the company without eating breakfast.

Thinking of the friction during last night's anniversary celebration, she had expected Eliza would come to cause trouble at the company. However, she did not even see Eliza after working the entire morning.

Audrey couldn't help but be a little curious. She twirled her pen and pondered, 'What's going on? Did Eliza suddenly change?'

Although she had a peaceful morning, she started to feel uneasy.

Afraid Eliza was holding back a big move to mess with her, Audrey quickly called Emily into her office to ask about the situation.

"Did you see Eliza today?" Audrey asked.

"Audrey, don't you know?"

"Know what?" Audrey was confused.

Emily's eyes immediately lit up. She lowered her voice and gossiped excitedly. "Last night, Mr. and Mrs. Rhodes and Eliza got chased out of the Barrett family's anniversary celebration. I think they said their invitations were fake. "Mr. Rhodes felt embarrassed and slapped Eliza. Eliza fell and almost had a miscarriage. She's still recuperating in the hospital."

Emily's eyes were filled with a gloating smile when she said this.

Audrey was not surprised to hear Emily say that Albert hit Eliza.

She knew Albert too well. Even if it were his biological daughter, he would still abandon her mercilessly after she lost her value.

This was also why she didn't dare to relax for the past few years.

She was afraid Albert would scheme against Fiona until Fiona had nothing left if she was not careful.

Unfortunately, Fiona did not understand her painstaking efforts. She thought Audrey was deliberately going against Albert and felt that Audrey was insensible.

However, after Fiona knew that Eliza and Dominic had an affair but deliberately took sides with Eliza, Audrey's weak affection for Fiona was gone.

She would no longer have any hopes for the Rhodes family again.

 

 

Chapter 106

"Mrs. Harper, although you're no longer in danger, you'd better stay in the hospital for a few more days and observe. You don't have to worry about the hospitalization expenses..." It was Grant's voice. "Mr. Fletcher, you've misunderstood me. I'm not worried about the hospitalization fees. It's just that my body has already recovered a lot. There's no need to continue wasting resources in the hospital." Jessica's ward door was ajar. As soon as Audrey reached the door, she heard Jessica's voice coming from inside.

Her voice sounded a little crisper than when she was first hospitalized. 'She should be recovering well,' Audrey thought.

Audrey knocked on the door and pushed it open.

Jessica was still talking to Grant, but her eyes lit up when she saw Audrey enter.

She said, "Audrey, why brings you here?"

Seeing her smile, Audrey's tense nerves also relaxed. She smiled and said, "I'm here to see you. Why are you in such a hurry to be discharged? It's safer to stay in the hospital for two more days." "No, I feel much better now. I can take care of the rest at home," Jessica said firmly.

"We didn't tell your brother when we came to see a doctor this time. He went to another city to deliver goods last week. He'll be back today. I don't want him to know that I'm hospitalized. Otherwise, he'll blame himself," said Jessica. Since she had almost recovered, she would not let her son know, lest he feel guilty.

Audrey could understand her thoughts, but she was still a little worried. She asked Grant, "Mr. Fletcher, is my mother's current condition suitable for discharge?"

Jessica felt a lump in her throat and tears welled up in her eyes when she heard Audrey call her "Mother" in front of the hospital director.

Grant said dutifully, "Mrs. Harper's recovery is not bad. She can rest at home, but remember to recuperate and take the medicine." Hearing this, Audrey finally felt relieved.

She told Jessica, "Since you don't want to stay in the hospital, you can go home and recuperate. I happened to drive here. I can send you back." Upon hearing this, Jessica felt gratified, and her heart ached a little for Audrey. "You've been working all day. Yet you rushed over. Isn't it too tiring?" Audrey smiled at her. "No, I'm not that tired from work."

Jessica kept looking at Audrey. She held her hand and rubbed it gently. A hint of guilt flashed across her eyes.

She said softly, "Audrey, we've all seen the video on the trending topics in the headlines. We've let you down..."

At the mention of this, Jessica felt a little guilty. She blamed herself for not teaching Eliza well all these years, causing her to hurt Audrey so much.

Audrey gently patted Jessica's hand and comforted her. "She did something wrong herself. You don't have to feel sorry for that."

Seeing how sensible Audrey was, Jessica's heart ached for her even more.

She said, "Audrey. There's another reason why I want to be discharged hastily."

Audrey guessed that this reason might be about her. She gestured patiently and said, "What is that?"

Jessica said solemnly, "Eliza returned to the Rhodes family. Their family can't possibly tolerate you now. If you're willing, you can come home with us anytime." Audrey was a little touched.

She originally thought that her small home with Alistair would be her new home in the future, but Alistair lied to her.

Just as she felt she had nowhere to go, the Harper family people had silently considered everything for her.

Jessica felt uncertain when she saw Audrey remain silent after a long time. Her voice became gentler. "Although this family is not as rich and luxurious as the Rhodes family, we are all your closest family members. We will never hurt you. Audrey, are you willing?" Audrey's eyes reddened and she choked up. "Yes, I'm willing."

Money was not within her consideration to begin with. She felt honored to return to a loving family like the Harper family.

"Good girl." Jessica laughed heartily. When she was in a good mood, her complexion became a little rosier as she said happily, "Then let's go home together today. You haven't eaten my cooking yet. I'll cook personally. Let's have a good meal as a family." Miles, who had been eavesdropping for a long time, also said happily, "Audrey, you're in luck. Mom doesn't cook easily."

Although Peter was not good at expressing himself, Audrey could tell he was happy, too. He started humming as he packed Jessica's things.

When they left the hospital, Peter and Miles took all the bags and did not let Audrey carry them.

Audrey was in charge of supporting Jessica.

"Wait here for a second. I'll drive over." Downstairs, Audrey went to get the car.

She had driven a new car over today, so the spacious SUV was just right for storing luggage and allowing Jessica to sit more comfortably.

Seeing her new car, the three members of the Harper family were shocked.

Although they were poor and did not know much about cars, they could tell this car was expensive.

They were even more convinced that Audrey was forced to marry a rich old man.

For a moment, the Harper family people's hearts ached for Audrey.

They did not say anything on the surface, but they were all thinking about how to help her get a divorce.

The Harper family lived in the suburbs of a county below Riverdale. It would take about two hours to drive there.

After they reached the county, they still had to pass through a muddy road. They couldn't drive the car in, so they could only stop at the intersection and walk home.

Audrey and the Harper family people got out of the car. She helped Jessica forward.

However, as soon as they entered the Harper family's courtyard, they saw a mean-looking old lady cursing viciously from afar...

 

 

Chapter 107

Inside the courtyard wall half the height of a person, Layla, wearing a dark red floral jacket, stood on her tiptoes and poked a man's head as she scolded him.

"You brainless, stupid thing. If it weren't for that money-losing good-for-nothing, you wouldn't have become a cripple. I was kind enough to help you send that money-losing good-for-nothing out, but you dare to talk back to me?" Hearing this, the usually gentle Trevor was a little annoyed.

He didn't mind Layla scolding him as soon as she arrived, but he couldn't stand her scolding his sister.

Layla did not like Eliza. This was almost public knowledge in the Harper family.

Layla didn't like Eliza because she was a girl. Layla thought she was a good-for-nothing.

However, when she was young, Eliza was not in good health. She looked like a small ball and was adorable.

Moreover, her mother had risked her life in exchange for her.

Trevor liked Eliza as his sister.

Besides, he felt it had nothing to do with his sister that he became like this.

He thought he was just unlucky.

Trevor clenched his fists and his thin body tensed up. The corners of his mouth were slightly lowered as he said, "Grandma, you're not giving her out. You want to sell Eliza."

Layla's expression changed and her tone became sharp. "What do you mean selling her? That's called an engagement gift. Which family doesn't accept engagement gifts when they marry off their daughters now?" Trevor's heart turned cold when he heard Layla's self-righteous words. He said coldly, "Marriage requires two parties to be willing. You accepted the engagement gift on her behalf without asking Eliza's permission. I object." "You object? What's the use of you objecting? Do you think I'm here to ask for your opinion?"

Layla spoke for a long time, but when she saw that Trevor was still like a block of wood, she immediately felt a throbbing pain in her temples and shouted at the top of her lungs.

She said, "Tell me where Eliza is hiding now. I'm telling you, she can't hide. This is her life."

Trevor was so angry that his entire body was trembling. He panted and said, "I won't tell you. I won't let you ruin Eliza."

Layla was even angrier after being contradicted. Her face was tense, and her eyes were wide open. She said sternly, "This is outrageous. Your father isn't around, and I have a final say in this family.

"I've accepted the engagement gift. It's best if Eliza is willing to marry over. If she's not, I'll tie her up if necessary.

"Don't think I won't be able to find her just because you're hiding it from me. At most, I'll go to the police station to report her disappearance. The police will find her."

She wanted to see where Eliza could escape.

"There's no need to go through so much trouble." A calm female voice came from the entrance of the courtyard.

Layla and Trevor looked back at the same time.

Jessica patted Audrey's hand, signaling her to let go. Then, she walked toward the mean-looking Layla alone.

She said, "Eliza is in Riverdale. I can give you the address. If you want to find her, go ahead and do it. See if she's willing to marry that person."

Layla was overjoyed and immediately asked for the exact address.

But Trevor's expression changed and he whispered, "Mom, you can't harm Eliza..."

The man that Layla found for Eliza was famous for being a good-for-nothing.

That person was not doing his job properly and was a playboy. Moreover, he was fat. He was not worthy of Eliza.

'If Mom agrees to this marriage, won't it be equivalent to pushing Eliza into a fire pit?' Trevor thought.

"Trevor, don't interfere in this matter." Jessica motioned for Trevor to calm down and turned around to give the address to Layla.

Layla's face was filled with pride as she said impatiently, "Since you gave me the address, I'll take it that you've agreed to this marriage. When I find Eliza, you can't stop me anymore."

Jessica lowered her eyes and said calmly, "Go ahead. As long as you can convince her, you can do whatever you want."

She knew her mother-in-law too well. She looked fierce on the outside, but she was a paper tiger who only dared to be unreasonable with her family.

Eliza had just been exposed for having an affair and had been scolded online.

She was probably in a terrible mood.

If Layla went to look for her, she couldn't get anything good out of it.

 

 

Chapter 108

"Then it's settled." Layla had no idea what was going on. She was afraid Jessica would go back on her word if she delayed any longer, so she couldn't wait to leave.

Before she walked out of the courtyard, Layla suddenly stopped and turned around. She turned around to grab the few bags of high-level supplements piled up at the threshold. She was smiling brightly again, completely forgetting the tense atmosphere just now.

She smiled and said, "Trevor is filial. Every time you go on a long trip, you bring many good things back for me. I'll accept them without hesitation."

"That's for my mother..." Trevor took a step forward.

Jessica grabbed his wrist and shook her head gently at him.

Just like that, Layla carried those bags and left.

Trevor looked at Jessica, his eyes full of confusion.

He knew very well how much his mother cared about his sister. He did not believe that she would harm his sister.

Just as he was about to ask about it, he raised his head and saw Audrey standing with his father and brother. His expression froze.

He asked, "Dad, Mom, who is she?"

Audrey suddenly felt nervous when Trevor looked at her gently but doubtfully

Trevor seemed to like and care a lot about Eliza. She wondered if he would be unable to accept her.

Peter and Jessica looked at each other and said to Trevor, "Let's go in first."

The family entered the house and sat down in the living room.

Miles washed the cups and made everyone a cup of coffee

In the transparent glass, the coffee emitted fragrance.

Audrey stared fixedly at the cup as Jessica's voice filled her ears.

Jessica told Trevor everything without hiding anything.

It seemed like a long story, but it only took a few minutes to tell it.

Trevor's expression changed from doubt to shock. He froze on the chair, obviously shocked.

Audrey quietly shifted her gaze from the coffee to Trevor and sized him up without expression.

Although Peter and Jessica were old, they were both good-looking when they were young. One was elegant, and the other was beautiful.

Trevor had perfectly inherited Peter's strengths. He had a clean face, deep and big eyes, and a high nose bridge. His temperament was gentle and plain.

However, he looked like he was not in good health. His face was too pale, and it was not difficult to see fatigue in his eyes.

Moreover, when he entered just now, Audrey noticed his leg was a little limping, which was a pity and made Audrey sigh in her heart.

"No, I don't believe it. This can't be true." After Trevor heard Jessica's words, he was very emotional.

He shook his head and said firmly, "Dad, Mom, have you been deceived?"

He did not believe that his sister, whom he had cared for and doted on for over twenty years, was fake and had done many unreasonable things.

Miles added, "Trevor, I know it's hard for you to accept, but this is true. Eliza doesn't care about us at all.

"After she knew her background, she immediately cut ties with us for wealth and glory. Not only did she not acknowledge her parents, but she also used all means to snatch Audrey's fiance away." Trevor frowned. "Miles, how can you talk nonsense too?"

"Trevor, I have a video here. Take a look for yourself." Miles knew that Trevor couldn't accept it for a while.

He thought that it was better to suffer short-term pain than long-term pain, so he took out the video of Eliza and Dominic having an affair.

He added, "The man in the video is Audrey's ex-fiance."

After watching the video, Trevor's expression changed completely. The fingers holding the phone were trembling slightly.

He felt it was unbelievable...

Eliza, whom he doted on to the core, was not his biological sister.

Moreover, for the sake of power and status, she had snatched his biological sister's fiance away.

For a moment, Trevor even suspected he was too tired and was dreaming.

However, his parents and younger brother said that this was true.

Trevor looked at the sister in the video he doted on like a treasure since she was young. He even felt his stomach churn and wanted to throw up.

He wondered if he was wrong to protect Eliza all these years.

His parents were busy with work, and he had raised his younger siblings single-handedly.

He was the one who personally raised Eliza to be so selfish and even harmed his biological sister...

Thinking of this, Trevor was too ashamed to face Audrey. He got up and returned to his room in a daze.

Seeing this, Audrey could not help but feel a little disappointed. 'Trevor doesn't seem to like me much. Will he think that I'm the one who caused him to lose his most beloved sister?'

With this thought in mind, she hesitated before standing up and saying, "I might as well leave first. I'll come and accompany you after Trevor recovers from the shock."

Jessica quickly pulled Audrey back and said, "Audrey, don't blame Trevor. He's just a little stubborn.

"You must be tired after sending us back. You should at least have a meal before leaving. I'll go to the kitchen and cook something delicious for you."

She was afraid that Audrey would insist on leaving, but she did not know how to make her stay, so she could only use dinner as an excuse. Peter followed in to help.

Before Audrey could say anything, they had already started to get busy.

As such, it was indeed difficult for Audrey to leave.

"Audrey," Miles noticed something was wrong with Audrey's expression and comforted her, "Don't think much. Trevor doesn't blame you.

"He just can't accept it for a moment. After all, Eliza was the sister whom he once protected with his life. He dotes on her more than our parents. Give him some time, and he will understand." "Protect her with his life?" Audrey raised an eyebrow in confusion.

There seemed to be a story behind this.

Recalling the past, Miles's expression was filled with hostility. He gritted his teeth and said, "The reason why Trevor became crippled and Mother became seriously ill is all because of Eliza."

 

Chapter 109

"Why do you say Eliza is the cause of all this?" Audrey frowned and stared at Miles.

"This was ten years ago..." Miles reminisced.

"Audrey. Although Trevor looks timid and easy to bully now, he used to be powerful. He was sturdy and clever, and his grades were always outstanding.

"At that time, everyone thought Trevor could get into the best university in Riverdale and lead our family to a good life.

"The family has high hopes for Trevor. He has never disappointed Dad and Mom. His exam results were getting better and better every time. Unfortunately, good times don't last long...

"On the evening before SAT, Eliza suddenly had an idea and asked Trevor to bring her to the nearby mountain. She said she wanted to catch fireflies to make a wish for Trevor, hoping Trevor could achieve good results.

"Trevor didn't believe in these things, but he brought her out because he didn't want to disappoint Eliza.

"On the way, Eliza let go of Trevor's hand and ran across the road alone. She was almost hit by a car.

"Trevor rushed up to save her, but he injured his leg in this car accident. He was unconscious for two days and missed the SAT.

"When Trevor woke up and found out he had become lame, he couldn't accept it for a moment. He was listless and said that all of this was fate. Mom and Dad let him rest and take it next year.

"But the person who hit Trevor with the car escaped. Our family didn't get any compensation and spent all our savings to treat Trevor. Trevor probably felt sorry for our parents and didn't want to increase the burden on this family. He was unwilling to continue his studies no matter what. His brilliant life ended in advance because of this sudden accident.

"Mom couldn't take this blow and was depressed all day long. In the end, she became sick from worry. From then on, she was plagued by small illnesses. Our family didn't have the money to treat her, so she became seriously ill."

Audrey could not help but clench her fists as she listened.

She thought, 'So many things have happened in the past... How dare Eliza disdain the Harper family for being poor? She even compared herself to others. Didn't she feel guilty at all?'

Miles's expression was also very dark. He added indignantly, "Dad and Mom didn't allow us to mention this at home previously. They were afraid that Eliza would feel guilty if she heard it. Even Trevor thought it was his problem. He was worried if he said too much, Eliza would feel pressured.

"But I think Eliza doesn't care about this at all. Otherwise, she wouldn't have repaid kindness with ingratitude. She knew that with Mom's body, she couldn't be agitated, but she still deliberately went to the hospital to cause trouble."

If Eliza had any conscience, she would not have severed ties with the Harper family so decisively after knowing that she was the daughter of a rich family.

It was as if she was afraid that the Harper family would pester her and take advantage of her.

After hearing this, Audrey felt a strong sense of disgust toward Eliza for the first time.

"So, Audrey, you should understand why Trevor locked himself up, right?"

Miles said firmly, "He can't get over it now. As long as you interact with him more, he'll know you're ten thousand times better than Eliza sooner or later."

Jessica, who was in the kitchen, had just cut some fruits and brought them out. When she heard this, she added, "That's right, Audrey. Trevor is the most sensible person. He definitely won't have any opinions about you because of this." Hearing their consolation, Audrey was slightly relieved.

Soon, an hour passed. Jessica and Peter made a table full of delicious food.

Trevor did not come out for dinner. He only said that he had no appetite.

Peter and Jessica knew he felt terrible, so they did not force him. They didn't want Audrey to worry too much, so they comforted her again.

In the end, it was Audrey who comforted them.

The meal was a joyous one.

After dinner, Miles took the initiative to go into the kitchen to clean up the dishes.

Audrey sat in the living room with Peter and Jessica and watched television.

They were eating snacks and fruits when Audrey suddenly felt a strong gaze on her.

She looked up in confusion and saw Peter looking at her hesitantly as if he had a lot to say to her.

Audrey raised her eyebrows and asked curiously, "Mr... Dad, what's wrong?"

She had thought she might not be used to calling him that, but the hurdle in her heart no longer existed when she thought about how the Harper family people had accepted her.

Peter took a deep breath. His eyes were slightly red from when she called him "Dad." He said softly, "Audrey. Since you called me 'Dad,' I'll take it as you've acknowledged that we're family. I've always wanted to ask for your opinion on something." "Please go ahead." Audrey looked at him obediently.

"Audrey, have you ever thought about getting a divorce?" Peter asked.

 

 

Chapter 110

When she heard Peter's question, Audrey's expression froze. She was a little caught off guard. She looked at the serious Peter in shock and felt confused. She asked, "Why do you ask so?" Logically speaking, he had never seen Alistair before, so he should not be dissatisfied with Alistair.

Peter said sincerely, "Audrey, marriage is a matter of life. As your family, I hope you can marry the man you like and have a happy marriage. As for whether that man has money or not, that's secondary." No one had ever said this to Audrey.

As she listened to Peter's refined voice, her heart felt warm as if it had been soaked in warm water.

Peter added, "You met a bad person previously because that man was blind. That doesn't mean that you don't deserve a better person. I don't want you to get married impulsively to take revenge on that scumbag."

He looked at Audrey and said with satisfaction and pride, "Look at you. You're beautiful and capable. You can marry a husband who treats you well and dotes on you."

'Not an old man who can't give you anything but money,' Peter didn't say it out loud.

As a father, Peter might not be meticulous enough and was not good with words. He kept repeating his words.

However, he sincerely wanted Audrey to live a good life.

After the affair between Eliza and Dominic broke out, Peter also learned some things online.

Audrey used to like Dominic so much, but because she was betrayed, she hurriedly married a stranger.

'How could she be happy in such a marriage?' Peter thought.

Looking at Peter's serious and afraid gaze, Audrey's heart was in turmoil.

She was used to seeing superficial couples like Albert and Fiona and didn't have much expectations for marriage.

Then, she met Dominic. She thought that he was the right person and hurriedly expressed her sincerity. Unexpectedly, she was met with suspicion and alienation day after day.

Before she could turn her love into resentment, Dominic had cheated on her.

She thought that she was unrestrained. She decisively let go and married a stranger.

The truth was that she was afraid of embarrassing herself and wanted to fight for her pride.

But after getting married...

Alistair treated her quite well.

'Other than concealing and deceiving me, he respected and cared for me in every way,' Audrey thought.

He could handle even small details very well. Every day she spent with him was relaxing and comfortable.

Therefore, if she only considered whether she was happy after marriage, she never considered getting a divorce.

However, she also knew Peter and Jessica were genuinely concerned about her.

After some silence, she looked at Peter and Jessica and said frankly, "Although I did get married in a flash, my husband treats me quite well. I haven't thought about getting a divorce for the time being." Peter frowned.

He thought, 'If Audrey's husband is good to her, why didn't he call or greet her when she hadn't returned after work for so long today? 'Also, Audrey has come back with us to acknowledge her family. At such an important moment, her husband is nowhere to be seen.

'My previous guess is correct. Audrey is unhappy in this marriage. She deliberately put on a brave front to make us not worried.

'No matter what, I have to help my daughter break free from this marriage.'

After making up his mind, Peter did not force Audrey. Instead, he followed her words and said, "Since you said he's good, spend more time with him. If he dares to bully you, divorce him immediately. Don't worry, your mother and I are not hidebound. Even if you get a divorce, we will take care of you."

Audrey's eyes welled up when she heard that. She could not help but lean over and hug Peter and Jessica. Her voice was a little choked as she said, "I understand. Thank you, Dad and Mom."

She had not been so touched in a long time.

Every minute she spent with the Harper family was blissful. It was completely different from the oppression and schemes of the Rhodes family. These were her true family members.

Peter and Jessica did not expect Audrey to take the initiative to hug them. They were also a little shocked, but after they reacted, they hugged her.

After dinner, it was very late. Peter and Jessica thought it would be too dangerous for Audrey to drive back to the city alone, so they suggested she stay overnight.

However, after she stayed, they realized there were no empty rooms at home. Only Eliza's previous room was available.

Seeing her parents' troubled expression, Audrey took the initiative to say, "It's okay. I'll stay in this room."

Jessica still felt a little guilty. "It's our fault. We didn't expect this to happen before we went to Riverdale. Otherwise, we would have cleared a room for you long ago."

"It's fine, Mom. It doesn't matter where I sleep. It's our house anyway. I'm not picky."

These words touched the hearts of the Harper family people. They looked at Audrey and loved her even more.

Audrey entered Eliza's room. The decoration was exquisite, like a princess's room. It was in stark contrast to the poor decor of the rest of the house. Audrey felt deeply moved. The Harper family was so good to Eliza. All the good things were in her room.

After lying on the bed, Audrey stared at the ceiling in a daze. After thinking for a long time, she did not feel sleepy.

Alistair had been gone for a day. She wondered if she should give him a call.

He had already been back for a day. She didn't know how Sunny was doing.

As Sunny's stepmother, she should call and ask about him.

However, when she thought about how Alistair had deliberately hidden his identity, she hesitated...