Ch. 121..125: Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire Chapter 121-125
Chapter 121: Visiting the Old House
"Darling," Aurora’s voice was steady, but her tone betrayed her annoyance, "I want updates on that playboy’s punishment. Every single one." She refused to call Victor by name, a deliberate slight to show her disdain.
"Consider it done," Xander reassured her.
Meanwhile, Stephanie took immediate action to address the breach in Vintage Cellar’s security. Furious that someone had gained access to the top floor without proper clearance, she fired the existing security team on the spot and replaced them with a more reliable group.
---
Back at home, Stella waited impatiently for Victor’s feedback. When his call finally came, she wasted no time.
"I heard you failed in the simple task I gave you. What’s so hard about delivering a bouquet?" she spat, her frustration evident.
Victor sighed heavily on the other end. "The delivery wasn’t the problem. It was the fallout."
Stella’s patience wore thin. "Speak clearly! What happened?"
Taking a deep breath, Victor recounted the events. His voice carried a simmering frustration, laced with a tinge of self-preservation. "Aurora turned the situation on its head and made it a legal issue. Now, I can’t be seen around her without risking everything."
"And?" Stella demanded, her tone sharp.
"For the time being," Victor concluded coldly, "I’m done working for you. Don’t contact me."
Before Stella could respond, the line went dead. She stared at her phone in disbelief, her anger bubbling to the surface.
"How dare he hang up on me?" she hissed through gritted teeth. Her grip on the phone tightened as a sneer curled her lips. "That woman’s confidence has skyrocketed since Xander came into the picture. Let’s see how long it lasts when he leaves her."
---
Back at Xander’s residence, Xander decided to get ahead of any lingering tension. He returned home early, determined to meet Aurora at the door.
"Sweetheart," he greeted softly as Aurora stepped inside, his lips brushing hers in a brief, affectionate kiss. Sliding an arm around her waist, he added, "Welcome back."
Aurora arched a brow, eyeing him curiously. "You’ve never welcomed me like this before. What’s the occasion?"
Xander chuckled, steering her further inside. "No occasion. I just missed you and couldn’t resist seeing you first thing when you got home."
Though skeptical, Aurora let it slide. As the servants brought in her shopping bags, which included gifts for Xander’s parents, Aurora got to work wrapping everything meticulously.
"My parents will love these gifts," Xander said, his smile warm as he watched her carefully arrange everything. "The matching sweaters and the glass vacuum flask are especially thoughtful."
"I like to put effort into gifts, otherwise I won’t bother in the first place," Aurora replied lightly, her hands moving with precision. Turning to Nene, she added, "Can you check if there’s a way to keep the fruits fresh until tomorrow?"
Nene inspected the fruit basket, a reassuring smile on her face. "They’re fresh and firm, Ma’am. They willstay that way until morning."
With everything ready, Aurora headed upstairs to rest, eager to face the next day’s meeting with Xander’s parents.
---
The next morning, Xander held Aurora’s hand as they entered his parents’ old home. To his surprise, his parents were already seated in the living room, waiting for them.
"Mama," Xander greeted warmly, kissing his mother’s hand before moving to his father. "Papa."
Old Mrs. Scott’s gaze shifted to Aurora, who stood beside Xander. "Is this your wife?" she asked, her tone carrying a mix of curiosity and authority.
Xander nodded proudly, his smile stretching across his face. He reached for Aurora’s hand and gently guided her forward. "Yes, Mama. Sweetheart, meet my beloved parents."
Aurora hesitated for a moment, unsure of how to address them. Their age and the formal setting made her feel out of her depth. But before she could stumble, Old Mrs. Scott spoke again, her tone softening.
"You can greet us just as Xander does," she said with a kind smile.
Aurora nodded, stepping forward. "Good morning, Ma," she said, placing a light kiss on Old Mrs. Scott’s hand before turning to Old Mr. Scott. "Good morning, Pa."
"Daughter, you are most welcome. Please, have a seat," Old Mr. Scott said, gesturing to the couch across from them. Xander led Aurora to the seat and settled beside her, his hand still clasping hers.
As they got comfortable, Old Mrs. Scott studied Aurora closely. Then, turning to her husband, she remarked, "Patricia said she was a foreigner. Was she mistaken?"
Xander and Aurora exchanged a quick glance, the meaning of her words dawning on them. The meeting was only beginning, and it was clear the Scotts had more questions than simple pleasantries.
"I think she must be mistaken," Old Mr. Scott replied to his wife.
Unable to bear the side talks which they could clearly hear from their side, Xande inquired, his gaze moving steadily between his mother and father, "Who said my wife was a foreigner?"
Old Mrs. Scott straightened her posture, her tone measured as she explained, "Your brother Richard and his wife joined us for breakfast yesterday. Patricia told us that your wife was a foreigner. We simply assumed it was so."
Xander exchanged glances with Aurora as a smile grew on his lips. His hold on her hand tightened as he turned to his parents to reveal the secret.
"Actually, my wife wore a skin mask at the masquerade ball party last Saturday, so no one saw her real face as you both thought. So in actual sense, you both are the first to see and know what my wife looks like apart from our closest friends and domestic staff."
As soon as Xander divulged that information, his mother’s jaw dropped in shock as she looked between him and Aurora before shifting her gaze to her husband who was equally surprised by the turn of events.
But before they could express their shock, Xander quickly continued, "Papa, Mama, meet my lovely wife and that friend I mentioned who developed your current favourite champagne brand, Aurora Swift.
"Wait," Old Mrs. Scott finally managed, leaning forward with a frown creasing her forehead. "What did you say her name was?"
Xander’s smile grew wider, knowing exactly why his mother was asking. His voice was steady as he repeated, "Aurora Swift."
The silence in the room was deafening. Aurora glanced nervously between Xander’s parents, their faces frozen in what could only be described as shock. Her stomach churned at the worst possibility of their reaction.
"Xander," Old Mr. Scott said after a long moment, his voice unusually sharp. He got to his feet, his expression unreadable. "We need a word. Now."
Old Mrs. Scott rose too, her face pale as she avoided looking directly at Aurora.
Xander gave Aurora’s hand a reassuring pat and leaned toward her, his voice warm but firm. "Don’t worry, Sweetheart. I’ve had everything under control since the day I chose you."
Aurora nodded slowly, her eyes searching Xander’s for answers. What just happened? Why were his parents acting like this?
As Xander followed his parents out, Aurora’s thoughts raced. She had expected nerves but not this intense reaction. Something felt off, and it was something more about her being Xander’s wife.
Left alone, her heart pounded as she tried to piece together the puzzle, anxiously awaiting Xander’s return.
Chapter 122: Defending His Decision
Xander followed his parents into the anteroom and settled onto a couch opposite them. His calm gaze flicked between his father’s furrowed brow and his mother’s pursed lips.
"Papa, Mama, why are you both being so cryptic? What problem do you have with Aurora being my wife?" he asked, clasping his fingers together as he leaned forward.
Old Mr. Scott sighed deeply, exchanging a glance with his wife. "I know you’re thorough in your choices, but didn’t you know your wife used to be in a relationship with your nephew, Owen?"
Xander nodded without hesitation, leaning back. "I’m fully aware of their past relationship."
His mother’s expression tightened in disbelief. "You knew and still went ahead to marry her?"
"Is there something wrong with it?" Xander’s brows knitted, genuine confusion etched on his face.
Old Mrs. Scott leaned forward, her tone sharp with concern. "Don’t act oblivious, Xander. It’s not just about your happiness. What do you think people will say? They will mock you for marrying your nephew’s ex-girlfriend. Their tongues will wag endlessly!"
Having lived for several decades, she couldn’t help but view her son’s actions as deeply unsettling. Coming from a traditional era where such choices were considered unthinkable, it was no surprise she found it strange now.
An uncle marrying his nephew’s ex-girlfriend? When there were countless other women in the world? It was simply unheard of.
Xander’s lips pressed into a thin line. He understood their perspective, but it didn’t waver his resolve. "Mama, I don’t live my life for others. I chose Aurora because I love her. The opinions of strangers don’t matter to me. And I don’t plan on ever divorcing my wife for anyone."
Both parents exchanged another uneasy glance. His boldness left them speechless for a moment, but Old Mr. Scott finally broke the silence. "Is that why you eloped to marry her?"
"That was a separate matter," Xander replied, a small smile playing on his lips. "I’ve never let the opinions of others dictate my life. I worked hard to win Aurora’s heart, should I have taken the chance for granted?"
His mother shot him a knowing look. "You mean you tricked her?"
Clearing his throat, Xander neither confirmed nor denied her claim. "Let’s not dwell on that. We shouldn’t leave my wife waiting alone any longer."
---
Back in the living room, Aurora sat alone, her heart racing as she replayed the brief but tense interaction with Xander’s parents. Her nerves frayed further as the minutes dragged on, leaving her alone to speculate.
Just as she started to overthink, Xander returned, his confident smile easing her growing anxiety. His parents followed closely, their expressions much softer than before.
"Aurora, I’m so sorry to have kept you waiting," Old Mrs. Scott said with a warm smile, walking over to take Aurora’s hands.
Caught off guard, Aurora rose from her seat and allowed her mother-in-law to hold her hands. "It’s fine, Ma," she replied politely.
Old Mr. Scott added with a light chuckle, "We needed to straighten out a few things with Xander. Please don’t take it personally."
"We’re just disappointed that you both eloped and kept us in the dark for three months," Old Mrs. Scott said, her voice laced with mock disapproval. "Such mischief! It’s unfortunate to have such a son."
Aurora couldn’t help but let out a soft laugh, her nerves loosening as the older woman’s warmth enveloped her.
Behind them, Xander smirked. "Mama, how can you say that in front of my wife?"
"Your mother isn’t wrong," Old Mr. Scott quipped as they moved to the dining room. "You’re a handful, Xander, and you always have been."
Old Mrs. Scott patted Aurora’s hand gently. "Don’t let him rope you into his mischief too much."
Aurora nodded, a smile tugging at her lips. "I’ll keep that in mind, Ma," she said, but was ready to throw in her support for her husband, any time.
---
The four of them, Aurora, Xander and the old Scott couple enjoyed a three-course breakfast, chatting lightheartedly. Old Mrs. Scott asked Aurora about her Fruit Punch Champagne and was delighted to learn she had brought two cartons as a gift.
"That’s very thoughtful of you," Old Mr. Scott said, beaming. "We’ve loved your champagne since our first sip!"
"Your champagne is a delight," Old Mrs. Scott agreed. "It’s as if nothing from our youthful party days was taken away."
Xander added proudly, "Wait until you see the matching sweaters and vacuum flask she picked for you both."
After breakfast, they moved to the living room to examine the gifts. The old couple was clearly moved by Aurora’s thoughtfulness, admiring the handpicked items.
"These gifts aren’t just practical; they’re heartfelt," Old Mrs. Scott said, looking at Aurora with genuine affection. "It’s been so long since anyone gave us something so meaningful."
Aurora felt her heart swell with relief. "I’m so glad you like them, Ma, Pa."
"We appreciate your sincerity," Old Mr. Scott said warmly. "It’s clear Xander made the right choice."
Aurora and Xander shared a smile, the warmth between them evident.
---
As they prepared to leave for work, Old Mrs. Scott walked ahead with Aurora while Old Mr. Scott stayed behind with Xander.
"Don’t play with the media for too long," his father advised, his tone firm but concerned. "I’m sure your wife must feel bad being called your mistress in those gossip columns."
"You know about that?" Xander’s brows rose in surprise.
His father frowned. "Of course. We may be old, but we are not out of touch. Show her you’re serious. People will keep talking until you silence them with the truth."
Xander’s expression softened. "I’ll take care of it, Papa. Trust me."
"You’d better," Old Mr. Scott said with a curt nod.
On the other hand, Old Mrs. Scott held Aurora’s hand, asking her to visit often. "Don’t act like your husband and visit us often. Our doors are always open for you."
"I will, Ma." Aurora nodded with a smile.
---
After Aurora and Xander left, the living room’s once harmonious atmosphere turned heavy with unease, the ticking clock amplifying the silence.
Old Mrs. Scott’s earlier warmth faded as she turned to her husband, her fingers twitching restlessly in her lap. "She’s that girl, isn’t she? Adam and Evelyn’s daughter?" she asked, her voice trembling.
"Yes," Old Mr. Scott replied solemnly, his gaze steady but shadowed by the weight of truth.
She cast a troubled glance at the door. "Will you tell Xander about it?"
He shook his head firmly. "No. It’s not for us to interfere."
Her grip on the armrest tightened. "What if he somehow finds out about it? And what if they blame us? What if it ruins everything?"
Old Mr. Scott exhaled deeply, leaning back as the burden of years showed on his lined face. "Although what happened back then wasn’t our fault, we won’t escape the blame," he admitted quietly. "We can only hope the truth doesn’t leave behind resentment."
Old Mrs. Scott sighed, releasing her fingers. "For all our sakes, I hope you’re right."
The room fell silent again, heavy with secrets and the weight of an uncertain future.
Chapter 123: The Only Option
Xander dropped Aurora off at work with a promise to pick her up later before heading to DANTE Group.
Around midday, Liam knocked on Xander’s office door and stepped in, carrying a large brown envelope. "Sir, the test results are here," he announced, placing the envelope on Xander’s desk.
Xander looked up from his laptop, his gaze shifting to Liam before settling on the envelope. "The doctor faxed it?"
"Yes, sir," Liam confirmed, stepping back as Xander opened the envelope and pulled out the document. His brow furrowed deeply as he read through the lines, his expression growing darker with each word.
"The doctor suggests an emergency surgery," Liam added cautiously. "The chip must be removed immediately to prevent further complications."
Xander’s fingers tightened around the report. "She’s at risk of losing all her memories?"
Liam nodded solemnly. "That’s one of the worst possible outcomes. Additionally, there’s a chance of partial stroke."
Xander leaned back in his chair, pinching the bridge of his nose as he processed the information. The thought of Aurora enduring such risks made his chest tighten painfully. He would not, could not, let this happen to her.
"Connect me to Dr. Watson," Xander instructed, his tone firm despite the storm brewing within him.
Liam quickly dialled the doctor’s number and handed the phone to Xander once the call connected. Xander spoke to Dr. Watson, probing for more details about the surgery and confirming the seriousness of the situation.
"Schedule the surgery in the private lab. Ensure absolute confidentiality," Xander ordered. "I will email the surgeons for a briefing tonight. Thank you, doctor."
After hanging up, Xander let out a heavy sigh. He turned to Liam. "I need you to do something for me. Victor made a move without informing us. His stunt was unacceptable. Make sure he understands that there won’t be a next time."
"Yes, sir," Liam replied, bowing slightly before leaving.
Left alone, Xander stared at the report. He dreaded breaking the news to Aurora but knew she deserved the truth. Her resilience wasn’t strong lately, and this revelation would test her spirit like never before.
---
That evening, after Aurora had returned home, showered, and had dinner, Xander sat her down to share the grim findings. He explained the complications caused by the chip in her head and the risks of memory loss and stroke if it wasn’t removed.
Aurora listened in stunned silence, her emotions a storm of devastation and determination. She didn’t cry but allowed herself a moment to absorb the gravity of the situation.
"There’s no point blaming anyone now," she said softly, her voice steady but tinged with sorrow. "The ones responsible are already gone. I need to focus on getting through this."
Xander reached for her, pulling her into a comforting embrace. He pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead and whispered, "We will get through this together. I’ll be with you every step of the way."
---
The next morning, Aurora went straight to the Chairwoman’s office to see her aunt, Stephanie. She handed her a doctor’s report and formally applied for leave.
Stephanie’s brows knitted in concern as she asked, "Aurora, what’s going on? Why the sudden need for surgery?"
Aurora hesitated before replying, "There’s a chip in my head that needs immediate removal. I don’t want to discuss how or why it’s there, not now."
Stephanie studied her niece’s troubled face and nodded understandingly. "When is the surgery?"
"In two days," Aurora said quietly. "I’m not sure how long the recovery will take—at least eight weeks."
Stephanie handed back the report and said with a decisive tone, "I’ll approve your leave. To cover this, we will announce that you’re traveling to France for a research and development program related to Vintage’s next product. It will give you the time you need."
Aurora’s shoulders relaxed in gratitude. "Thank you, Aunt. I don’t know how to repay you for this."
Stephanie’s gaze softened. "You don’t need to repay me. Your father and I discussed something important before he passed. Once you’ve recovered, we’ll talk. Good luck, Aurora. And remember, I’m here if you need anything."
Aurora nodded, her heart heavy with curiosity about her father’s last conversation with Stephanie. But as a headache began to throb, she pushed the thought aside and returned to her office.
---
Two days later, during a company meeting, Stephanie announced Aurora’s temporary leave and her new assignment in France.
"Though we will miss you in these few weeks," Stephanie said, smiling at Aurora, "we trust you will return with another groundbreaking idea like Fruit Punch Champagne."
The room erupted in applause as colleagues congratulated Aurora and wished her success, their faces beaming with pride. Only Olivia scoffed, rolling her eyes as she looked away, unable to mask her bitterness.
Unbeknownst to everyone, except for Aurora and Stephanie, this wasn’t about a research project—it was about Aurora’s fight for her health and her life.
---
Aurora left work early, her thoughts weighed down by the upcoming surgery. After a brief rest and preparation at home, she met Xander, who gently asked if she was ready.
"I am," she said. Taking his hand, she followed him through the hidden passage to his private lab.
Xander reassured her about the surgery, explaining its precision and the expertise of the team as they walked through the sterile corridors. "The procedure is precise, and the team is the best. You will be in excellent care, and I will be there throughout the surgery," he assured her.
---
In the waiting room, four surgeons clad in scrubs and masks stood ready. Xander introduced Aurora warmly, pride clear in his voice.
"It’s an honour to meet you, Mrs. Scott," one surgeon said kindly.
Aurora exchanged pleasantries, managing a polite smile despite her fluttering nerves. Their brief, lighthearted conversation, peppered with Xander’s interjections, momentarily eased the gravity of the situation.
---
"The nurse will help you prepare," Xander said, comforting Aurora with a kiss on the forehead after the other surgeons left first for the theatre. "I will be right outside. There’s nothing to fear."
Aurora nodded, her throat tight with emotion as she leaned into his comforting embrace.
After changing into a hospital gown, Aurora stepped out to find Xander waiting in scrubs, and a mask, his reassuring eyes locking onto hers.
"Sweetheart," he said softly, his voice muffled but warm, "We will get through this together."
Aurora smiled faintly and slipped her hand into his. With Xander by her side, she was ready to face whatever lay ahead.
Chapter 124: Xander’s Suspicion
Hours after the delicate surgery, the tension in the operating theatre eased as the nurse monitoring Aurora’s vitals announced, "Her vitals are stable." A wave of relief washed over the team as one of the surgeons turned to Xander, who had been silently watching from the corner.
"Dr. Lex," the surgeon said, his voice calm yet professional, "the surgery was a success. We will wheel your wife out once the nurse finishes cleaning her up. You can step outside and rest now."
But Xander remained unmoving, his sharp gaze locked on Aurora’s pale face. "I will wait," he said firmly, walking to her side. He reached for her hand, squeezing it gently as if willing her to feel his presence. "Sweetheart," he whispered softly, "We did it. You are stronger than you think."
Minutes later, Aurora was carefully wheeled into the intensive care room. Xander followed closely, his posture tense but composed as he stood beside her bed, his eyes flicking between her and the monitor tracking her condition. Letting out a deep sigh, he placed a hand on the edge of the bed, silently vowing to stay until she opened her eyes.
A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. Xander turned, his hands slipping into his pockets as Liam entered, holding a small, sealed plastic bag.
"Sir," Liam said, stepping forward, "this is the chip."
Xander’s jaw tightened as he took the bag, his fingers brushing against the smooth surface of the plastic. Inside was a small chip, eerily similar to a memory card, yet sinister in its implications. His narrowed eyes studied it intently before he handed it back.
"Have the team analyze every detail," he instructed coldly. "I want to know its purpose, its origin, and the company that produced it."
"Yes, Sir." Liam bowed slightly before adding, "Victor has been dealt with for making a move without reporting to us first, even under Stella’s suspicion."
Xander nodded, his approval brief but clear. "Good. Make sure he doesn’t repeat the mistake."
As Liam exited the room, Xander turned back to Aurora. His gaze softened as he observed the tubes and wires connected to her. Bending slightly, he murmured, "I’ll get you the answers, Sweetheart. Rest for now. You’ll wake up to clarity and peace."
~***~
Three days later, Aurora remained unconscious, though her condition was stable. Xander sat beside her, his usual commanding demeanour replaced by a quiet vulnerability. The steady rhythm of the heart monitor filled the room, providing a soothing yet constant reminder of her fragile state.
A knock on the door broke the silence. Nene stepped in to inform him that Asher had arrived and was waiting in the living room.
"Bring him in," Xander instructed, clearly not ready to leave his precious wife’s side.
A few minutes later, a firm knock sounded on the door, and Asher stepped in, his gaze flickering briefly to Aurora before settling on Xander.
"How is she?" Asher asked his tone a mixture of concern and relief as he went to sit on the couch in the sitting area where Xander had gestured him to.
"The surgery went well, but she hasn’t woken up yet," Xander replied, his voice low. "Fortunately, her condition is stable."
"That’s a relief," Asher said, crossing his arms. "It’s good to hear the procedure was successful."
Asher then shifted topics, briefing Xander on a new mission assigned during their secret state meeting earlier that morning. "It will take some time before we act," he explained. "We need to gather intel first."
Xander exhaled in quiet relief, grateful for the delay. The thought of leaving Aurora in her current condition weighed heavily on him.
Before leaving, Asher reminded Xander of the military award ceremony scheduled for the following afternoon. "Attendance is mandatory," he said with a smirk, clapping Xander’s shoulder. "Don’t forget your disguise."
---
The next afternoon, Xander and Asher arrived at the private venue dressed in their special unit military uniforms, complete with their disguises. The room buzzed with hushed conversations among influential guests—business magnates and military officials alike.
Major Walker took the stage, his commanding presence silencing the chatter as he addressed the room. He praised the individuals who had supported the military’s initiatives through significant donations and sponsorships.
As names were called, the recipients ascended the stage to receive their awards, shaking hands with Major Walker before posing for photos. But when Stella Swift’s name echoed through the room, both Xander and Asher froze, exchanging sharp glances.
"What is that woman doing here?" Asher whispered harshly.
Xander’s gaze darkened as it followed Stella’s figure ascending the stage. "To receive an award," he replied dryly.
"She must be manipulating the Major for some reason," Asher muttered. "I thought your warning at Olivia’s wedding was enough for him."
"Unless he knows and is pretending otherwise," Xander countered, his tone edged with suspicion.
Asher lifted a curious brow. "Why would he do that?" he asked, his tone laced with doubts and a trace of confusion on his face, not understanding what could be the Major’s motive.
"That’s what we will need to find out," Xander said as a matter of fact.
As Stella stood beside Major Walker, accepting her award with a radiant smile, Xander’s calculating gaze didn’t waver.
---
Later that evening, Xander returned home, exhaustion tugging at his usually composed exterior. Ascending the stairs, he entered the bedroom to find Nene gently wiping Aurora’s hand with a warm towel. Her unconscious form lay still, surrounded by the quiet hum of the heart monitor.
"Has she opened her eyes today?" Xander asked, rounding the bed to check her vitals.
"Briefly," Nene replied, her voice soft as she stood up from the bed.
"That’s good news," Xander said with a faint sigh of relief. He brushed his fingers along the edge of the bed, his gaze lingering on Aurora’s peaceful face.
Though his heart remained heavy with worry, he silently promised, ’You will wake up soon, and when you do, I will have the answers we’ve been searching for.’
Chapter 125: The Chip’s Analysis Report
~One Week Later~
A week after the surgery, Xander sat at his desk, pen in hand, his focus on a document in front of him. A sharp knock at the door broke his concentration, and Liam entered, his usual stoic demeanour replaced with a solemn air.
Liam stopped in front of Xander’s desk, greeting him politely before placing a plastic bag containing the chip alongside a thick envelope.
"The analysis report, Sir," Liam announced quietly, his tone betraying the gravity of the situation.
Xander’s sharp eyes noted Liam’s expression, and unease settled in his chest. He unsealed the envelope, pulling out the neatly typed report. As his eyes scanned the contents, his features hardened, and the light in his gaze dimmed.
When he finished reading, Xander dropped the paper onto the desk. He leaned back, his jaw tightening as he asked, "Are you absolutely certain about this?" Although he knew that Liam and his team would never make a mistake, he couldn’t help but have doubts because of the ugly result staring at his face.
"Yes, Sir," Liam replied, his voice steady despite the tension. "The team ran the analysis twice to confirm. That’s why it took longer than expected to be ready."
The weight of the confirmation made Xander’s hands curl into fists. The rims of his eyes turned red as anger boiled beneath the surface. Without a word, he snatched the plastic bag and the report from the desk and rose abruptly from his seat.
"Don’t follow me," he barked when Liam instinctively moved to trail him.
"But, Sir—"
"I’ll go alone," Xander snapped, holding out his hand. "Your car key."
Liam hesitated before handing him the car key. "Yes, Sir," he said, stepping aside as Xander strode out, his movements sharp and controlled.
---
Xander’s car screeched to a halt in front of his parents’ house. Ignoring the butler’s attempt to approach him, he stormed inside, his face dark with fury. He found his parents in the living room, chatting happily as they watched a documentary on TV.
Old Mrs. Scott noticed him first, her smile fading as she set down a bowl of fruit. "Son, what’s the matter? Why do you look so upset? Has something happened?"
Old Mr. Scott added, "Why come in like this?"
Xander didn’t answer. Instead, he slapped the plastic bag and analysis report onto the armrest of the couch where his father sat.
Old Mr. Scott’s shoulders sagged as his gaze landed on the chip inside the bag. Recognition dawned, and his expression turned grim.
"What is that?" Old Mrs. Scott asked, confused as she was yet to see the item.
Xander’s voice was tight with anger. "This chip was taken out of my wife’s head a few days ago."
Old Mrs. Scott gasped, her hands flying to her mouth. Her gaze darted to her husband, who refused to meet her eyes.
Xander scoffed bitterly, his chest tightening with betrayal. "You knew, didn’t you?"
The silence was deafening.
Reaching for the remote, Xander turned off the television, the sudden quiet amplifying the tension in the room. He dropped the remote onto the table with a sharp clack and fixed his parents with a piercing glare.
"Answer my questions honestly from now on," he demanded, his voice cold and unyielding.
He pinned his father with a hard look. "The analysis says this chip came from our company. Did you give it to Adam and Evelyn Swift to use on their daughter?"
Old Mr. Scott met his gaze with a heavy nod. "Yes," he admitted. "They came to us, pleading for it. They didn’t want their daughter to remember her biological father." Then he went on to explain the situation from back then.
Xander’s jaw clenched as he tried to process the revelation. "And do you know who her biological father is?"
Old Mr. Scott shook his head. "No. They never shared that with us."
Xander’s disappointment was palpable. He ran a hand through his hair, struggling to rein in the storm of emotions threatening to consume him.
Taking a deep breath, he exhaled slowly, his voice trembling with restraint. "You should pray my wife never finds out the extent of your involvement in her pain. Take this secret to your grave."
Without waiting for a response, Xander turned on his heel and stormed out.
Old Mrs. Scott’s eyes filled with tears. "I don’t know if he will ever speak to us again," she whispered, her voice trembling with guilt.
Old Mr. Scott sighed deeply, his expression heavy with regret.
---
Xander drove back home, gripping the steering wheel so tightly his knuckles turned white. A raw scream tore from his throat as he struggled to vent the overwhelming anger and betrayal twisting inside him.
By the time he reached home, his face was a mask of exhaustion and fury. He bypassed everyone in the household, ascending the stairs two at a time.
When he entered his bedroom, his eyes softened as they landed on Aurora. She lay motionless on the bed, the heart monitor’s steady rhythm the only sound in the quiet room. Nene sat by her side, gently cleaning her hand with a warm towel.
"Has she woken up today?" Xander asked, his voice subdued.
"Yes. She was awake for about ten minutes before going back to sleep," Nene replied, standing to make way for him.
"That’s good," Xander said, though his relief was faint. He moved to sit beside Aurora, his eyes tracing the tubes and monitors attached to her fragile frame.
Taking her hand in his, he pressed a kiss to her fingers. The rims of his eyes turned red once more as he whispered, "Sweetheart, I promised to protect you from everything. But this... I don’t think I can shield you from this truth."
His voice broke slightly as he added, "I’m so sorry."
It would have been better if his parents were not a part of the reason for her misery but since they were involved, he was forced to make a decision knowing that nothing better would come out of her knowing this crazy bitter truth.