Ch. 126..130: Trapped in a Secret Marriage with a Dangerous Billionaire Chapter 126-130
Chapter 126: A New Wine Idea
THREE WEEKS LATER...
Three weeks after her surgery, Aurora was slowly returning to her routines, though bouts of fatigue and forgetfulness lingered. On an otherwise quiet day, Nene’s phone rang, and Olivia’s name flashed on the screen.
After exchanging polite greetings, Olivia’s impatience broke through. "When will Mrs. Scott return from her trip? It’s been over two weeks!"
"She isn’t back yet, Mrs. Owen," Nene replied smoothly, ignoring the irritation lacing Olivia’s tone.
Olivia huffed, her frustration thinly veiled. "Then when will she return? It’s no wonder her husband has the opportunity to cheat on her."
Nene’s calm demeanour didn’t falter, but she did feel that Olivia was crossing the line. "Her return date is unclear, but I’ll let you know once I have clarity," Nene replied.
"Fine," Olivia snapped, ending the call.
Nene climbed the stairs to the master bedroom, finding Aurora awake and sitting against a pile of pillows, her eyes on the muted TV.
"Ma’am, would you like anything?" Nene asked with a warm smile.
Aurora turned her head slightly, her features softening. "A glass of water, please."
Nene poured a glass and handed it to her, but Aurora absentmindedly placed it on the bedside table without drinking.
"Ma’am, you haven’t had the water," Nene reminded gently.
"Oh," Aurora murmured, blinking as if snapping out of her thoughts. She picked up the glass, drank half of it, and handed it back.
As Nene set the glass down, she mentioned Olivia’s call, including the vague vacation excuse she’d given to buy more time.
Aurora smirked faintly. "It took her long enough to call again. I was beginning to think I’d need another way to coax the truth out of her."
"Ma’am, this was her third call in two weeks. I told you last time, and you said to give her the same response when she called again," Nene reminded her.
"I said that?" Aurora asked, confusion flickering across her face.
"Yes," Nene confirmed, her tone light to avoid alarming her.
Aurora sighed, leaning back against the pillows. "Let her know I will be back in a few days and that she can call then."
Nene nodded and shifted the topic, updating Aurora on the fresh grapes arriving that evening from France for her new wine project.
---
By the evening, Aurora sat on a high stool at the kitchen island, her energy still waning easily. Beside her, Nene prepped ingredients and offered assistance as Aurora worked.
Plucking a grape from the bowl of fresh blue grapes, Aurora popped it into her mouth, savouring its burst of sweetness. "This is perfect," she murmured, handing one to Nene.
Nene tasted it and nodded with approval. "It’s excellent."
Using a manual juicer, Aurora crushed the grapes, the vibrant juice flowing into a jug. She added peeled and washed beets to the juicer next, blending them to a deep crimson liquid.
The kitchen buzzed with activity, the air fragrant with fresh produce, as Aurora’s determination carried her through.
Nene smiled naturally seeing the excitement on her face.
---
Xander arrived home as the sun dipped below the horizon. Handing his jacket and briefcase to the butler, his first question was, "Where’s my wife?"
"She’s in the kitchen, sir, making wine," the butler informed him.
Xander’s brows furrowed in mild concern as he strode into the kitchen, where he found Aurora stirring a bowl of bright-coloured liquid, her focus intense.
"Sweetheart," he called softly, stepping closer.
Aurora looked up, her expression lighting up as her eyes met his. "You’re back?"
Nene bowed in greeting. "Welcome home, Mr. Scott."
Xander acknowledged her with a nod before leaning in to kiss Aurora gently. "I see you’ve been busy," he said, glancing at the bowl of wine as he leaned away.
"I’m trying something new for my next wine project," Aurora replied, accepting a vodka bottle from Nene and measuring a precise amount to add to the mixture.
Xander’s gaze tightened with concern. "But there’s no need for this. Your Aunt only mentioned the project as an excuse for your recovery."
Aurora’s lips curved in a small, determined smile. "I know, but I have this idea I want to bring to life. Aunt Stephanie will be thrilled that I actually made progress during my time off."
Despite his reservations, Xander listened as Aurora explained her vision: a wine that pairs perfectly with steak.
"That sounds interesting," he admitted, his worry giving way to admiration. "I can’t wait to see the result," he added as he plopped himself down on a high stool at the kitchen counter.
---
A few minutes later, Aurora poured a small glass of her creation and handed it to Xander. "Tell me your honest opinion," she said, her tone tinged with nervous excitement.
Xander swirled the wine before taking a sip. The flavours danced on his palate—rich, smooth, and a bit balanced. His expression softened, a slow smile spreading across his face.
"It’s exceptional," he said genuinely. "There is a hint of spiciness to it."
Aurora’s eyes sparkled with satisfaction as a hint of fatigue flickered across her features. "I added some cloves for a little spice."
"I think you’re onto something incredible, like your Fruit Punch Champagne," Xander added and took another sip from his glass.
Nene smiled warmly from the side, her gaze moving between the couple. "I agree, Ma’am. It’s one of a kind."
Aurora’s determination eased into quiet pride. Despite her challenges, she was taking steps forward, one sip at a time.
"Thank you for the praises, but I still think something is missing," Aurora said to them after having a sip of the wine herself. "We will continue the project another time."
---
On the other end, Olivia lounged on the couch, absentmindedly munching an apple, when her scrolling suddenly stopped. An influencer’s Instagram story caught her eye. She clicked on the video and watched in disbelief as Owen, her husband, danced in a dimly lit club, sandwiched between two women grinding against him.
Her jaw tightened, and her heart thundered in rage. Tossing the apple onto the coffee table, she grabbed her jacket, yanked it on, and snatched her purse from the nightstand before storming out of the house.
Chapter 127: Ruining His Night
The pulsating music and flashing lights of the club greeted Olivia as she pushed her way through the sweaty, writhing bodies on the dance floor. Her sharp eyes scanned the crowd until she flagged down a waiter.
"I’m looking for Owen Scott," she said curtly, her tone brooking no nonsense.
The waiter pointed toward a private room at the back. Without a word of thanks, Olivia strode toward the door and shoved it open.
Her breath caught at the sight before her. Owen lounged on a plush couch, his arms wrapped around two women, their laughter mingling with the bass-heavy music. Glasses of whiskey and champagne littered the table, and the other guests in the room froze at the intrusion, their gazes snapping toward the furious woman standing in the doorway.
But Owen and his companions remained oblivious, lost in their debauchery.
Olivia’s fists clenched, her nails digging into her palms as her gaze fell on a glass of whiskey on the table. Snatching it up, she splashed its contents across Owen and the two women, the amber liquid soaking their clothes.
"What the fuck!" Owen cursed, jerking upright as the women shrieked in surprise, jumping away from him.
Their collective shock quickly turned to dread as they recognized the figure standing before them.
"Oh, it’s you," Owen said dismissively, leaning back against the couch. His nonchalance fanned the flames of Olivia’s fury. The two women scrambled off the couch and slipped away, avoiding Olivia’s burning glare.
"You’ve sunk so low," Olivia spat, her voice trembling with rage. "You left your pregnant wife at home to come here and make out with random women? You’re pathetic, Owen!"
Owen waved her off lazily, clearly unbothered by her words. "If you are done yelling, you can leave. You are ruining the vibe."
Gasps and murmurs rippled through the room. The other guests exchanged glances, stunned by the unfolding drama.
But Olivia wasn’t going to let Owen humiliate her without a fight. Straightening her shoulders, she fixed him with a glare that could cut through steel. "Come home with me. Now."
Owen smirked, unimpressed. "Or what?"
"Or," Olivia hissed, her voice venomous, "I will send pictures and videos of you making out in a club to every gossip blog in the city."
Owen’s smirk faltered, but he forced a laugh. "I don’t care."
"Maybe not," Olivia agreed, her tone sharp and cutting. "But your family does. Imagine the headlines tomorrow: ’Scott Heir Caught Cheating on Pregnant Wife in Club Scandal.’ I don’t think your precious family’s reputation can survive the fallout."
The room fell silent, every guest holding their breath as the weight of her words sank in. Owen’s jaw tightened, and his carefree facade cracked.
With a sigh of frustration, he stood and straightened his jacket. "Fine," he grumbled. "Congratulations on ruining my night."
Owen turned to shake hands with his friends, muttering promises to catch up later. As he and Olivia left the room, her sharp glare swept over the women who had been with him moments earlier. They averted their eyes, shrinking back.
---
Back at the house, Owen stormed up to the bedroom with Olivia hot on his heels. As soon as the door slammed shut behind them, she rounded on him.
"I have tried to be patient with you, Owen, but it’s not working!" she snapped, her voice rising with every word.
"Then don’t be!" Owen shot back, his voice cold as he stalked into the bathroom and slammed the door.
Olivia stood frozen, her hands balled into fists at her sides. Fury coursed through her veins, and bitterness churned in her chest. She glared at the closed bathroom door, cursing him under her breath.
"That bastard!"
A soft chime from her purse broke her thoughts. Frowning, she pulled out her phone and saw a text from Nene.
"Mrs. Scott will be back in three days. You can call by then."
Relief flickered in Olivia’s eyes as she read the message, her anger at Owen momentarily overshadowed by the satisfaction of knowing she would finally meet Mrs. Scott.
Stuffing her phone back into her purse, she glanced toward the bathroom door, her lips curling into a bitter smile. "You won’t win forever, Owen," she muttered, her voice low but filled with resolve.
---
~Octavia Empire~
At the same time, at Octavia Kingdom, something new was brewing.
The light breeze of the Octavia morning teased the edges of the Princess’s golden hair as she sat on the balcony, a steaming cup of tea in hand and a glossy business magazine resting lightly on her lap.
The rustle of the palace gardens below provided a serene backdrop as she turned a page, her sharp blue eyes scanning the latest features on international business ventures.
The soft shuffle of footsteps announced her secretary’s arrival. He bowed respectfully, his demeanour crisp yet different.
"Your Royal Highness," he began, his tone formal but tinged with satisfaction. "His Majesty, the King, has approved your diplomatic visit to Wing City next month. However, it will now be a state visit."
The Princess’s delicate brows furrowed slightly, and she paused mid-sip. "He’s coming along?"
"Yes, Your Highness," the secretary confirmed, his gaze steady.
A soft sigh escaped her lips as she set the cup gently onto the saucer. The news wasn’t entirely unexpected, though it did add complexity to her plans.
"Very well," she said, her voice measured and composed. "Prepare my itinerary accordingly. I want a visit to Vintage Cellar included in the schedule."
The secretary inclined his head, dutifully noting her request.
"And," she added, her voice firm but laced with a hint of indulgence, "amidst the state engagements, ensure I have a full day of private time. I trust you will make it happen."
"Of course, Your Highness," he replied, bowing deeply before excusing himself with a graceful exit.
Left alone once more, the Princess reclined slightly, her slender fingers brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. A small, knowing smile played on her lips as she picked up her tea again, her eyes drifting to the horizon.
Her thoughts lingered on Wing City and the unfolding intrigue surrounding a particular someone. For now, however, she chose to enjoy the tranquil moment. The magazine once again captured her attention as she resumed reading, the light breeze carrying with it the scent of roses from the garden below.
Chapter 128: Stephanie Knows
"Owen Scott’s Night of Shame: Is the Scott-Swift Union Cracking?"
Scandal strikes again! Owen Scott, heir to the prestigious Scott family and husband to Olivia Swift, was caught red-handed at a Wing City club, indulging in a night of debauchery. Exclusive footage obtained by Tea Time Gossip shows Owen dancing provocatively with not one but two women draped over him, completely unfazed by the eyes of onlookers.
Enter Olivia Swift—furious and unapologetically bold. The socialite stormed into the club, confronting her husband in front of a stunned audience. Witnesses described the scene as "a live soap opera," with Owen brushing off Olivia’s heated outburst and laughing at her rage.
"This takes scandal to a new level," said one clubgoer. "He didn’t even care she was there."
Owen’s blatant disregard for his wife’s feelings is now sparking rumours of a crumbling marriage. Many are questioning how much more Olivia, and the Scott family, will tolerate. With their polished reputation hanging by a thread, whispers suggest the family may soon intervene.
As the drama unfolds, one thing is clear: the Scott-Swift union is under strain. Will Olivia finally take a stand? Will the Scotts rein in Owen’s reckless ways to save face? Or is this the beginning of the end for Wing City’s most high-profile couple?
Stay tuned to Tea Time Gossip for the latest updates—this story is just heating up.
~Tea Time.
---
Xander’s study was bathed in soft light, with the scent of polished mahogany hanging faintly in the air. Xander sat behind his imposing desk, leaning back in his leather chair as Liam stood before him, his expression grave.
"Sir," Liam began, placing a tablet on the desk, its screen aglow with a trending article. "DANTE Group’s stocks have dipped by five percent, primarily due to the scandal involving your nephew, Owen."
Xander’s jaw tightened as he picked up the tablet and read through the gossip blog post detailing Owen’s antics at the club. The photos were damning, showing Owen sandwiched between two women while drinks flowed freely.
"His actions are costing the company," Liam added, his tone calm but firm. "And this isn’t the first time."
Xander’s hand clenched the tablet, his knuckles turning white. Without a word, he reached for his phone and dialled Owen’s number.
The call connected almost immediately. "Uncle," Owen greeted casually, the sound of clinking plates and faint chatter in the background.
Xander didn’t bother with pleasantries. "If you appear in the news again for anything negative, I will personally cut you off from the family—permanently."
"Uncle, wait—" Owen’s voice rose in protest, but Xander ended the call abruptly, his fury palpable.
---
At the other end, Owen lowered his phone, his brows furrowed in confusion. Seated at the table with Olivia and his parents, Patricia and Richard, he quickly opened a gossip blog on his phone to see what had sparked his uncle’s wrath.
The sight of himself in the club, tangled with two women, was plastered all over the screen. His face turned crimson, a mix of anger and embarrassment boiling within him.
Slamming his phone on the table, he turned to Olivia, his voice sharp and accusatory. "Did you do this? Did you send pictures of me at the club to the gossip blogs?"
Olivia didn’t flinch under his glare. Instead, she calmly cut into her toast and took a deliberate bite, ignoring him entirely.
"Olivia!" Owen snapped, his fists slamming against the table. "Answer me!"
Her lack of reaction only fueled his rage. He stood abruptly, his chair scraping loudly against the floor. Without another word, he stormed out of the dining room, leaving his parents and Olivia in tense silence.
Patricia turned to Olivia, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Is there any truth to his accusation?"
"No," Olivia replied, her tone even. She dabbed at the corners of her mouth with a napkin before continuing, "Though I did threaten to expose him, I didn’t actually do it. The photos were already circulating on Instagram when I saw them. That’s why I went to the club to drag him home."
Richard’s face darkened as he processed the information. Setting down his coffee cup with a thud, he growled, "This boy has no sense of responsibility. If he can’t put the same effort into his work as he does into partying, I will block his cards and cut him off financially. He doesn’t even act like a son from the Scott family. Enough is enough!"
---
Xander’s Residence.
Aurora woke up around past nine in the morning and freshened up with Nene’s help before she was led downstairs and straight to the dining room.
"Where’s my husband?" Aurora asked, glancing at the empty head chair where Xander usually sat.
Nene pulled out a chair for her, smiling lightly. "He stormed out about twenty minutes ago."
Aurora’s brows furrowed slightly as she sat down. "Who made him furious?"
Nene sighed and set a tablet in front of her. "The company’s stocks dropped by five percent. Apparently, his famous nephew, Owen, is to blame."
Aurora tilted her head in mild surprise. "What did Owen do this time?"
With a resigned expression, Nene pulled up the articles, showing Aurora the club scandal. As Aurora read, her lips pressed into a thin line, and she shook her head. "My sister must be exhausted dealing with this nearly every day."
"But she brought it upon herself," Nene quipped, placing the tablet aside.
Aurora smirked faintly. "True. She should keep dealing with it, then." She didn’t pity Olivia one bit.
---
Two hours later, the kitchen bustled with quiet energy. Aurora sat on a high stool on the island, ingredients spread before her. Nene and two chefs worked alongside her, the air filled with the fragrant aroma of fresh grapes and dried hibiscus.
"Do you still need the beetroot?" Nene asked as one of the chefs set up the manual juicer.
"No," Aurora replied. "The hibiscus leaves will bring the colour and depth I need."
She worked meticulously, squeezing the juice from the grapes, adding sugar, and blending the hibiscus leaves for a hint of tartness. Despite her lingering fatigue, her determination never wavered.
---
As Aurora adjusted the balance of flavours in the wine, her phone buzzed. Nene glanced at the screen and said, "It’s your Aunt."
Aurora wiped her hands on a towel and took the phone, her tone bright as she answered. "Good morning, Aunt!"
Stephanie’s voice came through warm but tinged with concern. "Aurora, how are you recovering?"
"I’m doing better," Aurora assured her. "Actually, I’ve been experimenting with a new wine idea—something sweet and spicy, perfect for steak."
There was a brief pause on Stephanie’s end. "Aurora, I didn’t expect you to actually work on something during your recovery. You need rest."
"Aunt, I’m fine," Aurora insisted gently. "I’ve produced the third batch today, but something still feels missing. I was hoping to send you a sample for feedback."
"You don’t need to send it," Stephanie said after a moment. "I will come by after work to pick it up myself. Where should I come? Your apartment or... Mr. Scott’s private residence?"
Aurora’s heart stopped. Her grip on the phone tightened, and beads of sweat broke out on her forehead. She exchanged a panicked glance with Nene, who looked puzzled.
"Huh? A-Aunt?" Aurora stammered, her voice barely above a whisper. "W-Why would you come to find me in Mr. Scott’s residence?"
"I know, Aurora," Stephanie said evenly, the weight of her words heavy with implication. "We will talk when I see you. Send your husband’s address to me."
Aurora sat frozen, the phone slipping slightly in her hand as she struggled to steady her breathing. The room around her faded into a blur as Stephanie’s revelation loomed like a storm cloud overhead.
How on earth did she find out that she was married to Xander?!
Chapter 129: Stephanie Visits
Aurora stared at her phone, her fingers trembling as she processed the shocking conversation with her Aunt. Slowly, she turned to Nene, her voice unsteady. "Nene, my Aunt knows... she knows I’m married to Xander."
Nene froze mid-step, her eyes wide with disbelief. "Huh? H-How did she find out?"
"I don’t know," Aurora admitted, her voice carrying a hint of panic. "She didn’t say, but she figured it out somehow."
Nene began pacing the kitchen, her mind racing. "Could there have been a slip-up somewhere? Did someone say something?"
Aurora shook her head, though uncertainty clouded her expression. "I don’t think so. But there’s no use guessing now." Straightening in her seat, she took a calming breath and issued instructions. "Send our house address to my Aunt. Then call Xander—I need to let him know about this immediately."
"Yes, Ma’am." Nene swiftly picked up Aurora’s phone, sending the address to Stephanie before dialling Xander’s number. As the phone rang, she asked hesitantly, "Ma’am, can we trust your Aunt with this?"
Aurora’s answer came without hesitation. "I do. My dad may have hurt me in ways I can never forget, but I trust his judgment. He handed Vintage Cellar to Stephanie because he believed in her leadership, and she has lived up to it."
Though Nene nodded, her worry lingered. Aurora continued as if sensing her doubt. "Stephanie isn’t like my stepmother. If it were Stella who discovered this, we would have a real problem on our hands."
The call finally connected, but it was Liam’s voice that came through. "Good afternoon, Ma’am. This is Liam speaking."
Nene covered the phone’s receiver and whispered to Aurora, "It’s Liam."
Aurora quickly took the phone, her tone steady. "Liam, is my husband free to take the call?"
"Apologies, Ma’am," Liam replied, his professionalism unwavering. "Mr. Scott is currently in a meeting with DANTE Group’s board of directors. Should I inform him of your call once the meeting concludes?"
Aurora glanced at the clock, frustration flashing in her eyes. She didn’t think she would be able to wait until the time Xander called back. "There’s no need to interrupt. Just pass on this message—tell him my Aunt knows we are married, and she’s coming here after work."
"Understood, Ma’am. I will inform him as soon as possible," Liam assured her.
As the call ended, Aurora set the phone down on the counter, her hands trembling slightly.
"Ma’am, you’re shaking," Nene observed, concern lining her face.
"Am I?" Aurora muttered absentmindedly, staring at her trembling fingers.
Nene immediately stepped forward, helping her off the stool. "You need to rest. This is too much stress for you." She signalled the chefs to pack away the ingredients, then gently guided Aurora out of the kitchen.
---
A few hours later, the sound of a sleek car pulling up outside the house announced Stephanie’s arrival. Nene greeted her at the door with a polite bow.
Stephanie was dressed impeccably in an off-white suit paired with gold accessories that caught the light. Her sharp gaze swept over the house as Nene introduced herself. "I’m Nene, Mrs. Scott’s secretary. Please, come in."
Stephanie followed her into the spacious living room, where Nene offered her a warm towel and a cup of tea. Stephanie accepted gracefully, her movements elegant as she settled onto the couch.
"Where is my niece?" Stephanie asked after taking a sip of tea.
The sound of soft footsteps answered her question. Nene turned with a smile. "Mrs. Scott is here."
Stephanie looked up just as Aurora entered the room, her voice soft but warm. "Aunty."
Stephanie’s eyes narrowed with concern as she took in Aurora’s pale complexion. She immediately stood, her arms outstretched. "Aurora, come here."
For the first time in years, Aurora stepped into her Aunt’s embrace, her nervousness melting away under the warmth of Stephanie’s hold.
"I’m relieved to see you recovering," Stephanie said, patting Aurora’s back before releasing her.
As they sat on the couch, Stephanie’s sharp gaze swept over her. "How are you feeling? Did the surgery go well?"
Aurora hesitated, her brows furrowing. "I’m better, but... I don’t remember much about the hospital or the procedure itself."
Stephanie’s brows drew together in concern. She turned to Nene. "Did the surgery affect her memory?"
"A little," Nene admitted, before excusing herself to give them privacy.
Stephanie redirected her attention to Aurora, her expression softening. "I’m glad to see you’re being cared for," she said sincerely.
After a pause, Aurora gathered her courage and asked, "Aunty, how did you know I was married to Xander? We worked so hard to keep it private."
Stephanie’s lips curled into a faint smile, her gaze shrewd. "I wouldn’t have known if you both hadn’t confirmed my suspicions. I’ve known you long enough to recognize that you would never entertain gossip linking you to a married man, even if he were a friend. And Xander Scott doesn’t strike me as a man who would casually flaunt a relationship unless there was something deeper."
Aurora’s eyes widened as realization dawned. Her Aunt’s perceptiveness had caught her and Xander off guard.
Stephanie smiled, "Normally, I wouldn’t have let Xander comfort you so openly at your father’s funeral without confronting you about it. But I knew you were married, so I stayed silent."
Aurora nodded slowly, recalling how Stephanie had scolded her over the articles suggesting she was Xander’s mistress. If Stephanie hadn’t already known the truth, she would have caused a scene even when Xander escorted her out of the Swift’s residence before the funeral.
"Once I had my suspicions," Stephanie continued, "I went to the marriage registry. They wouldn’t release your husband’s name, but I pieced together the rest myself."
Aurora’s surprise was evident. "Why didn’t you hint at this earlier?"
"I did," Stephanie replied calmly. "Recently."
"Huh?" Aurora’s brows furrowed in confusion. "When?"
"When you came to my office to tell me about your surgery. If I hadn’t known about Xander, I would’ve demanded the details and checked on you personally. But I trusted you were in good hands and stepped back."
Aurora bit her lip, feeling foolish for missing these signs. She praised her Aunt’s sharp instincts before hesitantly asking about Stella, worried she might have guessed the truth too.
"Stella has no idea," Stephanie reassured firmly. "She’s too preoccupied with trying to hand Vintage Cellar to Olivia. That truth won’t cross her mind."
Their conversation shifted to Stella, and Aurora couldn’t help but issue a warning. "Aunty, be careful around her. She doesn’t make empty threats." She remembered how Stella attempted to kill her but ended up killing her father instead, so she thought to warn her Aunt since the latter didn’t know about it yet.
Stephanie’s lips curled into a knowing smile. "I am well aware, but she will never succeed as long as I’m here.
After a moment, Stephanie leaned forward, her tone growing serious. "Your father and I discussed something important before he passed that I thought you might want to know."
Aurora’s heart skipped a beat, her voice urgent. "What did you both talk about?"
Chapter 130: Stephanie’s Take
Stephanie exhaled deeply, her tone heavy with seriousness. "What your father shared with me shook me to my core."
Aurora’s brows furrowed with impatience. "What was it?"
Stephanie hesitated, leaning slightly forward as though deliberating whether to speak. Finally, she sighed again and shook her head. "This is sensitive information. We will discuss it later. For now, let’s focus on the wine."
Though disappointed, Aurora understood that whatever her aunt wanted to reveal was too significant to be rushed. She nodded, rising to her feet to lead Stephanie toward the kitchen. She motioned for Stephanie to sit at the island and instructed one of the chefs to bring out the wine.
Two wine glasses were placed in front of them, and a chef poured the freshly crafted batch.
Stephanie swirled the wine in her glass, her sharp eyes examining the deep hue. "Rich aroma," she noted, her voice carrying a note of approval. She brought the glass to her lips, taking small, deliberate sips, her brow furrowing as she processed the flavours.
"I can taste blue grapes, plum," she said thoughtfully, pausing to click her tongue against her palate. "Sugar, cloves... and is that mint?"
Aurora stifled a laugh at her aunt’s perceptiveness. "It is," she admitted proudly.
Stephanie took another sip, her discerning gaze focused as she tried to isolate the flavours. Finally, she tilted her head, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "There’s something else here. What is it?"
"Hibiscus leaves," Aurora answered with a smile. "For the colour and health benefits."
Stephanie nodded, placing her glass down. "You’ve done well, Aurora. This is an inventive mix, but it still needs refining."
Aurora beamed at the praise but leaned forward eagerly. "What would you suggest?"
Stephanie lifted the glass again, examining it as she spoke. "Reduce the hibiscus—it stains too strongly and risks overpowering the original colour. Replace the mint with cinnamon; it’ll balance the cloves better. And finally, consider adding pineapple for sweetness and a unique twist."
Aurora’s lips curved into a bright smile. "Aunt, you’re a lifesaver. These are exactly the pointers I need to perfect the wine."
Stephanie returned the smile, finishing the glass with satisfaction. "I’m glad to help. You’re onto something with this idea."
Aurora and Stephanie chatted a bit about the wine and how Vintage Cellar has been carrying on since she left for the ’research program’ before Stephanie announced she was leaving.
Aurora walked her out of the kitchen, the conversation shifting back to the earlier matter. Stephanie stopped briefly and turned, her expression serious. "The conversation I had with your father is something we will discuss soon. How about over steak and your improved batch of wine?"
Aurora nodded eagerly, already planning her adjustments. "I will have it ready by this weekend."
Stephanie chuckled softly. "Don’t overwork yourself. And remember, ferment the grapes and pineapple peels for depth. That will give us a better idea of the wine’s final taste."
As they entered the living room, Aurora paused when she noticed Xander stepping in, his jacket draped over his arm. At the same time, Stephanie picked up her bag, and straightened her gaze to meet Xander’s.
"It seems your husband is home," she remarked, her voice neutral.
Aurora watched as Xander’s unreadable expression shifted slightly at the sight of her aunt. She went to him, slipping her arm through his. "You’re back," she greeted warmly.
Xander gave a faint hum of acknowledgment before his eyes shifted back to Stephanie. "I see you’ve had company."
"Yes," Aurora said, turning to Stephanie. "Aunt, this is my husband, Xander Scott. Darling, this is Aunt Stephanie as you already know. She is my Dad’s younger sister and Chairwoman of Vintage Cellar. She came to review my wine."
Xander stepped forward, extending his hand firmly. "Thank you for visiting, Mrs. Coker."
Stephanie shook his hand, meeting his steady gaze. "Thank you for taking care of my niece."
Aurora observed the tension that seemed to hover in the air between them but couldn’t place its source.
"It seems you’re leaving," Xander said, stepping back.
"I have other engagements," Stephanie replied with a faint smile. "Perhaps we will have more time to chat another day."
"Hopefully," Xander said, his tone polite but distant. "Good night, Mrs. Coker,"
"Good night, Mr. Scott," Stephanie replied and finally withdrew her gaze from him.
Aurora walked her aunt to the door, Nene joining them. Outside, Aurora’s curiosity piqued when she saw Stephanie unlock her own car.
"Aunt, where’s your chauffeur?"
Stephanie climbed into the driver’s seat with a faint smile. "No one else needs to know I was here."
Aurora nodded in understanding. "Don’t forget to erase the GPS history," she reminded.
Stephanie laughed lightly. "You’re learning." With a wave, she drove off into the night.
Aurora turned back inside, finding Nene waiting at the door. "Where’s my husband?"
"Upstairs, ma’am. Likely in the bedroom."
Aurora’s lips curled into a soft smile as she climbed the stairs. Entering the room, her eyes landed on Xander standing by the window with a towel wrapped around his waist, his dragon tattoo vivid against the toned muscles of his back.
The sight made her pause, her chest tightening with a mix of admiration and anticipation. She stepped closer, the sound of her footsteps causing him to glance over his shoulder, his dark eyes locking with hers.
"Your Aunt has left?" Xander asked, a subtle smile curving his lips as he turned to face Aurora.
"Yes," Aurora answered softly, her steps faltering halfway across the room. Her eyes lingered on the defined planes of his chest and his toned muscles. She didn’t try to hide her obvious stare, the sight of him momentarily stealing her thoughts.
Xander noticed, his smile deepening. "Care to join me for a shower?" he asked, extending his hand toward her.
Aurora’s gaze flickered to his hand before she stepped forward, slipping hers into his without hesitation. The instant her fingers met his, Xander pulled her closer, his other hand snaking around her waist as he effortlessly swept her into his arms.
"Xander!" Aurora yelped in surprise, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck as a giggle bubbled from her lips.