(Not) The Billionaire’s Replacement Bride

Ariana’s pregnancy was progressing, her belly growing larger. Time seemed to pass incredibly fast as she savored these moments. She enjoyed the times when Gerald pampered her. Although they often disagreed when Gerald refused to fulfill Ariana’s wishes, and vice versa, they always found a middle ground in the end.

Axel also turned out to be a good child. He seemed content with his daily routine, alternating between school and their apartment. He wasn’t fussy and didn’t ask for his grandmother or his nanny. Ariana, Gerald, and the unborn baby seemed to be enough for him.

During holidays, they spent time together. Gerald didn’t dare take Ariana on exhausting trips. Instead, they mostly enjoyed watching movies, having meals together, or reading. If Axel wanted to go to the playground or swim in a public pool, his caregiver was always with him while Gerald and Ariana chose to stay back and enjoy their time in their own way.

Gerald also regularly accompanied Ariana to her medical check-ups. Not just to the obstetrician but also to the cardiologist. Yes, that arrogant doctor became Ariana’s specialist now. Despite Gerald’s jealousy, he knew the man was indeed skilled in his field.

So far, Ariana hadn’t complained about her condition. Though there were occasional chest pains on her left side, she chose not to mention it to Gerald, fearing he might overreact.

As for their intimate life, Ariana felt pity for her husband. But Gerald was so considerate. Because he was reluctant to risk anything for the baby in Ariana’s womb, Gerald abstained. He felt content with Ariana’s kisses and embraces. Holding her at night, he said, was already comforting for him. And Ariana was truly grateful and appreciative of her husband’s understanding.

Regarding Mrs. Rosaline, Ariana still didn’t understand why Gerald had shut the door of their residence to the woman. What she knew for sure was that Gerald had explicitly warned everyone not to let Mrs. Rosaline in. If Mrs. Rosaline wanted to meet Axel, she could do so outside the apartment.

Ariana also heard news from the restaurant staff about her mother and her twin sister’s arrival, accompanied by Shelma. Clearly, her mother wanted to see her with the intention of asking for money from Gerald. As for Shelma, Ariana didn’t know what the woman wanted. What was clear was that Shelma was likely to confront her because she had decided to go back to Gerald.

“I don’t know what your mom wants; she came to the restaurant and caused a scene,” Amber recounted her conversation with her mother, her twin, and Shelma.

“Amber, Aunt knows you know where Gerald is. Tell me, Aunt has some business with him,” Amber furrowed her brows. “Who’s Gerald, anyway?” Amber asked back. “Don’t joke, how could you not know who Gerald is?” Karenina’s voice now cut in.

Amber rolled her eyes. “I know who Gerald is, if you’re talking about Gerald Zeroun. But who is he to you?” she countered, leaving the two women stunned.

“He’s my daughter’s husband,” Caitlyn replied firmly. Not only Amber and Jody were present in the restaurant’s central area now. Several kitchen staff had also emerged, curious about the commotion. They all looked at the three stylishly dressed women, their gazes more focused on Karenina and Caitlyn.

“Whose daughter are we talking about?” Amber inquired, wanting to know the whole story.

“Don’t play games, Amber,” Karenina snapped.

“I’m not playing games, Karen!” Amber hissed. “Ariana hasn’t been your sister, your daughter, since you left her with my uncle fifteen years ago.” Amber stated loudly. “You never cared about how she was left with my uncle, helpless due to his stroke because you were too enamored with your new husband’s wealth. And now, why should you bother acknowledging her as your daughter again? Where were you for the last fifteen years? Where were you? What do you know about your own daughter?”

“But I arranged her marriage to Gerald, the man who should have been Karenina’s husband,” Mrs. Caitlyn replied, with Karenina nodding in agreement. “He should be my son-in-law now and marrying Ariana, Gerald remains my son-in-law.”

Amber raised her eyebrow. “But Ariana didn’t ask to marry Gerald. If your daughter hadn’t run away before the wedding, maybe. Gerald would have been your son-in-law. But considering she fled and Ariana was forced to be the replacement bride, you can’t claim Gerald as your son-in-law anymore. Moreover, it wasn’t Ariana who wanted to marry Gerald, but Gerald who trapped Ariana so that she had no choice but to marry him. Stop bothering Ariana and her life. Go back to your life that you have enjoyed for the last fifteen years. Find another husband for Karenina. There are plenty of wealthy men in this country. Whether they’re single or married, young or old. It seems like neither you nor your daughter would mind, as long as your partners can provide the luxuries you need, isn’t that so?”

“You’re audacious!” Mrs. Caitlyn raised her hand as if to slap Amber. However, Jody was quicker and caught the woman’s small hand.

“I don’t like seeing violence, ma’am,” Jody said sharply.

“Why should you be angry, Aunt? In fact, you left my uncle by being a homewrecker, just because the man was rich. No need to be ashamed, because a corpse will still stink.” Amber continued without shame. “At least have a little shame, Aunt. If you can’t fulfill your duties as a mother to Ariana, at least let her live peacefully with the person she loves. Don’t disturb her life, don’t harass her.” Amber said with a pleading tone, her words containing pain due to her fear for Ariana’s condition. About the possibility of Ariana’s remaining years during pregnancy and childbirth. As a friend and cousin, Amber also wanted to be a part that could make Ariana happy.

“Sorry if I went too far, but I’m really disgusted with your mother and your sibling.”

Ariana didn’t comment much. Although she felt Amber’s words were excessive, she believed Amber did it out of love for her. Considering Amber had known her history all along. In return, Ariana asked Amber not to say anything to Gerald and make him lose control and do something irrational.

Amber herself promised that this would remain their secret. Because she and Jody had asked the restaurant staff not to speak about it.