My Stand-In Groom Is A Secret Tycoon by Lydia Pierce

Alistair had highlighted Audrey's strengths, hoping to ease Evelyn's concerns about her background. But instead, his words only made her worry even more.

With a sigh, Alistair explained, "Mom, Audrey and I are both adults. There's no question of forcing anyone. We're together because we want to be."

Evelyn still looked unconvinced and exclaimed, "No way! You're clueless when it comes to romance. I should come over and meet her myself. I can't risk losing such an amazing daughter!" Rubbing his temples, Alistair tried to persuade her. "Mom, we just got married. Our relationship's still new, and I don't want to overwhelm her. Maybe come later?"

Evelyn huffed, looking a bit miffed. "Do I seem that scary? I'm not some mean mother."

"Of course not," Alistair replied, softening his tone and reassuring her patiently. After much convincing, he finally got her to hold off on visiting.

Audrey, who had overheard their conversation, felt her heart sink outside the door. She turned away quietly and left without a sound.

Just as she walked off, Alistair seemed to sense something and glanced toward the door.

After a brief pause, Alistair stood up and opened the study door, only to find the hallway empty. Shaking his head, he returned to his work.

Back in her room, Audrey drank the milk alone, hugging a pillow by the window, her thoughts a mess.

plan from the start, so why am I even thinking about feelings? After all, I don't

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morning, Audrey left for work before Alistair woke up, clearly avoiding

Audrey didn't seem quite herself. Just two hours into the workday,

couldn't entirely hide the exhaustion on Audrey's face, like she hadn't slept

a moment's hesitation, Emily asked, "Audrey, are you feeling okay? The project's already signed. Today's work isn't too important, so if you're tired, you could head home to rest." Audrey glanced at her and suddenly motioned for her to come closer, pointing to the chair across from her.

everything bottled up inside. She just

what's on your mind?"

kid. Do you think her husband could've married her for love?" Emily had no idea about the so-called friends. And

to think twice.

family gossip I've heard, your friend's husband is clearly just looking for a free babysitter. Love's got

rushes into marriage for love, she needs to get out before she's in too deep. "Being a stepmom is tough. Kids are sensitive, and if anything goes wrong, everyone

stigma against stepmoms, where people expected the worst from them. No

your own kid, even if you raised them right, there was no guarantee they'd be close to you in the end. It's a thankless