Rejected, And Became A Heiress

Chapter 32

As I feel myself falling, I cradle my belly with my hands, instinctively moving to protect my unborn child. I twist my body in the air to land on my bottom, protecting my stomach. Lilia looks at me with wild, wide eyes. "Why are you holding your belly like that? Like you're.. pregnant?!"

Cara

The instant Lilia says the word "pregnant, I know that my escape plan is in danger. That my baby might be in danger.

I pretend I didn't hear her words and rush out of the office. I have to see Ruby.

I need to know my baby is okay after Lilia tripped me and I fell need to see an obstetrician.

Also, I'm deeply, incredibly shaken up and upset. I need to see my best friend.

I arrive at the hospital quickly and explain to Ruby what happened.

"I should be charging you extra for all these frequent hospital vis" Ruby jokes. She's trying to make me feel better, to take my mind off the hurt of Lilia's insulting words.

I smile, but I'm sure it doesn't reach my eyes. I feel so exhausted

"You look terrible. Sweetheart." Ruby says.

This gets a good belly laugh out of me. "Thanks, Honey. I knew could count on you to cheer me up!" I say sarcastically.

"Do you think she's going to tell Alaric? About the pregnancy?" Ruby asks sincerely.

it's not like she has any real proof.." I mull over the idea in my mind. "But

words, but I can tell by the look

going to keep letting them hurt you like this?" Ruby's

go after the wedding is over tomorrow, but I have

ceremony."

you to make the bed

at this point if he asked me to do just that. It's a sign of how

suddenly. "I'll cover for you-I'll say you're sick or something-and you leave tomorrow morning before the wedding starts." It's not

of wondering whether Lilia would

muster up all the determination I can manage

plan

be okay, now, I just need to follow the plan. I'm feeling better than I have in a very long time when

man standing right outside the door, arm raised and about to knock

14

Wed Jan

Chapter 20

make his face. I recognize that distinct

Richard.

He says when he

ask, repeating the same words he said. to me in this very hospital not

guilty. "I'm sorry about that And

who put the powder on my hands when I ask the question, but the solemn look on his face tells me my guess was correct. "Yes. I am truly, very sorry, Cara. I am... mistaken... and I hope you'll find it in your heart to forgive me. His eyes are watery, like he's feeling quite distraught

"It's fine."