The Imposter Bride by Sallie Woods

Chapter 1

June in Melfort wasn’t as sweltering as one might have imagined, given its proximity to the sea. But the unpredictable weather was enough to cause a fair share of frustration, and the sea breeze provided little relief.

Natalia sat on the balcony of her second–story study at dusk, gently stroking her heavily pregnant belly. “Just a few more weeks, my darling, and you’ll be part of the world. Mommy will give you all her love.”

Perhaps this child was the only warmth in her life. She closed her eyes, letting her mind wander.

Her phone rang breaking her reverie. It was a video call from Kendra, her sister. Natalia picked up the phone, instinctively opening the video. What she saw was a man and woman entwined in a passionate embrace.

“Magnus, be gentle!” the woman moaned, blushing

The video lasted for three minutes, filled with the sounds of heavy breathing, soft cries, and laughter.

Her husband and sister were having an affair. Natalia laughed, a bitter sound that ended in a sob. She turned around, her hands instinctively going to her belly. She was trembling, and her legs were weak. As she tried to stand, her foot caught on the carpet, sending her tumbling to the floor

The pain in her abdomen was sharp, making it hard to breathe. She tried to get up, but her vision was blurred with tears Suddenly, the bedroom door swung open. “Ms. Natalia, what happened?” her maid cried.

Natalia’s last memory before passing out was the sound of the butler’s voice. “Call Mr. Magnus! Ms. Natalia is going into labor!”

a hospital. Where was her baby? She tried to sit up, but

Natalia, you’re awake,” the nurse

but her throat was dry. The nurse held a cup of water to her lips. “What do you

was

sympathy. After adjusting the IV for Natalia, she said, “Get some rest, okay? If you need anything, just

voice raspy and strained, grabbed her arm. “Where’s my

make it,” the

Natalia felt as if a bucket

and lack of oxygen,

be true! He was kicking and lively inside

from her arm, and without even putting on her shoes, she dashed out of her room. The nurse noticed the blood dripping from

“Leave me alone!”

muster, Natalia pushed the nurse away and stumbled toward the nursery. She caught a doctor

didn’t get enough oxygen.

arms fell to her sides, defeated Tears streamed down her pale face. “My dear baby, are you

the family butler, Linden, rushed in with a pair of shoes for Natalia. He’d only

staircase and descended. She reached the entrance of the hospital and looked up at the sky. wondering if her child was up there waiting for her.