Unmasking the Heiress by Sisi Yea

"Health? Why bother fussing over this old body?" Cole's voice was heavy with bitterness. "Trapped in this massive, empty house all day, forbidden from stepping outside-it might as well be a prison. I've lived a full life, and I'm done with these bitter concoctions!" Evangeline's eyes sparkled with understanding as she realized her hunch was right.

Her grandfather might have thrown in the towel, but she had a trick up her sleeve.

"Don't you want to meet your great-grandson?" She set aside her spoon and gently patted her growing belly. "Grandpa, this little rascal is a real handful. He's always doing somersaults inside, eager to pop out and see you!"

Cole's eyes lit up with a mix of joy and regret. "Of course, my great-grandson! How could that slip my mind?"

When the maid came back, she found them in a fit of giggles and wondered what had happened. A quick glance revealed the chicken soup bowl, polished clean.

"Ms. Evangeline, your oatmeal is ready."

Evangeline did not even glance at the bowl, with a subtle look, she signaled for the maid to pass it to Cole.

To the maid's astonishment, Cole took it and devoured it eagerly, savoring every spoonful.

With the oatmeal finished and a contented burp, Cole settled beside Evangeline.

Cole felt the urge to ask about something that

away, his biggest concern

all smiles and sweet gestures, but Cole could not shake the feeling

can I ask you something?" Cole broke

wave of gread crept

but

course,

beat around the

Evangeline casually popped a piece of

and Walter lately? You guys haven't been fighting,

melon went down the wrong pipe, and Evangeline hacked away until she finally got it out. "Grandpa! Me and Walter, fighting? What made

Cole's watchful eye, Evangeline got serious and lifted her right hand for him to see. "Check this out.

glint of gold circled her slender wrist. It was only upon a closer look that one could

Did you

her throat, ready to show off her new