Ambush of the Quadruplets novel Chapter 21

“Son,” Julianna said to Adrien in a hushed whisper. “I think… we should maintain a distance from Emmeline Louise.”

“She’s the mother of my children,” Adrien shrugged himself free of his mother’s grip. “How could I stand by and do nothing when she’s in trouble?”

“She’s too feral, son. She’ll never listen to you if you marry her,” Julianna explained to Adrien, who just stared dumbly at his mother.

Emmeline was still taking in the fact that Abel had offered to pay the Lanes for all the damage she had caused. “Mr. Ryker, I…” she began.

“Don’t worry about it,” Abel said without a hint of emotion in his voice. “Treat it as a personal loan. You can pay me back slowly.”

Before Emmeline could continue speaking, Ethan had already rushed to grab Abel’s hands, shaking them vigorously. “Mr. Ryker, thank you so much! I will work hard to help my sister pay off the loan, don’t you worry!” Ethan said gratefully.

“Mm,” Abel nodded expressionless as he retracted his hand back from Ethan’s warm grip.

“Mr. Ryker! How could you…” Alana whined petulantly, but Abel had already turned around to leave. She turned to Rosaline for support instead. “Auntie Rosaline, how could Abel side with an outsider like Emmeline! I’m the one who gave you a grandchild!”

“I know, child,” Rosaline had a tight expression. “You went overboard tonight, Alana. I’m only letting you off this time because of Timothy.”

“Rosaline,” Alondra wormed her way over. “My niece is a woman of good character and upbringing. She will surely bear you more grandchildren in the future!”

“That would be best,” Rosaline nodded. “I’m not losing to that old hag!”

“Mr. Ryker,” Alondra said as she approached Adrien next. “I’m Emmeline’s stepmother, Alondra. I know the girl inside out. She probably can’t give birth to another child after having triplets. You should really think this through!” Alondra urged.

“Is that the case?” Rosaline’s eyes widened. “That will not do. I would still like to have two granddaughters. If Emmeline cannot bear any more children, what do we need her for?”

“You can’t take in her three children either!” Rosaline continued. “They’re rude and ill-mannered and would only bring shame to the Ryker family.”