Married To My Billionaire Stepbrother novel Chapter 197

Chapter 197: Am I Being So Cruel?

Briena returned home after spending time with Ivan, where the Ford family was eagerly waiting for her.

"My dear daughter," Clara said warmly as Briena walked in.

With a triumphant smile, Briena hurried over to her mother, who pulled her into a hug. "I am so proud of you. From the moment you were born, I knew you were destined to make our family proud."

"Thank you, Mom," Briena replied, her voice filled with pride.

Her father, Jay, approached and embraced her in a warm, fatherly hug. "You truly are the pride of this family."

"Thank you, Dad."

Briena then looked toward her grandmother, Sephina, her expression softening apologetically. "I’m sorry, Grandma, for leaving without telling you, but..."

"As long as everything turned out well, that’s what matters," Sephina said, patting her head gently. "I’m proud of you. You always justify my faith in you. I knew you were the true phoenix of this family, the one who would bring us pride and success."

"Thank you, Grandma."

Sephina nodded and asked, "Did you read the contract before signing?"

Briena was momentarily taken aback but replied, "It was the same version they gave us to review with the legal team." She felt confident, reasoning that such a reputable company would have no reason to deceive her. "And they’ve already transferred half of my agreed fee."

"Already?" Clara asked, as Briena showed her the confirmation on her phone.

Clara’s eyes widened, and she gasped. "If that’s only half, then the full amount... You’re going to be one of the wealthiest celebrities."

Briena nodded, smiling. "This is just the beginning. Soon, I’ll be earning sums no one has ever dreamed of."

"What else did you discuss with them?" Sephina inquired, her expression serious.

"They sent the details to Ana. Tomorrow, they’ll send the schedule, then we’ll meet the other actors cast in different roles and begin script readings..." Briena continued, "They’re eager to start filming since this is their biggest project of the year. I’ll be busy from tomorrow onward."

"No one will disturb you," Clara assured her. "Focus entirely on this movie. Any other engagements can be postponed or canceled."

----

At Natalie’s home.

Justin returned to the dining table after quickly throwing on some clothes, his slightly damp hair tousled casually by his fingers.

Natalie was already seated, waiting for him. Her heart nearly skipped a beat at the sight—he looked effortlessly enticing, his casual clothes and unruly hair adding a youthful charm to his mature, composed appearance.

Clothed or unclothed, this man could make anyone think sinful thoughts, she couldn’t help but muse, entirely captivated.

Justin took his seat across from her, noticing her unblinking gaze. "If you’re not planning to have me for dinner, we’d better start. Otherwise, we might end up eating each other. And just so you know, I’m a ravenous eater," he teased with a playful grin.

Natalie snapped back to reality, clearing her throat as she began uncovering the dishes and serving them. Justin, smirking at her flustered reaction, helped her serve as well.

They ate together quietly, with Justin refraining from further teasing, letting her enjoy the meal in peace.