My Substitute Wife is a Bigwig (Loud and Lily) novel Chapter 148

Julia couldn't comprehend why the Lauriers not only didn't get furious but they also doted on Lily when, in fact, Shannon was supposed to be engaged to Loid in the first place.

"Mrs. Goldberg, you and your family may leave if there isn't anything else. Loid is still sleeping, and I wouldn't want anyone to disturb him." Melanie peered at Julia coldly. She sat down with a shuttered expression.

Stefan had been silent. Given the Martinez family's status, he didn't see the need to engage in a conversation with them.

"We'll take our leave then," Julia said, nodding politely at Melanie. She left promptly with her family.

None of the Martinezes managed to speak except for Julia.

Withdrawing her gaze after they left, Melanie snorted. "Their nerve to brag about their measly schemes in front of me! Never once did they treat Lily well. Yet, now they're trying to use her name to gain an investment from us. That is some wishful thinking!"

Stefan peeled an orange for her and chimed in, "Don't get yourself worked up. Even Lily isn't affected."

"How do you know she's unaffected?" Melanie scowled at him. "She's used to masking herself with indifference, but deep down she's still very fragile. As her mother-in-law, I won't let anyone take advantage of her!"

Stefan remained silent and shook his head. Seemingly lost in thought, Melanie suddenly jerked her head up and exclaimed solemnly, "I've decided!"

"What have you decided?" Stefan glanced at her, wondering what tricks she had up her sleeve now.

"I'm going to host a banquet to publicly announce my daughter-in-law's identity!"