A Wedding Night Gone Terribly Wrong novel Chapter 82

"Let me introduce him properly," the voice said. "That novel was crowned the pinnacle of online literature for the year. And that's not all—the great author Stanley has four other classic bestsellers to his name. He's worth over a hundred million and ranks number one on the young authors' income list."

Winifred turned toward the voice. A young, fiercely handsome man with an undeniable aura of wealth was walking toward them.

Stanley grabbed the man's arm. "This is Huxley Sheldon, an old friend of mine."

Stanley let out a laugh. "Dr. Shultz, forgive me for being presumptuous, but you actually look a little bit like my friend here."

Huxley grinned easily. "How could I possibly compare to Dr. Shultz? She's gorgeous, and I'm just a rough guy."

Annelise burst into laughter, leaning against Winifred's leg. "Mommy, the mister said he's a rough guy! A rough guy! *Giggle*."

Stanley's eyes widened. "This little one is... your daughter?"

"Yes," Winifred replied.

Stanley rubbed his forehead, masking a wave of disappointment. The first time he visited the clinic, he had seen Winifred's beautiful eyes above her medical mask, heard her soothing voice, and entertained a few romantic fantasies.

Annelise grinned brightly. "I have a brother, too!"

Seth shot Stanley a cool, assessing glare. Stanley froze for a second, then offered an awkward smile. He was officially put in his place.

He quickly pulled out his wallet, grabbed all the cash he had, and tried to hand it to the kids. "Here, here! It's our first time meeting. I want to give you a little gift. Buy yourselves something nice!"

"No!" Annelise instantly retreated, hiding behind her mother's legs.

Seth held up a polite but firm hand. "No, thank you."

The dynamic quickly shifted into a warm, friendly atmosphere. Winifred pulled Stanley aside for a private word.

"Stanley, I need a favor."

Stanley puffed out his chest. "Name it, Dr. Shultz. I'll do whatever you need."

"The mermaid show is about to start. Could you take my kids up to the front by the Glass Sea to watch?"

Stanley understood immediately. As an adult, he knew kids couldn't see anything from the back rows. It was an easy request, and he agreed without hesitation. "Consider it done."

Winifred hesitated before adding, "To be completely honest, my ex-husband is here tonight. He's with his girlfriend and her niece. It's... not convenient for me to show my face. And the kids are mine..."