I Ctrl+Alt+Deleted My Ex and Ctrl+C'd His Uncle novel Chapter 20

**Chapter 20**

Sophie felt utterly drained. Just as she was about to surrender to the comforting embrace of sleep, her mother’s voice pierced through the tranquility like a sudden storm.

“Sophie, get up! We have to prepare for Mr. Morgan’s birthday banquet tonight!”

With a groan, she buried her face deeper into the pillow, her eyelids heavy and reluctant to part. “Mom, I’m completely wiped out. Can’t I just sleep a little longer?”

Mrs. Chandler, concerned, placed her hand gently on Sophie’s forehead, her brow furrowing. “No fever… But why do you seem so fatigued all the time lately? Are you feeling unwell?”

A jolt of panic surged through Sophie, her heart racing at the thought of her secret being discovered. With a sudden burst of energy, she shot up, her voice firm yet pleading. “I’m not sick! I just didn’t sleep well last night.” She gently nudged her mother toward the door, desperate for privacy. “Please, go on. I really need to get dressed.”

Two hours later, the Chandler family was on their way to the Morgan family’s grand estate, nestled halfway up a mountain. After his retirement, Mr. Morgan Sr. had chosen this secluded location, rarely venturing out or welcoming guests into his home.

The evening’s banquet was an exclusive affair, meant only for family. Sophie knew that if it weren’t for her engagement to Liam, they likely wouldn’t have received an invitation at all.

As they reached the foot of the mountain, they transferred to one of the Morgans’ official vehicles, the anticipation of the evening mingling with her unease.

The winding road twisted and turned, and as soon as Sophie settled into her seat, a wave of nausea crashed over her.

“Pull over!” she gasped, the driver barely having time to react before she tumbled out of the car, retching violently by the roadside.

“Sophie, you’ve never been carsick before. What’s happening?” her mother’s voice trembled with concern, eyes wide as she rushed to her side.

Sophie, aware of the truth lurking beneath her words, quickly fabricated an excuse. “I must have eaten something bad at lunch.”

“Ms. Chandler, the estate has an in-house doctor. Should I call someone to assist you?” the driver suggested, his tone laced with worry.

She waved him off, forcing a smile. “No, it’s really okay. I just need a moment to breathe.”

Yet, the nausea surged again, a relentless tide that made the thought of getting back into the car unbearable.

Mrs. Chandler’s gaze sharpened, suspicion creeping into her expression. Sophie felt the walls closing in, panic bubbling inside her.

At this rate, her secret would inevitably be unveiled.

“Don’t mention it. It was Mr. Morgan who noticed something was off and sent me to get you,” he replied, his voice cool yet unyielding.

She turned to Marcus, her gratitude palpable. “Thank you, Mr. Morgan.”

“Mm.” He regarded her with a penetrating gaze. “Carsick or morning sickness?”

“I never get carsick. It’s probably morning sickness,” she admitted, her cheeks flushing under his scrutiny.

Marcus studied her pale complexion, his expression darkening with concern.

He then turned to Mason, his tone commanding. “Get her something for the nausea.”

Mason shrugged, a hint of mischief in his eyes. “Sure, but I’ve got nothing in the car. That acupuncture line? Just a cover for your parents. We still have a way to go, so you’ll have to tough it out.”

Sophie took a deep breath, steeling herself as Mason started the engine. “I’ll manage,” she assured them, her voice steadier than she felt.

To her surprise, as they pulled away, the nausea didn’t return. Instead, a gentle, calming fragrance wafted through the car, grounding her in the moment as they began their ascent.