The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 136

Champagne.

After Bianca and Norman had their talk, the former general had a chat with the Vanders, more specifically, with Sterling.

Although Serena’s father knew how wrongly Norman had abandoned Nathaniel’s father, his respect for the man didn’t fade. After all, General Norman Collins had led the military for three full terms. He was very well known back in the day.

They went over what the military needed in terms of medical advancement. Serena didn’t have to speculate; it was clearly going to result in another medical technology under their name, now influenced by military use.

Her father, Sterling, was deeply engaged.

In between, the celebration continued. Everyone was full and had a good amount of liquor, thanks to Nathaniel being such a generous host.

As for the jealous young elite ladies in the neighborhood, they left early, for some reason.

However, after some time, the kids grew tired. Serena needed to put them to sleep. Even Alice and her family had surrendered for the night.

“I had a great time,” Alice said, getting up with Landon’s help. “But I’m a little drunk and want to sleep.”

Serena laughed. “I could say the same for myself.”

“We’re going home,” Alice said, hugging Serena. Then she whispered, “Let’s talk more about the general later. Tonight was… unexpected, and mind-blowing.”

“Good night,” Serena said with a smile. She looked around and nodded at their bodyguard. “Milo will take you.”

Aside from that, the Hartleys still had police officers on standby outside Nathaniel’s home. Nathaniel and Serena didn’t want to take chances, especially since the authorities had yet to identify everyone who had worked for the Holts.

After watching Alice and her family leave, Serena turned her attention back to the kids.

Sebastian and Nathaniel were chatting very closely.

“Mommy, I want to sleep here at Daddy’s house,” Sebastian suddenly announced, clinging to Nathaniel.

When Alisa heard her brother, her eyes widened. She rushed to her father and grabbed his other hand.

Then the little girl smiled at Serena.

“Let me guess, you want to come home with me tonight?” Serena said to her daughter, but Alisa shook her head and hid behind Nathaniel.

'Traitor,' she mused.

Celine laughed.

“Please, Serena,” Bianca begged. "I'd love to cook breakfast for them."

Nathaniel added, “We’re just a house away. What could go wrong?”

Then he smirked. “Of course, you’re also welcome to sleep over at my new home.”

Silas made a sound, almost like a purr, and motioned toward their father.

Automatically, Serena informed Sterling, “Dad, the kids will be staying with Nathan.”

She made it clear that she already decided.

Sterling had a little too much to drink, but he was still very aware of himself and the situation. He glanced at the general, then back at Serena. In a heartbeat, he said, “Up to you, Serena.”

He offered his hand, and she took it.

His hand was firm, yet gentle against hers.

They made their way to the opposite side, where an open deck balcony overlooked the night sky. From there, Serena had a clear view of the stars.

“Champagne?” Nathaniel asked.

When Serena turned, she saw a bucket of ice and a bottle of champagne already waiting. Two glasses sat neatly on the outdoor table.

She rolled her eyes. “How dare you predict I would come with you?”

A laugh escaped his lips, and even in the dark, he looked irritatingly handsome.

“I would have found a way to trick you into joining me if the kids hadn’t decided to stay,” Nathaniel admitted. He gestured toward the bottle. “It’s your favorite.”

True enough, the champagne was Serena’s favorite brand.

She shouldn’t have, especially after the wine earlier, but the champagne was too tempting.

Besides, Nathaniel had already poured it. It would be a waste not to drink it. Or so she told herself.

She knew better.

Everyone did.

Too much to drink had a way of undoing even the most careful people, and that night, Serena acted on feelings she had never meant to reveal.