The Lies Behind Her Marriage novel Chapter 44

**Chapter 44: My Family II**

Serena offered a nod, her expression radiating warmth. “Yes, absolutely,” she affirmed, her voice steady despite the whirlwind of emotions swirling within her.

The Vander family had reserved a private area in the grand dining hall of the Rexam Grand Hotel, a place known for its exquisite cuisine and elegant ambiance. As they settled down for lunch, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation, and soon enough, Celine’s voice cut through the chatter.

“How far along are you, Serena?” she inquired, her tone laced with genuine curiosity and a hint of vulnerability.

A soft smile graced Serena’s lips as she glanced down at her growing belly, a symbol of the new life blossoming within her. “I’m five months pregnant. I’m carrying twins,” she replied, her heart swelling with pride and excitement.

Celine’s face lit up with joy. “Just like you and Silas! You are fraternal twins. I mean… I mean, once we confirm with the DNA results,” she added, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears.

Serena chuckled softly, the sound like a gentle breeze on a warm day. “It’s okay. I completely understand. I’m really looking forward to the results,” she said, her heart racing at the thought of the truth that lay ahead.

“So, Serena, how did you and Xavier meet?” Silas interjected, his curiosity piqued as he leaned forward, eager to hear her story.

“We were classmates in college. We both studied Biochemistry,” Serena answered, her smile widening as she turned to Xavier, who met her gaze with a proud grin. “We were like best friends,” she added, her voice filled with nostalgia.

Xavier, unable to contain his enthusiasm, chimed in, “Serena is the smartest one in our batch. She would have been our summa cum laude if she hadn’t been burdened with so many chores at home.” His admiration for her was palpable, and it warmed Serena’s heart.

“Wait, so the father who raised you is Victor Kline, right?” Sterling asked, his brow furrowing slightly. “Isn’t he a billionaire? Why would you have so many chores at home?”

Serena felt a wave of shame wash over her, but she knew she had to be honest. Taking a deep breath, she replied, “It’s because Victor and my mom, Roselind, never treated me right. In fact, when I was young, Victor used to hit me.” The weight of her words hung heavy in the air. “After Victor was imprisoned, my mother’s assistant suggested I was not their real daughter. So that’s why I had a paternity test.”

A thick silence enveloped the room, the gravity of her revelation settling over them like a heavy fog.

Silas’s eyes narrowed, a flicker of anger crossing his features, while Sterling’s jaw clenched tightly, the tension palpable.

“Sterling, could it be related to the Biotech Innovation Expo?” Celine asked, her voice trembling as she turned to her husband, tears threatening to spill from her eyes once more.

“I don’t know, but I will look into it,” Sterling replied firmly, his determination shining through. “Let’s wait for the DNA test results.”

“I’m sorry, but could you fill me in a little? What do you mean by Biotech Innovation Expo?” Serena’s voice was laced with desperation, her curiosity piqued.

Sterling reached out and gently patted her hand, his warmth a comfort in the moment. “Child, we will tell you when the time is right,” he assured her, his eyes filled with compassion.

Unfortunately, the conversation veered away from Victor for the time being. During that lunch, Serena and the Vanders focused on forging connections, delving into personal stories and shared experiences.

They learned about Nathaniel and the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his divorce, a tale tinged with sadness that brought them closer together.

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