The Years Between Signing and Seeing novel Chapter 202

Suzie tugged at the loose fabric of her dress, trying her best to hide the slight swell of her belly. The fact that Margaret hadn't shrieked in surprise meant she hadn't noticed. It also meant that Jamie hadn't told them she was pregnant.

After having Lucy bring out some pastries and fruit, Suzie adopted a friendly demeanor and took Ruby's hand. "Ruby, you've grown into such a beauty. You have the height, the education... I'll find you someone exactly like Jamie."

Ruby mumbled under her breath, "Where else could you find a man as amazing as Jamie?"

Though her voice was quiet, Suzie heard every word and couldn't help but scoff internally. That dog of a man was a master of disguise. Hadn't she, like Ruby, once thought he was unparalleled? She wasn't sure who was more blind—Ruby now, or herself back then.

Since Ruby seemed to have a crush on Jamie, Suzie decided she would be the perfect weak point to exploit.

Composing herself, she feigned interest and pressed on. "Oh? So you like Jamie, Ruby?"

Before Ruby could answer, Margaret quickly interjected, "What nonsense are you talking about? That's your brother-in-law! Don't say such things and make a fool of yourself."

As she spoke, Margaret gave Ruby's arm a light pat, all while shooting her daughter a look filled with hidden meaning—a subtle exchange that completely excluded Suzie, treating her like an outsider.

But this was nothing new. In the past, despite being only a few years older, Suzie had always worn Ruby’s hand-me-downs. They were mostly athletic and casual clothes from their school days, and the loose fit meant Suzie could just barely squeeze into them. At the time, the kind-hearted Suzie had chalked up the blatant favoritism to their family's financial struggles, or to her sister caring more about fashion.

The word "Mom" felt like poison on her tongue, but she forced it out for the sake of her escape plan.

Margaret’s eyes lit up. Such a great opportunity? How could she possibly refuse? She nodded eagerly, urging Ruby to agree as well.

Suzie smiled warmly, her eyes sharp as she observed them. They hadn't been carrying any bags when they arrived.

Trying to sound casual, she asked, "Ruby, is this a habit you picked up abroad? A young lady like you, going out without a handbag?"