What She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 28

Kaia completely understood her mother-in-law's "well-intentioned" advice.

First, use family to guilt-trip her, then offer the "solution."

She wanted Noelle to take over her position at the company? She wanted Kaia to step back and become a stay-at-home mom?

Her mother-in-law's scheming was truly masterful.

The crystal chandelier overhead cast a blinding glare, and Kaia felt a wave of mocking cynicism wash over her.

She looked Elaine dead in the eye, her gaze clear and unfazed.

"I appreciate your concern, Mom," Kaia said, maintaining her composure. "I do take my work very seriously. It's my profession, and it's where my value lies. Besides, a mother pursuing her career and maintaining her independence sets a good example for her child. Brynlee is a smart girl; she supports me."

Brynlee, still resting on her mother's shoulder, nodded her little head vigorously. "Grandma, only old people like you don't have to work. My mommy is so young, of course she has to work!"

Elaine froze in sheer embarrassment, instinctively bringing a hand up to touch her face.

Was she old?

Didn't she take excellent care of her skin?

Flustered, Elaine awkwardly pivoted the conversation. "I was talking to Brynlee earlier, and she said she wants a little brother. Don't you think it's time you gave the Sanders family a son?"

Kaia stiffened, her lips pressing into a thin line. She didn't answer.

Just then, the sound of a car engine shutting off came from outside.

Brynlee excitedly wiggled out of Kaia's arms and sprinted toward the door.

Through the night air, Finnian strode up the steps looking incredibly handsome and aristocratic, wearing a slate-blue vest, a crisp white shirt, and matching trousers.

His missing suit jacket was, of course, still draped over Noelle.

Kaia took Brynlee upstairs.

Finnian sat on the sofa, having tea with his mother.

"Did Noelle really move out of Pinecrest Manor and into the city center?" Elaine's heart ached at the thought of her poor, widowed daughter-in-law.

"Yes. That's the home she shared with Rafael for years. She said staying there without him would just bring back painful memories. A new environment is better for her."

"Poor Noelle," Elaine sighed heavily. "She lost her parents when she was so young, and I brought her into the Sanders family. She was always so sweet and well-behaved—the exact daughter I always wanted. She's so warm and thoughtful. Even your father, on his deathbed, told us we had to take good care of her."

"I know. Noelle is a wonderful person." Finnian nodded, fully agreeing.

"Finnian, since you're stepping up to take your brother's place and protect her from your Grandmother's pressure, giving her a safe haven, you have to follow through." Elaine paused, glancing upstairs before lowering her voice. "With you protecting Noelle like this... Kaia doesn't have a problem with it, does she?"

Finnian said flatly, "She won't."