What She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 409

By the time Kaia and Brynlee arrived, the courtyard was packed. Finnian's friends were gathered at a table. Glancing over, she noticed Julian Kendrick was conspicuously absent.

Elaine was bustling about, playing the perfect hostess. She had major news to share with the matriarch today.

Kaia led Brynlee over to greet Josephine. Brynlee held her mother's hand, wide-eyed at the festive atmosphere.

Josephine was chatting with guests when she heard her name. Turning, she saw Kaia in an elegant, understated dress, holding Brynlee's hand. "Kaia, take your parents to sit in the side hall," Josephine directed.

Kaia paused. "Grandmother, my parents couldn't make it. My brother and my sister-in-law had other commitments too. It's just Brynlee and me today."

"What?" Josephine looked alarmed.

Kaia smoothly placed her gift box on the table. "Grandmother, this is my birthday gift to you. I wish you health, happiness, and a long life."

Josephine sat back down. Because it was from Kaia, she specifically asked Ava to open it.

Opening the lid, Ava gasped. "Ma'am, you're going to love this."

Josephine's face lit up when she saw the jade Buddha statue. She nodded approvingly. "Wonderful, wonderful. This is exactly what I wanted. Thank you, Kaia."

Seeing that the matriarch was pleased, Kaia knew she had cleared the hurdle.

Guests gathered around to admire it. The jade glowed under the lights, rich and flawless—a truly priceless treasure.

The crowd showered Kaia with praise.

She instinctively rested a hand on her stomach. Once she gave birth to a son—the sole heir to The Sanders Conglomerate—she wouldn't have to tolerate anyone's attitude. Her child would be the only thing of value that mattered.

Josephine's earlier joy had vanished, replaced by a deep frown. She seemed preoccupied.

When guests approached to congratulate her, she offered only strained smiles. Kaia showing up alone, without the Chavez elders, was a glaring red flag.

Her sharp, weathered eyes shot a furious glare through the crowd at Finnian's back. Had that foolish boy still not come to his senses?

The banquet was lively. Relatives and friends took turns toasting the matriarch, bringing a smile back to her face.

Brynlee sat obediently beside Kaia, with Finnian on her other side. To outsiders, they looked like the picture-perfect family. But those in the know recognized the performance, fully aware that the woman likely to be the next Mrs. Sanders was currently sitting right next to Elaine.