What We Had Was Never Real novel Chapter 10

Immediately, the way the crowd looked at Marissa changed, and whispers started going around the garden.

"You're right. The boy does have a resemblance to Mr. Fost. It isn't impossible to believe he might be Mr. Fost's biological son."

"Ms. Wendell only became infertile because she saved Mr. Fost's life all those years ago. Could it be that Mr. Fost brought back his illegitimate child because he wanted to inherit the family business?"

"Well, such behavior isn't exactly uncommon in those prestigious families. And here I thought there was finally a genuine relationship between members of the upper echelons of society. I feel bad for poor Ms. Wendell, though. She almost died for Mr. Fost, yet this is how he repays her."

The discussion gradually spiraled out of control as someone guessed that possibility.

Marissa's expression darkened, but just as she was about to speak, Stephen came out of the house.

He was dressed in a tailored suit that accentuated his tall build. When he spoke, his voice was low, and paired with his cold countenance. It lent an air of authority to him.

"What are you all chatting about?"

The crowd fell silent. They all knew that Stephen was madly in love with Natania, even going so far as to risk his life just so he could marry her back then.

Thus, without knowing the whole truth, they could only gossip in private, as none were foolish enough to dare say such words in front of Stephen.

"Oh, nothing. We were just saying how it was like Mr. Andrew was destined to meet you, Mr. Fost. I'm sure that Mrs. Natania is also very satisfied with this son, right?"

The speaker's words were meaningful, and after glancing around, he added, "Speaking of, why don't I see Mrs. Natania around? After all, it's Mr. Andrew's birthday today."

It was only then that the rest of the crowd realized that Natania was absent despite it being such a momentous occasion. They fixed their gazes on Stephen, wanting to see his reaction.

Despite the crowd's inquiring looks, Stephen remained unfazed. He walked over to Marissa and took Andrew's hand. "You all don't need to worry. Tania just went to prepare Andy's present and is on the way back now. Anyway, the party is about to start, but I still need to talk to Andy. Everyone, do make yourselves at home."

With that, he ignored everyone else and led Andrew into the manor.

It wasn't until they were outside the door to the second-floor study that Andrew asked in confusion, "Daddy, it's my birthday today. Why can't Mommy be with me? I want Mommy!"

Stephen's expression chilled before he answered sternly, "Remember, from now on, your mother is Natania Wendell."

Hearing that, Andrew instantly yanked his hand out of his father's grip. His eyes were filled with rejection as he cried, "No! I don't want her to be my mom! She's a bad woman! Mommy says she wants to send me away and snatch you from me! I don't want her!"

"Stop your tantrum!" Stephen rebuked coldly.

Rosalie leaned against his chest, her lips curving into a triumphant smirk.

Eventually, a housekeeper came over to remind Stephen about the ongoing party. Only then did he reluctantly escort Rosalie back to her room before heading downstairs with Andrew.

In the garden, the guests gathered in groups, chatting happily and creating a lively atmosphere.

Glancing around, Stephen still couldn't find any signs of Natania. Not just her, but even the Wendell family seemed notably absent.

A heavy feeling of dread settled in his chest, making him feel an inexplicable sense of frustration.

When he realized that Nathan still hadn't sent him any updates, he took out his phone, only to discover that it had somehow turned off without him knowing.

He knitted his brow and was about to pocket his phone when Nathan rushed over, his expression solemn.

Immediately understanding that something had gone wrong, he left Andrew in Marissa's care before heading for his study.

The instant the door shut, Nathan said grimly, "Mr. Fost, the stylist and driver who were supposed to pick up Mrs. Fost called to say she's gone missing."