Whats She Overheard in Her Own Marriage novel Chapter 24

The table was set with an array of freshly served dishes. Once the staff left, the carved wooden doors were pulled shut.

Elaine picked up her teacup and took a delicate sip. “Kaia, there’s been so much going on with the family lately. I know you’ve been working hard.”

‘Mom, I’m just doing what I’m supposed to do,” Kaia replied softly.

About Noelle…” Elaine set her cup down and looked directly at Kaia. “Did Finnian blame you for her fainting yesterday?”

Kaia paused. Her mother–in–law had always been sharp and calculating. Is Noelle feeling better?” she asked evenly.

Yes, she’s being discharged today. I had someone pick her up so she can est at home.” Elaine’s words seemed to carry a hidden weight.

Kaia understood the implication perfectly. The rumor mill always said hat even though Noelle didn’t share the Sanders name, Elaine treated her like a biological daughter. Noelle was given everything a wealthy

eiress could want, and sometimes even more.

I know you feel wronged. Sometimes Finnian lets his emotions cloud his udgment when it comes to the past,” Elaine said, keeping her eyes on Kaia. “Noelle has no one to rely on right now. With Rafael gone, she is the Sanders family’s responsibility. Do you understand what I’m getting at?”

Kaia nodded. “I understand. But… shouldn’t she have a proper title if she’s Joing to stay?”

Elaine’s eyes darkened.

Kaia picked up her teacup and took a sip. “Since Rafael is gone, why don’t you publicly announce that you’re adopting her as your daughter? That would shut down the rumors and stop people from talking.”

‘We’ll discuss that later; I have considered it.” Elaine suddenly leveled a

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Chapter 24

scrutinizing glare at Kaia, “Kaia, you are Finniar’s wife, the rightful Mrs. Sanders. Your grace and tolerance represent the dignity of this family. You have Brynlee, and you have your position at the company. In your six years of marriage, Finnian has always shown you care and respect. Rest assured, your position is unshakable.”

A ripple of emotion broke through Kaia’s calm facade.

For her mother–in–law to say these things meant she had definitely noticed something going on.

However, Elaine was clearly prioritizing the ‘big picture‘, and cementing ust how important Noelle was to her. The subtext was clear: if Kaia didn’t know her place and refused to step back, she would be the one ambarrassing the family.

‘Mom, if there’s nothing else, I need to head back. I have work to do.”

Kaia had intended to stay for lunch, but now she thoroughly understood her mother–in–law’s warning. Since they were once again making it clear hat she was a secondary priority and her feelings didn’t matter, Kaia had 10 desire to stick around and play nice.

Kaia…” Elaine frowned, noting that Kaia hadn’t even picked up her utensils. “Why hold a grudge against someone who has lost her support system and her hope? If you could just be the bigger person, Finnian would be grateful to you.”

The more Kaia listened, the more suffocated she felt. Her voice was quiet, but it rang crystal clear in Elaine’s ears. “What’s mine, I will protect. But I absolutely will not accept what someone else tries to force upon

me.”

The door opened quietly and clicked shut.

Kaia was gone.

Around three, Laura knocked on the office door. “Dr. Chavez, the dinner reservation at six with Concordia Health and the FDA experts is all set.”

Chapter 24

“Thank you, Laura,” Kaia nodded.

At 5:30, since Elaine had picked Brynlee up to take her to the main estate for dinner, Kaia finally had the time to attend the business dinner.

She arrived punctually and sat in the private room with the R&D director and several executives, discussing their collaboration with the guests.

Halfway through the meal, she excused herself to go to the restroom.

As she walked down the hall, her gaze casually swept past a semi–open

ounge area.

Through the gaps in an ornate wooden privacy screen, several familiar igures caught her eye.

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