Aurelia said, “Elfreda’s gone missing, so we can’t do a DNA test. It’s tough to say right now, because even if he’s not Raines, he’s still one of the Stirling family. There’s a good chance he’s a long-lost illegitimate son of Chad.”
Beverley’s hand flew to her mouth, her eyes wide with shock. “Do you think he’s pretending to be Raines for... for revenge?”
Aurelia replied, “I have a hunch that Lisbeth’s baby is Raines’. That’s why we need to keep the baby safe. If this guy isn’t Raines, he’ll surely harm the child.”
Nodding, Beverley whispered, “I get it. Don’t worry, I won’t breathe a word of this to anyone.”
Aurelia headed to the kitchen and simmered a pot of nutritious soup for Lisbeth.
Pregnancy had left Lisbeth utterly drained. Amidst her unease, she had fallen into a deep sleep that lasted well into the afternoon.
Aurelia entered with a steaming bowl of soup and a plate of dinner.
“Lisbeth, you must be starving. Have some soup before we tuck into dinner.”
Lisbeth sat up slowly. She didn’t trust Aurelia and was well aware that they were bound to be adversaries. But her pregnancy had been accidentally revealed to Aurelia, leaving her with no choice but to face the music.
Fortunately, it seemed Aurelia hadn’t caught on to her deception, or perhaps she wasn’t as shrewd as Lisbeth had feared.
“Thank you, Aurelia. You’re so kind.”
“We’re family, no need for thanks,” Aurelia said with a smile. “I have to go back to the Stirling Mansion tonight to look after the kids. Beverley and the nanny will stay with you. If you need anything, just call for the nanny.”
Lisbeth placed a hand on her belly. “I just hope my baby is born healthy and safe.”
Aurelia grinned. “I’m sure the baby will be just fine. Raines will be over the moon when he finds out. I heard he’s quite fond of kids and wants to have at least three.”
Lisbeth dropped his gaze and shadowed her face to obscure her expressions.
“Fredric and Sheryl have split, and Jessica has brought Nina and Mira to the Stirling Mansion. It must be quite a handful looking after all those kids?”
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