The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge novel Chapter 397

Victoria woke naturally, sunlight spilling across the room. She only stirred when the doorbell rang, signaling someone at the door. She listened as the housekeeper answered, and soon after, Stein stepped inside.

The housekeeper was already preparing Victoria’s second meal of the afternoon. Ever since she became pregnant, her appetite had grown astonishingly—her face and figure had filled out visibly, a healthy, maternal glow replacing her former slenderness.

“Hey, big brother…” Victoria greeted Stein, rising from the chaise lounge.

But Stein gently pressed her back down. “You need to rest more, Victoria. Don’t stand on ceremony with me.”

His eyes scanned the apartment. “It was a bit rushed finding this place, but if we come across somewhere better, we’ll move you.”

Victoria felt a swell of gratitude. “No, really. This place is wonderful.”

It truly was: a spacious, high-floor apartment in the heart of downtown, over two thousand square feet. Victoria lived here with only Yasmine and a live-in housekeeper. Sometimes, the wide open rooms felt almost lonely.

When Stein brought her from Starfall City to Echo City to await the birth, he’d arranged everything, making sure she had a safe haven. He’d originally bought the apartment as a gift, but Victoria had insisted on paying for it herself. Stein, unable to sway her, had finally relented.

“So, when’s your due date?” he asked. “I’ve already lined up the best OB-GYN in the city for you. When the time comes, you’ll be in good hands.”

Victoria’s eyes misted with emotion.

The housekeeper brought Stein a cup of tea, assuming, as many did, that he must be Ms. Turner’s husband.

“Thank you, big brother,” Victoria said softly.

Stein looked at her with gentle affection. “You call me ‘big brother,’ and still thank me?”

Victoria brushed away a tear. “I wish you really were my brother. Too bad the Simms family could never produce someone as decent as you.”

She didn’t mean to disparage her own father, but if Simms ever had a son, she imagined he’d have inherited all the worst traits.

Stein’s gaze flickered, something unreadable in his eyes. “How do you think Simms has treated you?”

A bitter smile touched Victoria’s lips. “How else? He’s never once treated me like his own daughter.”