Chapter 3

He didn't demand explanations. Felicia raised her voice once more. "Monday is tomorrow. In the afternoon, are you free? Perhaps we might start by going to the registry office. In any case, we have to wait for them to resolve the issue, right? She estimated that the kid will be nearly here by the time the paperwork is completed. Max gave her a quick glance, his eyes keen and slightly suspicious. He turned his head away. "We'll do it when I say."

Felicia simply lowered her gaze and nodded. She gave it up. The vehicle arrived at the Hawthorne estate. The baby was the only reason Miranda had called them home. The Hawthorne family was predominantly white. Jeffery and Brandon were Miranda's two sons. Two boys were born to Jeffrey. Daniel, the older one, was already married and had five-year-old twin boys. Luke, the younger, was still unmarried at twenty-four. Max was Brandon's only son. Miranda and Brysen were ecstatic to learn that Felicia was expecting a girl. "It's fantastic news," Miranda exclaimed, her face beaming.

"What a blessing this tiny girl is. Brysen appears to be in better health. Tatiana, Max's mother, saw how much Miranda cared about Felicia's pregnancy and immediately jumped in to support Felicia by saying a few kind things. nantly male. Felicia sat calmly, courteously, and amiably. She avoided bringing attention to herself by nodding at the appropriate times. Tatiana observed her, trying not to show how irritated she was by Felicia's timid, plump appearance. Even yet, she kept her true emotions to herself when Miranda was around. Miranda was in such a good mood that she gave Felicia a gorgeous, somewhat expensive bracelet. Startled, Felicia attempted to decline.

"I can't take this." "She's giving it to you," Tatiana stated in an overly critical tone. "Just accept it." Felicia paused, then yielded. "Thank you, Grandma." "Take care of yourself," Miranda said. "We want a healthy, happy baby." Felicia nodded and grinned. She was aware that Miranda was only interested in the baby and wasn't truly being nice to her. Max received a call just as they were about to stay for supper. His entire attitude shifted. His voice softened, and his eyes softened. It was obvious that he was speaking to someone with affection. They sounded as though they shared a pet.

Felicia observed him as he uttered the word "sugar." He would likely make a fantastic father if he ever married a woman he truly loved. Max said over the phone, "Yeah, I'll come right over." After hanging up, he went to the balcony, where Felicia was waiting. Unprepared for him, she leaped. His face was unreadable and icy once more when she looked up. Her chest tightened around her heart. With haste, she said, "Grandma wants you in the study." Max remained silent. He simply left the balcony after passing her. Felicia stood there with a stabbing pain in her chest that would not go away. She had no idea how long she remained motionless before she managed to gather herself.

Max proceeded to the study, where Brysen and Miranda were waiting. "Max, I know you don't care for Felicia, but the baby is coming soon," Miranda said. She is kind, intelligent, and a graduate of a prestigious institution. Stability in your marriage is what you need. She's ideal for that. Max didn't say anything, but it was obvious from his frown how he felt. Miranda was also able to witness it. She was aware that Felicia was unattractive and unmatched by her attractive grandson. Brysen raised his voice. "It's not time to make any changes. Just leave things as they are for a year or two, even if you truly can't tolerate her." Miranda gave a nod. "That's right.

Everyone is observing you and waiting for you to make a mistake. After she raises the child, you can make a decision. There's no need to hurry things. Max remained silent for a while, his look unreadable. "I understand, Grandpa. Grandma." "Max had to leave for an urgent work thing," Miranda informed Felicia when she met her again later. When you're ready, I'll arrange for the driver to take you home. "Felicia gave a nod. "Thank you." Miranda drew her aside before she left. "You still need to move around and take care of yourself while being pregnant. Your mother-in-law continued to attend events and take care of the house while she was pregnant.

Obtaining something may be simple, but maintaining it is more difficult. Felicia immediately understood. It was difficult to be a Hawthorne wife. She had to change if she wanted to stay. Max was merely embarrassed by her current state. She had previously attempted to get her act together with yoga, exercise, and a few diet regimens, but she was never able to maintain them. Her body and spirit were worn out, and the weight continued to mount. Miranda was correct, though. This was not how she could continue. For herself and her future, not for the family, not even for Max.