Chapter 0005

Rachel's chest rose and fell, fury and heartbreak boiling together. “Why would you do that?” Her voice was shaky.

“Because,” Marissa said calmly, “Bryce doesn't need your food. He needs me, the mother of his child.” She rubbed her stomach, lip twisting. “You should get used to it.”

Rachel took a step forward, “You have no right to destroy what I create in my own home.”

Marissa scoffed, “Your home? Sweetheart, that title is slipping away. You heard Evangeline yesterday, you are stopping the progress of this family.”

Rachel clenched her jaw so hard it hurt. “You can insult me, Marissa. But you don't get to ruin everything I do. What is your problem?”

Marissa laughed. “My problem? My problem is you.” She snapped. “Why do you think Bryce stayed with me last night? Why do you think he kissed my stomach before he left this morning? Because he loves me…but you— you're a hindrance!”

Marissa tilted her head, voice soft but lethal. “Just get over this annoying love story. Bryce would not look at you… not anymore.”

The kitchen door opened again, this time Bryce stood there. Rachel turned instantly, hope flickering but Bryce didn't even look at her first. He looked at Marissa.

Marissa walked towards him swiftly, her expression changing to a fragile innocence. “Bryce…” she whispered. “I'm sorry, Rachel got upset and—”

Rachel's eyes widened. “Bryce, she destroyed the food!”

Marissa gasped, clutching her belly with a wobble. “I just tried to help. I touched the plate and it fell. I didn't think she would yell at me.”

Bryce stepped towards Marissa instinctively, supporting her arm. “Careful. You shouldn't strain yourself.”

Marissa leaned into him, “I think the stress isn't good for the baby.”

Bryce finally looked at Rachel, “Rachel…please. Don't shout in front of her, she's pregnant.”

Those words burned like acid. “I wasn't shouting,” she said, voice trembling. “She smashed the plate on purpose. As far as I know, pregnancy allergies do not reach the extent of destroying food.”

Marissa sniffed. “I did not mean any harm. Bryce, you don't have to stay here; we can eat out, I suddenly don't feel comfortable in this kitchen. Let's go, baby.”

Bryce hesitated…only for a second, then he nodded and led Marissa out. Rachel stood alone in the kitchen, staring at the meal she made, unwanted and wasted.

When she married Bryce, he was head over heels for her meals, but now… Rachel closed her eyes as a quiet wave of pain tightened her chest.

“Never thought a liability would be here,” Evangeline stepped inside the kitchen. “Pained that my son chose an asset over her.”

Rachel forced a small smile, “Good morning, mother.”

Evangeline glanced around the room as if inspecting it for dust. “Marissa is feeling nauseous this morning. Bryce wants ginger tea brought to their room.”

Rachel forced a small nod, “I can prepare it.”

Evangeline raised a brow. “No. I've instructed the staff. Marissa prefers things done in a certain way for the baby's sake. Stay out of sight.”

Rachel's hands clenched. “Of course,” she said quietly and Evangeline left without another word.

Rachel's phone buzzed. She searched for it in her apron, when she found it she swiped the answer button.

“Hello?”

“Rachel!” Elara said from the other end, “Happy birthday! Guess what, I ordered an exclusive VIP booth for the both of us in Russell restaurant.”

Rachel's eyes widened. Today was her birthday? She checked the date on the calendar that hung on the kitchen wall. July 17th…it was really her birthday. And she didn't remember…no one remembered, apart from Elara.

“Rachel?” Elara asked curiously.

“I'm here. Thank you so much Elara. I'm so grateful. Should I stop by your place?” Rachel asked as tears clouded her eyes.

“Yes. No need to put on some expensive or flashy clothes. I bought clothes and I'm sure they will suit you.”

Rachel nodded. “Sure. Once more, thank you so much.”

Elara hung up.

A few minutes later, Rachel was dressed in a casual outfit and adorned herself with some jewelries that fitted perfectly. She stared at her reflection in the mirror, she had lost a lot of weight and had become lean.

“Where are you going?” A voice said from the hallway. Rachel turned. It was Bryce, he was dressed in a tuxedo suit that fitted perfectly, his hair sleek and pulled back. He was still adjusting his tie.

Rachel smiled, “I think that question is meant for Marissa.” She replied calmly and turned to keep going.

Bryce stopped on his track. “You are still my wife,” Rachel paused. “I deserve to know your whereabouts.”

Rachel's fist clenched at her sides, “My whereabouts would be the most insignificant thing in your life…so don't pretend like you care.”

Bryce walked towards her, “if it was going to be an insignificant thing, I wouldn't bother asking.”

Rachel turned back to him, “I'm going to a friend's place. What do you gain from my where—”

He cut her off, “I'll drop you.”