Chapter 14

Lila

My black Toyota Highlander pulled over in front of the Blackwoods' Mansion. Turning off the ignition, I grabbed my Chanel handbag and stepped out of the car.

Taking a mirror out of the bag, I stared at my reflection. Perfect. My make-up was done lightly. I was here to impress Jason's parents, so there was no need to over-do it. My hair was tied into a bun with a few strands pulled out in front, made into curls.

A light pink gown clung to my skin, accentuating my curves and revealing the bulge of my stomach. I smiled at my expression in the mirror, satisfaction shining in my eyes. After running my hand over my head, smoothing a few strands into place, I returned the mirror to the bag. Then, I made my way into the house, my low-heeled shoe clicking on the floor.

A rush of cold air swept over me from the air conditioning vents, making my skin tingle. My eyes landed on the artwork hanging on the wall beside a large flat-screen TV. A chandelier was suspended on the ceiling, casting a beautiful glow on the marbled floor. Velvet sofas decorated the room, complementing the light brown walls perfectly.

I looked around to find a couple of household staff hurrying across the adjoining rooms, going about their duties.

"Lila, you came."

My head shot up to see Jason's mum, Mrs Rose Blackwood, descending the stairs, with a warm smile plastered over her face.

I flashed a big smile. "Good morning ma."

She walked across the room, picking her steps carefully like a queen, until she was inches away from me. The scent of her expensive perfume hit my nose as she wrapped me in a warm embrace.

"You're very welcome my dear."

When we untangled from the hug, her gaze swept over me, eyes shining with approval.

Good. Just what I wanted.

I was here to win to integrate myself into the hearts of his parents. To make sure I was the perfect and deserving daughter-in-law and mother of their grandchild. And when that was done, we'd see how Jason wouldn't succumb to my biddings.

If he thought he could resist me, he was in for a blow because I was ten steps ahead of him. Always.

Mrs. Rose entwined her hands in mine and pulled me along gently, and we climbed the stairs, going up to her room.

The room was filled with the scent of lavender as we entered. The place was tidy, with a made bed and neatly folded blankets at the foot. A night stand held a laptop and a few organized files. The morning sun poured in through the window, illuminating the serene atmosphere.

"Come, sit here. We have a whole lot to catch up on." Mrs Rose said, as she beckoned me over to sit on the bed.

"Sure, ma'am. Where do I even start?" I replied, smiling.

"My son has told me a lot about you."

My eyes widened in disbelief. "A lot?"

"Well…um…not really. I kinda forced the words out of him."

I hated the way my stomach dropped even though the answer was expected.

"How are things between you and Jason? Given the circumstances – the pregnancy, I mean, and his divorce from that... Isabelle." Her tone turned cold when she mentioned Isabelle, and I felt a thrill of satisfaction.

I lied through my teeth. "Things are not bad between us. Just a few issues. Nothing we cannot sort out."

She nodded. "How many months are you along? Forgive my curiosity but I can't wait to meet my grandchild."

"Almost 6 months." I answered, giving a coy smile as I rubbed my hands on my belly.

"Oh my God. That's so sweet." She had this dreamy expression over her face that made me laugh.

Good. I loved how my plan was falling into to place.

The first time I met Jason's parents, they weren't entirely receptive. It took conscious efforts on my part to get on their good side. I kept in touch with them through face-time and sent them warm messages. And the pregancy helped too since they have always wanted an heir. I saw how their faces lit up, the day they saw my protruding belly.

Jason's mum and I talked a lot more – mostly women stuff, until it was afternoon.

"Honey. What would you like to eat?" She asked.

"Um… I don't really know. What's available?"

"Let me find out from the Chef. Would you like us to have the food here or at the dining?"

"Let's use the dining please?" I replied.

About fifteen minutes later, we were seated at the dining table which was laden with a variety of dishes. Delicious aromas wafted through the air from the steaming dishes. The sight of apple pie made my mouth water, my stomach grumbling with sudden hunger. I grabbed a dish and dug in.

"Mm. This is really delicious." I remarked between mouthfuls, my voice muffled.

Jason's mum smiled. "We've got the best chef here. No kidding."

The door turned open and footsteps approached. I turned to see Mr Blackwood walking over, a serious expression over this face.

"Welcome my love." Jason's Mum greeted, pulling out a chair beside her for her husband.

He gave me a pat on the back, before proceeding to join his wife, giving her a kiss on the forehead.

"Long day at work?" She asked.

"Kinda. Don't bother about it. Let's eat."

Silence fell upon the room. Only the clinking of cutlery on plate reverberated through the room as we stuffed our belly with good food.

An idea sparked in my mind.

"Mrs Rose, why don't we do a family dinner today? Let's have Jason join us. What do you think?"

"Seems like a plan. I'd have the house workers put everything in order."

I put on a pleading expression. "Do you mind calling Jason please?"

"I don't mind my dear."

She picked up her phone and dialed his line. Just a few rings and he picked up.

Anxiousness churned within me as my eyes caught his voice, though I couldn't make sense of what he was saying.

"What did he say ma'am?" I asked, when she dropped her phone.

"My son listens to me, darling." She wore a triumphant look.

An evil smirk crossed my lips. Everything was going as planned. Jason, think you can run away from me now?