She was grateful she had never taken the past two years seriously. She was also grateful that when he hadn’t attended her father’s funeral or shown up when she needed him most, she hadn’t allowed herself to feel upset or heartbroken. Otherwise, she might be making a pathetic scene in front of him right now...
After a long silence, Rebecca Quentin spoke slowly, "Howard, coincidentally, I also want to keep this child. So, we’ll need to discuss the child’s custody later. The pressing issue now is, shouldn’t we deal with our divorce?"
As if he had given it thorough consideration, Howard Geoffrey responded, "Under the laws of the Flowery Kingdom, if we divorce now, I would be the one to lose my reputation. Therefore, the issue of divorce should be postponed. For the next ten months, I hope you will focus all your energy on your pregnancy. As for other concerns, such as Quentin, I will have someone help you manage it and resolve all the problems Quentin is currently facing."
Since their cards were on the table, Rebecca felt awkward staying under the same roof as Howard.
「The following day, she packed her things and moved back to the Quentin residence.」
Actually, after living in the Geoffrey household for two years, returning to the Quentin residence was very unsettling. In the days after her father passed away, she truly couldn’t sleep at night, a profound sense of loss gnawing at her heart... Just like tonight, it was another sleepless night.
At this moment, Rebecca stared blankly at the ceiling.
She suddenly remembered a time in her childhood when her father had taken her on an airplane. He had told her, "Becca, remember, only when you stand tall and fly far, when everyone looks up to you, will you avoid being trampled underfoot." His words still echoed in her ears, yet now they were a conversation separated by heaven.
Thinking of her father, Rebecca’s eyes reddened once more.
Suddenly, Rebecca’s cell phone rang.
It was Isabella Joanna!
Suppressing her sorrow, Rebecca calmly answered, "Isabella!"
On the other end of the phone was Isabella Joanna’s voice, sorrowful and choked with emotion, "Dear, I’m so sorry... I truly am... I had no idea about your father... I was at a fashion show in Korea and only found out today when I got back... I’m so sorry..."
At this moment, Isabella Joanna no longer used her catchphrase, "Old Quentin," clearly out of respect for Alexander Quentin.
Not wanting her friend to worry, Rebecca comforted her gently, "Silly girl, no one could have predicted what happened to my father, especially since you were in Korea."
Isabella Joanna asked with concern, "Becca, are you alright?"
"I’m fine... We all have to look forward."
"Then... how are you and Howard doing?"
"Because... I... I heard that Howard didn’t even attend the funeral when your father passed away. Many people are speculating that your marriage is on the brink of collapse."
Rebecca lowered her head, bit her lip softly, and then responded, "Their speculation is somewhat true. Howard and I have laid our cards on the table."
「The next day, Isabella Joanna and Rebecca were strolling arm-in-arm down T City’s bustling Ladies Street, shopping and chatting.」
"Well, just take it one step at a time. This tangled mess of a relationship between you and Howard will really just have to wait until after the baby is born."
"Alright, let’s not talk about this anymore. Let’s go shopping. Your belly will be showing soon, so I’ll help you pick out some loose-fitting clothes."
The two of them entered a well-known maternity store. Just as they were about to choose some clothes, a clearly unfriendly young female voice rang out, "Well, well, if it isn’t Mrs. Geoffrey. Are you here today helping your friend pick out maternity wear?"
Rebecca looked up at the woman who had spoken, her brow furrowing immediately.
She recognized this woman. She seemed to be the wife of a CEO from a major company.
Last year, at a BASA charity jewelry auction, this CEO’s wife had been determined to win a diamond necklace once worn by a 17th-century British princess. She kept raising her bid, and just when she thought she had it, Howard casually asked Rebecca if she liked it. Rebecca had also casually replied yes. Who would have thought Howard would then buy the necklace for her at an exorbitant price? As a result, this CEO’s wife had been simmering with envy, jealousy, hatred, and a bellyful of resentment ever since.
Isabella Joanna put her hands on her hips. "Hey, what’s with your tone? Becca, she..."