Chapter 4

I calmly deleted the messages, then looked at the text from my lawyer.

"Scarlett, if you're willing to walk away with nothing, the divorce proceedings will be quick. But if you want to divide assets, it will be more complicated and take some time."

I looked at the message and replied,

"I authorize you to liquidate the assets I'm entitled to. I will not walk away with nothing."

Since joining the failing Sterling Corp. after university, I had single-handedly created the legend of turning a profit of over a hundred million within three months. Why should I be a spineless fool and walk away with nothing?

I would take back what was rightfully mine. My belongings, even if I donated them, would not go to some illegitimate child.

On Wednesday, I arrived on time.

Julian had his arm around Seraphina's waist, circulating among the guests, soaking in their congratulations.

Seraphina smiled gracefully, engaging in conversation with everyone.

I calmly handed my gift to Julian. He merely glanced at it, then stepped three feet away as if to avoid association.

"Oh, Seraphina already has a whole attic full of things like this. You don't need to bother."

I smiled faintly.

"Alright then!"

Turns out, in his heart, Seraphina was already his wife. My gift, from his legitimate wife, was just a pointless gesture.

I turned and handed it to Mr. Davies, the family butler.

"Mr. Davies, this is for your wife. Please take it to her."

Mr. Davies immediately thanked me profusely.

"Ms. Scarlett, you are too kind. I thank you on behalf of my wife."

He bowed to me.

See? Sometimes, an unintentional kindness to a stranger earns you overwhelming gratitude.

Some people, no matter how good you are to them, will take you for granted, seeing you as nothing more than a desperate admirer.

Some business associates came up to congratulate me.

"Ms. Scarlett, so glad to hear Ms. Stratton has been blessed with a child. Congratulations!"

Then they looked puzzled.

"Ms. Scarlett, why isn't Ms. Stratton under your care? Mr. Sterling has been with Ms. Stratton the whole time."

I smiled calmly.

"It's all the same. We're family, after all. No need to be so particular."

The surrounding people looked at me inquisitively, then at Julian and Seraphina, who stood close together. They seemed to understand something, exchanging knowing, meaningful smiles.

Finally, a small voice piped up from a corner.

"Mommy, that auntie and uncle look so good together! Their baby must be beautiful!"

The grand hall fell silent. Everyone exchanged awkward glances.

Julian's face flushed crimson. He reluctantly walked over to me and took my arm.

Then he whispered, full of disgust, "Can't you have some common sense and stand by me? Do you want everyone to laugh at me?"

I smiled indifferently.

"I thought you were afraid Seraphina would get jealous, thinking I was still trying to snatch you away."

Hearing me say that, Julian's face broke into a satisfied smile.

"At least you're sensible enough to know your place. Seraphina is a bit of a clean freak when it comes to relationships. In the future, be mindful of your boundaries when you see me. For these three years, I am not your husband. Remember your place and don't displease Seraphina."

I scoffed, saying nothing more, and enthusiastically greeted the guests.

Once everyone had had their fill, Julian abruptly let go of my arm, disdainfully brushing off his suit.

"Seraphina and I are leaving. I need to prepare a tonic for her pregnancy. You can go home on your own."

"I'll be busy with Seraphina and her pregnancy lately, so I'm leaving the company to you. Be diligent and don't mess things up."

With that, he took Seraphina's arm and walked out.

It was clear that in his heart, Seraphina was already his wife, and the Stratton estate was his home.

I smiled and walked into the night.

"Mr. Stone, I'll give you a million for a job. Extra expenses will be covered."

I wondered if his own brother, when he eventually returned, would even be able to go back to that 'home'.