Chapter 31: The Tension Builds
As Lila returned home that night, she found Alexander already there, a warm smile on his face. "Why are you late?" he asked, concern etched in his features.
"I wanted to get some fresh air," she replied, forcing a smile.
"You should have told one of the guards or maids to follow you," he said, his tone caring. "You need to take care of yourself and our baby."
Lila nodded, feeling a mix of guilt and affection. "I will," she promised, moving closer to him.
As they settled in for the evening, Lila couldn't shake the feeling of unease. She had just shared a secret with Ethan that could change everything, and now she had to navigate her relationship with Alexander while keeping the truth hidden.
Later that night, as they prepared for bed, Lila took out her phone and texted Ethan about Alexander's caring nature towards her and the baby. They exchanged sweet messages, their connection deepening despite the complications that lay ahead.
"Babe, is everything okay?" Alexander murmured, stirring from his slumber. He blinked against the soft glow of his wife's phone screen, noticing her absorbed in texting someone.
"Yes, I'm just texting Sarah," she replied, masking her true intentions with a practiced smile.
"Okay, but I really think you should get some rest for our unborn baby," he said gently, pulling his wife closer, unaware of the betrayal lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly perfect life.
The next morning, Lila awoke feeling utterly drained, her body beginning to exhibit the telltale signs of pregnancy. She glanced around the empty room, realizing Alexander had already left for work. With a heavy sigh, she shuffled to the bathroom to wash up before heading to the kitchen for breakfast. Just as she settled down, her phone rang—her mother-in-law was inviting her over for an afternoon visit.
Meanwhile, the maids were buzzing with gossip about Lila's pregnancy, their whispers carrying the weight of suspicion regarding her fidelity. Upon overhearing their chatter, Lila swiftly summoned them. "Listen up, I mean it. Anyone who tells Alexander that I'm involved in a hidden affair will find themselves out of a job," she warned, her voice laced with venom, despite the luxury that surrounded her.
"You all can leave, but Mrs. Evans, I need you to stay," she commanded, her eyes locking onto the maid.
The other maids scuttled away, leaving Mrs. Evans trembling in Lila's presence. "I knew you wanted to say something," Lila prompted.
"Yes, ma'am," Mrs. Evans stammered, her gaze shifting nervously.
"I'm listening," Lila replied, her tone icy.
"I think you should change your ways," Mrs. Evans finally found her voice.
"You think so?" Lila sneered, stepping closer and gripping Mrs. Evans' neck, her fingers tightening with a threatening intensity. "If I were to kill you, it would be in vain. But mark my words if you breathe a word to Alexander about my affair, I will end you." As she released her grip, a red mark lingered on Mrs. Evans' skin, a stark reminder of the threat.
"Now go tell the kitchen to prepare my breakfast," Lila ordered.
"Okay, ma," Mrs. Evans replied hastily, rushing away, the evidence of Lila's wrath still visible on her neck. The other maids exchanged glances, pitying Mrs. Evans, fully aware that Lila's fury stemmed from the fact that Mrs. Evans was closest to Alexander, having cared for him since childhood.
Meanwhile, Lila indulged in her breakfast, a picture of a billionaire's wife living in luxury, but the turmoil inside her brewed like a storm.