Chapter 3 - THE BRIDE WHO KNEW TOO MUCH
Vanessa's expression changed.
Not sadness.
Not shock.
Fear.
Alexander noticed.
“Vanessa.”
She stepped backward.
“This is ridiculous.”
I looked at her.
“Who told you I couldn't have children?”
She swallowed.
“Nobody.”
I stared.
“You just said Alexander told you.”
Vanessa's eyes darted toward the guests.
Alexander's voice hardened.
“Answer her.”
Vanessa looked at him.
“Your mother said Claire had fertility problems.”
Teresa Moretti went pale.
I turned slowly.
Teresa stood beside the front row.
Her hands trembled.
For three years, I'd believed she hated me.
She had always considered me too ordinary for Alexander.
Too quiet.
Too independent.
Too unwilling to accept the rules of the Moretti family.
But I had never imagined she would discuss my private medical history with his mistress.
Alexander stared at his mother.
“Is that true?”
Teresa looked away.
“Alexander—”
“Did you tell Vanessa my wife couldn't have children?”
Teresa swallowed.
“I was trying to protect you.”
I laughed.
The sound was sharp.
Ugly.
And completely involuntary.
“Protect him?”
I looked at her.
“From what?”
Teresa said nothing.
I stood.
Then took Oliver's hand.
Emma reached for my other hand.
I looked at Alexander.
“This conversation is over.”
He stepped forward.
“Claire, please.”
I shook my head.
“Not here.”
Then I walked out of the ballroom with my children.
May you like
Behind me, Alexander called my name.
But this time, he didn't follow.
