A Lie in the Name of Care

I underestimated their scheming.

They invited Cuthbert Powers to our house for dinner and to discuss business. They thought it was a clever move, but it could be my chance to escape.

Dale's tone carried a warning. "I don't want it to come to this, but you are being difficult. I'm worried you'll botch the contract or leave after signing. Mr. Powers is a friend, and this will build trust."

Cecily sidled up with a fake smile. "Why don't you cook tonight to show our sincerity?"

We had a housekeeper to cook for us, and we could order takeout. Yet they insisted I cook to put me in my place.

"If you could have kids, I wouldn't have to do this," Dale said, sounding justified. "This is your fault."

I saw through their game but played along. "Give me my phone. I need to get some files from the office."

Dale reluctantly handed it over, watching me closely until he confirmed I was only contacting my assistant.

Once I finished, he took the phone back and pushed me toward the kitchen. "Mr. Powers will be here soon. Start cooking."

I snorted under my breath. He had no idea the guest wasn't a client. It was my way out.

Cecily leaned against the kitchen door, inspecting her nails and lifting her nose in the air. "No onions or greasy stuff. What are you making? I'm carrying Dale's only child. I can't eat junk."

Dale stormed over and dumped my cooking in the trash. "Redo it! My kid deserves the best."

"Why would I care about what your bastard eats?" I countered. "If Cecily is so picky, she can cook for herself."

They were about to snap at me when the doorbell rang.

I brushed past them, opened the door, and welcomed the guest.

Cecily nestled in Dale's arms, whining, "I'm carrying your child, and Abigail calls it a bastard. She's still holding a grudge."

Her voice suddenly trailed off, her face turning pale. Dale looked over and froze.

They scrambled apart, panic-stricken.

I watched with a smirk. "Keep talking. Didn't you say that you couldn't eat this because you're carrying Dale's child? Why don't you repeat that to your husband?"