Chapter 105

Why did Nathaniel need reassurance about her ability to convincingly play the role of a pregnant woman?

Evelyn pondered for a moment, wondering why deception was even necessary.

Given that she was actually pregnant, wouldn’t this be the most authentic performance of her life?

With a quiet laugh, she turned to him. "Do I really need to act at this point?"

"You’re right," Nathaniel conceded, his voice smooth. "You’ve always been a natural. Don’t overcomplicate it. Victoria will be here to guide you, making sure no one suspects a thing."

"Mr. Whitmore," Evelyn said firmly, "I’ll play my part flawlessly. But you should focus on scheduling that surgery."

She had no intention of confronting Victoria Sinclair herself. That was Nathaniel’s responsibility.

Evelyn knew Victoria too well—she would put on her sweet, innocent act the moment Nathaniel was near.

Which meant there would be no delays. No excuses.

Stepping out of the car, Evelyn entered the grand foyer, Nathaniel close behind, his expression unreadable.

Victoria Hawthorne stood waiting in the living room, her smile warm. "Mrs. Whitmore, I’ve arranged a menu suitable for expectant mothers. If you need anything at all, just say the word."

"Actually," Evelyn said, "there is something."

Her fingers brushed lightly over her stomach. "Should we get a fetal heart monitor? Just to check on the baby?"

Truthfully, she had no idea what she was doing.

She’d spent hours scrolling through pregnancy forums, reading about the importance of monitoring the baby’s heartbeat.

The articles warned that missing even the slightest irregularity could be dangerous.

With no one to guide her—especially since she hadn’t told Margaret yet—Evelyn felt completely out of her depth.

But if she was going to play this role, she might as well learn.

Victoria nodded. "Of course, Mrs. Whitmore. I’ve already prepared one. We can test it now."

She hesitated. "Though if it’s still early, we might not hear anything yet. But don’t worry—I’ve also brought Dr. Reynolds for a full checkup."

Nathaniel cut in sharply. "That won’t be necessary."

Victoria blinked in surprise.

Evelyn quickly smoothed things over. "What Nathaniel means is, unless there’s a real concern, we shouldn’t overdo it. I’m sure everything is fine."

Victoria nodded, though her gaze lingered on Nathaniel for a moment before she excused herself.

Once alone, Evelyn sank onto the sofa, eyeing the fetal heart monitor with curiosity.

Nathaniel’s voice was low, edged with warning. "You almost gave us away. What if the monitor doesn’t pick up a heartbeat? What if the doctor realizes something’s off?"

Evelyn met his gaze steadily. "Relax. I’ll make sure nothing seems unusual. Besides, we only have to keep this up for another week."

Her dark eyes held his. "Once the surgery is done, the act is over, right?"

Nathaniel adjusted his tie, his expression unreadable. "Discretion is key."

As he walked away, Evelyn’s fingers curled protectively over her stomach.

"Don’t listen to him, sweetheart," she whispered. "Mommy loves you more than anything."

Dinner was a lavish affair—every dish meticulously prepared, every flavor designed to tempt a pregnant woman’s palate.

Victoria hovered nearby. "Mrs. Whitmore, we know cravings can change daily. Let us know your favorites, and we’ll make sure they’re always available."

Evelyn surveyed the feast before her, marveling at the privileges wealth afforded.

She picked up her fork, savoring each bite like royalty.

For now, at least, she could indulge in the fantasy.