For six years 245
Chapter 245
The Ravelle family dominated Draventh, but the people of Eryham weren’t necessarily going to give them that kind of respect.
“What’s her name?” Carter asked.
“Her father’s Kieran Austin.”
“Kieran Austin?” Carter’s eyes widened. “The biggest jeweler in Dalea?”
“Yes,” Lauren said. “He only has one daughter, Elena Austin. She’s completely doted on.”
If they could form a connection with her, the benefits could be huge.
“I thought I’d try to befriend her. Maybe she can help you someday,” Lauren added.
Carter’s irritation faded a little. “Thanks for doing this, Lauren.”
Lauren shook her head. “It’s what I should do. You’re my first love and the father of my children. Who should I help if not you?”
As she said that, she reached out and took his hand.
Their gazes grew more intense, and their bodies drew closer together.
Eventually, Carter could no longer resist. He pulled Lauren into his arms, and they kissed with intense passion.
That night brimmed with desire.
The next morning, Lauren appeared in the living room, radiant and glowing. She even spoke to Devan with a much gentler tone.
“Skip the smoked meats. Carter’s legs aren’t healed yet. Cook some veggies, chicken soup, and beef instead,”
The chef obeyed without question.
But Devan noticed two hickeys on Lauren’s neck. She hadn’t tried to hide them. In fact, they were boldly on display.
Devan realized that Lauren and Carter might have…
“Mr. Witt.” Arielle and Adrian had woken up. They had school that day.
“Ms. Arielle, Mr. Adrian, breakfast will be ready soon,” Devan said.
In the dining room, Lauren watched as the kids ate eggs and drank milk. She looked unusually warm and gentle.
Arielle sensed something different about her that day.
“Is it good?” Lauren asked.
Arielle looked at her without replying.
“Eat more if it is.” Lauren then asked, “Arielle, Adrian, do you prefer to have a younger brother or sister?”
The question sounded oddly familiar.
Arielle’s gaze shifted to Lauren’s neck. “What happened to your neck?”
Smiling, Lauren touched the love marks. “It’s nothing. Your dad did it.”
Arielle thought that Carter had pinched Lauren and wondered if they had gotten into an argument.
Strangely, she felt a little happy.
“Did Dad pinch you?” Adrian had the same thought.
Lauren pretended to think. “Sort of. But not with his hands. He used his mouth.”
Devan, bringing over the beef, overheard that and frowned. “Ms. Thayer.”
Lauren looked up. “Yes?”
“Do you think it’s appropriate to say that in front of the kids? They’re still so young.”
But Lauren thought that Devan was overreacting. “They don’t even understand.”
Devan said, “It’s not about understanding. You shouldn’t discuss things like this in front of the kids. What if they remember it and misunderstand later?”
Lauren’s smile faded slightly. “I never knew a butler not only manages the household but also manages the employer.”
Devan parted his lips. “You-”
“Dad!” Arielle called out.
Carter, supported by a maid; came downstairs. Lauren immediately stood and walked toward him.
Adrian found it strange. “Arielle, why is she swinging her hips like that?”
“I don’t know.” Arielle watched Lauren’s swaying walk and felt equally puzzled.
Lauren had never walked like that before.
When Carter and Lauren got closer, Arielle curiously asked, “Why are you swaying your hips when you walk?”
Lauren froze. “I… My ankle hurts. Walking like this helps ease it a bit.”
Cedella
Cedella is a passionate storyteller known for her bold romantic and spicy novels that keep readers hooked from the very first chapter. With a flair for crafting emotionally intense plots and unforgettable characters, she blends love, desire, and drama into every story she writes. Cedella’s storytelling style is immersive and addictive—perfect for fans of heated romances and heart-pounding twists.