Chapter 822

The chapter opens with a couple bringing home a baby, instantly creating shock and suspense among those present. Katie, who had been frowning, becomes surprised and contemplative upon seeing the baby, noticing an uncanny resemblance to a young Ariel, especially in the eyes. This discovery confuses Katie deeply, as it seems impossible given what she knows. Meanwhile, Ariel remains calm and composed, drawing attention from others.
Betty reacts with anger and disbelief, harshly confronting Jayson and demanding an explanation for the child’s sudden appearance. She refuses to accept the baby as part of the Larkin family, especially since Jayson and Ariel had no children and Ariel had recently undergone a hysterectomy due to cancer. Betty’s outrage reflects her concern about family reputation and the stigma of illegitimacy. Jayson, hurt by Betty’s outburst, looks to Ariel for support, but she merely watches with a faint, knowing smile and remains silent, leaving Jayson to face the accusations alone.
Evelyn steps forward to examine the baby, Claire, and despite her usual impatience with children, she is momentarily captivated by the baby’s charm. However, Evelyn, like Betty, is unwilling to accept an illegitimate child into the family. The tension escalates as Renee voices her frustration, fearing social ridicule for the family if the child is acknowledged, and Leonard coldly demands a proper explanation from Jayson, hinting at the possibility of infidelity.
Finally, Ariel breaks her silence to reveal that she is the mother of the child, shocking everyone, especially Katie, who had noticed the resemblance but never imagined this scenario. Renee is incredulous and warns Ariel that the family will never accept the child, suggesting adoption as an alternative. Betty, still unwilling to face the situation, tries to comfort Ariel, saying they can discuss children later and that she never intended to pressure them. The chapter ends with the family struggling to come to terms with the unexpected truth about the baby.
Chapter 823
The baby the couple brought home instantly filled the room with shock and suspense.
Before approaching, Katie had a deep frown on her face. However, when she stopped beside Jayson and took a closer look at the baby, her expression shifted to one of surprise and contemplation.
Then, Katie turned her gaze toward Ariel, who appeared completely calm and composed.
Others might not notice, but Katie had practically watched Ariel grow up. The baby bore an uncanny resemblance to a young Ariel–especially those eyes.
But that couldn’t be right.
The discovery left Katie feeling even more confused.
As soon as she got close enough, Betty smacked Jayson hard on the back. She shouted furiously, not even bothering to look at the child first.
“Jayson, you’d better explain yourself! How on earth did you find this child?
“If they’re really the child you had with another woman, I’ll never acknowledge them as part of the Larkin family! I won’t allow anyone with questionable backgrounds or intentions to join our family!”
Betty was genuinely upset.
Jayson and Ariel had been married for several years but never had children. Recently, Ariel had undergone a hysterectomy to treat her cancer and reduce the risk of recurrence.
So how could Betty possibly accept this child who had suddenly appeared out of nowhere? How was she supposed to face Katie afterward if she did?
Jayson winced–Betty hadn’t held back when she hit him. He glanced at Ariel, who clearly had no intention of helping him explain the truth. She simply watched with faint amusement.
With a small smile on her lips, Ariel met Jayson’s gaze calmly.
He could tell she was deliberately keeping silent while everyone else scolded him.
Sensing something off, Evelyn stepped forward. She took Claire from Jayson’s arms and examined her closely. Nᴇw ɴovel chaptᴇrs are published on
Evelyn had never been particularly fond of or patient with children. Yet the moment she held the baby, the child waved her tiny arms and smiled brightly.
The baby was so pretty and adorable that Evelyn froze for a split second before furrowing her brows.
Even so, Evelyn would never approve of an illegitimate child, not even if the baby was Jayson’s.
“Explain what’s going on.” She shot Jayson a sharp glare before turning to show Betty the baby so she could get a better look.
They needed to learn the truth about this child.
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“That’s right, Jay. I can’t accept the idea of letting an illegitimate child join our family. My friends will laugh a me for having a niece or nephew whose mother is probably a mistress!” Renee huffed, stamping her foot in frustration.
Jayson should have been more careful. Having illegitimate children was still a taboo in elite society
“Mr. Larkin, I hope you can provide a proper explanation for this,” Leonard said coldly, clearly displeased.
The baby looked like a newborn.
A year ago, Jayson had been seeing Nancy. But Nancy was never pregnant. Could Jayson have been seeing someone else at the same time? If that were true, Leonard would insist that Ariel cut ties with Jayson for good.
Seeing that even someone as gentle as Leonard was upset, Ariel finally spoke up. “All of you have misunderstood Jayson. I am the mother of this child.”
Katie froze in shock. She was the only one who had noticed how much the baby resembled Ariel, but she had no idea when Ariel could’ve had the baby, or when she’d given birth.
Renee stared at Ariel, eyes wide, her brows drawn tightly together. “Ariel, don’t let love blind you. Even if you’ve accepted this child, the Larkin family won’t.
“You could always adopt a baby and raise them as your own. Or wait a few years, and I’ll let you adopt one of my children. But this? What are you doing–an act of charity?”
Renee simply couldn’t understand. She even wondered if Ariel had lost her mind. Why would she accept the child Jayson had with another woman?
Betty didn’t even want to look at the baby in Evelyn’s arms. She quickly grabbed Ariel’s hands.
“Ari, you don’t have to force yourself to accept this. We can talk about children later. I never said anything about rushing you two into making a decision, nor was I ever going to be upset about it. You…”
The chapter delicately unveils the complex emotions stirred by the sudden appearance of the baby, weaving a tapestry of shock, suspicion, and silent understanding. Ariel’s quiet acceptance of the child contrasts sharply with the turmoil and judgment from those around her, highlighting themes of love, loyalty, and the courage to embrace unexpected truths. The baby, innocent and unknowing, becomes a symbol of both division and potential unity within the family, challenging long-held prejudices and the rigid expectations of elite society.
Through the tension and confrontation, the story gently probes the boundaries of family and acceptance, reminding us that love often defies convention and demands resilience. Ariel’s calm resolve amidst the storm invites empathy, suggesting that true acceptance begins within, regardless of societal judgment. The chapter closes on a poignant note of uncertainty, yet with an undercurrent of hope that understanding and compassion may eventually prevail.
The next chapter promises to delve deeper into the tangled emotions and secrets surrounding the mysterious baby. Ariel’s shocking confession that she is the mother will undoubtedly stir a whirlwind of disbelief and tension within the Larkin family. As suspicions and judgments mount, the fragile bonds between the characters will be tested, revealing hidden motivations and vulnerabilities. Readers can expect a mix of confrontation and reluctant understanding as the family grapples with this unexpected revelation.
Meanwhile, Jayson’s position grows increasingly precarious, caught between the accusations and the silent amusement of Ariel. The reactions of key family members like Betty, Katie, and Renee will add layers of complexity, challenging loyalties and social expectations. The delicate balance between acceptance and rejection will create an emotionally charged atmosphere, hinting at difficult choices ahead. Will the family find a way to reconcile, or will this secret push them further apart? The answers lie just beyond the next page, where every glance and word could change everything.