Chapter 893

Rosalind pulled Lillian into a fierce embrace. "You're the only sister-in-law I'll ever accept!"

A warm sensation flooded Lillian's chest. Whatever turmoil existed between her and Lucian, at least her affection for Rosalind hadn't been misplaced.

Moments later, Lucian's voice carried from the hallway. "Dinner's served! Come eat!"

Rosalind guided Lillian toward the dining area. The table held three artfully arranged sandwiches and a fresh garden salad.

For someone like Lillian whose culinary skills were nonexistent, she couldn't help but admire Lucian's efficiency. In mere minutes, he'd prepared an entire meal.

Lucian pulled out a chair with effortless grace. "Dig in."

Lillian settled beside Rosalind, guilt gnawing at her. She'd come to care for Rosalind, yet she'd contributed nothing.

She nibbled at her sandwich, her stomach rebelling against the idea of food.

Rosalind's concerned gaze landed on her. "You're barely eating."

Lillian hesitated, unwilling to mention her pregnancy. "Just not very hungry these days."

Rosalind's brow furrowed. "Are you feeling unwell too?"

Lillian froze. Unwell wasn't the right word - expecting was more accurate.

Across the table, Lucian's mocking voice cut through the silence. "Perhaps my cooking doesn't compare to The Velvet Lounge's fare? Or is my presence ruining your appetite?"

Lillian's fork clattered against her plate. What was he implying?

Rosalind blinked. "What's that supposed to mean?"

Lucian's lips twisted into a sardonic smile as his gaze pinned Lillian. "You seemed perfectly capable of enjoying dinner at The Velvet Lounge recently. Suddenly you've lost your appetite?"

Understanding dawned. He thought she was putting on an act.

Before she could respond, Rosalind's expression darkened. "What's wrong with you? Why are you being so cruel?"

Lillian squeezed Rosalind's hand. "He didn't mean it like that-"

Lucian interrupted coldly. "I meant every word."

Lillian's breath caught in her throat.

Rosalind's voice turned steely. "Lucian, one more word and you're leaving. This is my home."

Lillian hastily grabbed her sandwich. "No fighting, see? I'm eating!"

As she brought the food to her lips, a wave of nausea crashed over her. She doubled over, hand pressed to her mouth.

Rosalind immediately abandoned her meal to rub Lillian's back. "Are you okay?"

Lucian's posture stiffened noticeably as he observed her struggle.

Tears pricked Lillian's eyes from the discomfort, but she forced a smile. "I'm fine. Just... stomach issues."

"Must be Lucian's terrible cooking. What would you rather eat?" Rosalind fretted.

Lillian's cheeks burned. "No, the food's fine. Maybe... something tart would help."

At that moment, a melodic chime interrupted - Lucian's phone vibrating on the table.

Lillian's gaze inadvertently flicked to the screen.

Genevieve was calling.