"How much longer must I wait?"
Mrs. Winston's tone was sharp.
She was convinced her son didn't take her illness seriously.
All that talk about The Nexus rebooting.
Just empty excuses.
Her brows furrowed tightly.
"You need to pull some strings abroad."
"If I have another episode."
"This old life of mine will be over."
The worst of the pain had passed.
Mrs. Winston's condition had improved.
But her gaze grew more critical as it landed on Chloe Evans.
Weren't her parents supposed to be overseas?
If she couldn't even manage this simple connection.
She was less useful than that orphan Sophia Sullivan.
Chloe met her stare.
She didn't need to guess what the older woman was thinking.
"Auntie, I have good news."
She suppressed the hatred in her heart.
Her voice remained sweet and gentle.
"My parents are returning today."
"Specifically to discuss the wedding arrangements."
"They mentioned bringing generous gifts."
The words sounded polite.
But carried hidden barbs.
She wasn't some pushover to be bullied.
With her parents backing her.
Mrs. Winston's expression stiffened.
They were both seasoned foxes.
The underlying message wasn't lost on either.
Though Chloe lacked Sophia's competence.
Her nouveau riche family.
Could still support Liam Winston.
Especially when dealing with those women outside.
A wealthy daughter-in-law always provided more leverage.
"Good child, I understand."
Mrs. Winston softened her tone.
She affectionately took Chloe's hand.
"I've been ill these past days."
"My words were harsh."
"Please forgive me."
She turned to her distracted son.
"Let someone else handle the medicine."
"We can always ask Mr. Winston Sr. if necessary."
"Your priority now."
"Is to entertain your future in-laws."
"And finalize the wedding plans."
Preferably while securing more investments.
She left that part unsaid.
But the calculations were clear.
Noticing her son's absentmindedness.
She nudged him with her elbow.
"Are you too happy to speak?"
Liam Winston snapped back to reality.
Looking at the demure Chloe.
With the wedding approaching.
Yet feeling an inexplicable emptiness.
Marrying Chloe had been his dream.
But now that it was coming true.
Sophia's face kept flashing before his eyes.
The old Sophia.
Never gave him any trouble.
The current Sophia.
Was as cold as ice.
He pushed down the chaotic thoughts.
His expression unreadable.
"Of course."
"I'll give them the warmest welcome."
He reached out to tousle Chloe's hair.
She obediently leaned into his embrace.
From a distance.
They made a perfect couple.
If only.
Their hearts weren't both scheming separately.