Chapter 1850:


    Bethel’s thoughts drifted to Brendon’s failings, and she let out a heavy sigh. The mere thought of that foolish grandson was enough to stir her temper. If only he had cherished Christina’s love honestly when he had the chance, none of this would havee to pass. He had held something beyond price in his hands and cast it aside without a second thought — trading a rare treasure for an ordinary stone.


    Bethel sped Christina’s fingers with tender care. “Seeing you like this, so full of light, truly eases my heart,” she murmured.


    “Bethel, you must promise to stand beside me on my wedding day and stay long enough to watch my children grow,” Christina said with a bright smile, tightening her grip around the older woman’s hand.


    Bethel’s eyes curved with delight as a softugh escaped her. “Of course. I’ll hold on until that dayes. I’m feeling stronger with each passing day.”


    “You certainly will, Bethel. You’re destined for many long and vigorous years ahead,” Christina replied, her smile widening.


    As long as the Dawsons kept their distance, Christina was confident she could use her expertise to give Bethel exactly that. To guard against any sudden rpse or hidden ailment, she had already begun quietly gathering rare and potent medicinal materials. She had resolved that no one she loved would ever suffer the torment of illness if she could prevent it.


    At that same hour, the Dawson household appeared deceptively calm.


    “Vickie, have some more,” Joselyn urged gently, cing extra dishes in front of her. She kept her voice soft, as though a louder tone might unsettle her. The mere thought of Vickie carrying her first grandchild filled Joselyn with a happiness she could barely contain.


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    “Thank you, Joselyn,” Vickie answered, pressing a polite smile to her lips while smothering the resentment simmering beneath.


    Had her scheme not copsed — had the Scott family not cut all ties with her — she would never have endured living under the same roof as the Dawsons, pretending warmth toward Joselyn. In her eyes, Joselyn stood far beneath her, someone unworthy of even a passing nce.


    The longer she dwelled on it, the more fury coiled inside her. If the Scott family had not disowned her so publicly, she could have secured a match with another wealthy heir in Lorbridge, even if that man hadn’t been Dn. That failed plot had stripped her not only of the Scott family’s backing but of any prospect of entering a distinguished household.


    Now she was trapped among the Dawsons, dependent entirely on the child she carried out of wedlock, and she still had not received the rightful title of Mrs. Dawson. Vickie found this reality impossible to swallow. She had once held every advantage. This was not the life she deserved. She should have been Mrs. Scott.


    Joselyn’s gaze drifted toward Vickie’s swelling abdomen, and warmth brightened her expression. Had Vickie not shied away from contact, Joselyn would have reached out to touch her belly and share a quiet moment with the precious life growing inside.


    “Vickie, make sure you’re eating enough so the baby stays strong,” Joselyn said kindly.


    “Don’t worry, Joselyn. I’ll eat well. I’ll give you a plump and adorable grandchild,” Vickie replied with a honeyed smile.


    Before Joselyn could say another word, a sharp voice cut across the room.


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