Rosita’s expression turned icy in an instant.
“Where’s Irwin?”
“Irwin and Mr. Wentworth went to Silveridge these past couple of days.”
Rosita frowned. “What are they doing in Silveridge?”
“They went to visit Ms. Kensington. Irwin told me Ms. Kensington is staying in Silveridge for her pregnancy, and Mr. Wentworth made time to take Irwin to see her.”
“What did you just say?!” Rosita’s expression changed sharply. “Are you saying Stewart knows about Briony’s pregnancy?!”
Jeannie froze, realizing the gravity of what she’d just blurted out when she saw the color drain from Rosita’s face. Suddenly, she clapped a hand over her mouth.
Oh no, oh no!
She’d definitely said too much.
“I’m so sorry, Ms. Lockwood,” Jeannie stammered, bowing her head. She knew she’d messed up.
Rosita stared at her, a chill flickering in her eyes–but in the next second, she forced a gentle smile.
“You don’t need to apologize. Ms. Kensington’s pregnancy is a blessing; she’ll make a wonderful mother, unlike me…”
Rosita’s eyes reddened, and her voice caught in her throat. “Five years ago, I had a difficult birth with Irwin. It left me with serious health issues. Stewart was heartbroken, and he didn’t want my career to suffer because of motherhood. That’s why he turned to Ms. Kensington.”
Jeannie’s eyes widened in shock. “So, that means… Mr. Wentworth and you are…”
“Stewart and I have never truly separated.”
“What?!”
Jeannie’s jaw dropped.
Five years–never apart?
Then what about Briony and Stewart’s five–year marriage? What did that make it?
Rosita continued, “Back then, Stewart and Ms. Kensington had a secret marriage just so they could co–parent Irwin. It was more of a mutual arrangement. Ms. Kensington’s mother was facing a manslaughter charge–possibly even the death penalty. Stewart personally took on her case as her defense attorney. In return, Ms. Kensington agreed to the secret marriage, and together they raised Irwin as husband and wife, at least on paper.”
Jeannie was utterly overwhelmed.
This was too much to process.
If Briony and Stewart’s secret marriage was just a business deal, then… what about the baby Briony was carrying now?!
Was Stewart really playing both sides?
Jeannie nervously twisted her fingers. “Ms. Kensington has taken really good care of Irwin.”
“I admit, she’s been wonderful with him, and I’m grateful for that. In this whole situation, Stewart and I owe her a lot.”
Chapter 256
Rosita lifted her head. Her eyes, tinged red, glistened with tears. “Ms. Radcliffe, since you’re now responsible for Irwin’s care, I wanted you to know the truth. Stewart’s always kept our true relationship secret to protect me and Irwin, so I’d appreciate it if you could help us keep it that way.”
Jeannie nodded earnestly. “Of course. You have my word–our agency is absolutely discreet about our clients‘ private affairs.”
“Thank you.” Tears spilled down Rosita’s cheeks again. “Honestly, I’m torn. If Irwin and Stewart choose Ms. Kensington in the end, I’ll wish them well. She’s always been better at caring for children than I am…”
“Ms. Lockwood, don’t say that! You’re incredible–a mother who risked her life to have Irwin at the height of her career. That alone makes you an extraordinary mom!”
Jeannie grabbed a few tissues and handed them to Rosita.
Rosita took them, dabbing her eyes, and then reached for her phone. “Let’s exchange contact info. I might start working again soon, and if I miss Irwin, maybe you could send me some photos or videos?”
“Of course!” Jeannie pulled out her phone right away and added Rosita as a contact.
Once they’d connected, Rosita stood up.
“If Irwin’s not here, I’ll be on my way.”
“Let me walk you out!”
“No need, you go on. You strike me as someone who really knows how to connect with kids–and you’re adorable. I feel at ease leaving Irwin with you.”
“Thank you for trusting me, Ms. Lockwood!” Jeannie beamed at the compliment.
ヨ
Back at Lunar Heights Estate, Rosita’s first move was to call Maxine Moore.
“Jean, I want to come back.”
Maxine was silent for a moment, then asked, “Are you sure?”
“Yes.” Rosita’s face was somber. “Didn’t you mention Director Balaam has a script about an art restorer as the lead? Can you still get that role?”
“You mean the film shooting in Silveridge?”
“That’s the one.”
Maxine hesitated. “I’ll have to check. It’s been two months.”
“Please do. If the lead hasn’t been cast, let Director Balaam know I’m willing to invest in the production.”
Maxine’s tone sharpened. “Why the sudden interest in this role? Did something happen between you and Stewart?”
“No,” Rosita replied softly. “I’ve just realized a woman should focus on her career. Stewart and I have agreed to postpone the wedding for now.”
“But–the engagement was already public! If you call it off, the tabloids will tear you apart!”
“That’s why we need to get ahead of the story, use the media buzz to fuel my comeback. This gives us leverage with Director Balaam too.”
Maxine sighed. “Alright, I’ll find out if the part’s still available. If it is, I’ll handle it as you said.”
“Thank you.”
Ending the call, Rosita tossed her phone aside, her eyes darkening with resolve.
Briony, did you really think hiding out in Silveridge would let you have your baby in peace?
18:59
Chapter 257
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