Chapter 20

Desmond erupted in laughter at Elyse. "How did you find such a stunning wife? Did you hire her?" He abruptly changed the subject. "Has Joanna Foster returned? Are you planning to marry her when she's back? It's understandable she disappeared on your wedding day, especially since you're crippled. No girl would willingly marry you."

His voice was loud enough for everyone nearby to hear. As some recognized Jayden, their expressions shifted.

Jayden calmly faced their sneering looks. "I've heard your son's bride was a bargirl. Is that true? And that she's pregnant."

Desmond's face fell. He glared at Jayden, hatred burning in his eyes.

Jayden, grinning, raised his champagne glass. "Your family holds significant power in town. Why did Xander marry a bargirl? Were none of the other influential families' daughters interested? It must be tough being his father, given your son's…uselessness. He's marrying her because he got her pregnant."

Elyse was taken aback. "Really? It's just because they're expecting a baby?"

Observing Desmond's changing expression, Jayden, still smiling, said, "Perhaps it's just a rumor."

"It is just a rumor," Desmond snapped, glaring at Jayden. He grabbed his drink and stormed off.

Elyse voiced her concern. "He seems so narrow-minded. Do you think he'll cause trouble for us?"

"Don't worry. He's not interested in bothering with me today," Jayden reassured her. "Xander's quite the playboy. The bride is from a humble background. They rushed the wedding because she's pregnant."

Elyse nodded, understanding. Desmond was likely preoccupied with the embarrassment his son's situation might cause.

At the wedding, Jayden received mixed reactions. While many looked down on him, some guests greeted him warmly. Elyse met many people alongside him.

Fifteen minutes later, the ceremony began. Elyse and Jayden had excellent seats. Xander's bride entered gracefully in her wedding dress. They watched closely. She carried herself well, but some of her gestures betrayed a lack of confidence; to some, she seemed out of place.

Xander stood on the stage, looking less like a groom and more like a man resenting the bride. …