Chapter 421

The Jansen family realized they were in over their heads with the Bakers. Looking at Fleur’s demeanor, there was a real chance she might call the whole thing off, leaving them a laughingstock.

And to think they’d have to cough up all that money? They’d spent most of it already! Where were they supposed to find that kind of cash to pay back?

“It was just a joke!”

“Please, don’t be mad. It was really just a harmless joke!”

“Of course the wedding will go on. Gideon’s such a catch; having him as a son–in–law is a blessing we’ve waited generations for!”

“Yes, yes, we’re very pleased with Gideon, and Yvette loves him dearly!”

“We won’t cause any more trouble, please don’t be mad!”

The group quieted down, terrified the wedding might actually be called off.

Gideon extricated himself from the crowd, glancing at Yvette and then at her family. He scanned the room; many were whispering and pointing at them. It was more humiliating than the last time when he didn’t even show up for the wedding.

Most of the guests were the same crowd, having witnessed both his runaway and the Jansen family’s antics. It was utterly embarrassing.

He had hoped to make amends with Silas by hosting a flawless wedding. Silas must be furious seeing this spectacle.

“Gideon, come here, I need a word with you,” Fleur called out sharply, shooting a pointed look at Yvette. “There are plenty of women who’d marry Gideon and have his children. Yvette, you better recognize your place and keep your family in line!”

Fleur was clearly livid as she pulled Gideon aside for a talk.

Yvette turned on her family, furious. “Did you really have to pull this stunt? You should’ve behaved, and once my position was secure, I could’ve kept the money flowing. But with these one–off schemes, do you think you’re set for life? You bunch of idiots!”

“Once I’m secure, and I have money, do you think I’d abandon you? But with your antics, how can you expect the Baker family to ever trust me again? Don’t expect any more money from me; I’m in hot water as it is!”

Meanwhile, Calliope had positioned herself next to Eamon. She’d been worried the crowd might turn on Eamon, but thankfully, after Fleur stepped away, Yvette’s mother called the group over, leaving Eamon safe.

Eamon let out a big sigh of relief. “Callie, this wedding can’t have any more hiccups. My old heart can’t take it!”

“No more trouble,” Calliope reassured him softly. “I think Fleur has set them straight. They should know their limits now.”

Despite her calm words, Calliope narrowed her eyes slightly.

Yvette’s family might have backed down, but Yvette herself was unpredictable. And that baby she was carrying… was today the day she planned to use it against them?

She needed to give her grandfather a heads–up, just in case. It was better for him to be prepared for any surprises.

Eamon, having been briefed by Calliope earlier, wasn’t too shocked by her words.

“And if she does try something, what will you do?” Eamon asked, concern for Calliope evident in his voice.

“Gideon’s judgment is really disappointing,” Eamon grumbled. He couldn’t help but feel frustrated. Gideon was his eldest grandson, and he’d always thought he had potential. Even Silas had considered him as a prospective heir.

But now, it seemed Gideon couldn’t get anything right.