Chapter 86

“I almost lost it when you said 50 billion, and then I almost passed out when your lawyer said 80. But again, I remembered your worth. Vanessa messed with the wrong person, didn't she?”

“The goal is to seek an amount she can't afford. Vanessa, Connie, and Eric—even if they pool all their properties—I doubt it will be 5% of what we're seeking.”

“I like that. I wish I could see Vanessa's reaction when she sees the amount you're suing her for. It's a pity the baby will be dragged into her mess. It's so innocent.”

“The baby is the reason Cole and I decided to let her be when she pulled her tricks on him. But I can't let her go scot-free after what she has done.”

“Hopefully, the child's biological father will step up to take custody after it's born. That is, if she knows who the father is.”

“I honestly don't care anymore. She defamed my company, too. So she's going to pay for it all.”

Debbie nodded in agreement.

“Would you consider granting an interview to clear your name?”

“I'm not sure. I know there are people out there cursing me. It sucks to know they think a certain way about me and my company, but that's up to them. On the other hand, I owe no one an explanation.”

“Would you like to talk this out with Cole? Has he reached out to you?”

“I don't know. I haven't seen my phone since I woke up.”

“He must be so worried, don't you think?” Debbie said, staring at Hailey intently.

Hailey sighed deeply, massaging her temple. “I don't know what to think anymore.”

“What's on your mind? I hope you're not mad at him?”

Hailey shook her head. “I'm not sure if I want to see him.”

“Why?”

Hailey shrugged.

“There must be a reason.”

“I know. I still feel so sad. I think talking with him would help. He's the father of your babies. You can't push him away as if his presence isn't important.”

“You mean two babies,” Hailey said, holding up two fingers.

“I can't believe you're still in denial after everything,” Debbie said with a sad smile.

“It's complicated.”

“How?”

Hailey shrugged again. “I don't think now is the perfect time to say anything. I obviously can't go out to get tested; I'm stuck here with my kids, and I don't know for how long.”

“There's no perfect moment, Hailey. You're just making excuses. Cole didn't get to experience much with the twins. I know he'd be forever grateful if you included him.”

“I've got something to say.”

“What did you do, Debbie?” Hailey groaned.

“How do you know I did something?” Debbie feigned innocence.

“I recognize that tone. What is it?”

“I was up late last night shopping for my supplements, so I added a test kit to my cart. It was delivered shortly before you joined us in the kitchen. You don't have to use it. I mean, I got it just in case you changed your mind.”

“You're scaring me, Debbs.”

Debbie shook her head, a warm smile on her lips.

“I don't want to think about that now. I just want my bed.”

“No, you have to eat something.”

“I'm not hungry.”

“You have no choice, babe. You don't want to starve our growing little one, do you?”

“I'll eat later. I need to find my phone and call the office. Thank you for letting me use yours in the meantime.” She handed Debbie's phone back, rising to her feet.

“It's fine. I'll warm up your food and bring it to you.”

“You don't have to. I'll come out when I'm hungry.”

Debbie smiled, standing up. “I insist.”

Hailey went to look for her phone while Debbie headed to the kitchen. The doorbell rang, and Debbie answered it. She opened the door to Cole, who looked extremely worried. His hair was messy, and he was casually dressed, but he still looked great.

“Hi Debbie, Is Hailey in? I've been trying to reach her, but she's not answering.”

“Sure, come in,” Debbie said, opening the door wider.

“I was about to check the CCTV to see what's going on at the gate. Anything?” Debbie asked after closing the door.

“No. Everything seems calm and normal. I don't think that bitch disclosed Hailey's address.”

“She's mad at me, right?”

Debbie folded her arms. “Why do you think so?”

“Isn't it obvious? She's not answering my calls. She knows about it, right?”

Debbie nodded.

Cole sighed deeply, running his fingers through his hair.

“Hailey woke up feeling a little under the weather, so she isn't exactly glued to her phone. Please don't assume. She's not in the best state about the news; who would be? All I know is that she needs you now more than ever. I was about to take breakfast to her before I came to answer the door. I hope she's going to eat it.”

Cole nodded slowly. “I can take it to her. If you don't mind,” he said nervously, scratching the back of his neck.

Debbie smiled. “That's fine by me.”

“What about the twins? Have they gone to school already?”

“They're having breakfast. Hailey didn't think it was a good idea for them to go to school today because of…you know.”

Cole nodded.

“But let's go. I'm sure they'd be happy to see you.” Debbie was about to lead the way to the kitchen when Cole stopped her. “Debbie?” She turned around.

“Thank you for everything you've been doing for my family. I'm grateful they all had you when I was absent. Ollie and Enzo adore you so much, and I'm even more grateful for all you do for Hailey. I don't know how I'm going to repay you.”

“It's fine. Hailey is my soul sister. She takes great care of me, too. Just make her happy, or you'll have me to deal with.”

“I promise,” Cole assured.

“Good!” Debbie said, then led the way to the kitchen.

“Daddy!” Ollie and Enzo shouted joyfully, jumping down from their seats and running to Cole.

With a big smile, Cole crouched down, and the twins hugged him. He kissed each of their foreheads. Debbie started warming up and serving some food for Hailey as Cole greeted his sons.

“We miss you, Daddy!” Ollie grinned.

“I missed you both, too.”

“Are you going to take us to school, Daddy?” Enzo asked with pleading eyes.

“I don't think there's school today, but I won't be going to work either, so we'll spend the day together.”

“Really?” The twins' eyes lit up.

Cole smiled, staring at his kids with adoration.

“Yes, but I need to see Mommy first, then we can play.”