Chapter 121

There she was, Joanna, easily spotted in her elaborate attire. Lucy scoffed at her white dress. "Is she here to flirt with men again? Even pregnant, she's unbelievable!"

Yasir remained silent, noting Joanna's cunning in securing Hayden's child. He anticipated Yvonne's divorce filing and knew he needed to strategize for his cruise ship business.

Joanna eagerly scanned the venue for Hayden, having insisted on attending despite his not explicitly inviting her. Yvonne had already ousted Joanna from Parker Group; seizing Hayden's heart was paramount. Boldly claiming to be Hayden's woman, she'd gained entry.

She soon saw Yvonne laughing and chatting with Hayden, a wave of jealousy washing over her. Joanna clenched her teeth, lifting her skirt to approach, but a hand firmly grasped her arm. Stunned, she looked up and gasped, "Mom!"

Sophia dragged her to a corner. "If I hadn't come, were you really going to barge in without a plan?" Sophia glared, exasperated. "Months, and Joanna hasn't won Hayden over? He's just a man; how difficult can it be?"

"He's hardly given me any attention lately," Joanna sobbed, her voice trembling. The recent shift in Hayden's behavior had left her on edge.

"Foolish! Have you forgotten everything I taught you? The worst thing with men is rushing! The more anxious you are, the less interested he becomes!" Sophia scolded.

Joanna bit her lip, recalling her mistakes. Fearful, she clutched her mother's hand. "Mom, what should I do? I can't lose to Yvonne."

Sophia glanced at her. "Now you're scared? Did you bring the potion?"

"Yes," Joanna nodded, overwhelmed.

"Later, get Hayden to the VIP room and have him take it. I'll bring everyone up. Then everyone will see you together. Whether he likes it or not, he'll marry you," Sophia said, a chilling glint in her eyes.

Joanna was aghast. "But Mom, that'll make me the laughingstock of the city!" The thought flustered her.

Sophia, feigning departure, released her hand. "Then give him to Yvonne."

"Mom!" Joanna grabbed her, agreeing instantly. "I'll do it! Please help me!"

"Once Hayden takes it, everything will be fine. Don't be scared," Sophia reassured. "You're charming. Don't let her steal the spotlight. After today, you'll be Hayden's wife."

A strange elixir of resolve filled Joanna. Shame and dignity faded into insignificance.