Reading Juicy Gossip in Her Mind

Chapter 346: The Adopted Girl

Since Carlos changed the subject, Alexander smoothly introduced Isabella to Eric's family. Eric and his wife had children relatively late in life, despite marrying young. Their eldest son, Dylan, had recently finished postgraduate studies, while their younger daughter, Janice, was a freshman in university. Isabella immediately focused on her pressing questions.

Eric's family… seemed fine. Aunt Joanna's situation was less clear. David and the others felt temporarily relieved.

Alexander paused, his gaze subtly sweeping over Isabella as he considered something. Eric spoke first. "I'm sorry, Joanna couldn't join us today, because…"

A look of gentle embarrassment softened Eric's usually stern face. "Joanna is three months pregnant!"

The room erupted in joyful surprise.

Oh my! Isabella thought, Uncle Eric and Aunt Joanna aren't young, yet they're expecting!

Her gaze shifted to David and Selena. They shuddered. In their fifties, they felt the task of raising another child was beyond them, especially having already had the largest family among the Quirk siblings. Their siblings chuckled.

Eric explained, "Joanna had a minor car accident a while ago that jeopardized her pregnancy. That's why we didn't announce it sooner. She's recovering. I'll bring her once she's stable."

David and Selena reassured him there was no rush. Lionel and Marley were overjoyed.

Lionel said passionately, "Joanna is a bit older to be expecting, so your family must care for her extra carefully. Spend more time with her. You can just visit on my birthday." It might be the last baby he'd see born in his lifetime.

Seeing Lionel's happiness, Dylan announced, "Grandpa, there's something you don't know. When Mom was in the accident, a girl rescued her. Without her, who knows what would have happened? She saved my mother and my unborn sibling. We're deeply grateful and have decided to adopt her into our family."

Silence fell. Lionel was startled. "Huh? What happened?" He looked to Eric for explanation.

[Page Break]

The girl who saved Joanna was a friend of Janice's from an orphanage where Joanna had volunteered. The girl was deeply grateful to Joanna and had visited their house occasionally. Joanna liked her. They were together during the accident; the girl risked her life to save Joanna.

"That child is brave, kind, and grateful," Marley exclaimed.

Eric said, "I wanted to give her a gift…"

"Dad, Mom said giving money would be insulting," Dylan interrupted. "She's so genuine towards our family. Why can't she become part of our family? I consider her my real sister."

Eric said, "Enough. Adopting a child isn't simple. I'll discuss this seriously with your grandfather and Alexander later."

He clearly wasn't ready to discuss it further. His siblings remained silent, while the younger ones exchanged glances.

This is strange. Why is Eric being so secretive?

David and the others found Eric's reaction unsurprising. Isabella quickly understood.

The Quirk family's interests are intertwined. An adopted child would gain access to family benefits—something even Bennet, who cheated on his wife, wouldn't dare attempt. It would encroach on everyone's interests. While the assets wouldn't be a major concern, Uncle Eric is cautious and avoids causing resentment.

Chapter 347: The One Calling the Shots

Alexander raised an eyebrow, giving Isabella time to investigate. "Is adding a new member unanimously agreed upon by your family?"

Adopting the girl for saving Joanna's life wasn't the problem. The girl's share of assets would be limited to what Eric's family already owned. If she worked, she'd gain more. The issue was whether the family welcomed her. Alexander, as protector of the Quirk family, prioritized their interests.

Dylan said, "Mom and I agree. Dad doesn't object, right?" He frantically signaled his father.

Eric hesitated, giving a vague, non-committal response. He felt uneasy but couldn't articulate why.

With his father's (implied) support, Dylan looked determinedly at Alexander. "See?"

Alexander remained impassive and silent.

After a few seconds, Dylan impatiently asked, "Is there anything else?"

Christopher, losing patience with Dylan's attitude, snapped, "Oh, so your family only has three members?" Dylan was stunned by the sarcasm.