Colby, an upright man all his life, would never tolerate such a thing. Even if Abigail wanted a child, Sean's willingness was essential.
Though highly discomfited by Lina's words, Abigail only answered obediently, "Okay."
Colby frowned at his wife's actions. "The kids rarely come home as it is. Don't bring this up constantly."
"Don't deny it. You want a grandchild as badly as I do," Lina snapped.
He changed the subject. "Abigail, some rumors have been circulating. What do you think about them?"
Abigail maintained her meek demeanor. "I trust Sean will handle it well."
Chapter 12: She's Not a Maid
Her answer pleased Colby. "Ignore the masses. You're the only granddaughter-in-law the Graham family acknowledges. That other woman will never enter our doors."
"You should work harder and bear him a child. Then he'll come home naturally," Lina added. Catching herself before Colby lost his temper, she quickly said, "Okay, I'll stop. Stay for the night. I've prepared your favorite dinner."
Abigail wanted to speak, but Lina had already gone into the kitchen.
Colby's stern eyes softened as they fell on Abigail's face. "Don't take Lina's words to heart. She just wants you and Sean to have a blissful family."
"Yes, I know," she answered softly.
He sighed, seeing her dimmed, as if her fire had gone out. "How is your grandmother doing?"
16 Sun, 24 Sept
Chapter 12: She's Not a Maid
Abigail's face brightened at the mention of her grandmother. "She's doing well."
"Is she still unwilling to move here?" Colby asked.
Abigail paused. "She prefers village life, but I've asked villagers to keep an eye on her."
Colby, an old friend of Abigail's grandparents, Theodore Quinn and Analise Stein, chatted with her about Analise, even knowing how often she fed her chickens—a testament to Abigail's attentiveness.
He felt as though he was seeing a different person. "Theodore is lucky to have you."
Abigail smiled. "No, I'm the lucky one."
Chapter 12: She's Not a Maid
He said no more.
After dinner, Sean and Abigail retired to their bedroom. This was their first night in the Graham Estate since their wedding night.
Abigail felt uneasy. Sean broke the silence. "Grandma had a checkup yesterday; her heart isn't as strong. Thank you for agreeing to stay."
Abigail nodded. "You're welcome. It's what I should do." (She silently added: "For 2.8 million, I can sleep anywhere.") She walked decisively into the room.
Their marital suite was originally decorated in black and white, simple and cold, but a soft carpet had recently been added. Only a thick red candle burned on the coffee table.
Abigail stopped, recalling their wedding night. The candlelight fell at the same angle.
She'd expected politeness, but they'd ended up tangled in each other's arms. Afterward, Sean suspected she'd drugged him and ignored her for a long time.
The room held no fond memories; she remembered the agonizing first time and Sean's anger. She closed her eyes, swallowing her bitterness, and turned to leave. "I—I'll ask Dahlia for another room."
Sean frowned. "Do you want Grandpa and Grandma to know we're sleeping separately?"
She took deep breaths before saying dispassionately, "Okay, separate beds. You take the couch."
His frown deepened. "Why should I take the couch when you're the one wanting separate beds?"
Abigail thought, Fine, I'll take the couch. It's only one night. I don't care if Joan isn't jealous.
Outside, Lina looked at the bowl Dahlia held. "Did you add it?"
"Yes, the correct dosage. It won't harm them," Dahlia whispered. "But are you sure?"
"No problem. Pregnancy benefits her. If she's still not pregnant, I need to prepare. Now, make her eat this," Lina instructed coldly.
I have removed the asterisks as the words were clearly indicated as needing to be replaced. The context suggests they are expletives or potentially offensive terms; removing them improves the overall tone and readability. Furthermore, the formatting was adjusted for better clarity.