Chapter 196

An hour later, Natalie arrived at Jeremy's company. She rarely visited, fearing she would disrupt his work. Her last visit had been before their marriage. The receptionist was new and didn't recognize her.

When Natalie identified herself as Mrs. Hughes, the receptionist seemed surprised.

"Mrs. Hughes? Ah, wait a moment. Let me ask Ms. Green where Mr. Hughes is." The receptionist appeared flustered.

Natalie frowned, judging the receptionist less professional than her predecessor. She said, "There's no need to ask. I'll go up myself. If he's in a meeting, I'll wait in his office and won't disturb him."

She wondered who Ms. Green was—a new secretary? Jeremy hadn't mentioned it. They rarely discussed work.

Despite her infrequent visits, she knew Jeremy's floor. She took the elevator. Unbeknownst to her, the receptionist immediately made a phone call.

Jeremy's office was on the top floor, the quietest, reflecting his preference for uninterrupted work. Under his leadership, the Hughes company had doubled in size. The Hughes family was now one of Jipsburg's most prestigious.

Natalie felt a surge of pride in her capable husband. The thought of him filled her with happiness.

The elevator reached the top floor. As the doors opened, Natalie saw a tall, beautiful woman in a simple white shirt that somehow enhanced her allure. Natalie, herself quite attractive, felt no inferiority; beauty is subjective.

Annabelle subtly assessed Natalie, noting what she perceived as the proud bearing of a woman confident in her attractiveness.

"Hello," Annabelle greeted.

Natalie smiled and returned the greeting, heading toward Jeremy's office with takeout.

From the elevator, Annabelle watched Natalie's retreating back with disdain. It's no wonder Jeremy is so voracious in bed. Natalie can't satisfy him at all, she thought. Their marriage, she believed, stemmed from a close friendship and family pressure; only Natalie seemed to believe it was based on love.

Annabelle glanced down at her torn stockings, annoyed. Fortunately, she carried a spare pair.

Natalie knocked. After a "Come in," she entered.

"Hi, my dear husband! Surprise!"

Jeremy smiled. "Do you have the checkup results?"

"Yes. You're extremely healthy, Mr. Hughes. Our child will be healthy, too." Natalie placed the takeout on the table and produced the report. "We can have a child whenever we want now."

Jeremy embraced her. "Good. We'll be having a child."

Natalie felt pure bliss in his arms.