Chapter 98

"She's not pregnant?"

Margaret exhaled sharply, relieved her family's reputation remained intact.

"Then why was she seeing a gynecologist?"

Cassandra glanced nervously at Nathaniel before speaking in a carefully measured tone. "I shouldn't say more... I don't want to upset Mr. Blackwood."

Nathaniel's chiseled features hardened like marble. "Continue," he commanded icily.

"Very well... I'll tell you everything."

Cassandra hid her satisfaction at his reaction. "I didn't mention the photo immediately because I wanted proof. So I tracked down their doctor. He confirmed she isn't pregnant - though they were actively trying. They'd been prescribed fertility vitamins..."

She paused dramatically. "The doctor said conception would be difficult. If natural methods fail, they might consider IVF."

Every word was fabricated.

Cassandra had indeed located the physician, but he'd denied treating Vivian and Liam. Undeterred, she'd bribed another doctor to corroborate her story. Even if Nathaniel investigated, he'd hear the same lies.

"I knew it! That cursed woman is barren. Thank heavens you divorced her in time!"

Margaret gloated viciously. "Now the Osbornes will suffer. Imagine Theodore's rage when he learns his precious heir chose an infertile bride!"

Nathaniel remained silent, his expression stormy.

Margaret frowned. "Why that look? You should be celebrating! Don't tell me you actually care for her after that snakebite charade!"

Nathaniel's fists clenched, though his face betrayed nothing. "Never," he spat through gritted teeth.

Three days passed.

Vivian hadn't left her apartment since returning from the hospital. She'd expected Nathaniel to confront her about the deception, but he'd vanished completely - no calls, no texts.

Those tender days nursing him felt like another lifetime. Their fleeting closeness had evaporated. This silent separation seemed the natural conclusion.

Except for one unfinished matter.

Today was their divorce appointment.

Neither reached out first, each stubbornly waiting for the other to break the stalemate.

By midday, Vivian's patience snapped.

She texted Nathaniel: "Divorce today. What time?"

His reply came instantly: "30 minutes."

The curt response stung. After everything she'd done for him, this was his attitude?

But what had she expected? Four years couldn't thaw him - why would three days?

Grabbing her documents, Vivian hailed a cab to City Hall.

As she stepped onto the curb, Nathaniel's car pulled up simultaneously.