Dead at Heart (Ariel and Jayson) novel Chapter 659

Ariel immediately grasped the situation.

This was wrong. Being seen coming out of the same room together looked strange.

Cecilia narrowed her eyes at Lucas as she approached. "Mr. Sanderson, why didn't you talk to Ariel outside? Why bring her into the room? People could get the wrong idea. You should be thinking about protecting her reputation."

Janice snapped back to attention. Frowning, she retorted, "They're siblings. Who'd get the wrong idea about them? Aren't you overthinking this, Ms. Pryce?"

Cecilia smiled lightly and didn't dwell on that topic. "Sorry, I was just looking out for Ariel. That's all. By the way, Ariel, I heard from Ms. Johnstone that you're pregnant. Congratulations."

Lucas, who had just been looking relaxed, suddenly stiffened.

Ariel's expression shifted as well.

Wendy?

Ariel looked at Cecilia, surprised that she knew about her pregnancy. Even worse, she had revealed it in front of Jayson.

Janice's emotions were clear on her face.

With Ariel's pregnancy suddenly exposed, today's situation could easily turn into a major misunderstanding.

Janice knew Ariel wouldn't tell Jayson. Now, with an outsider like Cecilia revealing it to him, it looked suspicious, especially since Ariel had been alone in a room with Lucas.

Janice didn't care what Jayson thought, but she refused to let Ariel's reputation take a hit.

If Jayson doubted Ariel or suspected some complicated connection between her and Lucas involving the baby, how could Ariel handle his wrath?

As Janice's expression darkened with those thoughts, Jayson looked at Ariel calmly. He stepped forward and took her hand, interlacing his fingers with hers.

Lucas saw the intimate gesture loud and clear.

Ariel's heart skipped a beat. She looked up at his composed face.

"Since Ari is pregnant, she needs extra care. Thank you for noticing and even helping her, Mr. Sanderson," Jayson said evenly. His expression betrayed no hint of doubt, like anyone might expect.

Cecilia hadn't anticipated this reaction. A flicker of coldness crossed her face.

Normally, any man would be suspicious if his wife were pregnant and hadn't told him. Especially a man of Jayson's status, he couldn't possibly overlook even the smallest problem.

Ariel knew she should react carefully in public, so she kept her composure and simply nodded. "Sure."

Jayson never let go of her hand. "Ms. Swanson, are you coming with us?"

Janice, sensing that a private conversation was probably needed between them, swallowed her concern and said, "No, I'll drive myself."

Jayson glanced at Lucas. "Well, then. Goodbye, Mr. Sanderson."

He remained perfectly composed, showing no hint of chaos or aggression. Yet to Lucas, it felt like a silent slap, making it all the more unbearable.

Lucas' expression darkened. His eyes were glued to Ariel. He couldn't believe what just happened.

Jayson led Ariel toward the exit.

Cecilia clenched her fists tighter. The outcome was completely unexpected. She hadn't seen the reaction she anticipated.