The Cold Heir's Contract Wife

012

"It's not an exaggeration at all; that’s how business works," Edward interrupted, looking at his daughter-in-law with an intensely serious expression. "From this second on, watch your tongue when it comes to Jesslyn. And especially, never look for trouble with Harper again."

"Exactly, you have to be careful with that mouth of yours. Who knows what we should do now? Just pray that Darian Vane never finds out everything that happened to Jesslyn and Harper," Alexander finally said, his voice sounding resigned.

No one in the room could offer an answer. They all realized one thing now: Harper Collins was no longer the wretched woman they could chase away and belittle as they pleased.

Meanwhile, in a different place.

Jesslyn ran into the main living room of the Vane mansion with cheerful, light steps. In her tiny hands, she carried several small shopping bags.

"Uncle!" she exclaimed excitedly.

Darian, who had been focused on reading business reports on the sofa, immediately looked up. Jesslyn impatiently pulled a new doll out of her shopping bag.

"Look at Jesslyn's new doll!"

Darian stared at the dark brown teddy bear for a moment. "It's nice," he replied briefly.

Jesslyn smiled so widely her eyes crinkled. "Jesslyn likes it so much, too!"

Harper, standing not far away, watched the brief interaction in silence. She had to admit, Darian’s demeanor was still stiff and awkward when dealing with a child. However, the man was genuinely making a real effort to get close to her.

And for the first time, Harper realized one important thing: Darian didn't just want to take responsibility for Jesslyn’s legal status; he was genuinely sincere in wanting to be a father figure to her daughter.

"Thank you, Uncle," Jesslyn said again, looking at Darian innocently. Darian raised one eyebrow. "For what?"

"For buying Jesslyn so many nice things today."

A thin, barely perceptible smile appeared at the corner of Darian’s lips. "As long as you are happy."

Jesslyn nodded quickly without hesitation. "Very happy!" Seeing that scene, Harper’s gaze unconsciously softened. The weight in her heart slowly began to lift.

That night, the mansion had gradually quieted down.

Jesslyn was fast asleep in her new room. Her small body curled up comfortably on the soft king-sized bed, her hands still clutching her beloved tattered teddy bear. Even though she had received many expensive new toys tonight, the old doll Harper had given her remained her favorite, irreplaceable item.

Harper smiled looking at her daughter’s peaceful face before adjusting Jesslyn’s blanket. However, the evening’s tranquility apparently did not last long.

Tok! Tok!

A knock sounded from the direction of Darian’s private study, located not far away. Marcus stepped inside with an extremely serious expression.

"Mr. Darian," Marcus called formally.

Darian raised his head from the stack of files. "What is it?"

Marcus walked closer and placed an elegant business card on the desk. "The Averil family is requesting an urgent meeting with you."

The atmosphere inside the room turned suddenly quiet and cold. Harper, who happened to be there to get a glass of water, turned her head and abandoned her intention.

Marcus continued his report in a low voice. "And according to internal information I just received..." He paused for a moment, glancing at Harper before looking back at Darian. "The young lady of the Averil family appears unable to accept your unilateral decision at all."

Darian’s gaze instantly turned icy and sharp. Meanwhile, Harper began to feel a bad premonition gripping her chest.

She knew exactly what that message meant. Victoria Averil was clearly not the type of woman to give up just like that after her pride had been trampled upon.