The Mysterious Billionaire and His Substitute Bride (Ethan and Janet)

Half an hour later, Laney arrived at a coffee house in the city square.

Bag in hand, Janet raced toward Laney, delighted to see her old friend.

Laney was overjoyed, but too heavily pregnant to run. She took a few steps forward. Afraid to squeeze too hard, Janet only gave her a gentle hug and stroked her belly.

"It's only been a couple of weeks. How did your belly get so big?" Janet chuckled. "The little guy's growing fast. Let me be the godmother. I want to be the first person to hug him!" "Of course, you will be the first." Laney laughed heartily. She then covered her mouth and apologized, "I'm sorry. I laughed too loudly. Pregnancy seems to have stolen my manners." "Don't worry. Laugh as loud as you want. I'm not Garrett's mother." Janet pouted. "When did you become like this? I can't even imagine what you're like when you're with the Harding family."

"It's not a big deal. It's worth it. Come on. Let's go inside. I've asked Lola to order some desserts for us." They sauntered into the coffee house arm in arm.

"Mrs. Larson, long time no see. I ordered tiramisu for you," Lola said enthusiastically, placing the desserts in front of them. She was wearing the brooch Janet had given her on her coat. It shone under the warm lights.

"How do you like the brooch?" Janet wiped the dessert fork carefully before handing it to Laney.

Lola brought them juice. Smiling widely, she said,

"I love it, Mrs. Larson. It matches all my clothes. I often get compliments when I wear it."

"It's just a small gift to thank you for taking care of my friend." Smiling politely, Janet grasped Laney's hand. Lola worked for Leo after all, and Janet needed to be on guard around her.

There were too few desserts on the table. Laney looked up and told Lola to order some chocolate mousse and cheesecakes.

"There are too many. We won't be able to finish," Janet protested.

"You've lost weight. You should eat more." Laney pinched Janet's cheek. The skin felt loose.

A sweet smile appeared on Janet's face. Laney had ordered her favorite desserts. Janet was flattered that she remembered.

Holding her arm, Janet leaned her head on Laney's shoulder and said, "We haven't seen each other for ages. We should chat more and eat less, don't you think? How are you doing? Has Vera been bullying you?"

Stroking her round belly, Laney smiled. "I'm doing well." She checked Lola was far enough away and then whispered, "But Lola has been watching me for Leo. It could be because the baby is due soon, but it feels like the whole Harding family has been paying close attention to me."

"I asked about you, not the Harding family." Janet noticed the sadness in Laney's eyes.

"I'm fine, and I believe that everything will return to normal after the baby is born." Laney's eyes were gentle and calm. She placed her hand on her belly and stroked it gently.

"I'll ask Lola to get you some desserts for Brandon. You can give them to him later."

Laney was about to get up when Janet stopped her. "No. Brandon is a picky eater; he will waste them," Janet said coldly. "And they're too delicious. He

doesn't deserve any of the desserts they make here."

Stunned, Laney asked carefully, "Did he make you mad?"

Janet avoided eye contact and clenched her fists. She tried to disguise her anger, but Laney knew something was wrong. "Whatever it is, you can tell me."

"I guess it's okay to tell you," Janet said, pursing her lips. "Brandon and I quarreled. And I left home a few days ago."