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

Emerging from the seclusion of the private room, Laney's intuition was ablaze, detecting that the history between Garrett and Kailee was far from simple.

The jealousy that sparked in Kailee's eyes as Garrett held Laney was undeniable. If envy could manifest as a lethal blade, Laney would have surely perished at Kailee's hands.

Upon settling into the car, Laney feigned seriousness, her voice tinged with confusion. "Why do I get the sense that your connection with Kailee goes beyond just being old classmates?"

Garrett was taken aback by Laney's perceptiveness, his pulse quickening. He fumbled for words, explaining, "We were an item back in our school days. But after graduation, we went our separate ways and haven't really been in touch. I didn't mention it earlier because I didn't want you to feel envious. I swear!"

Witnessing Garrett's disarray, Laney couldn't suppress her laughter any longer, her amusement spilling over. "Don't worry. I don't succumb to jealousy on a whim. But..."

Garrett's anxiety returned. "What?"

Laney's expression turned icy. "Kailee's actions were despicable. It's one thing to insult me, but to demean Janet as well? That's simply unbearable."

"Sweetheart, don't worry!" Garrett patted his chest with conviction, promising, "From now on, I'll keep my distance from people like them and never let them harm you!"

"That's a relief."

As the couple conversed, their home neared. Suddenly, Laney experienced a sharp pain in her abdomen, her face drained of color. "I... my stomach doesn't feel right..." Alarmed, Garrett gathered her into his arms, concern etched on his face. "What's going on? Are you having stomach cramps?"

Laney gripped her belly, struggling to catch her breath. "My stomach... it hurts..."

Fearful for her wellbeing, Garrett barked at the driver, "To the hospital, now!"

They promptly arrived at the hospital's entrance.

Upon examination, the doctor assured them Laney's condition wasn't severe. Emotional upheaval had merely induced fetal movement. With proper care, all would be well.

However, on the side of caution, the doctor advised Laney to remain in the hospital before delivery just in case.

Relieved, Garrett's heart lightened. Yet, seeing Laney's pallid complexion as she lay in bed, he couldn't help but feel remorseful.

"I'm so sorry, honey. I didn't protect you well enough."

Regret colored Garrett's face as he gripped Laney's hand. "I should never have taken you to that class reunion. I had no idea they'd become so pretentious and two-faced in just a few short years." Laney offered him a reassuring smile, gently squeezing his hand. "It's not your fault. Besides, the doctor says I'll be fine. I just need some rest."

"I'm sorry, honey," Garrett apologized again, guilt-ridden. "Our baby has suffered too..."

"Enough apologies!" Laney interrupted, playfully tousling his hair. "Our little one might just be eager to explore the world outside." Laney's tenderness only intensified Garrett's self

condemnation. He berated himself internally for causing such a wonderful wife to endure so much pain. He felt utterly wretched.

After conversing a while longer, Laney drifted off to sleep.

Gazing upon Laney's slumbering visage, Garrett recalled the indignities she had suffered at the gathering and the tense car ride. Consumed by guilt and frustration, he retreated to the corridor for a smoke. It had been quite a while since he last smoked, having quit when Laney became pregnant.

Nevertheless, just as he ignited his cigarette, he noticed Leo and Vera hastily emerging from the elevator. Catching sight of him, they inquired with concern, "How is Laney? Is she okay?"

"She's fine," Garrett replied, snuffing out the cigarette with a sullen expression.

Relieved to hear that Laney was well, they relaxed.

"What happened today?" Leo questioned, his tone less than amicable.