Downstairs, the Arinze dining hall buzzed with life. Morning chatter mixed with the clinking of silverware and the scent of freshly baked bread.
Most of the family greeted Olaedo warmly, but not everyone shared in the cheer.
Ndidi's polite smile didn't reach her eyes. Her gaze dropped to Olaedo's midsection, dark thoughts swirling behind her calm exterior. Three months married already… What if she's pregnant? Her stomach tightened. That child would seal their claim to the family fortune. I can't let that happen. I need to act soon.
Across the table, Ifeoma watched in equal disdain, her eyes sharp and calculating. She's just a gold digger, she thought, bitterness simmering beneath her calm expression. Adanna fell for her act too easily. How can everyone be so blind?
But their silent judgments faded under the warmth radiating from the head of the table.
