The CEO's Unplanned Heir novel Chapter 26

Laura paused, pursing her lips, "That woman sure was cunning. She had Chad completely wrapped around her finger. He wanted to divorce his wife. Even though his wife bore him Mr. Leopold, he still persisted, wanting to make that woman official."

Aurelia took a deep breath. The world of the rich was indeed not as glamorous as it seemed from the outside. It was full of intrigue and backstabbing.

However, there was something else that she was more concerned about.

"Has Arnold's mother always been abroad?" Aurelia asked.

Laura nodded, "Yes, the family's dirty laundry is always cleaned overseas. All the women who were not officially recognized by the Stirling family gave birth abroad. But Chad doted on her, and brought her back as soon as the child was born. Later, she tried to climb up the social ladder, which angered him. She was exiled abroad. Surprisingly, Chad followed her and only returned after her death."

A chill spread down Aurelia's spine. So what Elowen had said was true. She’s a surrogate mother that was looked down upon; Leopold would definitely not want her back. She would most likely die in a foreign land.

She absolutely did not want to give birth abroad. She'd rather die!

At this point, Laura sighed, "Among the four sons, Chad loved Arnold the most and disliked Mr. Leopold the most. Because Mr. Leopold was aloof and never close to him. Chadr always wanted to change the family rules, to make the illegitimate children equal to the legitimate ones, so Arnold could be the heir. Unfortunately, nothing was on his side. He fell ill and didn't have the energy to fight anymore."

Now, Aurelia understood why Leopold was so wary of Arnold. They had been competing since they were children.

"The world of the rich is so complicated." Aurelia said.

Laura served her a piece of shrimp, "Ms. Elowen has been spoiled since she was a child; she's arrogant and domineering. If she and Mr. Leopold don't have children, it's all right. But if they do, your child will be a thorn in her eyes. You should start planning for your child."

This was exactly what Aurelia was worried about. In the future, her child would have no protection from their mother and no love from their father. What would happen?

She raised her hand to her stomach, and her heart twisted into a knot.

……

After the design sketch was completed, Aurelia sent Arnold a WhatsApp message. Arnold invited her to a French restaurant and discuss business.

Just as they settled in their booth, they ran into some familiar faces. It was Leopold, Elowen and Elowen’s mother, Elara.

"What a coincidence, you three are also dining here." Arnold greeted with a smile.

"Oh." Arnold raised an eyebrow slightly, "That's good."

Aurelia took a sip of her juice and pulled out the design sketch, "This one is called 'Blooming Prosperity'. The platinum chain is inlaid with small diamonds, and the pendant is a peony flower, with a six carat gold diamond in the center."

Arnold quickly made a decision, "Let's go with 'Blooming Prosperity'. My aunt loves peonies."

The waiter brought their meals. Aurelia cut a piece of foie gras and put it in her mouth. This was her first time having French cuisine.

"Do you like it?" Arnold asked with a slight smile.

"Yes, it's delicious." Aurelia nodded and took another bite. The legendary French cuisine truly lived up to its reputation.

On the other side of the partition, Leopold faintly heard her words. His eyebrows furrowed in annoyance, sparks flickering in his eyes.

She seemed to be enjoying the meal just fine!