Chapter 11
“Great, Ms. Keller. I honestly didn’t think you’d accept my invitation. Kane will be absolutely thrilled to know you’re coming to my birthday party,” said Jocelyn, her voice dripping with feigned kindness.
“I couldn’t care less if he’s thrilled or not. I’m just curious to see what all the fuss is about,” June replied, immediately seeing through Jocelyn’s attempt to show off. A calm, knowing smile played on her lips.
June’s eyes then swept over Jocelyn’s outfit-a tight dress and high heels. She casually remarked, “Ms. Gregory, aren’t you pregnant? Those shoes and that dress don’t seem ideal for someone in your condition. You might want to be more careful; it wouldn’t be good to risk the baby’s health.”
Jocelyn was momentarily taken aback but quickly composed herself, tenderly rubbing her abdomen.
“I have to dress up for work, right? But thanks for the heads-up, Ms. Keller. I’ll discuss this with Kane when I get home and sort out my schedule,” Jocelyn responded.
“End of the day, the kid’s yours. You gotta watch out for yourself, June remarked, her tone nonchalant, as if she truly didn’t care.
“Stop putting on an act. You think people can’t see how f**ing upset you are?” Angelica taunted, eager to catch a glimpse of June’s distress or sorrow.
However, her hopes were dashed as June simply smiled, unfazed. “If that’s what you want to believe, then believe it. I’m not stopping you.”
This response only intensified Angelica’s irritation, as if her verbal punches were falling flat.
“You f**g-” Before Angelica could finish her sentence, June walked past her into the store. Seeing this, Angelica hurriedly pulled Jocelyn inside.
While trailing behind, Angelica whispered to Jocelyn, audible only to them, “When did you get pregnant? How come I didn’t know?”
I’m not. Kane probably just cooked that up as an excuse to divorce June,” Jocelyn replied silently to herself. She thought, I haven’t even slept with Kane. Where would a pregnancy come from? But to the outside world, we’re seen as a perfect couple, so it’s assumed to be inevitable. No need to spell it out!
“Oh, is that it? I thought you really were pregnant, and I was out of the loop. I’d be a terrible
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Chapter 11
friend,” Angelica said as they entered the store together. June was already browsing by the display cabinets.
Laid before her was a subtly and elegantly designed dark blue tie, perfect for her elder brother, Dwayne Keller.
Considering it as a gift, June was about to take the tie out to inspect it when Angelica’s mocking voice interrupted.
“June Keller, did you see the price of this tie? How dare you touch it? Can you afford to replace it if you damage it?” Angelica sneered.
June glanced at the price. “Just 22 thousand dollars. Do you think I can’t afford it?”
Angelica scoffed. “That’s 22 thousand dollars, not just a few bucks. Do you even have that kind of money?”
“If you say I can’t afford it, then I can’t? What makes you so sure about me? How well do you know me?” June retorted c**ly.
“Ms. Keller, if I recall correctly, you left with nothing when you divorced Kane. It’s difficult for a woman alone, so avoiding extravagant purchases is wise. Saving money is always a good idea,” Jocelyn’s gentle voice interjected. “I think this tie would suit Kane perfectly. Why don’t you let me take it?”
