Chapter 64: Pregnancy

Emma Johnson's POV

Harry rose warmly and pulled Louis into an embrace, his tone both affectionate and approving.

"It's been far too long, Louis. The last time we met was in Luminous City. Campbell Corporation has been absolutely thriving under your leadership—you're every bit as impressive as I imagined when I watched you grow up. At this rate, you'll surpass your father and me in no time."

"Surpassing you and Father is still a distant dream, Uncle Harry." Louis's arm tightened around my waist as he drew me forward. "Let me introduce you—this is my wife, Emma."

"Emma, this is Uncle Harry. He's the son of my grandfather's college roommate from his study abroad days, and my father's closest friend. He's one of the most brilliant minds in investment banking. And this is his wife, Anna."

I swallowed hard, my heart clenched as if gripped by an invisible fist.

But with so many eyes on us, I forced down the turbulent emotions threatening to surface and smiled as I extended my hand.

"It's lovely to meet you, Uncle Harry, Aunt Anna."

"No need to be so formal, dear. This is the first time I've met such a stunning young woman. You two look absolutely perfect together. May I call you Emma?" Anna's voice was soft and melodious. Though her words were directed at me, her gaze lingered unmistakably on Louis.

That look in her eyes—full of admiration and longing.

"I hear you're an artist? How wonderful. Louis needs someone like you by his side."

Without warning, she slipped a ruby ring from her finger—clearly worth a fortune.

"This is a little welcome gift from us."

Instinctively, I glanced at Louis, silently asking for guidance.

"It's fine. If Uncle Harry and Aunt Anna want to give you something, please accept it." He nodded gently, signaling his approval.

Behind us, Elizabeth chimed in. "Exactly, Emma. When elders offer a gift, you should accept it graciously."

I took the ruby ring, my mind spinning in a fog. At some point, I found myself guided to the sofa.

My thoughts were in chaos.

Too much information all at once.

This time around, I couldn't let tragedy repeat itself.

As everyone settled in, the conversation naturally turned to business and investments. Harry and Louis engaged in animated discussion while I sat there, fists clenched in silent determination.

"Ms. Johnson, you seem rather tense."

The sudden voice beside me made me jump.

I looked up to find Anna watching me with polite eyes that concealed something unreadable and false.

"Not at all." I forced a smile, studying that flawlessly composed face. "Aunt Anna, are you pregnant?"

"How did you know?" Her eyes widened in genuine surprise. "Only Harry and I are aware of that. How could you possibly—"

Seeing the sudden wariness and sharpness flash in her eyes, I froze.

She seemed to realize she'd overreacted and quickly softened her demeanor.

"How did you know?" she asked gently.

"I studied medicine for a while. I could tell." I smiled.

"How impressive. What else can you see?" Anna leaned in with apparent curiosity. "Please, do tell me."

"I can tell it's a boy." I smiled faintly. "Am I being too presumptuous?"

"Not at all. If it's a boy, Harry will be absolutely thrilled." Anna caressed her belly, her face radiating maternal tenderness.

"But he won't look like Uncle Harry," I said, gripping my hands tightly as I met Anna's suddenly sharp gaze. "He'll take after you more."

In an instant, Anna's expression changed.

"Is that so?" She set down her teacup. "Ms. Johnson, you seem even more perceptive than our private physician."

"Aunt Anna, Uncle Harry is a good man. You should treasure him." My words carried deliberate weight.

"Of course." She smiled.

Our exchange ended there. Anna turned back to Elizabeth, her radiant smile never faltering.

"Emma, you really embarrassed yourself just now." Sarah seized the opportunity to mock me. "You looked like a deer in headlights in front of our guests. Not very becoming of Mrs. Campbell, is it?"

My thoughts gradually returned to the present as I heard Sarah's taunting voice.

"Well, what can I do? I'm Mrs. Campbell, not you. If that bothers you, deal with it."

Sarah's face flushed with anger, but given the circumstances, she could only glare at me through gritted teeth. "Emma, just you wait!"

I ignored her completely, simply rolling my eyes at her retreating figure.

The butler entered to announce that dinner was ready, and we could move to the dining room.

Louis and Harry each took one of Elizabeth's arms as they escorted her toward the table.

The moment I sat down, I felt a strange, unsettling gaze upon me.

Looking up, I caught Anna's eyes—dangerous and loaded with meaning.

But just as quickly, the moment our gazes met, she transformed it into a smile.

Haunted by memories from my past life, I remained distracted throughout the meal.

Louis's expression was equally grim, though he kept piling food onto my plate.

During dinner, my fork clattered to the floor.

As I bent to retrieve it, I witnessed something shocking.

Under the table, a pair of high heels sat neatly in front of Anna—while her bare foot deliberately stroked Louis's calf.

Rage ignited inside me at the sight.

Just as I was about to react, Elizabeth suddenly stood, raising her wine glass.

"Having Harry and Anna here is such a rare treat. Let's all raise a glass in celebration!"

With Elizabeth's command, no one dared refuse. Everyone lifted their glasses, the crimson liquid swirling with an ominous beauty.

"I'm afraid my wife will have to abstain—she's expecting. I'll drink on her behalf." Harry suddenly spoke up, his arm around Anna's shoulder, his face beaming with happiness.

Anna nestled against him obediently, her expression equally blissful.

At first glance, they appeared to be a devoted couple.

If only I hadn't just witnessed her attempting to seduce Louis.

"Anna's pregnant? What wonderful news!" Elizabeth adored children, and at this announcement, her entire face brightened with joy.

"That's right. Anna is carrying the fruit of our love." Harry's smile widened.

"You two are so well-matched. I'm sure your child will be absolutely delightful. Louis, you two need to get moving as well." Elizabeth glanced meaningfully at us.

"Don't worry, Grandma." I slipped my arm through Louis's and gave him a subtle wink. "Louis, I'm not feeling well. Could you take me upstairs to rest for a bit?"

Concern immediately flooded Louis's eyes. "What's wrong? Should I call our private physician?"

I shook my head weakly. "I just need to lie down for a while."