Chapter 269
Carla glanced around, ensuring they weren’t being overheard, then pulled Alyssa aside to a quieter corner where fewer guests were gathered. “I found out something about Rain Clayton,” she whispered, her eyes darting nervously. “I don’t know how to tell Alexander p>
Alyssa frowned, sensing the weight in her friend’s voice. “What did you hear? If it’s important, you should tell him p>
Carla hesitated, chewing on her bottom lip, clearly conflicted. “I don’t know if I should bring it up, but I think he deserves to know. It’s just… I’m not sure how to handle it without causing a mess p>
Alyssa looked at her, trying to read her expression. “What exactly did you find out about Rain p>
“You know she’s an illegitimate child, right?” Carla said in a hushed tone. “I heard her family didn’t treat her well. I can’t shake the feeling that she married Alexander to secure a better future for herself and for her aunt, too. Just think about it: her Aunt Melanie is now married to Butler Ben, and her best friend is with William. Doesn’t it all seem a little… convenient p>
Carla hesitated, then continued, “Look, I don’t mean to meddle, but I genuinely care about Alexander. I was curious about the woman he chose, so I hired a private investigator to look into her p>
Alyssa frowned, but she understood Carla’s actions. If she were in the same position, replaced by another woman, she might also want to know everything about her. She thought back bitterly to Brian, who had been cheating on her behind her back. Thankfully, she’d found out before he could hurt her further.
Alyssa’s gaze shifted toward Alexander, then to William and Uncle Ben. It was strange how all three had quickly connected with Rain’s family, but these were intelligent men. Surely they couldn’t be easily deceived.
“Maybe it’s just a coincidence,” Alyssa said, trying to reassure her. “We can’t know for sure, but one thing I’m certain of, Carla, is that those three men aren’t easily fooled—especially Xander. He’s ruthless when it comes to people’s motives p>
She noticed how Carla’s expression dimmed for a moment, though it quickly turned into a smile. “Alright, maybe you’re right,” Carla admitted. “Maybe I’m only feeling this way because, deep down, I still haven’t moved on. All my life, I thought Xander and I were meant to be—ever since I saved him that day at the orphanage p>
Alyssa sighed, feeling a pang of sympathy. She knew it would’ve been nice if things had worked out between Carla and Alexander, but everything had changed the moment Carla ended things and left. “You’re a wonderful person, Carla, and there’s someone out there who’s going to see that and truly deserve you p>
“But… it’s not that easy for me,” Carla whispered, her eyes welling with tears. Alyssa pulled her into a comforting hug. “I want closure with Alexander, but I don’t think I’ll ever have the chance to talk to him alone. I’m not even sure if he’d be willing p>
“Don’t worry, I’ll help you find a way to talk to him privately,” Alyssa offered with a reassuring smile.
Carla nodded, murmuring, “Let’s just blend in with everyone before we attract attention.” She gently nudged Alyssa back, and they returned to mingling with the other guests.
Meanwhile, Rain was enjoying herself, barely noticing Carla’s presence, as her attention was fixed on Alexander and her family. Out of the blue, Alexander leaned in and murmured, “I love you,” before pressing a gentle kiss to her lips as the music faded. Her face flushed, and she shyly buried herself against his chest.
Though a bit embarrassed, Rain was also used to Alexander’s bold displays of affection. Since they’d confessed their love for each other, he’d become shamelessly affectionate, not minding whether they were alone or surrounded by everyone.
Alyssa suddenly appeared beside them with a grin. “Cousin, how about a dance with me p>
Rain chuckled and gently nudged Alexander. “He’s all yours,” she said with a playful wink.
Alyssa smiled politely. “Thank you p>
“My dear, how about a dance with your father-in-law?” Father Rock offered his hand to Rain, and she took it with a bright smile. “Of course p>
As they swayed to the music, Father Rock leaned in and whispered, “If you’re uncomfortable with Carla around, just say the word. I’ll take care of it p>
Rain chuckled softly. “Father, it’s fine. Don’t worry about me. I always feel secure with Alexander. Carla’s presence doesn’t bother me p>
And it was true. She felt assured with Alexander by her side, but that didn’t mean she’d let her guard down completely.
As the music stopped, Rain politely excused herself from Father Rock’s company. She then noticed Alyssa pulling Alexander aside, but she decided to let them be for a moment. This was the perfect time to catch up with Sanya, who was happily glued to William’s side much like Alexander usually was with her.
“Mind if I borrow my friend for a bit?” Rain teased William, who laughed and quickly released Sanya’s hand.
Sanya leaned in and whispered, “I saw Carla slip out right after talking to Alyssa a little while ago. Now that I see Alyssa pulling Alexander aside, it feels… suspicious p>
Rain’s eyes widened slightly. She hadn’t noticed Carla’s departure. Her thoughts raced… she knew Alyssa had always been close to Carla and had witnessed firsthand how Alyssa had often defended her. Maybe it wasn’t a coincidence that Alyssa had suddenly interrupted her dance with Alexander.
“Do you think Alyssa’s leading him to Carla?” Rain asked, frowning. “Maybe I’m just overthinking, but Carla’s a skilled actress. What if she’s pretending to be fine but plans to interfere? I wouldn’t put it past her to try something p>
“Then let’s go look for him,” Sanya urged, her expression determined. “Come on. Better safe than sorry p>
Rain chuckled, amused by Sanya’s determination. “I trust my husband,” she said with confidence. “Besides, Carla’s not the villain in some drama p>
“But you can’t deny she’s been… worrisome?” Sanya pressed, her voice low. “What if she’s planning something, like that time when you told me she called him in the middle of the night on your birthday? What if she tries to make a scene or-” she paused dramatically, “-what if she pulls some stunt like in those shows where someone spikes a drink to create a scandal p>
Rain raised an eyebrow, laughing. “You’ve definitely been watching too many dramas, Sanya p>
“So what?” Sanya shot back, grinning. “Come on, let’s just go make sure, okay p>