Chapter 3

At the reception in Briarwood Manor, Patricia carried the baby while moving through the guests with Nathan, soaking in the flattery and praise everywhere they walked under the shifting lights. At first, she had put on a show of gentle humility, but she slowly began to grow smug from all the attention. Nathan's mother, Lily Brown, held her hand with a sigh. "Patricia, you're a great contributor to our family. We should've had Nathan marry you from the start, but that spot was unfortunately taken by someone who couldn't have children." In the past, whenever Nathan heard something like that, he would speak up to defend Phyllis. He'd even gone so far as to have shouting matches with his parents. But now, he just kept rocking the baby gently, as if he hadn't heard a thing. His heart had quietly shifted a long time ago. Someone familiar with the Freys chimed in, "Honestly, Phyllis is blessed. After all, not many people have a good sister like Patricia to help them and share their burdens. That's something to envy." Hearing that, Patricia put on her usual shy act. "What you're saying is true, but please don't let Phyllis hear this, or she'd be upset..." As she spoke, she dabbed away imaginary tears, looking like someone who had been treated unfairly but was staying strong. Nathan immediately pulled her into his arms, saying softly, "Alright. Everyone knows you're a considerate, kind woman. If Phyllis ever bullies you again, you can just tell me." The implication was clear. Whatever happened, he would take her side, even if it meant standing against his wife. Phyllis stood not far away, watching it all and hearing every sneer and jab. As for Nathan's behavior, she'd long stopped caring. Even if her heart still throbbed painfully, she had no desire to dwell on it. She'd come here to deliver a gift. She strolled up slowly. "Ms. Lowe, you just said having a sister like this is my blessing. Well, how about I hand that blessing over to you? Do you want it?" Cecilia Lowe's face immediately fell, but knowing she'd been caught bad-mouthing someone, she could only force an awkward smile. "Phyllis, what nonsense are you talking about? Don't you know how to respect your elders?" Aaron and Sapphire were ready to lecture her, but she simply unfolded a marriage certificate for everyone to see. "Everyone, today isn't just the baby's first birthday. It's also Patricia and Nathan's wedding anniversary. But they were a bit careless and left their marriage certificate at home, so I brought it here for you all to have a good look..." The guests crowded around. When they saw the official stamp and the names, a chorus of gasps rang out. "Didn't Nathan say there was nothing between him and Patricia, and it was only for the sake of having a child? Why did he go all the way abroad to get married to her?" Another voice cut in, "They must have started having an affair long ago. That 'passing on the family line' story was just a cover." The murmurs grew louder, and the looks aimed at Nathan and Patricia became more and more disdainful. Some remained silent out of politeness, but deep down, they spat in disgust. Patricia was the first to crack. She discreetly pinched the baby, and as the baby wailed, she said pitifully, "Phyllis, it was Nathan who wanted to give me a proper title. You already have everything, so why begrudge me this tiny bit I have?" Her tears flowed nonstop, pushing all blame away from herself. Her parents and Nathan's parents quickly defended her and called for security to throw Phyllis out. Nathan went rigid. He took a deep breath, then raised his voice sharply. "Enough! All of you, shut up." He stepped toward Phyllis and said in disappointment, "Do you have to embarrass Patricia in front of everyone? Is this the outcome you wanted?" Before Phyllis could reply, the big screen behind them suddenly lit up, playing a dimly lit video. Patricia appeared disheveled and bloodied, pleading into the camera. "Phyllis, I'm sorry! I shouldn't have liked Nathan. Please, don't hit me anymore. It hurts so much..." Then came Phyllis' voice. "I can let this slide, but if you ever tell anyone, I'll make sure a dozen guys come after you. Let's see how long you can keep up that innocent act." The video cut off there, and the crowd's eyes widened in shock, all directed at Phyllis. Out of sight of the others, Patricia's lips curled in a subtle smile. She thought, "Phyllis, you're not the only one who came with a gift. I brought one for you, too." It didn't matter whether the video was real or fake. What mattered was that Nathan already believed it was true. Veins bulged on Nathan's temples, and his eyes looked furious and ready to spit fire. "Someone, come and lock her in the water tank! I want her to know what real pain feels like." Phyllis thought only a second before realizing she'd been set up. Before she could explain or protest, two bodyguards appeared, grabbing her arms. Like a rag doll, she was dragged and tossed into the water tank. When the lid slammed shut over the top, her way out was completely sealed. She pounded frantically on the sides of the tank, but gradually, water flooded her nose and lungs, choking her. The suffocating sensation spread through her body, and her limbs slowly grew weak and powerless. In the haze of fading consciousness, she thought she saw Nathan's figure rushing toward her in a panic.