Chapter 1608

"The older two are mine," Helen said with a smile. "So, a son and a daughter, huh?" Maddie mused, feeling a spark of connection. "What a coincidence! I have one of each as well. Would you mind sharing your business card, Ms. Terzian? I'd love to stay in touch." Maddie knew Helen hadn't been on the guest list, which meant Chandler must have invited her. This intriguing woman could be a potential competitor, and Maddie was eager to gather as much information as she could. "Unfortunately, I just returned to the country today and haven't had the chance to set up any local social media accounts yet. Perhaps next time," Helen declined gracefully. Given that Maddie was Chandler's contractual wife, Helen felt there was no need for excessive interaction between them. "What's the topic of conversation?" Chandler suddenly approached, standing beside Maddie and casually glancing at Helen. "It's been a while, Ms. Terzian. Your children are absolutely delightful." Sienna gazed on with wide-eyed admiration. "Mr. Handsome!" she thought to herself. Maddie's expression tightened. Just as she had suspected, Chandler knew Helen; otherwise, how would he have been aware of her children? "Do you two know each other?" Maddie asked, striving to keep her composure. "Mr. Newton used to date my sister," Helen explained without hesitation. "Wow, that's certainly an interesting connection," Maddie replied, eager to flatter. "I imagine your sister must be just as beautiful as you, Ms. Terzian." "You're too generous with your compliments, Ms. Maddie," Helen said modestly. Although they exchanged pleasantries, an unspoken tension simmered beneath their cordial words. "It's getting late, and I'm a bit tired from traveling, so I'll take my leave. I wish you and Mr. Newton a joyful engagement," Helen said, sensing it was best to depart before Maddie picked up on anything unusual. "I want to stay with the handsome mister!" Sienna exclaimed, staring at Chandler and refusing to move. With no other option, Helen scooped Sienna up and carried her away. Meanwhile, Abigail held Ivy's hand with one hand and guided Lincoln with the other, laughing joyfully as they walked. "These little ones are just adorable! With their tiny hands and feet, they look like little dolls! I'm claiming the title of their godmother, and no one can take that away from me!" Helen shrugged, seemingly unbothered. "Taylor mentioned wanting to be their godfather. Maybe you could be godparents with him." "Not a chance! He doesn't deserve that honor!" Abigail quipped. "As far as I'm concerned, it's settled—I'm the kids' godmother! Taylor can just take a hike!" With that, Abigail paused and looked around. She had only stepped away for a moment, yet Taylor was nowhere to be found. She had no idea where he had disappeared to. … In the early hours of the morning, Maddie returned to the villa with Chandler after saying goodbye to the guests. After tucking her children in, she brought Chandler a cup of tea while he worked in his study. "The Portell family's son caused a bit of trouble at the party today. I promised Mrs. Portell that you'd meet with Mr. Portell privately later," Maddie said, placing the tea on the table. "Okay," Chandler replied absently, suddenly changing the subject. "We should think about ending our contract early. If you have any conditions, feel free to share them now." Just moments earlier, Maddie had felt a surge of pride that her handling of the situation had garnered Chandler's approval, but now her smile had entirely faded. "But why?" she asked, struggling to grasp the situation. "Did I do something wrong?"