CHAPTER 38: CHAPTER 38: MASTER HAWTHORNE’S FAMILY STATUS IN JEOPARDY

Vivian’s eyes flickered with a hint of disappointment, but she quickly became at ease.

She knew that Caden Hawthorne was truly good to her, so good that it made her have the illusion that he liked her. Every time she saw him appear before her, she was very happy, and a warm current surged in her heart.

"Let’s go! Let’s go home."

"Alright, let’s go home." Caden looked at her with a doting expression, couldn’t help but hold her hand, and the two slowly walked toward the luxury car.

The sunlight fell on them, as if draping them in a layer of golden glory.

The days ahead are still long, and nobody can predict what will happen next.

As night fell, the bright lights illuminated Aethelgard, coating the city with a layer of golden hue, enhancing its urban prosperity.

The Hawthorne Family, Hartswell Manor.

The manor was brightly lit, exuding luxury amidst its tranquility.

Vivian Lynch and Caden Hawthorne walked into the manor, greeted respectfully by Butler Hughes and the maids.

"Young Master, Young Madam..."

Hearing them call her "Young Madam," Vivian felt still somewhat unaccustomed, combined with a sense of restraint, she could only nod slightly in response.

"You’ll get used to it." Caden smiled lightly, holding her hand, the warmth from his palms giving her comfort.

Vivian also returned the smile and followed him into the villa.

"You’re back!"

Mrs. Hawthorne and the others were sitting on the sofa watching TV. When they saw the two return, holding hands,

instantly, their gazes all fell collectively on their tightly clasped hands.

Seeing this scene, Vivian blushed, feeling somewhat embarrassed, she hurriedly withdrew her hand.

Caden slightly frowned but said nothing. Mrs. Hawthorne smiled and said, "Vivian, Caden, come sit down. You’ve been busy all day, must be tired, right?"

Vivian walked over, feeling a bit embarrassed, and said softly, "Mom, we’re not tired."

Caden also sat down beside her, looking quite natural.

Riley immediately scooted over and started gossiping, "Brother, where did you and sister-in-law go? How come you’re holding hands when you come back? Went on a date?"

"That’s not a question you should ask." Caden replied calm and low-key, reaching out to push Riley, who was leaning in front of him, away.

Riley pursed her lips, "Brother, even if you don’t say it, I know you’re definitely in love. Do you have a thing for Vivian Lynch?"

Mrs. Hawthorne held Vivian’s hand, her eyes full of gratitude, smiling brightly, "Seeing you both so loving, I’m relieved. Vivian, if Caden bullies you in the future, just tell me, and I’ll teach him a lesson for you."

Vivian glanced at Caden, gave a small awkward smile.

Caden shook his head helplessly, "Mom, who exactly is your real child?"

Mrs. Hawthorne gave Caden a glance, "Let me tell you! Vivian is now the only recognized daughter-in-law of our Hawthorne Family. She’s pregnant now! She ranks first in our family hierarchy. As for you, step aside."

Upon hearing this, Caden found it both amusing and exasperating.

Riley, on the side, put on an expression that enjoyed the drama, "Brother, feeling rejected, right? Looks like your standing in the family isn’t safe anymore! Sister-in-law now ranks first."

"You’re the one who talks too much." Caden shot Riley a sidelong glance.

Riley playfully stuck out her tongue, "I think you should get along well with sister-in-law! Treat her well. Maybe then your family rank will improve!"

Caden frowned slightly, looking at Vivian, not saying a word.

Vivian also noticed Caden’s gaze, feeling somewhat embarrassed and slightly lowered her head.

Mrs. Hawthorne watched their interaction, feeling more jovial.

The family chatted casually in the living room, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

"Mom, where’s Grandpa?" Since entering, Vivian hadn’t seen Old Master Hawthorne, naturally feeling curious.

"Your grandpa went back to the countryside to live once he found out I was back. He said he could comfortably leave you in my care, as it’s time for him to enjoy his elderly life." Mrs. Hawthorne replied with a smile.

"I see!" Vivian nodded thoughtfully, feeling uneasy at the thought of Old Master Hawthorne having to take care of her at his age.

"These days, I must have troubled Grandpa."

"Vivian, saying such things makes you sound like an outsider. You’re a daughter-in-law of the Hawthorne Family. It’s only right that we take care of you. Haven’t had dinner yet, right?"

Mrs. Hawthorne stood up, delightedly saying, "I’ll go to the kitchen and have the auntie make something nutritious for you. You’ve lost weight."

Upon hearing this, Vivian quickly held Mrs. Hawthorne’s hand, "Mom, no need, we’ve already eaten outside."

"Then you’ve had a long day, go rest in your room early!"

Vivian did feel a bit tired, she nodded slightly, "Mom, then I’ll head up first."

Caden also stood up, "I’ll go with you."

Saying this, he escorted Vivian upstairs, "Walk slowly, don’t fall."

"It’s okay, I can walk by myself." Vivian saw Mrs. Hawthorne and the others watching, feeling somewhat embarrassed.

"Still, with me holding you, I feel more assured." Caden had no intention of letting go, and Vivian had no choice but to let him support her up the stairs.

Mrs. Hawthorne watched their backs, showing a satisfied smile, "These two are getting more and more loving."

"Indeed! My brother, the ascetic man, seems to have developed earthly desires." Riley couldn’t help but click her tongue twice, "It’s really rare. Vivian Lynch is the first woman my brother is interested in."

Previously, those women tried every trick to marry her brother and become her sister-in-law, to no avail, they couldn’t even touch his finger.

Yet, Vivian Lynch not only slept with her brother but also carries his child.

The most important thing is, she also tied him down with a marriage certificate.

Everything happened so suddenly and so quickly that she didn’t react to it even while she was abroad. Her brother already had a child.

She had to admit, her brother was quite swift and really gave the family a huge surprise. No wonder Grandpa and Mom both liked Vivian Lynch very much.

It’s not just because she’s carrying her brother’s child, but because of loving her for her brother’s sake, she’s the woman he loves.

Unfortunately, her brother is quite stubborn, never willing to admit it.

Mrs. Hawthorne said happily, "Vivian is a down-to-earth, gentle, and kind girl. I grow more and more fond of her. If she and your brother can indeed last long, I’m willing to devote myself to prayers and veggie meals, exchanging for their happiness."

Riley raised her lips, "Mom, don’t worry! My brother has never dated before, doesn’t know how to confess to girls. He likes Vivian Lynch. As long as we give a little push, he’ll surely realize."

Hearing this, Mrs. Hawthorne looked at Riley and chuckled helplessly, "You’re always so full of ideas. Go on, how to help?"

Riley beckoned Mrs. Hawthorne to come closer, "Mom, come here, I’ll tell you..."

Mrs. Hawthorne leaned her ear over, and Riley started whispering her plan.

Having listened, Mrs. Hawthorne couldn’t help but give Riley a thumbs-up, beaming with joy, "Good idea, let’s do it as you say."