What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Stronger novel Chapter 53

Third Person's POV

Kayden quickly backpedaled, not wanting to upset her after childbirth.

"Why would I waste time thinking about that troublemaker? I was just planning our son's welcome gift," he lied, even as thoughts of Gabriella pulled at him, making him consider jumping on the next flight to find her.

Charlotte's face softened at his words.

"Remember what you promised? Five hundred grand for a girl, a million for a boy? Time to pay up, honey."

Kayden froze, that early pregnancy promise suddenly hitting him. Something twisted in his gut. He'd already dropped a fortune on her these past two years.

She'd played it cute back then, saying all wealthy wives got push presents. He'd casually agreed: "Fine, five hundred for a girl, a million for a boy."

Now here she was, actually expecting the money minutes after giving birth.

He didn't mind the penthouses, sports cars, designer everything - but cash was different. He'd caught her more than once secretly wiring Ryan money - huge amounts that conveniently disappeared.

He'd once found that realness refreshing, so different from his usual social circle. Now it just left him cold.

Still, he transferred the million. She'd given his family an heir, hadn't she?

Charlotte beamed. "You're the best, babe! Your son and I will love you forever!"

The realization felt like his chest was caving in.

Then Gabriella's face flashed in his mind - the way she used to look at him, with that pure, unguarded love he'd been too stupid to appreciate.

He sank into his chair, running his hands through his hair. What a fool he'd been.

The one person who'd loved him for himself, not his money or status, and he'd driven her away.

"I'll make this right," he whispered to his empty office. But somewhere deep down, he knew it was already too late.