Chapter 4

Several years down the line, my boy accomplished something extraordinary—he gained admission to both Harvard and Stanford Universities simultaneously.

At the same time, the business I had meticulously reconstructed finally reached a significant landmark: its initial public offering.

The day of the IPO was filled with anticipation. Throngs of people gathered, and journalists flocked to the location, their equipment capturing every instant.

Words of praise floated through the crowd:

"Arabella is truly exceptional. Following her spouse's apparent demise, she raised her child, cleared enormous debts, and even established a successful enterprise. She juggled multiple jobs daily, often collapsing from exhaustion—what an inspiring individual."

"She and her husband were known as a devoted pair in our area. He seemingly sacrificed himself for her, and she's remained loyal to his memory since. It's remarkable."

"Throughout the years, numerous successful men sought her affection, but she rejected them all. Initially, I thought it unwise, but now I understand—it stemmed from profound love and strength. Truly commendable!"

"It's uncommon to encounter a woman like her. Her husband's spirit must be at peace, seeing all she's accomplished for their family."

As I stood there, accepting their compliments with a composed smile, I noticed the very neighbors who once spread rumors about me now regarding me with esteem and appreciation.

But just as I thought the day couldn't become more eventful, my closest friend arrived.

And she wasn't by herself.

Striding confidently beside her, wearing a familiar yet unsettlingly calm expression, was my husband.

Everyone present was stunned when Axel stepped forward, alive and well.

"Isn't that Arabella's husband, Axel? He—he's still alive?!"

"And isn't the woman with him Elara Whitestone, her best friend? What's happening here?"

Whispers of disbelief circulated through the crowd, but Elara silenced them by producing a document—a DNA test report. She approached me, a smug grin on her face.

"Arabella, your husband never perished. He's been with me this whole time," she announced, her tone laced with derision.

"That IVF baby you had all those years ago? It wasn't yours and Axel's—it was mine and Axel's embryo."

Her words were calculated and harsh.

"I am Rowan's biological mother. Allowing him to call you 'Mom' for 18 years was simply my way of compensating you for carrying him. Now, it's time for you to return him to me."

Shocked exclamations rippled through the crowd, followed by indignation.

"This is inconceivable! How could they commit such a despicable act?"

"Infidelity was bad enough, but deceiving her into raising their child while leaving her with debts? That's utterly despicable!"

"And now they appear after she's cleared everything and built a successful life? They're here to claim the rewards of her hard work!"

"How cruel can two individuals be?"

As the crowd erupted in condemnation, Axel stepped forward, his demeanor calm, even self-assured.

"I recognize that many of you might have strong opinions about me," he began, feigning sincerity. "Arabella has indeed been kind to me and made numerous sacrifices."

"But a relationship without genuine feelings is never fulfilling. Just because someone treats you well doesn't mean you're obligated to remain with them forever."

He spoke confidently, portraying himself as a misunderstood individual.

"I simply decided to follow my heart. Is that such a terrible thing?"

Glancing at the crowd, he added, "I've lived contentedly in hiding all this time, but now that Rowan is an adult, he deserves to know the truth. He has the right to choose the family that truly belongs to him."

His boldness left the crowd astounded. He painted himself as a hero breaking free from societal constraints, a martyr for love, and even a selfless father protecting his child.

I didn't bother addressing his shameless words. Instead, I turned to my son, looking him directly in the eye.

"What are your thoughts?" I asked, my voice steady but resolute.

Rowan paused, his gaze shifting to the DNA test in Elara's hand before returning to me. He took a deep breath and said, his tone even:

"Mom, this will be the final time I address you as such."

The statement hung heavily in the air.

"I am now enrolled at Stanford University and Harvard University," he continued, his expression unreadable. "I believe my achievements are due not only to my diligence but also to the superior genetics of my biological parents."