The Quimby family had thrown a grand, lavish party. Numerous guests had shown up to celebrate the occasion.

The Quimby family was also a well–known, prestigious family. Moreover, they shared relations with the Larkin family, one of the top elite families in their city. Naturally, those who came to the party were eager to form connections with the Quimby family members.

Marie was greeting the guests when Ariel got to the second floor. She smiled and waved at Ariel the instant she spotted her. “Why are you by yourself? Where’s Jayson?”

“He’s parking the car in the parking lot. He’ll be here soon.” Ariel smiled softly and handed Marie the gifts.” These are from me and Jayson.”

Marie looked pleased as she accepted the gifts. “You guys didn’t have to prepare the gifts. Betty’s slowly growing weaker with every passing year. That’s why she’s sent you two here instead.”

She led Ariel into the hall. Then, Marie beckoned Ian Quimby, the baby’s father, to bring the child over.

Ariel was briefly dazed as she looked at the small, adorable child. Her expression softened as her mouth turned up in a smile.

Marie held the child out toward Ariel. “Do you want to try holding the baby?”

Ariel was a little nervous. She had never held a baby in her arms before.

She nodded nonetheless. Then, Ariel carefully took the child into her arms. The soft, warm sensation against her arms melted her heart. Ariel couldn’t help but reach out her hand and caress the child’s cheek.

Jayson witnessed the moment just as he entered the hall. Ariel had never been the brash, assertive type. However, she was mostly cold and reserved. She seldom appeared so gentle.

He walked over to them. His gaze drifted away from Ariel. “Great–Aunt Marie. Ian.”

Ian greeted Jayson by lightly patting him on the shoulder.

Marie commented, “Look at how much Ari likes kids. When are you two planning to have a child of your own? Betty will surely be elated.”

Ian said teasingly, “You and I are of the same age. I already have my second child at the age of 29. Shouldn’t you get started on it soon?”

Jayson merely curled his lips without making any comments. He had no interest in such topics.

Both Ian and Marie had heard about how these two were only a married couple in name. They could not help feeling a bit dejected upon seeing Jayson’s attitude toward Ariel. It seemed like there was nothing they could do to help improve the couple’s relationship.

Ariel had an inkling of what Jayson might be thinking. He might not necessarily hate the idea of having kids. However, he might not want to have them with her.

Ariel–was momentarily distracted as she stared at the baby who was cooing softly in her arms. She wondered if she would ever get the chance to give birth to a cute baby in the future.

Ariel and Jayson joined Marie and her family at their table. After having a few drinks, Jayson checked his watch. ”

Chapter

Great–Aunt Marie, I need to leave first since I have some other business to attend to.”

Ariel considered for a bit and decided to stay. It would be a bit rude if she were to leave now as well.

Marie produced two small pouches and gave one to Ariel and one to Jayson. “These contain lucky charms that attract good luck for fertility. I got them from a special place. They might just work wonders for you. Remember to keep them on you at all times.”

Ariel felt extremely conflicted receiving that gift. After all, the others had no idea that she and Jayson were getting divorced. It was pointless for Ariel to keep something like that on her.

On the contrary, Jayson did not outright refuse Marie’s gift. He calmly accepted the pouch.

Ariel simply remained silent. While she might not be able to conceive a child, Nancy could. Jayson had probably accepted the pouch since it would bring good luck.

He cast another glance at Ariel before leaving. It was as though Jayson felt like it would not be right for him to leave her here. “I’ll have Colton come and pick you up later.”

Jayson had always been very considerate to Ariel whenever they were out in public. Ariel responded, “It’s alright. It can head back by myself.”

Jayson stared at her for a moment. Without insisting any further, he turned around and left. Ariel sent Janice a message, asking her to pick her up in 30 minutes.

After saying her goodbyes to Marie and her family, Ariel took the elevator to the ground floor. Janice was already waiting for her there. She gave a little hop and waved her hand. “Over here!”

Ariel was just about to walk over to her when she spotted a group of people coming out of one of the banquet halls located on the ground floor of the building. She subconsciously furrowed her brows.

On the other side, Nancy was holding Sarah’s arm. Matt and Perry were beside them. Also, Ariel spotted Jayson, who looked calm and refined standing next to Nancy.

Ariel’s eyes hardened slightly. It turned out Jayson had not actually left the building. He left Ariel all by herself at the Quimby family’s party so that he could meet with Nancy and the others instead.

Sarah noticed Ariel. She scanned her from head to toe and said unhurriedly, “Aren’t you Ariel Walker? Long time no see.”