Chapter 3

Now, I went to Arthur and Eleanor’s house almost every day. First, to spend more time with Leo, making him clingier to me; second, to impress Arthur and Eleanor, laying the groundwork for the final explosion.

The next day was a public holiday, but Charlotte went to work for overtime again.

At the mall, I spent $40 on an action figure set for Leo. I also spent $800 on a pair of emerald bracelets for Eleanor and another $150 on two bottles of fine wine for Arthur.

I didn't feel bad spending money on them.

Even though Arthur had always been somewhat opportunistic, Eleanor had always treated me well, and she helped us take care of Leo. There was a component of gratitude in spending money on her.

But overall, it was still about revenge.

"Alex, why did you buy so much stuff again? What's the point of spending all this money? You two are just starting to get financially comfortable, you should save more when you're young, you'll need it later."

Eleanor saw me with more shopping and chided me for wasteful spending, but a hint of joy still showed in the corner of her eyes.

I handed the jewelry box to Eleanor and the wine to Arthur, saying, "Dad, Mom, please don't be so formal with me. You both work hard taking care of Leo for Charlotte and me. It's only right for me to show my appreciation."

As I spoke, I infused my voice with deeper emotion: "You raised your daughter so well and entrusted her to me. Buying you all this is the least I can do."

"Oh, Alex, you're such a good kid..." Eleanor was touched by my words, her eyes starting to well up.

At that moment, Arthur put the wine away and walked over, grinning. "Alex cooked a fantastic dinner yesterday, so tonight, my dear wife, it's your turn."

After Eleanor went into the kitchen, Arthur leaned in close and whispered, "I told your mother about the IVF last night. She hesitated for a long time, but she finally agreed."

Hearing this, I excitedly slapped my thigh. "That's great news!"

Arthur flinched, clearly startled by my overly enthusiastic reaction.

I quickly composed myself and feigned an explanation. "Dad, I'm truly happy for you both. This way, Charlotte and I will have a little brother too."

"Yes, yes, as long as you see it that way," Arthur said, his face full of relief.

Then, he paused for a moment before saying, a little sheepishly, "I also looked into it, and I heard that the chances of having twins with IVF are higher than with natural conception."

"That's fantastic! Who wouldn't want twins?" Arthur and I were both elated, though for different reasons.

"But if we have two boys, considering our age..." Arthur looked at me intently, a troubled expression on his face.

Seeing his dilemma, I quickly declared, "Dad, that's absolutely no problem. My novel royalties are very substantial now. Raising two younger brothers is definitely something I can handle."

Arthur nodded, satisfied with my words. After a moment, he cautiously added, "The main thing is housing... If boys don't have houses when they grow up, it's hard for them to find wives."

"Don't you two worry about that. They'll be my little brothers, and I'll figure out the housing situation!" I looked at Arthur, my words firm and decisive.

After saying that, I controlled myself, trying not to laugh. I couldn't believe my revenge plan was progressing so smoothly.

My words instantly made Arthur beam with joy.

"Alex, the whole family will be counting on you from now on!" Arthur patted my shoulder. "You're much better than my own daughter."