My Step-Brother Boss 18+

Chapter 18: They all are such liars

3 Weeks Later

Madison

Edward and I spent the next three weeks together, maintaining a facade at work as a typical boss-secretary pair, while enjoying our time at home as a genuine couple. Despite the normalcy we portrayed at the office, the tension of our taboo relationship was ever-present. I constantly worried about the judgment we might face for dating when we were step-siblings.

Would people really condemn us for this? It's such a controversial relationship, not considered normal by any means. Ugh, my brain hurt from overthinking. Edward had promised me he wouldn't let anyone come between us, and that I should trust him.

Today was the day. My mother and her 'husband' were coming back. I dreaded what might unfold, especially knowing that she, along with Arthur, had tried to kill my father.

"Welcome back home, Mother," I said, nodding towards Arthur. "Arthur," I added, as a few guards brought in their luggage.

"Madison, you've gained weight," my mother commented with a frown, her words laced with disdain.

"Excuse me?" Edward interjected. I gave him a sidelong glance, hoping he'd stay quiet.

"She is perfect. And even if she has gained weight, it's none of your concern," Edward asserted, dismissing her demeaning remarks. My mother's expression shifted to a sickly sweet smile as she addressed Edward.

"Enough," Arthur interjected, pecking my forehead. "We need to get ready for the event tonight."

I had completely forgotten it was December 2nd—Dad was going to reveal that he was alive tonight. Panic surged through me. I wasn't prepared for this.

"Edward, can you meet me in your office in two minutes? I have some questions about work," I said, fluttering my lashes at him, signaling that I was lying but it was important.

"Of course, Moo—Madison," Edward corrected himself, clearing his throat. I nodded, heading toward his office.

Edward followed me. Once inside his office, I locked the door behind us. "Dad is going to reveal he's alive tonight," I said, panic evident in my voice.

"Don't worry too much. Just pretend to be shocked," Edward said calmly, which only intensified my anxiety. Why was he so composed? What if Dad was wrong? What if Mother tried to kill him again?

"Edward..." I sighed, leaning into his chest. He kissed my temple, holding me close. "Don't worry, my love. I'm here," he said reassuringly.

"I don't want to deal with this drama," I said, my voice heavy with frustration. Edward gently squeezed my thighs. "I know. If you want, we can skip the event," he suggested. I shook my head.

"I can't betray Dad like that," I replied.

"Are you sure?" Edward asked.

I nodded. "Alright, I'll go get ready."

"Coby, my brother," Arthur greeted his friend and the host of the Met Gala. Arthur's hands were wrapped around my mother's waist as they exchanged smiles with Coby. I stood next to Edward, keeping a safe distance.

"Right on time," Coby said, sipping his champagne. "My friend, who's been living in Russia for the past sixteen years, is ready to reunite with his family. He'll be ready in ten minutes, I suppose," Coby added, glancing at his watch.

"A surprise?" Mother glanced at Arthur, who looked equally puzzled. "What kind of surprise?" Arthur asked.

"That's for you to find out," Coby said with a laugh.