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PERSON_PROFILE

She’s just my best friend, my husband said.
What kind of friend would claim a married man as HER husband just to “get some support in a strange city”?! From the moment I met her, I should have thrown her out! But no, they told me I was “overreacting.” Overreacting?! If I really had, maybe I wouldn’t have woken up alone, only to find my husband hugging his so-called best friend in the middle of the night!
Chapter 1 The beginning of it all.
(ARIELLE’S POV)
The scent of the dinner wafted through the room, as I focused on my husband, Jared. His dark hair falling just right, framing his straight nose and sharp jawline. Even in his casual clothes, the man had an undeniable presence—broad shoulders, a sculpted chest. He could’ve walked right out of a magazine, yet here he was, with me.
It was our anniversary, and in commemoration of that, I had suggested that we had an indoor dinner– just the two of us.
Despite his usual aloof self, Jared had created time from his usual busy work schedule, and that was a gesture I considered lovely. Especially when he looked up at me with those smoldering eyes, it was hard to stay upset.
I had chosen to sit across from him instead of our usual dining position–beside him because I wanted to see all of his reactions when I finally broke the good news.
Yep, I just discovered that I was pregnant yesterday from our family doctor, and I stalled the news, so I could break it to Jared during the anniversary dinner - Whatever way would have been better? Celebrating an anniversary, and the conception of a baby. Sounds like a double party to me.
“This meal is delicious, Arielle,” Jared commented, interrupting my line of thoughts. “I don't understand why I'm always awed by your culinary skill. You are a chef after all.”
I flashed him the most beautiful smile I could muster, feeling flustered by his compliment. “Thank you, Jared. That means a lot coming from you.”
He smiled back, but his was not as wide and bright as mine. “You didn't have to make so many dishes, though. Two or three would have been just enough. It's only the two of us after all.”
I clicked my tongue, there he went again. I was just about to reply to him, to tell him that it was our anniversary and I wanted to make it special, when his phone rang, the shrill sound disrupting the calm atmosphere.
Jared's face fell when he looked at the screen, and then his expression turned apologetic. “Excuse me, Arielle. I have to take this. It’s work,” he said and rose to his feet.
I felt a lump form in my throat, as I nodded in understanding, trying to mask my disappointment.
“It’s fine, go on. I'll be here,” I said, my voice coming out flatter than I intended.
“I’ll make it up to you, I swear. I'll get you new jewelry, whatever you want,” he called out as he rushed out of the dining room.
I reclined back on my seat, frustrated and disappointed. It’s 9 o’clock. Who leaves their home at this time for work? It’s our special day for crying out loud, and making it up to me with jewelry? My eyes inadvertently rolled. Men need to learn that gifts are not always the key to a woman's heart; quality attention is.
I sighed for the umpteenth time. He hadn’t mentioned when he’d return, as usual. Would he even remember our anniversary when he was done with work? The food once appealing, now looked unappetizing. Our anniversary dinner, ruined by a work call.
I got to the sitting room to wait for Jared. Pregnancy reactions made me drowsy, and even before I knew it, I fell asleep and woke up with a start hours later. My eyes groggily opened to an eerily calm house. I was still on the couch, alone.
Looking up at the clock, my heart sank. It was a few minutes past 12 o'clock.
A painful realization dawned on me: our anniversary was over. Anger enveloped me as I realized that Jared wasn't home yet. I had been so excited to share my news with him, but now, that too was ruined.
I walked over to the dining room, the remnants of our anniversary dinner still laid out on the table. Fine, guess this was the karma for me, a star chef, taking a two-day leave and not cooking for my appreciative guests but cooking for my husband.
Sighing in resignation, I cleared the table and sent some of the food to the trash.

In the early morning, I arrived at the restaurant, the familiar chaos of the kitchen greeted me like an old friend, and so did my colleagues. Their expression is a mix of concern and curiosity.
“Arielle! You came so early! I thought you were taking a two-day off.”
I forced a smile, still feeling the pain of my ruined anniversary dinner.
The kitchen could be my refuge and cooking was my escape. Once I returned to work, my hands started to be busy in the rhythm of chopping and sizzling.
Hours later, a waitress rushed into the kitchen, a distressed look on her face. “Ma, there's a customer insisting on seeing you,” she said, her voice urgent.
“What's the problem?” I asked, surprised.
“She wouldn't say, and she's being really rude,” the waitress responded. “She says she wants to see the chef in charge.”
I hurriedly took off my apron, washed my hands, and followed the waitress out to the dining area.
“Hi, I'm Arielle, the head chef,” I said, stopping in front of the customer's table. “Sorry you’re upset. Can you tell me what’s wrong with the food?”
The customer, a pregnant woman, looked me up and down, her eyes blazing hot with anger. “Wrong? Everything! Your food tastes so bland,” she spat. “I can't believe you call yourself a chef.”
I listened patiently, and afterward, I defended my cuisine, explaining our menu and ingredients, but she remained adamant.
“I don't care about anything you say,” she snapped. “I'm going to wait for my husband to arrive and have you fired.”
What? I slightly frowned and maintained my professional demeanor. “Ma'am, I assure you that our food is prepared to the highest standard and with the best ingredients. If you'd like, I can make it up to you with a complimentary dish of your choice.”
The woman flipped her hair nonchalantly. “That won't be necessary. I still want you fired for almost poisoning me and my unborn child. Just wait for my husband to arrive and he will have you dealt with.”
I took a deep breath, excused myself and headed back to my office. The whole thing was absurd. I’d been a chef for years and seen my share of unreasonable complaints, but this was something else. Who did she think she was and who was her almighty husband could have me fired on a whim?
I was just about to get back to work when a knock sounded on my office door. “He’s here, Ma’am,” the waitress called out.
I sighed. It was already a rough day, and I only hoped to wrap up this nonsense quickly. I composed myself and stepped out. Whatever power this husband of hers thought he had, I wasn’t worried. I knew my work, and I knew my worth.
But as I walked back into the dining area, my breath hitched as I caught sight of a tall figure speaking to the woman.
She saw me first and informed her husband, gesturing to me. And before he turned to face me fully, I already knew who the man was.
A burning sensation filled my chest as I stared at the gorgeous face that I slept with most nights.
It was Jared, my husband!

Chapter 2 The third wheel
(ARIELLE POV)
Oh well, color me surprised!
I blinked severally to ensure that I was not seeing wrongly. My eyes widened in shock, my mind trying to process the scene before me. My husband, Jared, was standing beside another woman, a pregnant woman who claimed to be his wife, in a restaurant where I worked.
The woman’s words earlier reverberated in my ears, “my husband will have you fired!” My heart pounded, breathing suddenly becoming difficult.
I felt like I had just been punched in the gut. I took a step forward, my voice raspy and barely a whisper, “Jared?”
Jared met my gaze, his composure unwavering. “Hey, Arielle,” his tone was disturbingly casual, as if it were completely normal to be caught with another woman who’d called him her husband.
My eyes narrowed at him, as I expected him to offer me an explanation.
Before Jared could respond, Sofia stepped forward, her face a mask of surprisement, “Oh, you must be Arielle! I’m so sorry for the confusion. I’m Sofia, Jared’s old friend.”
Looking at my expressionless face, Sofia continued, her voice syrupy sweet, “Jared’s been so kind, helping me get settled in town. I just returned from abroad and I’m going through some tough times. He’s been such a wonderful support.”
My eyes never left Jared's face, my gaze unnerving. “Support?” I asked, unable to mask the disbelief in my tone.
Jared nodded. “Yes, support. She's pregnant, new in town and almost helpless. She needed someone to talk to and to help her navigate her way around town. I was just being that friend.”
Still, I was not convinced, and my eyes shifted to Sofia, who stood there with an air of vulnerability, her eyes pleading for understanding. “And the child?”
Jared frowned and his voice became serious, “Of course not! The child isn't mine, Arielle.”
I relaxed a bit, deciding to trust my husband. Just then, Sofia cleared her throat to get my attention.
“Umm… Arielle, right? I apologize for my behavior earlier. I was totally out of line, you see, being a pregnant woman in a new city alone isn’t easy. I needed some support, so I may have exaggerated Jared’s role a bit. You understand, don’t you? How do we women sometimes need to feel protected?” she said innocently.
I looked away, reluctant to accept her apology. She was rude, claimed my husband as hers, and even threatened to have me fired. But Jared noticed my reluctance, and signaled me to forgive her.
“It's okay, I forgive you,” I mumbled, but then my eyes caught the glint of a vibrant blue gem on her wrist.
Wait a second, is that the Blue Diamond limited edition? The one I glimpsed in Jared’s bag last night? I thought it was an anniversary gift for me!
Sofia was definitely aware of my stare.
She turned to me, making puppy eyes. “Oh this bracelet? It’s from Jared. Arielle, surely you don't mind Jay-Jay getting his best friend a little gift for coming back home?”
Jay-Jay? Seriously? I smiled coldly, my lips pressed together in a thin line. I didn't bother responding to Sofia's question, instead, I turned to Jared and said, “I need to speak with you in private, in my office.”
Without waiting for a response, I turned and strode away. As I left, Sofia’s voice drifted after me, saccharine-sweet: “Jay-Jay, I had no idea your wife was this sensitive.”
Jared trailed behind me, our footsteps echoing in the hallway that led to my office. I pushed open the door and stepped inside, Jared following closely behind.
Alone with him now, I turned to face him, my face bearing a displeased expression.
“What's going on, Jared? Why are you buying gifts for a pregnant woman, a pregnant woman who claimed to be your wife a few minutes ago.”
“Arielle, I promise, it's not what it seems like. The bracelet was for you. I just…I just didn't want to hurt Sofia's feelings. Like I said, she's going through a tough time.”
“And you expect me to believe that? You abandoned our anniversary dinner, promising me a compensation gift, and now I see you giving it to another woman?”
Jared's face turned pleading. “Please, understand. I'll get you another one, a much better one.”
I shook my head, my expression cold. “It's not always about gifts, Jared. Occasionally, your aloof nature makes me wonder if you're invested in our relationship and marriage, as much as I am.”
Jared's face fell, his expression hurt. “Come on, don't talk like that. I am committed to our marriage too.”
I ignored his words and went on. “It doesn't seem so most times because I don't understand why you're unwilling to hurt another woman's feelings, without caring if your actions hurt me, your wife.”
Before he could respond, a thought struck me. “Jared, did you even come home last night after you left?”
He nodded. “I did. You were asleep on the couch. I didn’t want to disturb you. I just left. Return to the company to continue working.”
He’s really busy. I felt a stab of guilt but pushed it aside, focusing on what mattered now. “Will you be home tonight?”
“Sure.”
“Alright, let's see later at home and talk about this then.”
Jared tried to apologize again, but I cut him off. I was too tired for arguments, and besides, I had to go back to prepping for lunch service. He finally placed a feathered kiss on my forehead before stepping out.
A sharp exhale, after Jared left. There would be time to sort through my feelings later. For now, I needed to get back to work and focus on something I could control.
After regaining composure, I made my way out of the office to continue my work. By the time my shift was over, the sun had dipped below the horizon. I was tidying up when my phone buzzed. I glanced at the screen and discovered it was Ashley, my best friend.
A smile broke out on my face, and I answered the phone.
“Hey, where are you?” Ashley’s voice sounded from the other end.
I was taken aback by her unusually serious tone. Ashley never directly called me at worktime, why was she asking?
“Still at work, about to leave though. What’s going on? You sound worried.” I asked.
Ashley’s next response sent a chill down my spine. “Arielle, I just saw Jared and a pregnant woman going home together…”

Chapter 3 When doubt creeps in.
(ARIELLE'S POV)
“Ashley, I need to go. Thank you for the information. I will call you back later.”
After the phone call with Ashley and figured out the home she said was actually my mother-in-law’s house, I tried my best to handle my whirling thoughts.
Jared was always considerate and meticulous. I thought I knew this man after three years’ marriage. However, I’ve never seen him as emotional as he was in the restaurant, nor have I seen him break his words, twice in a row. He promised to wait for me at our home, now this?
I sighed as I stepped down from my car.
Upon arriving at the old mansion, nothing prepared me for the sight I was met with. Sofia was seated comfortably in the sitting room, and she was not alone. She was with Jared's mother, and they were conversing and laughing happily. While Jared was sitting alone on the single sofa next to them.
“What’s going on here?” I managed to ask, a lump forming on my throat.
As I approached, Jared rose smoothly, reaching for my coat. “Mom wanted to see Sofia, so I brought her over,” he explained, his tone measured.
“You could have told me first,” I said quietly. Jared’s eyes met mine briefly, a flicker of apology passing through them, before he went upstairs with my coat.
Great. Now I had to deal with this on my own.
Sofia turned to me with a carefree look, like she owned the house. “Oh, hey, Arielle. I’m glad you are home. Jared's Mom and I were catching up.”
My eyes grew suspicious as I tried not to glare at Sofia. What is she doing here? Why is my mother-in-law so friendly with her?
Jared’s mother looked up at me, her expression neutral, not as warm as when she was talking to Sofia. “Welcome back,” she said curtly, then turned her attention back to Sofia. “Go on, dear, you were saying?”
I was hurt and embarrassed as I stood there, feeling like an outsider in my own home.
I thought I knew Jared too well, but now I was terrified that he might not have told me the entire truth about his relationship with Sofia. Because, how come she was merely his friend but had such a close relationship with his mother?
“Oh, I was saying,” Sofia's shrill voice interrupted my thoughts. Why do I think she was intentionally being loud so I could hear her?
“I returned from abroad to celebrate Jared’s birthday, and I met Arielle at the restaurant earlier. It was our first time meeting,” Sofia continued.
I sneered at her forced cheerfulness. I hope she also told Jared’s mother how rude she was, how she threatened to have me fired, and how she claimed Jared's was her husband.
“Oh, really? That was nice,” Jared's mother said, obviously intrigued by the conversation.
“I still can't believe Jared married a mere chef. I mean, don’t get me wrong, but it is not exactly a prestigious job and not befitting for the wife of a billionaire.”
She was smiling brightly, but I could see the challenge in her eyes. She wanted me to react.
I raised an eyebrow and gave her a cool laugh. “True. Jared always complains that I cook for the guests, not for him. It really takes skill to satisfy a billionaire’s taste every single day.”
Sofia’s lips twitched, and I could see her struggling to keep her composure. “Oh, I didn’t mean to belittle your skills or your profession. I just think Jared could have... chosen differently.”
I shrugged slightly. “He did. He chose me.”
Sophia was choked.
“All right, all right. Arielle. Sofia was merely voicing her opinion,” Jared’s mother chipped in.
“Indeed,” I said, sarcastically.
She then turned to Sofia, “Okay Sofia, dear, let's not talk about Arielle anymore and focus on our previous discussion. Tell me everything about your trip.”
I rolled my eyes and took a seat. However, Sofia’s words caught my attention: “So I arrived in town last night…”
Last night. The same time Jared had supposedly been working late.
The rest of their conversation faded into background noise as my mind raced, trying to piece together the puzzle.
Sofia glanced away, seemingly unbothered by my silence.
As the pieces fell into place, a realisation hit me: the call Jared received last night was not about work, but because he went to pick Sofia at the airport.
My heart sank into my stomach. Why did he have to lie?
Slowly, doubts about my marriage crept in. Do I really know the man I'm married to, or are there things about him I still need to know?
Jared’s mother suddenly turned to face me, a smile on her face.
“Arielle, in case you have been wondering how come I know Sofia, I will tell you now. Sofia and Jared have been friends for a long time. They share a special bond, and I wish you could get along with her as well as Jared does.”
I forced a smile, not trusting myself to speak. Get along with Sofia? I couldn’t even stand being in the same room with her.
“I’ll go prepare your favorites, ladies,” Jared’s mother said, getting up and heading to the kitchen.
The moment she left, Sofia turned to me, her eyes glinting with mischief.
“Oh, Arielle, did I tell you Jared and I go way, way back? Oh, I didn't? You see, we met as early as in kindergarten, and he's been chasing me for twenty years,” Sofia narrated.
My eyes widened in surprise. Why didn't Jared tell me all of these?
“Can you believe it? Twenty whole years! Jared liked me a whole lot and used to do anything I asked of him. We went to prom together, and he even carved our initials on the bark of an old willow tree in the park. I was a beautiful girl, I still am, and I had numerous suitors back then. Jared was so jealous that he used to even fight off any male that got close to me.” Sofia continued.
As Sofia spoke of their past, a mix of curiosity and jealousy churned in my stomach. I pushed the feelings down, forcing my lips into a polite curve. “That's the past, Sofia, He’s married to me now and nothing would change that.”
Sofia’s smile faltered for a second, but she didn’t stop. “And yet, he ended up marrying you just a month after I travelled abroad…”
“That’s enough, Sofia. I’m sure that my wife doesn’t need all those details,” Jared’s voice suddenly sounded from behind, interrupting Sofia.
As I turned to face him, his gaze darted away.

Chapter 4 Trouble in paradise
(ARIELLE’S POV)
While Sofia clamped her mouth shut, startled by Jared’s sudden appearance, I slowly rose from the chair, still reeling from the shock of all I had heard.
I was heartbroken that I had to hear all of that from Sofia, who also doubled as my husband’s life crush. I couldn’t believe it.
I got to Jared and ignored him completely as I walked past, but he tried to talk to me.
“Arielle, please listen–” he said, trying to reach for me.
I shrugged his hand off and walked upstairs, my eyes welled up with tears. I got to the room and collapsed on the bed, numb, exhausted and disappointed.
Just then, a text arrived on my phone. It was from Jared: “I’m sorry.”
I sighed and put the phone off, before falling into a turbulent sleep.
The next morning, I woke up to an empty bed, and the absence of Jared felt heavy. He must have slept in the guest room again.
Or worse—what if he had slept in the same room as Sofia? The thought made my heart race, but I quickly shook it off. Doubts might be creeping in, but I knew the man I married.
After getting ready for work, I headed downstairs and found Jared waiting for me in the foyer.
“Hey, good morning,” he said, planting a kiss on my cheek.
“Yeah, good morning,” I responded, trying to act cool too.
“Look, Arielle, about yesterday. Sofia’s just struggling with the pregnancy because it's her first. It's making her become needy and overly pampered. Please don't take it too personally. Don't believe everything she said. Kindly forgive her,” Jared pleaded.
Instead of softening my heart like the words were intended to, they only made me bitter at the fact that my husband was in defense of another woman.
Speaking of pregnancy, was he aware that I too was pregnant? Of course not, he had prioritized his ex over me on the day I was supposed to break the news to him.
“I’m going to work now, Jared. And when I get back, I would rather not see that woman here again.”
My day at work was uneventful, a blur of cooking and cleaning, and soon it was closing time. I was in my office wrapping things up when a knock echoed on the door.
“Who is it?” I called out.
“Rebecca, Ma,” my junior chef replied. “A hot man is waiting outside for you with a massive bouquet, “ she announced, and I didn't miss the giggle in her voice.
I paused, confused. Did I have an appointment? I quickly grabbed my bag. “I’m coming out now.”
As I stepped outside, Jared stood by the entrance, bouquet in hand.
I was momentarily taken back, but regained myself and swirled around to face Rebecca. “Unfortunately it’s not some hot man, just my husband,” I said.
I wouldn't blame her, Jared had only visited my new place of work the day of Sofia's saga, so it’s reasonable no one here was acquainted with him.
“Hey, what are you doing here, Mr Smith?” I asked, stopping right in front of Jared.
“Apologising to Mrs Smith for being a jerk. Arielle, I am so sorry I didn't tell you about Sofia earlier. I have no excuse. Can you forgive me? To make it up to you, how about a weekend getaway date at our first house?” Jared said, all smiles.
At that moment, my heart softened and every fiber of anger I harbored within me ebbed away. Our first house—a cozy penthouse we had chosen and decorated together after we married—held so many good memories. It was seldom visited later due to its long distance from my current workplace.
To say I was pleased was an understatement, I was beyond the moon with excitement. Finally, a vacation that will help me forget all the dramas of the past days and who knows, it could be the perfect place to break the news of my pregnancy to Jared!
“So, what do you say, Mrs Smith?” Jared inquired, looking at me expectantly.
“I’d say,” I blinked, “Mr Smith does know how to please a woman.”
He melted me in his kiss.
“Thank you love, for forgiving me and accepting the offer,” Jared said, a smile spreading across his face. “Here is your flower,” he handed me the bouquet.
I accepted it, inhaling the fragrant lavender—my favorite. “Thank you,” I mouthed.
Jared led me toward the parking lot, opening the door for me before getting in on his side. As we drove to our penthouse, anticipation bubbled within me.
An hour later, we pulled up at the parking lot of the house. It was located inside a reputable estate. But as we alighted, something didn't seem right.
I tried to place what it was and a few seconds of racking my brain brought it to my cognizance as I noticed a light on in one of the rooms.
“Jared, I think someone’s in the house,” I said as we approached the front door.
“What do you mean?” he asked, a puzzled look on his face.
“Look,” I pointed, “the light is on.”
“Come on, Arielle. You are being paranoid. You probably forgot to turn off the lights the last time we were here,” Jared said, waving off my observation.
I was just about to protest when the front door swung open, and there stood Sofia, a bright smile on her face.
Jared and I halted in our tracks as we exchanged surprised looks.
“What the hell? What are you doing here?” I snarled at Sofia, unable to control my rage this time.
“Take a chill pill, Arielle. I got the address of the place from Jared's mum. She asked me to live here pending when I get a place of my own. She insisted the cozy environment would be good for my pregnancy.” Sofia explained.
“You have no right to be here! This place is for Jared and me. I can’t believe she gave you the keys,” I shot back, furious.
The hell, why do I keep seeing this lady at every turn I take?
“Oh, my bad, I didn’t know you two would visit here anytime soon... I'm so sorry, I'll leave right away,” Sofia said, feigning a sorry look that I could tell was absolutely fake.
“Arielle, let’s go inside first,” Jared suggested.
I glared at Sofia before storming inside, storming past her at the door.
“Sofia, this place is like a safe haven for me and Arielle, and we cherish it so dearly, especially Arielle, that seeing another face in it seems a bit improper,” Jared began in a calm tone, the moment we were all inside the house. It was almost like he was being cautious with his words and didn't want to hurt her.
“It’s fine, I understand. I’ll leave right away,” Sofia said, putting on a pathetic act.
“That will be gladly appreciated,” I said, feeling no atom of pity for her because I could see through her emotional game.
But that wasn't the case for Jared, he doesn't want a pregnant woman to suffer so much, so he intervened.
“Arielle, that won't be nice. It's late, and she's pregnant,” he said in a placating tone. And then he turned to Sofia, “You can spend the night here, and we will discuss the issue of your housing in the morning.”
Sofia shook her head, pretending to be weak. “No, I wouldn’t want to cause any tension between you two.”
“No, she's fine with it,” Jared said and turned to give me a pleading look. “Right, Arielle?”
I ignored them both, deciding to take a tour of the house to calm my nerves. As I walked through, I noticed the changes.
Jared and my decorations have all been discarded and replaced by different designs. Anger rose from the deepest part of me as I knew no one else would be responsible for the act, except Sofia.
Ready to confront her, I marched back to the sitting room, my vision blinded by raw fury. I had just gotten to the sitting room, when Sofia suddenly squealed and rushed up to Jared, snatching the bouquet in his hand.
I must have left it in the car, and Jared had thought to bring it inside for me.
Just when I was about to yell at Sofia to hand me my flowers, she exclaimed, “Oh, Jared, you are so sweet. I can't believe you still remember my favorite flower…”

Chapter 5 Having to deal with a bitchy third wheel
(ARIELLE'S POV)
I stopped in my tracks at Sofia’s words. Did she just say her “favorite flower?”
“The bouquet, hand it over. It is mine, Jared got it for me.” I said, smiling coldly.
Sofia sneered and turned to Jared. “Jay-Jay, the flower is for me, right? Remember, back then during high school days, you used to gift me lavender flowers when you came to pick me up on prom nights. When you called me your best friend, Jay?”
Jared looked thorn, as he looked from me to Sofia. I couldn't believe he was even contemplating it! That flower was mine for Christ’s sake, he should simply ask her to hand it back to me, the right owner.
“Ummm… Arielle, let Sofia have it. I will get you another one tomorrow, I promise,” Jared finally said.
My mouth fell open in surprise. I couldn’t believe my ears. Yet again, Jared had chosen his “best friend” over me?
“You are unbelievable, Jared!” I exclaimed.
Sofia turned and smirked at me, a triumphant look in her eyes. Only I could see her because she had her back to Jared.
“I can’t stand this,” I said, raising my hands in mock surrender. “You two can have the house to yourselves, I will look for a hotel to crash in.”
I turned around and stormed off to the place where I kept my bag, ready to leave. As expected, Jared appeared beside me, his face apologetic.
“Arielle, you don’t always have to lose your cool. She’s pregnant, and I heard pregnancy hormones affect women’s behavior a lot.”
I wanted to scream and ask him what about me? Was I not pregnant too? And then the bitter reality dawned on me that yet again, my chance of breaking the news of my pregnancy to Jared had been ruined.
“Say something love, please,” Jared frowned.
“I have nothing to say. Leave my way, I have to get a hotel before it gets too late,” I finally said, making to walk past him.
“I’m truly sorry, Wifey. Fine, how about I make us dinner? I know you hate making dinner at night, so I’m volunteering to take up the task tonight.”
I sighed, as I considered his offer. I hated cooking dinner late, and I hate eating out too. If I sleep at a hotel tonight, I am definitely going to eat out.
Reluctantly, I accepted Jared’s offer. Making dinner will be the perfect punishment for Jared, as he will have to do the dishes afterward. And besides, deep in my heart I wouldn’t want to leave my husband alone with Sofia.
I was just about to let him know that I had accepted his offer when Sofia spoke from behind me.
“Why would you offer to cook, Jared? Cooking is a domestic chore, and is meant for women alone. You see, I have been working hard all day, cleaning this whole house and putting away decorations I found Medieval and out of vogue. I’m so tired and can’t lift a pin, else, I would have offered to do the cooking. As for you, Jared, I’m sure you are tired as well. Being a billionaire CEO is no easy feat, and after a long day at work, you deserve to rest. Arielle, here, should do the cooking. She seems so energetic and even ready to get into a fight, the energy will be a lot useful if she uses it to make us dinner. Besides, she is a domestic worker and cooks for a living.”
I was dumbstruck as I listened to Sofia ramblings. With the way it spoke, a stranger would have mistaken her for the mistress of the house.
Jared must have realized that Sofia was crossing the line because he immediately intervenes.
“That’s enough, Sofia. You can’t speak to my wife in that manner. Do not go to that extent next time,” Jared chided.
Although I was not all too satisfied with his tone, I was glad that Jared had finally spoken up and put Sofia in her place. Finally, my turn to make faces at her.
Sofia immediately puts on a hurt expression. “I can’t believe this, Jared. I wasn’t being rude to her, I was merely telling the truth! You have changed a lot since you got married, Jared. You have forgotten the bond we used to share!”
“I’m sorry if I hurt you, Sofia. But…”
I didn’t wait for Jared to finish as I walked off, leaving them to themselves. I was utterly disappointed in Jared. This minute he scolded her, the other, he is trying to pacify her.
I arrived in the kitchen and began to take out the ingredients for dinner preparation. I intended to make macaroni, chicken, and cheese.
A few minutes into it, Jared stepped into the kitchen, looking remorseful.
“I would like to help with dinner preparation, Arielle,” he said, coming to stand beside me.
I knew telling him no will be of no use as he will only grow persistent, so I merely shrugged and carried on with what I was doing.
“What are we having,” Jared asked.
I knew he was trying to initiate a conversation because a mere glance at the ingredients on the kitchen counter could tell anyone what we were having.
“Macaroni, chicken and cheese,” I said simply.
I was in a complicated mood, and in no way interested in a conversation with him.
After getting the ingredients ready and having placed the macaroni on fire, I turned to Jared, a serious look on my face. “For the last time, Jared, I want you to clarify your relationship with Sofia.”
Jared sighed and took my hands in his, caressing them softly. “I promise you, Arielle, Sofia and I are just good friends. I might have a crush on her back then in high school, but that was all there was to it.”
I nodded, and took my hands from his as I went to check on the food on fire. Jared helped with the remaining preparation of the food and a few minutes later, dinner was ready.
I set the table, while Jared cleaned the kitchen after me.
“I will go call Sofia,” he said to me, as I settled in the dining room to eat dinner.
I nodded, without looking up, my attention fixated on my food. Seconds later, I heard approaching footsteps and I knew it was Sofia and Jared.
I refused to look up, focusing on my food. I heard Sofia pull the chair opposite me, and settled in it.
“This smells nice, I hope it tastes nice too,” Sofia said, as she uncovered her food.
Jared sat down on the seat beside me, and soon, everyone was digging into their plates.
Suddenly, Sofia made a throaty sound and the next second she was on her feet as she scurried away from the dinning. Jared went in hot pursuit, while I sat back, wondering what was happening.
I didn’t have to wonder for long because Jared and Sofia returned minutes later, with Jared looking worried, and Sofia looking pale.
“What happened?” I inquired, looking from Jared to Sofia.
“What happened is that you tried to poison me, making it the second time. First, it was at the restaurant, and now, in your house. What did I ever do to you?” Sofia said, feigning tears.
“I don’t understand. Why would I poison you? Jared was in the kitchen with me, and I served everyone the same food,” I said defensively.
“You added milk to the macaroni, and I am allergic to milk!” Sofia yelled.
“That’s right, Arielle. Sofia is allergic to milk. You shouldn’t have added it to the meal,” Jared said.
I was too stunned to look at Jared. We were in the kitchen together, and he saw me use the ingredients, milk was never part of them.
I rose to my feet, having lost appetite.
“Just for the records, Sofia, I never used milk in that dish. As a matter of fact, that’s my milk–free recipe. You can ask any of my customers in the restaurant. But what difference does it make? You already decided that I poisoned you. Good night,” I said, smiling coldly before exiting the dining room.

Chapter 6 When he chose her over me!
(ARIELLE'S POV)
I retired to the room upstairs, my head throbbing with a migraine.
I couldn’t believe what had just happened in the dining room. Jared didn’t even scold Sofia for insinuating that I poisoned her. He knew me too well, that I wouldn’t hurt a fly, not to mention a pregnant woman.
I didn’t like Sofia, alright, but the last thing I wound ever do was hurt her.
She must be rejoicing now, knowing that her plan to cause a rift between me and Jared had worked. We couldn’t even have dinner in peace. Her presence is always disrupting the peace of my marriage.
I sighed and collapsed on the bed, wondering what to do to get Sofia out of Jared and I’s life.
Realizing that I was feeling sleepy again due to my pregnancy, I got off the bed and walked into the bathroom for my night shower. After that, I slumped on the bed in exhaustion.
I didn’t know how long I slept, but I woke up with a dry throat and a thirsty tongue yearning for water. I got off the bed, slipped my legs into my flip-flops and made my way downstairs, to the kitchen.
As I ascended the stairs and approached the hallway to the kitchen, I heard voices. Getting closer, I realized it was Jared and Sofia talking.
My face frowned in disapproval as I looked at the grandfather clock at the far corner, and it read 1 o’clock in the morning. Why the hell was Jared up by that time and talking to her? He was supposed to be in bed with me.
Just then, Sofia’s voice filtered to my ears, it was not just that sweet voice, but her words. I stopped in my tracks as I listened to her.
“What were you thinking when you got married to such a tough woman like Arielle, Jared? She is mean and lacks human sympathy. Didn’t you see how she was unconcerned about having me thrown out, at night? She is not only mean, but inconsiderate too for making you pick her up late from work. You should be resting after a stressful day at work and not playing the role of a driver to her.”
“She didn’t ask me to, Sofia. I did it willingly. She is my wife after all,” I heard Jared say.
I scoffed, at least he said a word in defense of me this time.
“You have changed, Jared. This isn’t you. What has that woman done to you?” Sofia’s shrill voice cried out.
“Stop it, Sofia. For someone with a failed marriage, you have no right giving hot takes or interfering in mine. Our past is over, just let it remain so.”
“But you know it Jared, you know I divorced my husband because of you!”
My eyes widened. What the hell? What did Sofia mean by that?
“No, you didn’t! Don’t drag me into your divorce story!” Jared snapped, his voice laced with fury. I could feel the heat of his anger—it didn’t ease the weight in my chest. I had ever seen him act like this, so much of… rawest emotion.
Then I heard a sob escape Sofia’s throat. And soon, her sobs grew into a cry. I moved closer. To my consternation, Sofia had moved into Jared’s arms, crying, as she held on to him tightly.
I was infuriated and disgusted when I saw Jared wrap his arms around her, consoling her.
Angry, and my thirst momentarily forgotten, I hurried back upstairs and began to pack my things. I needed to leave. I have had just enough of Jared and Sofia’s excesses.
After packing, I slipped out of my robe into a more decent clothing before grabbing my handbag and making my way out.
I walked towards the stairs, and just at the entrance, I saw Sofia standing, obviously waiting for me. There was a smirk on her face, and a malicious glint in her eyes.
I decided to keep my emotions in check and maintain composure. I will avoid confrontation with Sofia as much as I can. All I was concerned about was leaving.
I ascended the stairs, and as expected, Sofia blocked my path.
“I have no strength for this, Sofia. Kindly leave the way,” I said, my voice firm.
“And if I don’t? You think you can try to kill me and go Scott Free?” Sofia asked, hands akimbo.
“Come off it, Jared is not here, so you might as well drop the act. There was no milk in the food, and what you did back there at the dinning was merely a stunt to draw Jared’s attention to yourself, like the attention starved kitten that you are. Now, leave my way, I have no time for your drama.”
“You just refused to see the reality didn’t you? Alright, you may pass,” Sofia said and made way for me.
I sneered and walked straight past her.
“If we were both in danger, who do you think Jared would save first?” Sofia suddenly asked.
“What?”
I didn’t have the time to process what she meant, because the next minute, I felt a push on my back and lost balance, skidding off the stairs to land at its base.
I let out a loud guttural scream, and Sofia must have heard Jared’s approaching step because she quickly rushed to me and laid down beside me, making groaning sounds like we fell together.
God, this woman was despicable! I wanted to shout, to expose her, but the pain was too intense - especially in my abdomen. Oh God, the baby!
Panic surged through me, and another scream followed. Sofia echoed my cry, louder, trying to steal Jared’s attention.
Jared rushed in. His eyes flicked back and forth between us, confusion written all over him. I couldn’t speak, but my eyes begged him. Please, help me. Help our baby.
For a moment, I thought he understood. He immediately rushed to me, but just as I was expecting him to carry me up, he halted and turned to Sofia instead.
Before I slipped into unconsciousness, all I recalled was Jared saving Sofia instead of me.

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