From Baby Bump to Broken Back - Chapter 6: Chapter 6

After returning to the Roderick family's old mansion, Karina moved in with Edmund as if it were the most natural thing in the world. She was more impressive than me—more fitting as Darrel's wife, at least in appearance.
The Roderick elders doted on their eldest grandson, and Karina rode that wave of favor effortlessly. I suspected they'd known about Edmund's existence for years. Meanwhile, I'd been the fool, clinging to illusions like a naive clown.
On the day Edmund was formally recognized, the maids shoved me into the ancestral hall while Karina waited smugly in the main room. She took over pushing the wheelchair, her voice dripping with venom.
"Mrs. Giselle, you must've figured it out ages ago—Edmund is Darrel's and my son. How pathetic, clinging to the title of his wife when everyone knows it's only a matter of time before it's mine."
I met her gaze with a cold smile. "Proud of an illegitimate child? Even if his name's on the family registry, he'll always be a stain."
Karina's eyes filled with mocking pity. "Once Edmund's acknowledged, he'll be groomed as the heir. And you? Even if you popped out a son, he'd never measure up. Oh, wait—I heard yours was a boy. What a shame."
I glared, but she just laughed, triumphant.
"It's a choice between two, and Darrel picked me. Still in denial?"
I bit back my words. Mock me all you want, Karina. But don't you dare bring my child into this.
I hadn't come to fight. I just wanted to endure the day and leave in peace—but peace wasn't an option. Gripping my crutches, I stood and slapped her hard across the face.
"Edmund's a Roderick. But you? You're nothing."
The moment my hand connected, Edmund burst in and clung to Karina's waist. "Mom! Why'd you hit my mom? You're evil!"
The Roderick elders stormed in behind him, their faces darkening at the sight of Karina's tear-streaked face.
"Giselle!" Darrel's mother, Felicia Larkspur, sneered. "Who gave you the right to raise a hand in the ancestral hall? A useless woman like you is worse than a stray dog. Get out of my sight!"
She shoved me—hard. I crashed onto a low table, scattering incense and candles. The searing pain of hot wax against my skin stole my breath.
Darrel stood frozen, disappointment etched into his expression. "Giselle, today's about Edmund. Stop embarrassing yourself."
Then, to the servants: "Fix Mrs. Karina's makeup. Now."
His voice turned icy as he scanned the room. "From this moment on, disrespecting Karina is disrespecting me. Anyone who forgets that will regret it."
I stayed silent. There was no point arguing. He'd made his choice—and it wasn't me.