Return of the Crowned Heiress novel Chapter 323

Just a few minutes earlier, when Stephan's line was busy, Imogen had called Thomas instead, complaining of stomach discomfort.

Hearing that, Stephan rubbed his throbbing temple.

After all, she was his only sibling—his sister who had shielded him when they were children, losing her eyesight in the process.

And there was more. Imogen's heartbreak ran deep. Her fiancé, Archie, died a month before their wedding and became lost at sea under circumstances that tied back to Stephan in complicated ways.

Archie's death left her shattered, and the only thing keeping her grounded now was the child she carried. If something happened to that baby, Stephan knew Imogen might not recover.

"Got it."

Stephan left the office and headed back to the Russell residence.

In the Russell residence's front yard, Imogen was sipping on juice, her cheeks flushed and her demeanor lively. There was no hint of the discomfort she had claimed earlier.

Stephan's jaw clenched, his sharp eyes darkening.

Hearing his footsteps, Imogen turned toward the sound. A maid beside her quickly informed her, "Ms. Russell, Mr. Russell is here."

She put her glass down and said in a tone laced with mild irritation, "So busy you can't even take my calls? Well, since you're here now, come with me and Johanna to Frosty Chapel. I haven't been out in ages."

Stephan suppressed his annoyance. The only reason he had rushed over was because of her supposed illness. Clearly, she had used it as an excuse to summon him.

Stephan suppressed the flicker of irritation in his chest. He replied, his voice cool and detached, "If you want to go out, feel free to bring along any of the house staff or bodyguards—however many you need."

Imogen's expression shifted in surprise even though her gaze remained distant.

Her heightened senses immediately picked up on his impatience. She felt every ounce of his frustration and irritation.