The CEO's Unplanned Heir novel Chapter 1204

In the evening, Aurelia came home alone. Leopold asked in an offhand tone, "Where's William?"

"He stayed over at Arnold's," Aurelia replied, nodding towards the door. "You don't like him around anyway, right? Since Arnold was back in town, it was best to let William hang out there for a bit. Saves you from dealing with him underfoot and getting on your nerves."

Leopold was slightly irritated. It was not that he disliked William but just wanted to push Aurelia's buttons a bit, to coax her into spilling whatever secrets she was keeping about the boy.

"I've never said he's not welcome at Stirling Mansion. He's part of the Stirling family. He can come over anytime. Go fetch him tomorrow."

Aurelia sighed lightly, recognizing the unpredictable nature of the man. They were family, after all. William was his flesh and blood. Leopold might have his gripes, but he wouldn't hurt William. That wasn't Leopold's style to be cold-hearted.

"Got it."

Skyler bounded down the stairs with the kids, exclaiming, "Aurelia, we heard Arnold got hurt. Can we go see him together tomorrow?"

"Sure. He'll be thrilled to see you guys," Aurelia said with a smile.

Nina chimed in, "Auntie Aurelia, is Uncle Arnold's injury bad?"

"Broke his leg. Probably laid up for a month or two," Aurelia informed them.

Nina's face fell. "So he won't be able to join us for the dinner of Christmas?"

Aurelia patted her head. "No worries. We'll have our feast at Stirling Mansion, and then we can all go keep him company for a bit after that."

Nina nodded in agreement.

A flicker of something passed through Leopold's eyes, quiet and swift.

The thought of her carrying his child and joining Arnold for a holiday meal... was that going too far?

Whenever Arnold returned, Aurelia's spirit seemed to be pulled from her body, no longer by Leopold's side.