The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus) novel Chapter 449

In the cozy living room of a quaint suburban home, a little princess named Anna was the center of attention. She was the stolen daughter of Natalia and Magnus. At just over a year old, with her adorable features, she possessed a blend of her parents' best traits—curly locks framing her cherubic face and eyes that twinkled with a touch of ocean blue amidst innocence.

Back when Gabby had successfully kidnapped Anna, Dummy initially wanted to dispose of the baby in the sea, but Gabby wouldn't have it, arguing that they needed the child as leverage against Magnus if the situation ever called for it. Reluctantly, Dummy agreed.

As time passed, Gabby grew fondly attached to the little girl. When they had safely made their way to Dubai, she forbade any talk of harming Anna. She claimed that after caring for her for so long, she couldn't abandon her. She even gave the girl a name, Anna.

Despite his discontent, Dummy never openly objected, but every time he laid eyes on Anna, he would consciously look away, his gaze filled with disdain. Children, they say, were the most sensitive of angels, but Anna seemed oblivious to Dummy's coldness. Instead of steering clear, she was drawn to him, craving his affection every day.

One evening, as Anna was engrossed in a cartoon on TV, Dummy, dressed in a sharp suit, stepped into the house, his footfalls catching her attention. She toddled towards him, her arms outstretched, and hugged his leg tightly, cooing, "Daddy, daddy!"

Dummy's face remained expressionless as he looked down at the little one clinging to his leg. Undeterred, Anna nuzzled against him, chanting, "Daddy, up, daddy, hug."

With a sigh, perhaps to prevent her drool from staining his trousers, Dummy picked her up, his lips curling into a frosty smile as he stared into her blue-flecked eyes.

Anna giggled with joy. She thought Dummy was playing with her. "Daddy, fly, daddy, fly."

Gabby, hearing their interaction, emerged from the kitchen. Once she saw that Anna was safe, her worry dissipated. She approached and took Anna into her arms, cooing, "Sweetie, let daddy rest. He's had a long day at work. Mommy will play with you, okay?"

Anna's eyes sparkled as she nestled into Gabby's embrace, planting a sweet kiss on her cheek. "Mommy play. Mommy kiss."

Gabby's heart melted instantly. How could she ever be cruel to such a darling angel?

Meanwhile, Dummy glanced at Gabby and Anna, then, without a word, retreated to the bathroom to wash away the day.

Gabby said, "I've prepared dinner; come out quickly after you're done," Gabby called after him. When he didn't respond, she couldn't help but use his old name, "Lucius?"

"Shut up! Lucius is dead, and don't you ever bring up that name again!" Dummy barked, startling Anna into Gabby's arms, where she hid her face.