Matthew, however, understood her and interjected, “Don’t worry, Grandma.


    Ste’s just begun her pregnancy, and she should remain in familiar surroundings to nurture the baby.


    I’ll arrange for Erin to stay at Prosper Bay for a while instead.


    ”


    Lucia’s expression showed her reluctance.


    Matthew added quickly, “Besides, this house is far from my office.


    It’d be hard for her to rest with all the traveling.


    ”


    Lucia looked worried.


    “But you’re pregnant, Ste.


    Can’t you take a break from work?”


    Ste appreciated Lucia’s concern but couldn’t make any promises right then.


    Lucia persisted, “Or maybe bring your work home.


    We’re not short on resources, after all.


    ”


    As the tension began to rise, Lindsay intervened smoothly, “Grandma, let’s let Ste make her own decisions about her work.


    ”


    She took Lucia’s hand reassuringly and said, “Many women nowadays prefer to focus on work rather than have children.


    Ste is ambitious, and we shouldn’t pressure her.


    ”


    Lucia’s face changed just as Lindsay had hoped it would.


    Lucia quickly exined, “Ste, please don’t misunderstand.


    I’m not suggesting you quit your job.


    It’s just that being newly pregnant might make you more tired.


    How about you rest a bit now, and we can handle the workter?”


    Seeing the worry on Lucia’s face, Ste smiled to reassure her.


    “Lucia, it’s okay.


    I understand what you’re saying.


    I’m still feeling pretty good, though.


    Sitting around until the babyes would drive me crazy.


    Keeping busy with work makes me happy.


    ”


    This seemed to ease Lucia’s concern somewhat.? 2024 N?v/el/Dram/a.Org.


    Ste promised sincerely, “I’ll ensure to take good care of myself, so don’t worry.


    ”


    Lucia felt a lot better hearing this promise.


    Turning to Lindsay, Ste’s voice became cooler.


    “No matter how ambitious I am, my family alwayses first.


    I won’tpromise on that.


    ”


    Ste’s expression was cold, her words sharp, causing Lindsay’s face to harden.


    Lindsay attempted a faint smile.


    “I was just giving Grandma a friendly reminder, that’s all.


    ”


    Ste looked at Lindsay in a way that made it clear she wasn’t fooled, making Lindsay ufortable.


    Ste had no patience for Lindsay’s antics.


    She said firmly, “If you’re going to say something dodgy, you might as well keep it to yourself.


    ”


    Lindsay nodded and said, “You’re right, Ste.


    I’ll think more carefully before speaking next time.


    ”


    But internally, she was filled with anger.


    Ste seemed so overconfident during her pregnancy.


    She would Likely be even more so after the baby’s birth.


    Lindsay clenched her jaw, determined not to let Ste’s pregnancy progress smoothly.


    She felt she had to act quickly or she would be irrelevant.