Chapter 6 Resentment Raged Within Her

Jessica's surprise was evident, and even Jason noticed it. Mabel's expression darkened as she pulled Jessica aside.

"Why are you so shocked? Aren't you gonna greet him?" Mabel snapped.

Mabel perceived Jessica as naive and shy, her voice tinged with annoyance and scorn.

Jessica quickly regained her composure. "Sorry, this is our first meeting. Excuse my awkwardness."

In contrast to her unease, Kevan was the picture of serenity. His eyes, deep and dark, betrayed no emotion. "Hello."

Previously, during their intimate encounter, Kevan had affectionately called Jessica "baby." At the medical check-up, he adopted a professional demeanor, acting all coolly. Now, in the presence of the entire Hopkins family, he addressed her normally like one would treat their sister-in-law.

Jason's brow furrowed. "You're quite late. Didn't you realize we were all waiting for you?"

Kevan offered a polite smile. "Sorry. I got caught in traffic coming from the hospital."

Mabel gave Kevan a mocking smile. "Go wash up and join us for dinner. I thought you were intentionally late. It seems your temperament has improved after three years."

Her comment dripped with sarcasm, subtly chiding Kevan for previously being impolite and quick-tempered. At dinner, she strategically placed Kevan at the far end of the table.

This dinner was meant to welcome Kevan home. Mabel's arrangement of seats was meant to insult him.

However, Kevan appeared unfazed. He took his seat without complaint, coincidentally next to Jessica.

Once seated, Jessica felt an intense warmth from his look and refrained from shifting to her left.

"Now that you're back, do you plan to continue working as a gynecologist?" Jason inquired, his tone betraying his disapproval of Kevan's profession.

Kevan responded nonchalantly, "Being a doctor is rewarding. It feels good to save lives."

"That lacks ambition!" Jason commented sharply. "I expected you to accomplish significant things upon your return."

"With Matthew managing things at the company, why should I strive for more?" Kevan countered, raising his wine glass with a relaxed smile, a stark contrast to his earlier reserved entrance. "Matthew, I'd like to toast to you and Jessica."

Kevan stood up deliberately, the dining room lights highlighting his tall, graceful figure. His appearance was distinguished and attractive.

Matthew was the most relieved by Kevan's decision not to join the family business. Matthew smiled broadly and raised his glass. "Kevan, best of luck in your endeavors now that you're back."

Jessica stood alongside Matthew. As she turned, her eyes locked with Kevan's, sending a jolt through her. She tilted her head back and swiftly finished her wine.

Matthew raised an eyebrow. "You've finished your drink before we are done with the toasting?"

Jessica froze.

Kevan chuckled. "It's okay, Jessica. You're quite forthright. I like that."

Jessica was uncertain whether Kevan was referring to their current interaction or their past encounter at the bar.

At that time, Jessica had been trying to drown her sorrows with alcohol, which led to their reckless night together.

During the dinner, Mabel insensitively broached delicate subjects, aggressively urging Jessica to conceive. She inquired about Jessica's fertile days, treating Jessica merely as a means to produce offspring in front of everyone.

Jessica preferred not to respond to Mabel and claimed she had forgotten.

"Forgotten? How can you forget something like that?" Mabel's voice grew louder. "You need to see a doctor for a check-up. Figure out your fertile days and make an effort with Matthew!"

Jessica glanced at Matthew. He was preoccupied with texting. His text read, "Baby, wait for me. I'll come to see you and our little one tonight."

While Jessica endured her mother-in-law's demeaning comments at the table, her husband was busy wooing his mistress. Feeling utterly rejected, resentment welled up inside her.

Jessica turned to Kevan, who was leisurely enjoying his wine. His profile was strikingly attractive. She subtly shifted her leg to brush against him.

"You're right. I should have a proper check-up. I just realized Kevan is a gynecologist. Maybe Kevan could examine me personally?" Jessica pressed her thigh against his. "We're family, after all. I trust him."