Chapter 610

Ever since Xavier declared he would marry Scarlett, he stopped concealing her identity and announced the news to the Stroud family in a grand, unmistakable manner. The one most shaken was Annabeth. Known for her sweet, coquettish charm, she now wore a dark expression—something no one had ever seen from her in public. Forcing a smile, she pouted playfully. "Xavier, you must be joking! Everyone knows your future wife will come from the Stroud family!" It was this very belief that had fueled her certainty that she would one day become Mrs. Stroud. But now Xavier was saying otherwise. How could she possibly accept that? "Scarlett is a Stroud too." Xavier clasped Scarlett's hand firmly, his gesture radiating security. "I personally acknowledged it." At that, the Strouds fell silent. In their family, Xavier's word was law. Annabeth's smile faltered. Pain bit into her palm as she dug her nails in, forcing herself to stay composed. She stepped forward, grasping Scarlett's hand with feig