The 99th Game Was Mine All Along novel Chapter 79

This wasn't my first appearance at a Prescott family event as James's "assistant."

Years ago, James had explained that his mother would object to my humble background, so we'd marry first and gradually win her approval later.

I was touched by his apparent commitment and didn't object.

Little did I know this "temporary" arrangement would stretch to seven years.

His mother had somehow learned about my five stillbirths. She'd decided I was promiscuous, calling me a "tramp" and demanding James get rid of me.

In the past, James might have defended me, but now, with the radiant Rachel captivating him, why would he care about me?

Hearing his mother's demands, James put on a show of reluctance. "Fine, I'm going abroad on business the day after tomorrow. Rachel can come with me, and we'll have the wedding there."

Not a moment's hesitation.

Rachel feigned shyness. "But I haven't even tried on wedding dresses or rings yet."

On cue, assistants wheeled in twenty-three haute couture wedding gowns—each a custom creation from international fashion houses, requiring at least three years of advance booking.

Each gown had matching diamond rings, every stone the size of a quail's egg.

One pink diamond ring looked familiar—I'd seen it at a televised jewelry auction last month. Two hundred million dollars.

These weren't last-minute preparations. They'd been planned long ago.

Rachel squealed with delight, planting a kiss on James's cheek.

"Wow, they're all my exact size! And twenty-three—the year we first met. You're so thoughtful, James."