Chapter 16 Public opinion online only grew harsher. Seeing that Tristan did nothing to defend her, Hillary dragged him to take wedding photos, hoping to silence the rumors. In the fitting room, she twirled in her tenth gown, face full of anticipation. "Tristan, how about this one?" "It looks fine," Tristan replied absentmindedly. Her expression soured instantly. "Fine'? That's what you've said about every single dress! You're not even paying attention to me! Rip- With a shriek, she tore the gown apart in a frenzy. Tristan merely stood to the side, watching quietly, offering neither comfort nor reproach. Her tantrum escalated. She grabbed anything within reach and ripped it to shreds. The staf were powerless to restrain her. By the time her strength ran out, she collapsed amid the wreckage, eyes red as she glared at him. You've changed... You were never this cold to me before! Why? Tell me why!" Only when she quieted down did Tristan step closer, his voice low and calm. Your emotions are unstable. Once the child is born, I'll hand it over to Meredith to raise." What? No! This is my child!" Hillary screamed, but her fury faltered under the weight of his icy jaze. My decision is final. Unless you behave, you won't even get to see the baby." Vith that, he turned and walked away, not sparing her another glance. For the first time, Hillary felt the sting of his indifference. Hatred simmered in her chest, but his vords replayed in her mind. The baby was her only bargaining chip-she couldn't afford to lose n the days that followed, she became uncharacteristically obedient. 'et Tristan wasn't relieved. Instead, he grew more restless, urging his assistant again and agair o track down news of Meredith. Tristan, can I... make a request?" Hillary's timid voice sounded from behind him. He paused, then gave a slight nod. This is my first pregnancy, I want to record the baby's growth... Will you come with me to take maternity photos?" ...Alright." At the studio, she posed obediently under the photographer's instructions. Tristan watched her, out his thoughts drifted elsewhere. If those three children hadn't been lost, he and Meredith would already be a happy family of five. With her nature, their children would have been well-behaved and outstanding. He would work hard to support them, then return home to laughter and games. The corners of his lips lifted at the image. Noticing his softened expression, Hillary's heart swelled with triumph. Her plan was working. After the shoot, Tristan-rarely so patient-accompanied her to a baby store. He bought strollers, diapers, toys-anything she glanced at, he purchased without hesitation. "Tristan, do you want a boy or a girl?" she asked, holding up two tiny hats in different colors. "This time it's a boy. Once I recover, I'll give you a girl too. Wouldn't it be perfect to have both?" "Let's talk about the future later." His interest vanished in an instant. He turned away, leaving her scrambling to catch up. Frustration burned in her chest. She had been acting so sweet and compliant-by all rights, he should have been showering her with affection again. But ever since Meredith left, his demeanor had shifted and became detached, lukewarm, and unreachable. Could it be... he really didn't love her anymore? No! She refused to accept that. Back then, the accident had been orchestrated to bind Tristan to her, to secure her marriage intc he Palmer family. If not for Meredith barging into their lives, the position of Mrs. Palmer would have been hers all along. Now that she had finally driven Meredith away, that seat could only belong to her!