Billionaire's Regret Finding Her (Caitlin and Sebastian) novel Chapter 11

Beatrice noticed Caitlin entering and could tell she had overheard Sebastian’s harsh words. The atmosphere grew awkward, and Beatrice opened her mouth to explain, but Caitlin spoke first.

“Mr. Vanderbilt, you don’t need to worry,” Caitlin said firmly. “Let’s make things clear right now in front of Beatrice. I’m only here at the Vanderbilt estate to perform the duties of a ‘lucky bride.’ Once you’ve recovered, I’ll leave. There’s no need for us to fulfill any spousal obligations. For the duration of your recovery, we’re only a couple in name. My responsibility is to care for you, and that’s all. You shouldn’t feel burdened.”

By taking the lead, Caitlin laid her intentions bare. She had two goals for coming to the Vanderbilt estate: repaying a debt and finding her son.

Once Sebastian recovered, she would leave—but not without Howard. He was her son, and she was determined to gain full custody of him.

Sebastian felt a wave of relief. He had feared she might cling to the Vanderbilt name, refusing to leave. But her declaration put his mind at ease.

Beatrice, however, saw something in Caitlin that neither of them acknowledged: her strength of character, her unyielding spirit, and her clear sense of right and wrong. She believed Caitlin was precisely the kind of woman the Vanderbilt family needed, someone who could bring out the best in her grandson.

Moreover, Howard had already bonded with Caitlin, displaying a rare affection. It was a connection Beatrice couldn’t ignore.

“Caitlin,” Beatrice interjected gently, “don’t be so quick to make up your mind. Our Sebastian is an extraordinary man. If you marry him, you could have a life of comfort and happiness. Why not give it some thought? His condition will improve, I’m sure of it. And besides, the marriage certificate has already been issued.”

Caitlin’s eyes widened. “Marriage certificate? When did this happen?”

Beatrice handed her the red document, looking every bit the pleased matchmaker. Caitlin held it skeptically, wondering if it was even real.

“Well, you gave me your ID to verify your identity and star chart, didn’t you? I confirmed everything was genuine, so I took the liberty of having your marriage registered. Once Sebastian recovers, you two can hold a proper wedding.”

Beatrice’s intentions were kind, but Caitlin felt trapped. *If I have to divorce, doesn’t that make me a secondhand bride?*

“Grandmother! Enough! If the certificate’s been issued, then undo it!”

Sebastian was livid. He slammed his fist on the bed, furious at the turn of events. He had never wanted anyone’s care, let alone a forced marriage.

The outburst caused a sharp pain in his head, and Beatrice quickly tried to soothe him. “Alright, alright, I won’t say more. Rest well, my dear.”

She had no intention of annulling the marriage. In her eyes, Sebastian was lucky to have Caitlin, whether he realized it or not.

Once Beatrice left, Caitlin turned to Sebastian. “Mr. Vanderbilt, I know you don’t want this marriage, and I don’t either. How about we sign a divorce agreement? Once you recover, our marriage will be annulled automatically, and I’ll leave. How does that sound?”

“Fine!”

Sebastian agreed immediately. The idea of a written contract appealed to him—something concrete to ensure Caitlin couldn’t backtrack later.

To formalize the agreement, Sebastian called for his assistant, Xavi, to draft it.

When the agreement was ready, Sebastian had Xavi press his seal on it. Both he and Caitlin signed their names and left their fingerprints, making it legally binding.

Xavi left with his task complete, and Caitlin returned moments later with a tray of food.

“Mr. Vanderbilt, I’ve prepared dinner. Would you like to eat?”

“No.”

Sebastian’s voice was cold. He didn’t trust anything she made and worried she might tamper with the food.

“Suit yourself,” Caitlin said flatly, placing the tray down.

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