The Rebirth of My Dead Billionaire Wife

Chapter 52

The office was buzzing with new energy as Victoria walked through the hallways, her belly prominently showing beneath her sleek maternity dress. Kane Industries was stabilizing—investors were returning, the scandals were fading into the background, and the dedicated team Victoria had built was working tirelessly to restore the company’s reputation. For the first time in months, she felt like things were finally moving in the right direction.

But outside the walls of work, life was just as busy. With her baby’s arrival drawing closer, Victoria’s world had shifted focus to preparing for the newest addition to her life. Today was her baby shower, a celebration Zayden, Elena, Tobias, and Jonathan had insisted on throwing despite her initial protests.

“I don’t need a big event,” Victoria had argued weeks ago, exasperated by their enthusiasm.

“Excuse me,” Elena had shot back, hands on her hips. “You’re having a baby, V. You deserve a little fun, and we’re going to make sure you have it.”

Now, as she stepped into her beautifully decorated living room, she had to admit they’d done a fantastic job. Balloons in soft pastel shades of pink and gold filled the room, along with banners that read “Welcome Baby Girl” in elegant lettering. A dessert table was laden with cupcakes, cookies, and a stunning cake shaped like a cradle. The aroma of fresh flowers—roses and peonies—filled the air, and the space was alive with laughter and chatter as friends and family gathered.

Elena was the first to rush over, practically bouncing on her feet. “Okay, the decorations are perfect, the food is perfect, and you look absolutely glowing. This is going to be amazing.”

Victoria laughed. “You’ve outdone yourself, Elena. I can’t believe you pulled this off.”

“I had help,” Elena admitted, waving toward Tobias and Jonathan, who were setting up a photo booth in the corner.

Tobias grinned. “And by help, she means I did all the heavy lifting while she bossed us around.”

“I’m a visionary,” Elena shot back, sticking her tongue out. “Anyway, it’s all for you, V.”

Zayden entered the room, carrying a tray of mocktails. He looked every bit the doting soon-to-be father, his usual calm demeanor replaced with an excitement he couldn’t hide. “Alright, everyone’s here. Let’s get this party started,” he said, handing Victoria a drink.

As the festivities began, Victoria felt herself relax for the first time in weeks. There were games, laughter, and heartfelt toasts from her closest friends. Zayden, as always, hovered protectively, making sure she was comfortable and well-fed.

When it was time to open gifts, everyone gathered around as Victoria took a seat in the center. Elena handed her the first box, grinning mischievously. “This one’s from me. I promise it’s not glitter-related.”

Victoria laughed, unwrapping the gift to reveal a beautiful hand-knitted baby blanket. “Elena, this is gorgeous. Thank you.”

The gifts kept coming—adorable baby clothes, toys, and even a high-tech stroller from Tobias and Jonathan. Each item was met with oohs and ahhs from the group, but then Zayden handed her a final box, his expression curious.

“This one doesn’t have a name on it,” he said, placing it in front of her.

Victoria frowned, carefully unwrapping the package. It was heavier than the others, and as she opened the lid, a chill ran down her spine. Inside was something wrapped in a black cloth. With trembling hands, she unfolded the fabric, and her breath caught.

A human skull.

The room went silent as everyone stared, the festive atmosphere evaporating in an instant. The skull was clean and eerily pristine, and as Victoria held it, a small tag fell from the wrapping. She picked it up, her hands shaking.

The tag read: “Selena Kane.”

Elena let out a shocked gasp, backing away from the table. “Is this some kind of sick joke?”

Tobias leaned in, his face pale. “That… that can’t actually be her. Right?”

Zayden was already by Victoria’s side, pulling the skull away and wrapping it back in the cloth. “This is insane,” he said, his voice tight with anger. “Who would send something like this?”

Jonathan grabbed the box, examining it for clues. “There’s no return address. Nothing.”

Victoria’s mind was spinning. Her baby shower, a day meant to celebrate new life, had been tainted by something dark and horrifying. “This has to be Xanos,” she said, her voice trembling. “Who else would do something like this?”

“Xanos or Damian,” Zayden muttered. “Either way, it’s a message.”

Elena crossed her arms, her voice shaking. “A message? It’s a threat, Zayden. They’re trying to scare her. This is beyond twisted.”