I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 103

Chapter 103

Carter asked, “Why? What happened?”

“I-”

Lauren wanted to explain, but Arielle cut in, saying, “She made me and Adrian eat really sweet food even though we’re not supposed to. Then, before we were full, she said that we were leaving. Ms. Berry told her that we hadn’t eaten enough, but she said that it wasn’t like we’d starve.”

Mimicking others was a kind of talent.

At the very least, Arielle conveyed everything clearly and didn’t falsely accuse Lauren of anything.

Lauren’s face went pale. “Carter, don’t get it wrong. I was just worried about them getting indigestion. They’re not supposed to have too much sweet food, so I only let them have a little.”

Carter pulled Arielle into a hug. “Arielle, you misunderstood what your mom meant. How could she ever say something like that?”

“That’s right. I love you very much. I pick you up from school and even take you out to eat,” Lauren

said.

Arielle suddenly remembered what Scarlett said at the table and repeated the words back, “Isn’t that your responsibility?”

“Arielle! Watch your tone,” Carter scolded.

Arielle pouted. “But Dad, you said that too. And that fierce lady said the same thing about Mom at lunch. She said that Mom shouldn’t think she can compete with our biological mother. She called it delusional.”

Delusional?

Scarlett’s expression shifted uncomfortably. “What are you talking about? I never said that.

Carter’s eyes flicked over to her.

Even Lauren started to panic. She had completely forgotten that these kids could repeat things word for word.

Scarlett hadn’t thought to watch what she said in front of them.

“It’s not what you think, Carter. Scarlett meant-

Alisha interrupted, “That is what they said. I was there. Ms. Arielle didn’t lie.”

Carter felt nothing but frustration. “Lauren, you can’t teach the kids like this. If you don’t have

1/2

Chapter 103

experience raising children, let Alisha handle it. Stay out of it.”

+25 BONUS

Lauren stiffened, then lowered her head. “You’re right. I don’t have much experience. That’s why I keep making mistakes to upset them. But I’ll learn. I’ll do better. Please don’t be angry.”

She always knew just how to back down when she needed to.

Carter let out a silent sigh and turned to the kids. “Go play, alright?”

As the children walked off, Lauren stared at their backs. Then she turned to Carter and asked, ” Carter, what happened today? You left all of a sudden.”

Just the mention of it made Carter’s mood sour. His baby with Rhea was gone because of him, and they were now standing on the edge of divorce.

“It’s nothing,” he muttered.

Lauren’s gaze flickered. “By the way, Carter, a potential partner is coming from Eryham. They run the biggest aesthetic clinic over there.

“I actually know them. I was thinking that I could introduce you. If you can land this partnership, Jamison Group would definitely reach a whole new level.”

“Eryham’s aesthetic clinic?”

Lauren nodded. “Yeah. They’re expanding and need a big supply of medical equipment.”

“How do you know them?” (1

Lauren clenched her hands and said, “A few of my friends were VIPs there. I’ve been there too, and over time, I got to know some people. I can at least get a conversation going.”

Carter considered it.

With Draventh currently out of reach, breaking into Eryham wasn’t a bad idea.

“Can they be trusted?”

“Absolutely!” Lauren said confidently, “That’s the most well–known aesthetic clinic in Eryham. Countless celebrities travel from here and abroad go there. Partnering with them is a guaranteed win. We could even use the chance to boost our reputation.”

Carter thought it over, then gave a slight nod. “Alright. I’ll leave it to you to arrange the meeting. Sorry to trouble you.”

Lauren smiled. “It’s no trouble at all. I’d do anything for you. Just leave it to me.”

11