I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 241

Chapter 241

Marcus said, “Mr. Deleon, I’ll host you and your partner companies for dinner tomorrow so you can get a taste of Draventh’s charm. Not here, of course. You prefer cozy restaurants, right? I know just the place.”

Jack nodded. “Sounds great, but I’ll have to trouble you to make the arrangements, Mr. Cain.”

“Not at all. Whatever company you choose, it will be a blessing for the people of Draventh,” Marcus said, raising his glass.

Jack accepted the toast and drank.

He accepted everyone else’s toasts, but not Carter’s. Carter couldn’t help but notice the stark

contrast.

Just then, Jack’s secretary approached and whispered something into his ear.

Jack’s gaze flicked to Carter twice, each time with a smile that faded further.

His secretary had apparently mentioned the incident at the venue entrance.

Jack valued loyalty above all. That was why he remembered events from years ago so vividly and prioritized working with the Ravelle and Snider family now.

“I’m sorry, Mr. Cain, Mr. Jamison. I have something I need to attend to. Please, continue your discussion without me,” Jack said.

Carter nodded. “See you later, Mr. Deleon.”

Once Jack left, Marcus‘ expression darkened. “I guess he found out about you and Lauren.”

Marcus wouldn’t lose his temper over business. But he simply couldn’t tolerate being under the Snider family’s thumb.

At first, had Carter used his ties with Rhea, Jack would likely have agreed to work with them. But now, he clearly didn’t want much contact with Carter.

Carter gritted his teeth. “Rhea and I aren’t divorced yet.”

“Mr. Ravelle has arrived!”

A ripple of whispers spread through the crowd.

The “Mr. Ravelle” mentioned was none other than Liam.

Everyone set down their glasses and lined up in two rows, smiling as they welcomed him.

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Liam acknowledged acquaintances with a commanding presence, yet never came across as overbearing. His authority radiated from within.

Looking at Liam from a distance, Marcus muttered, “If you don’t make the most of a father–in–law like this, you’ll never have another one in your lifetime.”

Carter’s pride came from building everything himself, without relying on power or taking shortcuts.

But when faced with someone of Liam’s stature, he still had to bow in deference. However, he could

choose not to.

As word spread that Liam had arrived, Jack hurried out to meet him.

Meanwhile, George walked beside Rhea. They looked every bit the part of a perfect pair. Using his height, he protectively flanked her as they moved.

Upon seeing that, Carter couldn’t help but feel himself growing more irritated.

“Mr. Ravelle!” Jack practically shook Liam’s hand off from excitement.

“Mr. Deleon, it’s been a long time,” Liam greeted warmly.

“Dad,” Nathan called out.

Rhea echoed, “Dad.”

Liam had been on a business trip for several days, and the moment he returned, he came straight

here.

The moment he saw his children, his expression softened considerably.

“Liam,” a voice said.

That final address left everyone around momentarily stunned.

Who? Who just called Liam by his first name?

Liam’s gaze shifted downward, landing on Carter, who was sitting in his wheelchair.

Carter was addressing him by his first name.

Rhea’s eyes widened. She felt a strong sense of resistance, even bordering on disgust.

“Mr. Jamison,” she said coldly, “watch how you address people.”

Liam raised a hand slightly, signaling her not to mind Carter.

He didn’t scold Carter, nor did he refuse to acknowledge him. “Carter, what happened to your legs?”

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Carter hadn’t expected Liam to respond. He braced himself and answered, “It’s just a minor injury. It’s almost healed.”

Liam knew exactly how Carter had gotten injured and thought that the latter was truly fortunate to have avoided a permanent disability.

Those around them noticed that Liam’s attitude toward Carter wasn’t as harsh as they had expected, which left them momentarily puzzled.

They weren’t sure whether to support Carter or not.