I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 285

Chapter 285

Carter’s tone turned cold as he said, “Lauren, what we have has been mutual, but I never considered a future with you. So, don’t say things in front of the kids that could lead to them misunderstanding. Rhea and I are still married.”

Lauren was in disbelief. “What… What did you just say? Are you saying that there’s no future

between us?”

Those nights together meant nothing? Was he going to give her up again? How had he become so selfish and fickle?

Anger bubbled inside her, but she held it back. She knew that she couldn’t let herself lose control.

Lately, because of Peter’s and Devan’s words, Carter had started thinking of her in a different way.

But even if he wanted to let her go, he would have to ask her first.

Lauren crouched, adopting an almost submissive tone. “Carter, there’s been so much going on lately. I just worried too much and got flustered. If I said something wrong, please don’t take it personally. I’m not as experienced as you. I need your guidance on some things.”

Her modest look made Carter feel good. He loved being admired.

But admiration aside, Carter had always been clear about his priorities. At that moment, he needed Rhea for both his family and his business.

He avoided Lauren’s gaze. “You should head back.”

Lauren bit her lip. “I’ll go home and make something for you, then. Should I make some soup for

Adrian?”

Carter’s irritation showed. “He just had surgery. He can’t eat now. Just go home and stay put, okay?”

Noticing his annoyance, Lauren clenched her teeth but kept up the appearance of calm. “Okay, I’ll look after Arielle at home. Call me if anything comes up.”

Carter didn’t even glance at her.

That evening, at the Ravelle residence, the men sat at one table, the women at another.

Dexter smiled at Liam the entire time to build rapport.

“Mr. Nathan, I think Ms. Ravelle’s had a little too much to drink,” Philip whispered to Nathan.

George, who was sitting nearby, overheard that and glanced toward the women’s table.

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Chapter 285

+25 BONUS

Rhea didn’t speak loudly. Her slightly flushed cheeks carried a smile as she listened to Liora. Her eyes held a calm kind of sorrow, and it was impossible to tell what she was thinking.

After a few rounds of drinks, Dexter excused himself. The younger crowd naturally gathered together at one table.

“What’s wrong?” Nathan sat beside Rhea.

Rhea leaned slightly on the armrest and shook her head gently.

“Are you thinking about that kid?” Nathan already knew about Adrian’s accident.

Rhea lowered her gaze. “I’d be lying if I said I’m not. Even if it were just a kitten I’d raised for six years, there’s no way I wouldn’t worry.‘

Carter still hadn’t contacted her about the divorce.

She feared that Carter’s reluctance to divorce, just to keep connections with her family, could end up delaying Adrian’s optimal treatment.

“I know many people think that I’m reckless and too emotional. But raising them is what taught me the true weight of responsibility.”

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