I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 8

Chapter 8

George’s and Nathan’s cars pulled away quickly.

Carter and Lauren got into their own vehicle.

“Mr. Jamison.” Benson caught up to them.

Carter assumed that he was there to share news of a company interested in partnering with him, so he smiled and asked, “Yes, Mr. Lindsey?”

Benson looked annoyed as he said, “Apologies, Mr. Jamison. It seems that the companies from Draventh weren’t very impressed with Jamison Group.”

Carter froze. “Not impressed? We’re the largest medical equipment supplier across the southern tri–state area.”

If it weren’t for Snider Group monopolizing exports years ago, he wouldn’t have seen them as competition at all. Benson glanced at Lauren in the car, his irritation growing. He had hoped that helping Carter connect with Draventh investors would also benefit him.

However, George and Nathan didn’t even give Jamison Group a chance. What hope was there for the others?

It was all ruined!

At this thought, Benson’s tone turned sharp. “Mr. Ravelle said that you brought another woman to a business event and introduced her as your wife, which he regarded as a major red flag when it comes to your integrity.

“And frankly, the way she clung to you the whole night wasn’t exactly appropriate. Business is about integrity. And integrity is about appearances.”

Lacking integrity and professionalism could indirectly damage the company’s image.

Benson had added those last remarks himself.

When Lauren heard that, her eyes were filled with panic. She couldn’t believe that this was happening because of

her.

Then, Benson stormed off.

In the car, Carter’s expression turned cold.

Lauren whispered, “Carter, did I… cause you trouble? I just haven’t been to something like that in so long. I got nervous and…”

However, Carter didn’t answer her. He had been looking forward to outside companies coming to Colburn, seeing it as an opportunity to expand his business.

After a long silence, he finally said, “It’s not your fault. That was probably just an excuse.”

No company would pass on a deal for something as trivial as a woman. He figured that there must have been other reasons why Jamison Group was turned down.

“Carter, I’ve been thinking. Maybe it’s time for me to leave. The kids are doing well. So, I can leave with peace of mind.” Lauren’s voice was laced with quiet restraint, as if she were afraid of troubling him.

Chapter 8

+25 BONUS

She moved to open the door, but Carter grabbed her wrist. He said, “It’s late. Where would you even go?”

Lauren looked heartbroken. Her voice was barely audible as she replied, “So much time has passed. You have a family now. I should keep my distance. I just regret it sometimes. If I’d known it would turn out like this, I never would’ve left you and the kids, even if it meant dying from the illness.

“I almost didn’t survive childbirth. No one wants a peaceful life more than I do. I’ve already been through enough misfortune. I don’t want that for you. You deserve a happy life.”

Her words hit Carter right in the chest.

Lauren had told him that she was diagnosed with stomach cancer after giving birth. She had left to spare him the burden of taking care of her. Fortunately, it had been caught early and treated. Only then had she allowed herself

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