I Quit Being a Stepmother (Cypress Gem) novel Chapter 86

Chapter 86

“It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Valencia, Ms. Pearson. You’re both just as pretty as our mom,” Arielle said sweetly.

Adrian followed her lead and politely greeted them.

Kate smiled softly. “Nice to meet you, too.”

Carolyn lit up the moment she saw them. “Oh my God! What a pair of adorable kids! Let me hug you!”

Arielle took an instant liking to Carolyn and happily let her hold her. Kate, worried that Adrian might feel left out, reached out to hug him, too.

But Adrian shook his head politely. “I’m a bit heavy, Ms. Pearson. You don’t have to.”

That little gentlemanly act almost melted her heart. Smiling, Kate said, “We bought you new toys. Let’s go play.”

“Thank you, Ms. Pearson!”

Carter didn’t look happy as he watched the group ahead, laughing and chatting. Lauren, walking slowly, held onto his hand as they made their way forward at a leisurely pace.

From afar, anyone might have thought that they were just another couple on a relaxed trip.

“Rhea’s friends all seem to drive luxury cars,” Lauren remarked. “I’m really worried that she’s been influenced by them. Nothing stirs up trouble like a friend whispering in your ear.”

At that, Carter’s gaze turned a little colder as it swept toward Carolyn and Kate.

On the grassy field, the ladies spread out a picnic blanket. Carolyn had the kids giggling nonstop with her silly jokes.

Lauren purposely chose a spot nearby.

“Carter, I’m craving oranges. Can you peel one for me?” she asked sweetly.

Carter didn’t glance toward Rhea’s side. He peeled an orange and handed it over to Lauren. “Drink some water,

too.”

Lauren gave him a soft smile. “Thanks.”

Their little display, as if they were the only two people in the world, made Carolyn grind her teeth.

“Dad! Mom! Come fly kites with us!” Arielle called out.

Upon hearing that, Lauren started to get up. “Alright. I’m coming.”

But when she looked up, she saw Arielle pulling Rhea to her feet. Adrian ran over and tugged Carter away, too.

Lauren was left sitting awkwardly alone on the picnic blanket.

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Chapter 86

Carolyn couldn’t help herself. She let out a very deliberate chuckle.

Lauren clenched her jaw and watched the happy family of four running with their kites.

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Carolyn raised her voice on purpose and said, “I’m really happy for Rhea. Soon their family of four will become a family of five!”

Kate knew that she was saying it on purpose for Lauren to hear, so she simply smiled.

Lauren glanced over at them.

Carolyn was dressed in custom–made clothing. Lauren could tell because the jacket she left on the picnic blanket had no visible brand tags inside.

Kate sat cross–legged. The jewelry she wore was clearly of the kind that wasn’t even for sale. Neither woman seemed to lack money.

But in Lauren’s eyes, that wasn’t a symbol of status. She was convinced that these two women must have been mistresses to some wealthy men. How else could they afford such extravagance?

There was no way women in their 20s could afford to drive luxury cars and wear jewelry that expensive.

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