Chapter 12

When Ella considered Allison, one thought emerged. She took a bite of her food, then said, “Last time we talked, Allison mentioned a new FDA-approved weight-loss drug at the hospital. Want to check it out with me tomorrow?”

Stephanie paused, her soda halfway to her lips. The words “weight loss” caused her to set the cup down and glance at Ella, raising an eyebrow. “Why are you interested in that?”

Ella wasn’t overweight; she had a great figure, despite her appetite. Ella sighed and shrugged. “It’s for my cousin. He’s already 200 pounds. He’s tried everything to lose weight, but nothing’s working. It’s really affecting him.”

Stephanie nodded, her expression softening. “Got it,” she said, resuming her soda. Stephanie’s motto was "carpe diem." She believed people shouldn't obsess over their appearance, particularly concerning dieting. Such obsession eliminates enjoyment; all one thinks about is what they can't eat, easily leading to self-blame and self-hatred.

After finishing their meal, the women said goodbye and parted ways.

Stephanie arrived home to a chaotic pile on the couch—things she intended to clean but hadn't. Her mood soured. She dropped her bag and slumped onto the couch beside the clutter. Reaching into a shopping bag, she pulled out a receipt, her gaze lingering on the payment details, feeling a sense of disorientation.

Her phone buzzed. It was a call from her father's secretary. She knew why a Hart family member was calling. She hung up. Seconds later, Chad’s number appeared; she ignored it.

Meanwhile, at the Hart family home, Chad noticed Stephanie wasn't answering. His jaw tightened. He turned to Catlin, irritation lacing his voice. “Didn’t I tell you to keep Olivia away from her? Why were they meeting?”

Catlin’s frustration was evident. “This time, it’s not Olivia’s fault. She… well, never mind.” She hesitated, remaining silent.

Chad checked his phone, his eyes narrowing at a trending photo—Chris and Olivia at the hospital, plastered across the internet. He muttered, “Chris is her sister’s fiancé! Why was he taking her to the hospital alone? What were they thinking? And you didn’t stop them?”

Catlin remained silent, aware of her culpability but unsure how to defend herself. Chad clenched his fists, then snapped, “I’ve arranged for experts to help her. Why is she still with Chris?” His anger intensified with each thought.

Two years prior, when the Ashfords attempted to end Olivia’s engagement due to her adoption, Chad had been furious but understood their perspective. Now, with Chris and Olivia separated and Chris involved with Stephanie, Chad believed Chris should stay away from Olivia.

Catlin quickly defended Olivia. “Olivia’s in a bad place. I wanted to cheer her up. She and Chris have been friends since middle school; they have a bond.”

Chad’s face hardened. “Bond? Catlin Ashford! Are you seriously mentioning their bond now? Is that appropriate?” His anger was palpable.

Catlin fell silent, understanding his point—Olivia and Stephanie should be separated. But things were never that simple.

Chad turned to his secretary. “Pull the car over.”

As he prepared to leave, Catlin checked the time. “Where are you going at this hour?”

Without looking at her, Chad replied, “Cloudridge Valley.”

Catlin knew instantly—he was going to see Stephanie. “I’ll go with you.”

Chad immediately refused. “No need. You’ll only argue with her.” He was consistently disappointed by their interactions.

Catlin felt a surge of frustration. “You think I want to fight with her? She’s the one who pushes my buttons! You didn’t see how rude she was today. She’s a little witch!”

Chad’s gaze sharpened. “She lacked parental love as a child. Being mean is her coping mechanism.” Unlike Catlin, Chad felt guilt regarding Stephanie.

Catlin had no response.

Just before leaving, Chad stopped. “Did you freeze her credit card again?”

Catlin didn’t deny it. “Yes, I did.”

Chad gritted his teeth. “Are you out of your mind? Do you really want to lose her as a daughter?” Freezing her card, especially with Olivia's situation, would only worsen things. Chad was furious, itching for a fight, but knew Catlin wouldn't listen.

Catlin tried to defend herself, but Chad waved her silent. “Just call the bank and unlock it. Now.” He refused further excuses.

Catlin sighed. “Fine, I’ll call them tomorrow.”