Chapter 113

The news was so stunning that the Twitter system crashed shortly after the tweet. Many users couldn't log in, fueling widespread anxiety. Twitter officials had to recall programmers for overtime to quickly stabilize the platform.

Many people were surprised by the news. At Carter Villa, Debra instructed a servant to purchase numerous ingredients for a celebratory home barbecue that evening. Lillian and Kevin eyed the ingredients with curious intent, prompting Stacey to keep a watchful eye on them.

Once the ingredients were ready, everyone enjoyed a happy meal together. By the time the barbecue ended, it was dark. Lillian and Kevin grew restless and wanted to go outside.

Debra suggested a nighttime stroll. "Becky," she said, "let's go for a walk. We've been here so long and have never gone out at night."

Stacey agreed. They changed clothes, applied light makeup, and went out together, the two nannies pushing the strollers with Lillian and Kevin trailing behind.

Upon entering the shopping mall, Debra embarked on a shopping spree, purchasing items for herself, Stacey, and the babies. Stacey, witnessing Debra's unrestrained happiness and the power of wealth, suddenly understood Patrick's joy in making money—it brought happiness to those he cared for.

This happiness was short-lived, however. Someone recognized Stacey, requesting an autograph and photographs. More and more people arrived, prompting Stacey to quickly leave the mall with Debra and the babies. Fortunately, their bodyguards ensured their safe departure, managing the throng of fans.

Safely in the car, Stacey felt relieved. "Becky, you're popular now," Debra said happily. Stacey nodded, "Yeah."

She had succeeded, proving her potential in the entertainment industry. Given the opportunity, she could indeed become popular. In the past, the Mitchell family had deliberately belittled her.

The car started, heading home. Unexpectedly, they encountered Theodore at the gates of Carter Villa. Stacey and Debra's faces fell. The nannies also looked worried. Was Theodore there to bother Stacey?

"Don't be afraid. Let's get out of the car," Stacey said calmly. Her divorce made her unafraid of him.

Debra, reassured, joined Stacey. Theodore approached excitedly. "Rebecca, you and Charlie are siblings, really?" he exclaimed. He continued, "I knew you weren't that kind of woman. You're such a good girl. How could you be with a bastard… Sorry, I mean, you're definitely not the kind of shameless woman."

Debra frowned. "Mr. Edwards," she retorted, "what kind of person my daughter is is none of your concern. You're divorced. Go your separate ways. Do you understand?"

Theodore was stunned, realizing Debra's identity as Charlie and Rebecca's mother, not merely a Carter family subordinate. "You… are you Rebecca's mother?" he asked cautiously.

Stacey directed the nannies to quickly bring the children inside, fearing Theodore might try to take them. Once the children were safely inside, Stacey said, "Mom, let's go in. No need to waste time talking to him."

Debra, having stalled for time, readily agreed. Theodore attempted to follow, but bodyguards intervened.

Back at the villa, Debra suggested, "Becky, maybe we should leave Maeloria and go to Hivalis, or return to Alagua City for a while. Theodore… I don't think he'll give up. If you and the children stay here, he might keep bothering you."

Stacey agreed but worried about Bryce. "Then what about Bryce?" she asked.

Debra reassured her. "Don't worry. Bryce is an adult. I'll call him often. There won't be any problems. At worst, we can come back often when we're free. As a mother, I can only do this much to help him. Too much interference might backfire."

Patrick and Bryce returned from a walk, learning of Theodore's visit. Their faces darkened, but upon hearing Debra's suggestion, they agreed. Stacey's divorce allowed her to escape Theodore.

"What do you think, Becky? Are you… willing to leave here?" Patrick asked, seeking Stacey's opinion. The decision rested with her.

"Yeah. No problem. I want to leave," Stacey said, then hesitated, "But Bryce…"

She looked at Bryce worriedly. "Bryce, you and that girl… Can you manage on your own?"

Bryce blushed. "I can handle my own affairs. You can rest assured and leave."

Debra and Patrick exchanged happy glances. Bryce's non-denial implied his feelings for the girl.