Chapter 135

Cynthia and Xavier, suitcases in tow, were already an hour gone on their belated honeymoon getaway. Gary arrived at Cynthia's boutique to find it shuttered. He then headed to their new home, only to discover it deserted. He pulled out his phone, a wave of panic washing over him – he’d never gotten Xavier’s number! The Carter banquet loomed. Desperate, Gary bought a plane ticket and flew to Rebecca’s filming studio. He had to get an invitation.

Meanwhile, Michael frantically called Theodore. "Why haven't we received an invitation?" he demanded, bewildered. Helen, however, understood. "She's gone from rags to riches and won't acknowledge us!" she thought, frustrated. She called Theodore, "Come home! Don't chase Rebecca; you'll only be humiliated. Focus on Jenny and the Smiths. They're almost as influential, and an alliance could boost us both."

Theodore hesitated. "Rebecca’s just throwing a tantrum," he muttered, but a cold dread settled in. He finally conceded, "Okay, Mom. I'll be back in a few days." He thought, I can’t keep playing this game with Rebecca. I have the company to run, and I need to deal with Michael’s shares. I'm done being manipulated.

Stacey, oblivious to the family drama, was living a whirlwind existence. After every filming session, her mother, Debra, transformed her into a different character with elaborate costumes and makeup. "What do you think?" Debra asked, beaming after another makeover.

Stacey, gazing at her reflection, replied, “It’s beautiful, Mom, but… this is the last outfit, right?” Debra's considering another transformation sent a chill down Stacey's spine. She slipped away, then spun into the living room, asking her father, Patrick, "Dad, isn't my outfit the most beautiful?"

Lillian and Kevin, her siblings, rushed in. "Mommy, you're the most beautiful!" they cried, touching her dress. Debra, delighted, scooped them up. "Really? Do you think Mommy's especially beautiful today?"

"Yes!" squealed Lillian. "Grandma, I want to be dressed up too!" Kevin echoed her.

Debra laughed. "On the day of the banquet, you two will be dressed up too!"

"We'll be the prettiest!" Lillian declared.

Stacey, overwhelmed but relieved, suggested, "Mom, my brothers and Dad will be there. Should we plan outfits for everyone?"

Charlie entered, sensing trouble. Debra nodded. "We’ll design looks to show the world our princess is back, and the Carters are thrilled!"

Patrick froze. Becky’s fitting right in. This is her revenge for me not standing up for her! he thought.