Jason and Sharon warmly insisted Stacey, Lillian, and Kevin stay at their house for a few days. Stacey, overwhelmed by their enthusiasm, readily agreed.

The Carters, Patrick and Debra, were delighted at the arrangement. "Don't worry, Stacey," Patrick reassured her. "Hoggard Manor welcomes you. If looking after Lillian and Kevin becomes too much, just send them back early or call us."

Stacey was speechless, touched by their kindness, especially considering Hayden's character.

Over the next few days, Stacey settled into Hoggard Manor. Jeremy, once fiercely protective of his secret hideaways, happily showed Becky around, explaining their significance. Lillian and Kevin, captivated by his stories, clung to him, peppering him with questions.

Meanwhile, Queenie's situation was far less rosy. Despite Hayden's warning, she lingered outside Hoggard Villa until Hudson's frantic call summoned her home.

"Stop harassing the Hoggard family!" Hudson commanded.

Queenie was stunned. Hudson explained Hayden’s assistant had issued an ultimatum: cease the harassment or face the Hoggard family’s wrath. The Leavey family, though influential, couldn't compete with the Hoggards. A feud would ruin them.

The news hit Queenie hard. She still yearned to see Hayden, even planning a trip to Alagua City for Christmas, a tradition they shared. But Gavin stopped her. The Hoggard family had abandoned her; further attempts would only solidify their animosity.

The weight of Hayden's previous warnings crashed down on her. He’d spared her, shielded her reputation for Jeremy's sake, but her relentless pursuit had pushed him to the breaking point.

Tears streamed down Queenie's face. Alone in her room, she sobbed uncontrollably. Florine, entering gently, offered comfort.

"Mom, am I useless?" Queenie cried. "I can't do anything right. Am I really a loser?"

"No, darling," Florine soothed. "It's not your fault. What's happened is over. Before… it was my fault. The Hoggard family's coldness has nothing to do with you."

Queenie laughed bitterly. "I'm useless. I was wicked. They hate me."

Florine wiped her tears. "Everyone makes mistakes, Queenie. It's okay to correct them. You're young. Even if you can't remarry Hayden, we'll find you someone else. Our family's connections… it won't be difficult."

"But no one's better than Hayden," Queenie whispered. In Zentiscape, no one could match him.

Florine sighed. "Let bygones be bygones. Maybe… you two weren't meant to be."

Silence hung heavy before Queenie spoke, her voice sharp. "Mom, I hate Stacey!"

Florine hesitated, then spoke cautiously. "Queenie, despite the Carters' influence, Stacey's grandmother and Hayden's are close friends, and Hayden's deeply in love with her. Don't antagonize them." Taking Queenie's hand, she continued, "Be good. Reconcile with Grandpa. Ask him to let you work at the company. He adores you. You can inherit the family business."

"But Uncle and his family won't let me join the company if I don't remarry Hayden," Queenie worried.

A flash of ruthlessness crossed Florine's eyes, quickly masked. "Don't worry about them. Grandpa controls the company now. While he still can, get in. In a few years, he might have Alzheimer's. Then, secure your inheritance."