Chapter 282
Leaving Hivalis brought Carly peace. She focused on giving Ronald a stable life. Their small apartment, though rented, felt like home, meticulously decorated. After school, Ronald quietly practiced reading and writing, then played outside. Life was simple, peaceful.
Stacey often visited with her children, bringing laughter. Playdates with Hayden and Becky’s son, Jeremy, blossomed into a close friendship between the boys, and a strong bond between Carly and Becky. Carly discovered Becky’s journey in jewelry design mirrored her own – starting with little skill, mastering it through hard work. They both believed in perseverance.
Isabella teased Carly about favoring Becky, but her worry was playful; she was happy for Carly. Carly’s only concern was her career – she needed to stand on her own two feet, independent of the Carters. A year later, her jewelry designs were finally ready, generating income. She was determined to repay their kindness.
Carly’s talent soared. Over the next few years, her designs brought substantial profits to the Carters. Despite tempting offers, she stayed loyal. Seven years later, her design won first prize at the World Jewelry Design Competition, attracting Eklonna. She refused their offer, committed to Carter’s Jewel.
Soon, royal families worldwide wore jewelry distinctly different from Eklonna’s style—elegant, luxurious pieces from Carter’s Jewel in Zentiscape, a secret to the elite. Eklonna's dominance faltered; Carter's Jewel rose, its designs fresh and desirable. Hayden's wife at the helm added to its prestige.
Eight years after her divorce, Carly unexpectedly ran into Connor. Ronald had placed second in his city’s middle school exams; Jeremy, first. Celebrating, both families took a trip. There, they saw Connor, remarried, with a tall, stern wife and a young daughter perched on his shoulders.
"Daddy, Mommy, look! Pretty flowers!" The little girl bounced, nearly falling. Her mother snatched her away, slapping Connor. "Useless!" she snarled. Connor cowered.
Ronald, though initially unsure, recognized his father. Connor, seeing Carly, knew instantly. Carly turned away. "Let's go," she said to Ronald.
Connor, panicking, started to follow, but his wife stopped him. She saw Carly and, handing him their daughter, sped after them.