Chapter 113

She regretted not being stricter with Aubree when she was younger. Whenever Aubree got sick or injured, she rushed her to the hospital instead of teaching her a lesson. Even strict punishment would have been better than seeing her turn out like this.

“She will do anything now,” Daxton sneered. He’d long known someone like Aubree would become uncontrollable if given an inch.

He only regretted not establishing control over her after she returned and letting her leave so easily back then.

He added, “I think she’s just relying on Bryan and Emery’s support, plus Dad’s apparent intention to recognize her. That’s why she dares to go against Carmen and upset us.”

Carmen said tearfully, “Mom, do I really have to give that dress to Aubree? I don’t want to. You designed that dress for me, and I…”

Her tears melted Alice’s heart. “Don’t worry. Even if your dad favors Aubree, I don’t. Everything of mine belongs to you.”

Alice added, “Even if Aubree comes home, I decide what she wears. The most important thing is that my Carmen is the most dazzling little princess that day.”

Daxton chimed in comfortingly, “Don’t worry, Carmen. That day, you’ll definitely be the brightest star in all of Rithol City!”

“Mom, Daxton!” Carmen was deeply moved.

**

The next day was the weekend.

Aubree called ahead and arranged to meet Matilda. Recently, under the name of Bree Technology, she successfully connected with Peace Entertainment.

The company’s owner and lead actress, Sylvia Torres, was very interested after listening to Aubree’s Playzy app pitch.

Under Sylvia’s leadership, Peace Entertainment avoided many shady industry practices. As a result, a few of their artists became mega-stars. Aubree planned to use Sylvia’s platform to boost exposure for the artists, while Sylvia gained new attention through Aubree’s company. It was a win-win situation.

If this partnership went well, she’d consider working with Peace Entertainment again during the influencer-to-idol promotion phase.

Having a compatible partner was already half the battle won.

When Zachary came to pick her up, she noticed Alvin had tagged along.

She asked, “You came too?”

Is he observing me? Aubree was briefly confused. Alvin looked her up and down. “I didn’t go to school yesterday. Heard the Wilson family came by.” He wanted to ask if she was bullied, but he changed his mind. “You seem fine.”

Then he changed the subject. “Where are we headed?”

Aubree replied, “To meet Matilda, then to Ramshorn. The first version of Playzy is done. After some testing and fixes, it’ll be ready for launch. I’ve arranged for Sylvia to help promote it. She’s filming there now, so I’m going to discuss details with her.”

Alvin nodded. “I’ll go with you.”

That was fine. After all, the Turner family also held shares in the company. He might even be helpful.

On the way to pick up Matilda, Aubree suddenly remembered she hadn’t seen Bowen in a while, and casually asked, “Is your uncle still in Odionland?”

Alvin replied, “Should be. Haven’t seen him back.”

Bowen once said he’d give her a memorable birthday surprise. He’s probably forgotten all about it.

Aubree felt a little disappointed. She had looked forward to it. Now, she couldn’t help but feel let down.

Alvin asked, “You need something from my uncle?”

Aubree said, “No, just curious.”

At that moment, Bowen was rolling up his sleeves and pant legs, weeding the yard for a dress designer.

“You’ve done so much for me these past days. Don’t you have anything to say?” The elderly lady with gray hair and reading glasses reclined on a chair, looking relaxed.

Bowen smiled. “You already know why I came. I’m trying to win your favor.”

His honesty amused her. “I agreed to make the dress. You’ll have it by the date you asked for. No need to keep working around here. Your assistant is about to cry from worry. Go take care of your business.”

Bowen said, “No rush. I’ll finish this for you first before I leave.”