Ten days ago, Kayla tried on a new dress—a light blue, off-the-shoulder gown with a flowing hem that fluttered gracefully, like rippling water. Gabrielle had handpicked it, and Kayla adored it, admiring herself from every angle.

She eagerly selected jewelry, choosing expensive and unique pieces. She clung to one, while longing for another, wishing she could wear it all at once.

Behind her, Gabrielle watched with contempt, scoffing inwardly, "So petty and unsophisticated. A decade of pampering by the Fullers hasn't changed her true nature."

Stepping forward, Gabrielle offered, "Do you like them? Then take them all. Have the staff pack everything and send it to the Carrell residence."

"Thank you, Aunt Gabrielle!" Kayla exclaimed, clinging to Gabrielle's arm. "You're the best!"

"If you think so, help me with something," Gabrielle said, patting Kayla's cheek. "My girl, take some men with you and bring the Fuller couple to me."

Kayla froze, unsure if she had offended Gabrielle. "Aunt Gabrielle, I've already cut ties with the Fullers. You're my true family!"

"Precisely. As family, you should contribute. Besides, this is your cousin's request. He has a use for the Fullers."

Kayla wanted to ask more but was silenced by Gabrielle's sharp gaze.

Gabrielle sneered, "You're not hesitating because of gratitude toward them, are you?"

"Of course not! It'd be my pleasure to help you and Pete!" Kayla replied sweetly, her words bringing a smile to Gabrielle's face.

"Good girl. Take care of this, and Pete will be pleased when he returns."

"Okay."

At the mention of Pete, Kayla's cheeks flushed. She remembered their first meeting: his gentle features, refined elegance, faint smile, calm composure, and radiating warmth. His gaze made her heart race; she longed to be lost in his tender attention.

Biting her lip, Kayla softly asked, "Aunt Gabrielle, when will Pete be back?"

"Soon. Specialists are deciphering the map; the results should be ready in a day or two."

"Got it. I'll fetch the Fullers immediately so everything's ready for Pete's return!"

Excited, Kayla dashed off with several bodyguards to the Fullers' Khogend residence.

After Kayla left, Gabrielle's disdain deepened. "Raising a dog would be better! At least a dog would show gratitude. But Kayla? She doesn't even acknowledge the parents who raised her for over a decade. She's a short-sighted, selfish wretch! And she has the audacity to covet my son?"

"I don't know what Pete is thinking. The map is in his hands. Why is he keeping Kayla around? What a nuisance," she muttered.

A maid consoled her, "Don't worry, ma'am. Mr. Carrell must have his reasons. Perhaps Kayla could still be of some use."