Chapter 342

At the thought of this, Maeve shivered. She quickly changed the subject, saying, “Then help me check this proposal for problems. If there are any, I won’t work with Warren.”

Sensing her guilt, Byron snorted and dropped the matter. He asked her to open the proposal.

The proposal was unproblematic. Furthermore, Dreamscape would benefit from the collaboration.

It seemed less a collaboration than an act of goodwill.

Byron narrowed his eyes. In business, free things were often the most expensive.

However, seeing Maeve’s joyful expression, he kept his suspicions to himself, not wanting to spoil her moment. He would prevent anything bad from happening if it meant watching her enjoy these blissful moments.

Maeve held up the proposal, happy for a moment before remembering to say, “By the way, there’s an Arts and Theatrical festival on the third of next month. Will and Leo are acting in a play. Are you free that day, or will I be going alone?”

“Okay. I don’t have much work that day,” Byron replied immediately.

Archer entered, delivering documents, and overheard the conversation. He couldn’t believe his ears.

He thought, Boss, open your eyes! You’re fully booked for the third! We already changed the schedule. Rescheduling will be a huge problem. One word, and you’re clearing your schedule!

Archer thought Byron was making his job so difficult he’d lose his hair. He gritted his teeth.

Maeve wanted to shower, so she ended the video call.

The gentle glimmer in Byron’s eyes hadn’t faded, and his voice was less cold than usual. He instructed Archer, “Help me clear tomorrow afternoon and the third of next month.” He added, “I’ll double your bonus this month.”

Archer’s resentful gaze immediately changed. He raised his head, puffing out his chest. “Thank you, Mr. McDaniel! I’ll arrange it now!”

What is hardship? With money, I could lose all my hair and not care! Archer thought.

Archer pondered, realizing that even a heartless man becomes humane when in love. Byron was always gentle unless Ms. Reese quarreled with him.

Two days later, Maeve discovered someone had slandered her online.

Faye, a well-known fashion designer with millions of followers, had insulted her. Maeve recognized Faye from their encounter at Islaton Private International Kindergarten.

Faye’s self-pitying post described how she, a famous designer, was suppressed by a newcomer who had gotten in through the back door, forcing her to give up an important design opportunity. She also claimed this newcomer, who had some overseas fame, lacked respect for industry veterans and spouted nonsense.

The post went viral, garnering over 50,000 comments, 200,000 likes, and shares. Netizens were angered by the newcomer’s perceived ambition and actions.

“[Even a famous designer like Faye was bullied. Wouldn’t it be even sadder if it was an ordinary person?]” one fan commented.

Faye’s fans demanded she name the “talentless wench.”

Faye initially calmed her fans, vaguely mentioning the job was related to Islaton Private International Kindergarten’s play.

One netizen commented, “[My child is studying at Islaton Private International Kindergarten. Only the Prairie Class has a play. Parents usually handle costumes; there isn’t a designated designer.]”

Another added, “[Faye said she was meant to take that position, but the rookie designer snatched it. That’s too much.]”

Another citizen added, “[Perhaps the principal thinks the rookie designer is more talented? Let’s wait and see.]”

One of Faye’s fans retorted, “[The person above is Faye’s hater, right? Are you saying Faye is a liar? What a joke. You’re speaking up for the thief.]”

Another fan commented, “[Some people probably think the new designer is innocent because she got in through the back door.]”

An angry fan said, “[Islaton Private International Kindergarten’s principal has poor taste! He lost a valuable designer and chose a talentless wench. I want to see what costumes this lousy designer comes up with!]”

Public opinion wasn’t one-sided; reasonable netizens existed. However, Faye’s fans dominated the comments, drowning out dissenting voices.

Maeve didn’t want to respond. If she defended herself, she’d be at a disadvantage.

She put down her phone, refusing to look at the comments, and continued making costumes. She’d rather improve her skills.

There were twenty-one costumes. Maeve only designed two unique costumes for her sons, using templates for the others, saving time.

After work, Maeve visited Jaylen. He rarely coughed up blood now, likely due to his medication, but remained sickly and low in spirits.

They hadn’t heard from Rudolf. Theo said a reply was unlikely. Jaylen’s condition was destined to deteriorate rapidly in the next six months.

Maeve urged him to walk. She sighed, thinking of his condition.

“I’d like to see Theo’s performance too,” Jaylen coughed, smiling. “I’m afraid he’ll nag at me. I didn’t even dare to see him after returning home.” Theo acted like Jaylen’s elder brother.

Maeve considered Byron’s presence at the play and the possibility of him meeting Jaylen.

Still, she said, “The principal gave me many invitations. I’ll bring some to you tomorrow. Theo will be very happy if you watch his performance.”

“What about your other child?” Jaylen asked softly. “Do you get along well with him?”

Maeve had told Jaylen Will was alive but hadn’t brought him over yet.

“He’s doing well. He’s very adorable,” Maeve’s gaze softened. “He’ll also participate in the play. You’ll see him then.”

She hoped Jaylen would meet Will. Without Jaylen’s care, she wouldn't have safely delivered both sons.

Jaylen nodded. “I’ll be looking forward to it.”

The day of the Islaton Private International Kindergarten Arts and Theatrical festival arrived. Maeve couldn’t contact Byron and assumed he wouldn’t attend.

Waking up, she saw him in the room, changing clothes. His back was to her, his broad, smooth back exposed.