Chapter 529

"His name's Ryan," Maeve said, noticing Tom and Loten's questioning looks. "A famous actor."

A flicker of disappointment crossed Wren's face, so quick Maeve almost missed it. Tom saw it too, but said nothing. Soon after leaving the hotel, their black Spyker pulled away. Tom was whisked off to the airport after dinner. To Maeve's surprise, Wren and Loren stayed.

The next morning, in the presidential suite, Maeve awoke to two small faces pressed against her arm.

"Mommy, happy birthday!" they chirped in unison.

Ten seconds passed before it hit her: it was her birthday. She'd completely forgotten, buried under work.

"You're so thoughtful!" she exclaimed, showering them with kisses. Giggling, they presented their gifts.

Theo's gift – a handcrafted set of herbal skincare products – was a testament to his month-long effort. Even Maeve, usually indifferent to skincare, was charmed. Will's gift was a pink panda-headed phone accessory. Inserting it into her phone's charging port revealed two miniature versions of themselves, in tiny black and white suits. They’d tumble headfirst with a tiny cry, or, if you touched their heads, a miniature sun would appear.

"I love these gifts!" Maeve hugged them tight. "Thank you, my babies!" These were the most thoughtful presents she’d ever received.

Theo, however, posed a tricky question: "Which gift do you like best, Mommy?"

Maeve hesitated. "I love them both, just like I love you both," she said, inwardly relieved at her successful navigation of the sibling rivalry.

They’d even made gifts for Wren and Loren, including longevity noodles, personally prepared by Loren.

"Mom's been learning from a royal chef," Loren whispered, "but with her culinary skills, sis, don't get your hopes up…"

Wren’s sharp nudge silenced him. "What are you talking about?" she asked gently.

"Nothing! Your cooking is great," Loren mumbled.

Maeve was touched. This was a first. The noodles weren't Michelin-star quality, but delicious nonetheless.

Wren smiled, her voice soft as a lullaby. "We have another gift for you. Come see."

Maeve imagined a designer bag, perhaps some jewelry. She never expected a building. The invaluable Faith Commercial Building, in the city center. Signing the contract, it was hers.

"This is yours now," Wren said, gazing at her lovingly from the floor-to-ceiling windows. "Fulfill your design dreams here. No more paint splatters, broken windows, or spiteful competitors."

Tears welled in Maeve's eyes. Her initial thought? The utilities bill!

Choosing the 21st floor for Dreamscape's new studio, she instructed Piers to arrange the move.

"Ms. Reese, where did you say we're moving?" Piers asked, incredulous.

"The Faith Building."

"What building?"

"The Faith Building!" Maeve repeated, exasperated at his disbelief.

The rent alone was astronomical; it housed only Kleymond's top companies. This wasn't just a building; it was security, a firm foundation in Kleymond. No one would dare to slander her anymore.

That afternoon, Wren and Loren departed. Wren’s health required constant monitoring, and Loren’s research institute demanded his presence.

Maeve watched them board their private jet, a pang of sadness in her heart.

Wren, holding her hand, said softly, "Merchants chase profit; emotions are secondary. Few remain true to their hearts when faced with gain. But you're not anyone's vassal. We'll always have your back. If you're tired here, come home."

Then she was gone, leaving Maeve with a heavy heart, wondering about Wren's sudden change in attitude toward Byron, the businessman.