Chapter 277

Kathy had a dismissive look on her face. "I already confronted her. Told her if she tries anything again, I'll blast her online."

Considering Kathy's current influence with her studio, exposing Yvonne online would definitely be a big deal.

I stuck out my tongue playfully. "Kathy, you're awesome."

"What's the big deal? I just can't stand her."

Hearing Kathy's words, I couldn't help but laugh out loud.

Kathy's fiery personality hadn't dimmed one bit over the years.

"I know Royce has warned her too. If she causes any more trouble, let me know," I said seriously to Kathy.

Kathy waved her hand dismissively. "Forget it. You're too soft-hearted. It doesn't bother me much. After all, she has to pay a cancellation fee, so she's the one losing out. This whole thing just left a bad taste in my mouth. I'm not planning to do any more makeup gigs for now."

"Better to leave it to the professionals. I need to focus on designing for the new season."

I smiled. "Alright, I'll look forward to your new collection."

"But Caroline, honestly, you should make more of an effort with Royce. This is a perfect opportunity to strengthen your relationship. Just be a little more affectionate with him."

"Why would I need to be more affectionate? We're not even officially together yet."

We chatted and laughed, completely forgetting about the dark cloud that had been hanging over us.

Kathy had always been good to me. I spent half the day at her studio, and she even took my measurements, saying she wanted to make me a custom outfit.

"Why the sudden urge to make me clothes?" I let her take my measurements, curious about her sudden inspiration.

"You inspired me, Caroline. I realized that people can be beautiful at any age and stage of life. Despite everything you've been through, you're still gorgeous."

Kathy said this while measuring my waist with a soft tape. She added, "Next time, give me Mrs. Sharp's measurements too. I'll design a mother-daughter outfit for you both."

"That sounds great," I said with a smile. "My mom will be thrilled."

Leaving Kathy's studio, I felt much better.

We had originally met to discuss Joanna, but we ended up talking about so many other things.

Meeting with friends always helps to lift the spirits.

On my way back, I got a call from Asher.

"Hey, Asher."

I thought it might be something about the company contract, so I spoke more seriously.

"Caroline, I called to let you know that the contracts you prepared for us have been approved."

"That's fantastic." I couldn't help but feel excited.

"But this is just the beginning. You all need to perform well."

This project was crucial for Asher's company to establish itself.

If it went well, I would use all my resources to support him.

But given the previous social media scandal, if Asher's team messed up, there wouldn't be much I could do.

Asher quickly said, "Of course. But I also wanted to ask when you're free in the next few days. I'd like to take you out for a meal."

"And bring along the assistant who helped you."

I thought about it. Now that the project was confirmed, having a meal with Asher wouldn't cause any issues.

"Sure. I should be free the next few days. Just send me the time and place, and I'll bring my assistant."

"I'll book a private room. You all can eat and drink to your heart's content."

After hanging up, I felt even better.

Everything seemed to be slowly improving, except for the issue with Joanna.

Thinking about it made me frown slightly.

Just then, I remembered something and pulled out my phone to check my previous chat with Simon.

When Alfonso had threatened me using the kids, Simon and Royce had helped me gather a lot of information.

I suddenly wondered if Maeve, who seemed to have a powerful backer, might be connected to Alfonso in some way.

Or perhaps Maeve knew something about Alfonso?

It was strange. When Maeve first appeared in my life, I felt nothing but disdain for her. Even when we met, I was impatient with her.

But now, thinking about the secrets and clues she might hold, I wanted to meet and talk with her more.

Without wasting any time, I found Maeve on WhatsApp.

[Maeve, how much do you know about Alfonso?]

Maeve seemed to be away, as she didn't reply until an hour later.

[Are you investigating Joanna now?]

[I'm not investigating Joanna. Alfonso has been causing trouble for my company recently, and I just wanted to ask.]

Maeve took a while to reply again.

While waiting, I got home and went straight to the kids' room to check on them.

Brett had already been picked up by Kelly. When he saw me, he ran over immediately. "Mom! You're home early today!"

"If I knew I'd be home before you, I would've picked you up myself." I pinched Brett's cheek.

Our cat, Nala, circled around my legs, her fluffy tail brushing against my calf.

"It's okay. Grandma picked me up, and my classmates all like her."

Brett said loudly.

I laughed. "If I picked you up, would your classmates like me too?"

"Of course! They'd definitely say my mom is young and beautiful." Brett lifted his chin proudly.

I laughed and patted Brett's head. "How's the new nanny? Is her cooking good?"

The previous nanny, Holly, had to leave due to family issues.

Kelly had said she could handle three kids just fine, but then I brought home another child.

With four kids now, Kelly was understandably exhausted, so I hired a new nanny with several years of childcare experience.

Brett nodded. "Zola's cooking is delicious! Grandma also says she's very efficient. When Grandma picks me up, Zola is busy at home."

"That's good."

As long as things at home were running smoothly, I could focus on other matters.

Kelly came over a bit later, hearing us talk. She smiled and took my hand. "Don't worry about the house. With me taking care of the four kids and Zola helping, everything's fine."

"Mom... thank you. I'll try to retire early." I couldn't help but act a little spoiled with Kelly.

Kelly shook her head. "Don't rush. The company was your dad's legacy. Just keep working hard."