I Quit Being a StepMother Novel

Chapter 83: Carolyn was taken aback by Lauren. She pondered whether this was the individual they referred to as a "tough one." Rhea dismissed formalities and addressed Lauren directly, saying bluntly, "Well, you've seen me. Time to leave." The only reason she had allowed Carter into her home was to convey that parting ways with him was not the end for her; if anything, she was going to flourish. "We've come all this way, and you're not even offering a meal? Carter, you really need to educate her on manners. This is unacceptable," Chloe remarked, clearly displeased.

Rhea responded calmly, "I haven't employed any servants, so no one is available to cook for you." Chloe spoke with self-assuredness, "Don't you know how to cook? And if not, you could ask your mother to assist. Hospitality is crucial in a dignified household. You wouldn't want people gossiping about you, would you?" Even Kate, typically gentle and quiet, couldn't contain herself. "Rhea still has her principles, so she doesn't require your lecture on manners." Carter suddenly recollected something, "Since you're expecting a child, why don't I arrange for your family to come over? I'll take care of all their needs."

"No need," Rhea interjected firmly. She didn't believe he deserved to meet her family. Lammen chimed in agreeably, "That's a wonderful suggestion, Carter. Even though there's no obligation, I'm sure her family misses her greatly. Her parents probably have never visited a place like Colburn before. Bringing them here to enjoy is a form of love, too." Chloe couldn't resist adding, "Lammen, you're always so considerate." Carolyn's eyes widened. What was so special about Colburn? What was there to enjoy?

As Carolyn contemplated, the Horvelle family didn't even consider setting foot in Colburn. Frustrated, she questioned, "Could you refrain from putting the hosts on the spot? We're merely trying to show some..." Lammen was interrupted, "Pardon me, with her family. I'm sorry, how much?" The conversation continued, with various individuals expressing their opinions, until Lauren wheeled herself over to Carter.

"Carter, don't dwell on it. There's likely a misunderstanding," she reassured him. She had always recognized Carter as a man of great pride, incapable of tolerating condescension. It was this very pride that propelled him to rebuild Jamison Group from scratch. "Is that truly the case?" Carter glared at Rhea icily. "Your family looks down on me and deems me unworthy of you?" Rhea offered a faint smile. "They're correct. You're not." He wasn't deserving of her affection or trust. Lauren slowly retreated, a faint smile playing on her lips.

She understood that Rhea had struck Carter where it hurt the most. As she anticipated, Carter nodded, his smile cutting. His eyes glinted coldly as he declared, "Very well, then. Contact your family. I wish to inquire personally what makes me unsuitable in their eyes."