Chapter 138

Gary despaired. Getting an invitation to the Carter family banquet felt impossible. His anxiety mounted.

Michael, however, had confidently expected an invitation, even preparing a gift. Theodore’s crushing news—no invitation—sent Michael reeling. Family tensions, especially between his son and daughter-in-law, gnawed at him. “Are they going to break up? They can’t! This is the Carter family!” he thought, frustration bubbling over. “Dumb dogs are often the most dangerous,” he muttered, suspecting Rebecca of a cunning scheme. That Carter blood, he mused, even a Mitchell upbringing couldn't dilute it.

“The Carter family isn’t indispensable,” Theodore declared in his office. “With the Smiths’ backing, we can enter overseas markets.”

Intrigued, Michael asked, “Will you be with Jenny?” He considered the alliance: Not as prestigious as the Carters, but the Smiths held weight.

Theodore hesitated, then shook his head. “No, but Jenny understands. Even without marriage, we can cooperate, strengthening the Edwards-Smith bond.”

Michael clapped him on the shoulder, beaming. “Theodore, I didn’t expect you to be so much like me! Let’s take Edwards Group global!” He envisioned worldwide expansion, a thrill coursing through him. Theodore, however, simply lowered his eyes.

Undeterred, Michael continued, “With Jenny's understanding, there’s no rush to sever ties with the Carters. You and Rebecca have children. If possible, regain control. Both the Carters and Smiths? Our prospects soar!”

The next day, Stacey woke early, makeup transforming her into a child with a new toy. Two hours later, it was Lillian and Kevin’s turn. But Kevin, usually calm, burst into tears seeing his black suit against their dresses. Balloons and cuddles restored his smile.

The banquet hotel buzzed with guests. Stacey, her parents, and children greeted everyone, waiters managing the avalanche of gifts. Ernest and Jarvis, Charlie’s friends, arrived, their reunion brimming with joy and gifts. Guests from Alagua City completed the gathering by eleven.

Patrick and Debra, solemn but graceful, escorted Stacey to the stage, Lillian and Kevin trailing behind, their uncles watchful. Patrick and Debra’s heartfelt speech, accompanied by childhood photos on the large screen, brought tears to Stacey’s eyes. It was a triumph—home, with her family.

Thunderous applause followed. Patrick and Debra formally introduced Stacey Carter and her children, Lillian and Kevin. Then came the bombshell: Stacey, and her children, would inherit equally with the Carter sons.

Astonishment rippled through the room. The homecoming was joyous, but this inheritance announcement was utterly unexpected.