Johann kept on going, "Look, there are loads of guys out there. If one turns out to be a dud, it's okay to let him go and move on. Just be ready to make some new friends. Trust me, there's always another chance for something better."Abigail was caught off guard and was not quite sure how to take Johann's advice.Melody, ever the life of the party, chimed in with a bright smile, "Hey Johann, while you're helping Caterpie look for a good guy, could you spot one for me as well?"Melody and Felix knew who Johann Blau was as soon as they saw his picture in the newspaper. And when they heard Abigail call him "Grandpa", everything clicked. He was the grandfather she had found again after so long.Johann gave a kind smile. "So, you're Mel, and this guy is Fee, right?"Melody was totally surprised. "Wow, Johann, you really know us?"Johann said, "I swung by North Florivera after Abigail came back to Florivera. You guys are tight, I've heard. Your folks were super welcoming and even had a
Abigail's eyes lit up with recognition. "Grandpa, is that you going by 'CaterpieBest' online?""How did you know?" Johann was startled. 'She figured it out? With the heap of comments she gets every day, how did she pick out mine so fast?'Abigail's smile widened. "Typical fans don't tip the way you do."Recently, Abigail had been receiving a flood of online tips from someone named CaterpieBest. It even reached an astounding one hundred thousand dollars in one day. Despite her requests for them to stop, the tips kept coming. At last, she had pieced it together—it was him.Johann scratched his head, a bit awkward. "Is it a problem to spoil my granddaughter a little?""Grandpa, I've got my own income," Abigail said gently. "There's no need for more."Johann gave a small nod. "Alright, I'll hold off on the cash. Maybe you follow me to Valtara instead?"Abigail smiled warmly. "I've put down roots in Florivera since my university days. This place is my second home; I don't plan on lea
Decades had gone by, but Johann remembered everything clearly. He let out a sigh and said, "I blame myself. I should've guessed sooner your grandma might've gone by a different name. I could've found her earlier. Maybe then she would still be alive."Abigail said, "Grandpa, the bad guy who hurt Grandma got caught and punished. We should let it go now. It's time for us to move forward and start fresh.""Sure thing," Johann agreed with a nod. "Last night I came across some guys who could be just your style. Interested in meeting them?"Abigail looked a bit startled. "I've only just left a tough situation; I'm not ready to dive into another one so soon.""Since when is romance a tough situation?" Johann gently argued. "It was just a mismatch last time. Trust me, these guys are really something special."Abigail grinned. "I appreciate it, but I'm not looking to date right now. I'll let you know when I'm ready for introductions, okay?"Johann was keen, but Abigail did not mind. Now th
Abigail had been spending a lot of time talking with Johann simply to make him happy; she truly had no intention of looking for someone new. "I don't have feelings for him, Grandpa," she said.Unfazed by her disinterest, Johann presented another photo. "What do you think of him? He's a McKinney, from the influential business family in Valtara, on par with the Hagrids."Abigail examined the photo, taking in the man's impressive looks. "Who is this?""That's Ronan McKinney," Johann replied, clearly excited. "Joe McKinney is in charge of their wealth at the moment, but Ronan is set to be the main heir.""Then he doesn't have to worry about family rivalry over the money," Abigail said.Johann explained, "He's not just biding time for a hefty inheritance; he hasn't hit thirty and already made his own mark. He developed the NimbusPay we all use, and that's netted him a fortune."Abigail, clearly impressed, exclaimed, "Wow, he must be quite the whiz!"Susanna, chiming in, said, "Mr. Bl
Abigail had just mailed out her latest drawing when her phone beeped with a call from Stella. "Hey, Abigail, where are you?""At home," Abigail replied."Do you have a moment? I'd like to catch up over some drinks," Stella said."Sure, I was just getting done here. I've got time.""I thought you might. I've reserved a cozy spot for us at Fan's Finery Lounge right in the heart of downtown. Come join me," Stella said."Sounds perfect."The Fan's Finery Lounge in Florivera was an upscale spot. Abigail slipped into her nicest dress and caught a cab to meet Stella. After a half-hour journey, she arrived and almost did not recognize Stella, whom she had not seen for ages. Stella looked radiant, her cheeks flushed with color."Stella, you seem to be in high spirits," Abigail said."Come sit down. Let's have some drinks, and I'll tell you about it." Stella gestured to a chair and started pouring drinks. "I've actually got some good news."Abigail, full of curiosity, said, "Go on. I'm
Stella said, "I can't see myself being unhappy now. I've made plenty, so I don't need to work anymore, and being under thirty without a husband complaining at me? There's nothing to be unhappy about."Abigail let out a gentle laugh. "I've got a similar story."Stella looked at her in disbelief. "Really?""Yep, I've parted ways with Xander," Abigail said.Stella was taken aback. "You left Mr. Zane? You're not just saying things because you've had a little too much to drink?""No, it's the genuine truth," Abigail said firmly."But why?" Stella asked. "You two seemed perfect, and he seemed to care so much for you."Abigail topped off her glass and took a quick swig. "There's no dramatic story. I just knew I couldn't keep going and didn't want to stay with him."Stella raised an eyebrow. "You might get that past others, but we're closer than that. You usually tell me everything, so out with it."Abigail gave a weak smile. "Out of nowhere, he turned cold, stayed away nights at a ti
Stella said, "I understand you're looking to leverage my influence to empower women to reject abuse. It brings me joy to be a positive force. Yet, I aspire to do more than just lend my name—I'm ready to take concrete actions to support this movement.""For sure. When I need support, you'll be the first person I call," Abigail said."Count on it.""Definitely."They gave their glasses a gentle bump and took a drink. Stella then said, "Oh, and the house Lucas left me—the one we used to share? He was worried that his girlfriend would be jealous if he kept stuff from when we were together.""You two were together for so long; he did the right thing leaving the house to you. Just keep it and don't dwell on things too much," Abigail said.With a half-smile, Stella replied, "He may have moved on, but I'm still here, right? Living there, with every corner reminding me of Lucas, just doesn't feel right anymore. I've decided to sell the house. There's nothing keeping me in Hayshiport—my li
Stella said with a wry smile, "Abigail, this isn't about what I want at this point. His true love has returned, and suddenly, he's pushing for a divorce. He left our shared home quickly, just like that." Stella inhaled sharply, struggling to keep her cool. "There's more you might not know..."Abigail nodded. "Go on."The pain from the past brought tears to Stella's eyes, but she swiftly blinked them away. "We were legally married, yet he claimed I wasn't the right one to have his kids. He insisted that only his first love could be the mother of his children. And he, well, he felt compelled to take drastic measures to ensure we wouldn't have kids — he had an operation the same day we got married."Abigail was speechless. 'Lucas must think he's royalty, deciding who's good enough to have his children. He can't seriously think every woman wants to bear his kids. Ridiculous.'After refilling their glasses, Stella raised hers in a toast. "You know, I was always the one hinting at divorc
Emma turned and dashed into the bathroom. She cranked the faucet on and splashed water on her face, aiming to soothe her nerves.Although they were engaged, they were still too young, with countless uncertainties looming over their future. The possibility of actually walking down the aisle was up in the air.Decisions made in a rush of happiness could eventually become sources of regret. And Emma knew all too well that she couldn't afford any regrets.She thought that fortunately, Ron hadn't pushed things further, which gave her time to cool off.After freshening up, Emma stepped out to find Ron on the balcony, a cigarette in hand.She couldn't resist chiding him, "I've told you to cut down on smoking. Why can't you seem to remember?"This time, Ron complied, snuffing out the cigarette. "We should get some sleep. We've got to put our best foot forward when we meet your family tomorrow.""Okay, I'll sleep on the couch. You take the bed," Emma responded.Ron simply replied, "As y
Ron looked at her dawdling pace with disdain. "If you, a lady, can handle it, why can't I, a grown man, stay?"His words sounded noble, but Ron regretted them the moment they arrived at the hotel.Despite now earning a decent income, Emma was still reluctant to spend money.This place was hardly a hotel; it was clearly a budget inn charging only a few dozen bucks a night. The hygiene was questionable at best, and safety seemed like a gamble.Ron turned on his heel, dragging her suitcase behind him. "We're leaving, now.""It's too late, and we can't get a refund for the room.""Are you trying to get us killed?"Emma fell silent, her thoughts a whirlwind of frustration. 'I told him he wouldn't be used to cheap places. He insisted on coming with me, and now he won't even let me stay here alone. Why is he so annoying?'However, considering Ron had rushed over in the middle of the night to help her, Emma decided not to hold it against him.Ron picked the best hotel in the area—the
Rebekah glanced over at Ron; she exchanged a knowing look with him before saying, "I'll have someone tidy up the rooms. Why don't you two stay here tonight and keep me company?"Ron replied simply, "Sure."Emma had purchased a midnight flight back to South Florivera, necessitating a rush to the airport, which made staying over after dinner impossible.Yet, she found herself at a loss for words, struggling to decline Rebekah's kind offer.As she hesitated, Ron stepped in to clear the air. "Mom, I've got something on tonight. After dinner, I'll drive Emma back to her dorm."Rebekah raised an eyebrow. "What's so important?" she wondered aloud, thinking, 'Wasn't he the one insisting Emma stay over? What's he up to now?'Ron kept it mysterious. "Life stuff."Rebekah could not help but chide him lightly, "You, always the joker."Right after dinner, Ron insisted on leaving to take Emma back to her dormitory. But as soon as they were out of the gated community, he asked, "So, you reall
Ron chuckled. "I didn't know you were aware that even a cornered rat will fight."Emma shot him a glare. "Are we going or not?"Ron quickly said, "Of course. When Miss Blue commands, how can I dare not obey?"Fearing another of his notorious driving escapades, Emma hastily buckled her seatbelt as she settled into the car.Thankfully, this time Ron kept it smooth, driving steadily.As they neared their destination, Ron finally spoke up, "You know, that Tucker guy is a married man. Don't let his kindness fool you into being the other woman."Emma's gaze on Ron was fiery, seething with anger. "Do you even hear yourself? Is that what you think of me? For the last time: Tucker and I share nothing more than a mentor-mentee relationship. There's nothing else between us.""I'm just looking out for you, worried you might get deceived," Ron said, witnessing Emma's fury for the first time. Yet, he could not help but find her anger not at all intimidating, but rather endearingly foolish.R
The two sisters had a pact: no cell phones at home to keep their secrets from the prying eyes of the Blue family. Thus, Emma could call only at prearranged times, the sole window for Rihanna to catch up.Rihanna's voice bubbled with excitement over the phone, as she chattered away about her life's minutiae.Knowing Rihanna was doing well eased Emma's mind.Just as Emma was about to end the call, she heard Rihanna's voice, soft and wistful. "You're really not coming home for the holidays? If you don't, I'll be all alone."Emma's heart clenched at those words, and she made up her mind in an instant. "I'll come back the day before New Year's Eve."The Blue family had their hands full with festivities that day, too busy to notice Rihanna's absence. Emma figured slipping back unnoticed then would be her best shot.After hanging up, Emma immediately booked a flight from Valtara to South Florivera. With her ticket secured and her last bit of work finished, Emma prepared to leave her off
Emma had no interest in romance, let alone the audacity to dream that Ron might fancy her.This time, she did not pick up the thread of conversation.After dinner, Ron, as usual, drove Emma back to the university.Before parting, Ron said, "Winter break is almost upon us, and the dorms might be off-limits. Are you sure you don't want to stay at my place for a couple of months?"Emma offered a smile in response. "Thanks for the offer. I've spoken with the dorm supervisor and submitted an application in advance. I'll be able to stay over the holiday period."Ron paused before saying, "Well, if you need anything, just let me know. I'll text you my number in a bit; make sure you save it."Emma nodded. "Sure."Without further ado, Ron drove off.Upon returning to her dorm, Emma saw Evelyn and Cassie, busy packing their bags, surrounded by gifts for their parents bought from Valtara.Evelyn asked Emma, "Are you really not going home for the winter break?"Emma replied, "No, I won't
Emma did not have the guts to risk failure because she did not have a safe haven to fall back on.Lucas kicked Ron in the shin. "Come on, if you fancy her, out with it. No Hagrid heir dithers like this."Ron glared at him. "Mind your own business." In his head, Emma was already his. The thought of losing her was unimaginable.Lucas said, "Without my meddling, she'd never be yours."Ron changed the subject. "I called you here for a serious discussion."Lucas replied, "No matter how serious, it can't outweigh the matter of your lifetime happiness."Ron was exasperated. "Lucas!"Lucas relented. "Alright, alright, you talk, I'm all ears."Ron spelled out Emma's music venture with Tucker. After hearing it all, Lucas could not help but see Emma in a new light."Never pegged Emma as such a dark horse," Lucas said.Silently listening to their conversation, Emma was thrilled to have her work recognized.Lucas said, "But, getting back to it, whether a song makes money, and how much, d
Ron barked, "Lucas!"With a chuckle, Lucas responded, "Alright, alright, I'll stop teasing Emma. I'm starving. Let's grab some food and talk business while we eat."Ron snapped, "Get lost!"Lucas could not help but revel in Ron's frustration. "Ron, have you fallen so quickly? Who was it that told me they would never accept an arranged marriage?"Emma was increasingly confused by their banter. "If it's inconvenient for me to be here, I can just take a cab and leave."Ron said, "Call you dumb and you won't admit it!"Emma thought to herself, 'I didn't want to be a third wheel, cramping their style. Was that really so wrong? No good deed goes unpunished, apparently.'Suddenly, Ron grabbed Emma's hand and led her inside. "It's cold out; let's go inside."Emma had to quicken her pace, practically being dragged along.Seeing them together, Lucas laughed heartily from behind. "Ron, oh Ron, never thought I'd see the day.""Don't laugh too soon. Your day is coming," Ron shot back.Th
Emma said, "Okay."Ron asked, "Have you won over your crush?"Lucas responded, "Secret."Ron replied, "Looks like you haven't won her over."Lucas said, "As long as I make a move, there's no girl I can't win over. But I haven't made a move yet because the timing isn't right."Ron asked, "Is it because of the Sandow family?"Lucas answered, "The Sandow family wants to marry their daughter to me, and my family wants me to marry her too. But I've told them long ago that I'm not willing to do that. Nobody can make me marry a girl I don't like."Emma remained silent. 'I didn't expect that Lucas would also have the same problem as me and Ron.'It seems like the wealthier the family, the more they'll arrange marriages based on social status without considering personal preferences.'Lucas seemed to sense Emma's thoughts. "Emma, my situation with the Sandow girl is different from yours and Ron's. Don't lump us together."Ron looked at Emma and suddenly said, "There isn't any other gi