Chapter 1

The day Veronica Dolton returned to Shalton from Jouver happened to be her third wedding anniversary with Heath Tate.

She had caught a bad flu before the trip, and the cough hadn't let up.

Still, it had already been three months since she last saw Heath and their two children, Miriam Tate and Samuel Tate. Veronica insisted on going back anyway.

The Tates were native to Shalton. After Shalton's economic shift, the family's business expanded into Jouver. They moved there, but the Tate residence remained rooted in Shalton.

When Veronica arrived at the Tate residence, a news alert popped up on her phone. "Mr. Tate Throws Lavish Bonfire Party for Award-Winning Actress Eleanor Turner."

Veronica's expression dulled.

One of the housekeepers, Elsie Joseph—who was originally from Seabrook—noticed the headline and quickly tried to ease her worries. "Mrs. Tate, you know how the Shalton tabloids are. They love exaggerating. Don't take it to heart. Mr. Tate's just tied up with business tonight."

Veronica didn't respond.

She had messaged Heath before making the trip. It still sat quietly in her inbox, unread and unanswered. Heath hadn't even bothered to open it, let alone reply.

She wasn't the type to dwell on things, but the thought lingered. A man like Heath, perched at the very top of Shalton's economic hierarchy, couldn't possibly be so consumed by work that he had no time to answer her message.

She shook the thought away.

Veronica took off her coat and headed toward the playroom to see Miriam and Samuel. It had only been three months, yet both of them had grown so much.

She smiled softly as she crouched beside the twins, who were playing make-believe with a small sandbox house. Inside each little sand castle, they had placed toy figurines—clearly meant to represent the home's parents.

Veronica teased gently, "Miri, who are these two figures?"

Miriam didn't even look up as she continued patting sand into place. "Dad and Ms. Turner."

"That's not right," Samuel chimed in, shaking his head. "Ms. Turner lives in my house. Yours has Mom."

"But I want Ms. Turner to be my mom," Miriam pouted.

Veronica froze for a moment.

She reached out to gently ruffle Miriam's hair. "Am I not good enough?"

"You are. But Ms. Turner looks better with Dad," Samuel chimed in, completely sincere.

Miriam nodded in agreement.

Miriam, who had always been particular about her appearance, pulled away from Veronica's hand. "Also, you're sick, Mom. Stay away from me. Don't touch my hair. Ms. Turner did this braid for me. If it gets messy, she'll be upset."

Veronica touched the edge of her mask, her fingers trembling just slightly. She looked at her twins, excitedly chatting about designing clothes for Eleanor. In the corner of the sandbox, a small figurine meant to represent her lay forgotten and untouched.

A bitter taste crept into her mouth, and her chest tightened.

The "Ms. Turner" her daughter spoke of was none other than Heath's first love.

The Shalton tabloids painted them as a perfect match—picture-perfect, even.

Throughout the years that Veronica had been in a secret marriage with Heath, Eleanor was the woman the world believed to be "Mrs. Tate".

What Veronica hadn't expected was that after just a few months apart, even her own children—the ones who shared her blood—would grow closer to Eleanor than to her.

She lowered her gaze and watched in silence for a long time. It wasn't until the maid gently reminded her that she finally stood up and went upstairs to shower and rest.

Just as she reached the top floor, Heath's secretary, Walter Caldwell, arrived. The moment he saw her, his expression flickered with surprise.

"Mrs. Tate, Mr. Tate won't be back tonight. He asked me to pick up a gift he had prepared for Ms. Turner."

Veronica gave a simple nod. "Alright."

Walter left, and the pain in Veronica's chest deepened.

Her husband remembered to prepare a gift for another woman, yet completely forgot their third wedding anniversary.

She tapped Heath's name and started a video call.

He picked up quickly. "What is it?"

The screen lit up with a glimpse of his private lounge. It was sleek, luxurious, and bathed in golden light, radiating the opulence typical of Shalton's elite.

Heath was wearing a six-figure, custom-tailored suit, and he had a crystal wineglass in his hand. He leaned casually against the leather couch.

There was none of the sharp calculation typical of Shalton's businessmen in his demeanor. His features were refined and distant, noble in a way that felt almost inhuman.

He was the man everyone admired but could never reach.

And he was the man Veronica had loved for six years.

Veronica steadied her voice. "We haven't seen each other in a while. I thought maybe tonight—"

"Mr. Tate…"

Before she could finish, a soft, syrupy voice cut in from his side.

It was Eleanor.

The call ended abruptly.

Just before it disconnected, Heath left her with only three words. "We'll talk later."

Veronica gripped her phone tightly.

She stood by the window, staring at the glowing skyline of Shalton.

The streets pulsed with traffic, alive with motion and sound. Towering glass buildings glowed beneath the night sky, their lights painting the city in vibrant color—dazzling, endless, almost dreamlike.

Heath controlled billions in assets and could bend the tides of the city with a single move.

Yet, the one person he had no patience for was Veronica. Six years had passed, and Heath remained as distant and indifferent as ever.

Even the rare moments of gentleness in his gaze carried a quiet detachment beneath the surface.

For years, Veronica had tried everything to win him back. But standing there in that moment, for the first time, something inside her shifted.

She was tired.

Veronica didn't call him back. She drifted into a heavy, dreamless sleep.

…

The next morning, Heath finally sent a message. "Sorry. Happy third anniversary."

A moment later came another line. "This is compensation."

Moments later, a bank notification popped up—an eight-figure transfer.

She scrolled through the messages, her fingers barely steady.

Right then, an Instagram post from Eleanor appeared on her screen.

"A one-of-a-kind diamond ring, custom-designed in Phoburn over eight months. Thank you, Heath."

In the photo, Eleanor smiled sweetly. A sparkling diamond ring glinted on her fair hand.

She stood beneath an iconic tower in a rose-red gown, the silk drifting around her like a dream woven from wealth and desire. The thought and care behind it were impossible to ignore.

Veronica suddenly remembered a moment from before she married Heath.

Back in the Tate residence, he had walked past the corridor quietly and somberly, his expression unreadable. But his eyes, cold and steady, had seen straight through her.

He had said, "I'll marry you. But that's all."

Back then, she thought it was dramatic—this idea that wanting love instead of money was childish and sentimental.

But now, for the first time, it felt painfully real.

She had spent six years clinging to a fantasy. All she ever wanted was Heath's love, but he had never once given it to her.

Veronica swallowed down the storm building in her chest and quietly made her way downstairs.

In the garden below, she heard Miriam's voice—light and innocent, yet with a tinge of complaint. "Why did Mom have to come back? Ms. Turner said she'd take us to see the dancing bears at the music hall today. If Mom just never came back, that would've been better…"

Samuel added, his tone downcast, "Yeah. Dad definitely likes Mr. Turner more. Mr. Woodward said Dad only married Mom because he couldn't marry Ms. Turner. Mom is pretty, but I still like Ms. Turner more."

The words sliced clean through Veronica, leaving a dull, rising ache behind.

Heath had married her not out of love, but because he couldn't marry Eleanor.

She stood frozen, disbelief washing over her, and numbness quickly gave way to a hollow kind of confusion.

Her gaze shifted slowly to the two children in the garden.

She had nearly died giving birth to them—there was emergency surgery, massive blood loss, and weeks of recovery. They were born frail, and she had cared for them without rest, day and night. The exhaustion left her with a chronic illness.

Heath later returned to the city with the children when things went wrong in Shalton and when his grandfather, Reynard Tate, fell ill.

Since then, Veronica had been traveling back and forth between Jouver and Shalton. Yet each time she came home, the gap between her and the children had grown wider.

Veronica wasn't sure when she had returned to the bedroom.

The twins had a private lesson that afternoon, and Elsie had already taken them out.

Even with everything weighing on her, Veronica still found time to reach out to Heath again.

She was his wife, after all. Whether it was about the children or Eleanor, she had every reason to ask for answers.

But all she got in return was a short dismissal. "Something urgent came up. Let's talk tomorrow night."

A quiet bitterness rose in her throat, impossible to ignore.

She left the house and, almost without realizing it, found herself driving toward the chapel where she had first met Heath.

The chapel was small, tucked in one of Shalton's oldest districts.

Just as she stepped past the arched stone gate, a soft, familiar voice reached her ears. Miriam asked, "Ms. Turner, is it really true? Your prayers always work?"

"Of course they do."

Veronica lifted her gaze.

Not far from where she stood, Eleanor and Heath were each holding one of the children's hands.

They looked like a perfect family of four, kneeling together in quiet reverence beneath the chapel spire.

Chapter 2

Soon, Veronica heard Miriam and Samuel's cheerful voices. "Then I hope Ms. Turner and Dad stay healthy and happy forever!"

Eleanor laughed softly and teased, "Not making a wish for your mom?"

"Mom's mean. She's always picking on you, Ms. Turner. The gods won't bless her."

A sharp pain tore through Veronica's chest, as if the weight of everything had finally sunk in.

For a long moment, she simply stood there, watching her husband and children. Their hands were clasped in prayer as they offered their wishes for another woman.

The man she had loved for six years, and the children she had nearly died bringing into the world.

Without hesitation, Veronica turned and walked away.

She had held on for six long years, waiting for him to finally turn back to face her.

In that quiet chapel light, she finally understood—his devotion had always belonged to someone else. Her persistence had been nothing but humiliation in disguise.

Back at the Tate residence, Veronica calmly packed all her belongings.

Then, she sent Heath one final message. "Heath, let's get a divorce."

She placed her wedding ring on the nightstand. Without hesitation, she called a cab and left straight for the airport.

…

After leaving the chapel, Heath returned to the Tate residence with the children.

Outside, the streets teemed with people. Heath's phone buzzed just as he reached for it, but then a voice cut through the crowd, "Thief! Somebody stop him!"

The commotion rippled through the crowd. A bodyguard moved to shield Heath, but in the chaos, Eleanor stumbled and fell straight into his arms.

His phone slipped from his hand and hit the ground hard.

With the crush of people, it was trampled underfoot and shattered beyond repair.

Eleanor said softly, "Heath, I'm so sorry. Your phone…"

Heath's brows furrowed for a second. His voice remained indifferent as he said, "It's fine. I'll replace it."

That phone was mostly for family messages, but his family rarely texted. The only person who regularly messaged him… was Veronica.

But nothing from her was ever truly important.

…

On the way home, Miriam and Samuel were brimming with excitement.

Miriam clung to Heath's sleeve. "Dad, is Ms. Turner really coming to live with us? She promised she'd take me to Candyland next week!"

Even Samuel looked hopeful.

Heath nodded. "You can go."

But Samuel hesitated. "But Dad… Mom said the air in Candyland isn't good for us and that it might make us sicker. What if she says no? And… won't she be upset if Ms. Turner stays at our house?"

Heath replied in a calm, steady voice, "Ms. Turner knows medicine. She once saved my life. With her around, everything will be fine.

"Your mom won't stay long anyway. And Ms. Turner is only staying for a short while. She's just here to help take care of your health."

With Miriam and Sameul's frail conditions, having Eleanor help would be for the best.

"Yay!"

The two of them cheered as they ran into the house.

When they got back to the house, the children discovered something even more exciting—their mother had gone back to Jouver.

Upstairs, Heath spotted something unexpected on the nightstand. It was Veronica's wedding ring.

He paused.

No matter how bad the fights had been, she had never taken it off before, not even once since the day they married. But this time, she had left without a word and taken off the ring.

He wondered if this was her way of sulking, thinking he had grown too cold toward her lately.

She used to be gentle, soft-spoken, and acted like a conservative wife, just like most in Jouver.

No matter how coldly he treated her, she never raised her voice.

But even the most patient person had their limits.

Heath didn't think much of it.

He tossed the ring aside and said casually, "Veronica won't be back for a while. Pack up her things and clear out the room. Ms. Turner will be staying here in a few days."

Miriam and Samuel's eyes lit up.

With Veronica gone, Eleanor could finally move in. Veronica wouldn't be around to nag them or hound the doctors about their physical therapy again.

She always made such a big deal out of everything.

She insisted they stick to a strict monthly exercise schedule, and every time she came back, she would check in on their progress like a hawk.

"It's a shame. Mom said she'd help me finish building the spaceship model. It's super hard," Samuel mumbled, a little deflated.

The puzzle had thousands of tiny pieces. Once completed, it would look like a stunning replica of a spaceship. He had planned to give it to Eleanor as a birthday gift.

However, it was a strain on the eyes and required a considerable amount of time, so Samuel was hoping Veronica would do it for him.

Miriam looked a little upset, too. "She didn't finish sewing my doll's clothes either."

Every time Veronica visited, she would bring handmade dresses for the dolls. Eleanor always complimented the outfits.

This time, Veronica had left too fast and didn't get a chance to finish the doll clothes.

Eleanor wouldn't praise Miriam if she didn't get to see the new dresses.

Veronica wasn't as elegant or stylish as Eleanor, but when it came to these little things… she was actually good at them.

…

Meanwhile, hundreds of miles away in Jouver, Veronica had returned to Hillside Villa, which she once shared with Heath.

After he moved back to Shalton with the kids, Veronica stayed in Jouver. On paper, it was to handle business for Tate Group. But in truth, it was mostly to care for Heath's parents.

Reynard had always lived in Shalton. But ten years ago, the rest of the Tate family had relocated to Jouver.

The elite families of Shalton held fast to tradition, with exacting standards for everything—from what to wear, to what to eat, to how one should live.

Heath's mother, Regina Barber, struggled to get along with her husband, and she had grown accustomed to a pampered life. She didn't want to go back to Shalton—but she still expected everything in Jouver to meet her expectations.

The Tates didn't like women who were too ambitious or present. Veronica, trying to be the perfect wife, had stayed behind to be the dutiful daughter-in-law.

Her role at the company was mostly symbolic.

But now that she had decided to divorce Heath, none of it mattered anymore. The Tate family's affairs were no longer her burden.

Veronica packed up every last one of her belongings from Hillside Villa.

Then she stood at the doorway with the keys in hand, ready to turn them over to Heath's housekeeper, Derick Hoffman.

As Veronica came down the stairs, suitcase in hand, she ran into Derick. "Mrs. Tate, you're back. Mrs. Tate Senior mentioned she's craving that trout stew you made last time…"

But he froze when he noticed the suitcase in her hand.

Veronica handed him a set of keys.

"I won't be living here anymore," she said with a faint smile. "As for the stew, you can ask one of the chefs to make it."

She didn't wait for Derick's stunned reaction. Without another word, she turned and walked out.

Regina never got her trout stew that night.

Later that night, Heath started a video call with Regina.

She didn't hold back her complaints. "You never should've married a woman from Jouver. She doesn't even know how to cook a simple trout stew."

Heath looked mildly surprised. No matter what happened between them, Veronica had always treated his parents with grace and patience.

This time, it seemed she had finally lost her patience.

He said calmly, "It's just a dish. If she won't cook it, then let the chef handle it."

Regina's expression faltered.

She had tried several chefs, but none could replicate the taste the way Veronica did. Still, she wouldn't admit that to her son. She muttered something vague and let it drop.

Nearby, Derick hesitated, holding a tray, unsure whether to tell Heath that Veronica had moved out.

"Mr. Tate, Mrs. Tate, she…" He paused.

Before he could finish the sentence, Heath cut him off coldly. "There's no need to report her matters to me. Just take care of it."

Derick fell silent, the rest of the sentence dying in his throat.

Chapter 3

The next second, Heath ended the call.

As he stood before the towering windows of his Shalton penthouse, his striking features tightened with faint displeasure.

He glanced down at his newly replaced phone but didn't dial the number listed at the top of his contacts.

The old phone, along with the SIM card, had been shattered at the chapel that day.

He had initially planned to inform Veronica. After all, she was still his wife.

But over the past few years, he had given her more than enough lenience. Perhaps she had started to grow a sense of entitlement from it.

Maybe it was time she learned what it meant to be ignored.

…

Veronica remained unaware of Heath's thoughts.

After a peaceful night's sleep, she returned to Tate Group and handed in her resignation.

The process went smoothly.

When Heath gave her the position, it had only ever been a nominal role. No one in the company even knew she was his wife.

As long as the handover was completed, she could leave without a ripple.

When the news got out, one of her colleagues remarked, "You're quitting for your kids, aren't you? They're only four or five—at that age, they're super clingy. You always kept their photos on your desk. Even your necklace had little charms shaped like their faces."

Veronica paused.

She had loved Heath deeply, and because of that love, she cherished Miriam and Samuel just as much. Even from miles away, she had always cared about Miriam and Samuel. But now…

She shook her head and smiled faintly. "It's not because of them."

Veronica meant what she said.

Tate Group was massive and had an international reach, but it dealt in construction materials and real estate, fields she was never passionate about.

She hadn't taken the job out of passion—it was duty, plain and simple. As Heath's wife, she had felt obligated to stay behind and look after his parents.

Now that she was walking away from the marriage, it was time to find work that truly suited her.

She lowered her gaze and caught a brief flash on her phone. It was a banner ad for the "Cultural Aesthetic Expo—An Ode to Scent and Artisan Craft" exhibition.

The event featured fragrance blending, tea brewing, and a showcase of neo-Cinderone style design.

Something about it sparked her curiosity.

Not long after, she sent a message to her cousin, Calvin Dolton. "Can you help me get a ticket for this event?"

Calvin replied within seconds. "Of course. But aren't you always busy? Between looking after Heath's parents and the twins, do you even have the time?"

Veronica hesitated briefly, then typed calmly. "I do. I'm divorced."

There was a pause before Calvin replied, "Wait, seriously? You really divorced him? The Tates?"

He sucked in a sharp breath.

They were the kind of family who could afford to build an entire private playground in the heart of Shalton—just for Miriam and Samuel, with no one else allowed in.

Back then, Veronica had been an orphan, as her parents passed when she was still in college.

The Tates only agreed to the marriage because her grandfather had once done the family a favor they couldn't forget. Otherwise, they never would have let Heath marry a professor's daughter.

Even if her grandfather, Malcolm Dolton, was a renowned scholar in Mycenarian Studies and one of the most respected names in the field, it wouldn't have made a difference.

"It didn't sit right with me anymore, so I walked away," Veronica replied with a smile.

Calvin couldn't tell whether he felt regret or approval at the situation. All he could manage was a sigh. "But… can you really walk away from Miriam and Samuel?"

Veronica glanced at her phone.

After the children moved back to Shalton, she had gotten them both phones just in case they missed her and needed to talk. But over the past year, they never reached out unless she called them first.

They had a powerful family background and a new woman they already saw as their mother, so there was no reason for her to hold on just because they shared blood.

…

Back in Shalton, at the Tate residence, the nutritionist Amber Greene offered a kind reminder. "Samuel, Miriam, did you forget what your mom told you? No picky eating, remember? Your bodies need proper nutrition and a balanced intake of fat to grow strong. You shouldn't have too many sweets."

Samuel hesitated at the mention of their mother.

However, Miriam didn't care at all. "She's past her call time already. She won't even know.

"Besides, Ms. Turner said we're just kids, and kids are supposed to be happy! And right now, nothing makes me happier than eating all these cupcakes."

Just as she finished, Eleanor's light laugh echoed from upstairs.

Eleanor came over to the children, gently tapping Miriam's forehead with a smile. "You little rascal. Fine. If cupcakes make you two happy, then have as many as you want."

"Yay! Ms. Turner, you're the best! I wish you could live with us forever."

Their innocent cheers brought a soft smile to Eleanor's lips.

Amber frowned slightly. She was just about to speak, but when her eyes landed on Eleanor, she quietly held her tongue.

She had assumed initially that Veronica was the lady of the house, but Eleanor moved through the house like she owned it, and the kids clearly adored her.

If she spoke up now, she risked offending the wrong person. And if Heath found out, it might not end well for her.

However, Samuel felt uneasy.

The last time he ignored his mother's advice, he ended up sick in bed for days.

He liked Eleanor. She was kind to him, and he really did love having her around. But Veronica had warned him—if he ate like that again, he would get really sick, and both she and Heath would worry.

He didn't want to make them worry, not just for a few sweets.

Samuel felt uneasy, so he was careful with what he ate.

On the other hand, Miriam devoured her desserts. That night, she ended up with a terrible stomachache after eating far too many frosted cupcakes.

She curled up on her bed, trembling from the pain, while her face twisted in discomfort. The paleness of her cheeks made her look even more fragile as the cramps took over.

Heath rushed home the moment he heard Miriam wasn't feeling well.

Miriam tugged pitifully at the hem of his coat, her voice choked with guilt. "Dad, is it because I was bad that Mom made my tummy hurt? She said if I ate too many cupcakes again, I'd get cured by a witch.

"I didn't mean to! I want Mom to come back and break the spell…"

What upset Miriam even more was that, whenever she felt unwell, Veronica would always make her warm and soothing soup.

Tears and snot streamed down her face as she cried.

Eleanor stood nearby, biting her lip. In a remorseful tone, she said, "It's my fault, Heath. I should've kept a closer eye on her. I didn't realize she'd eaten so many cupcakes."

Miriam pouted, worried Heath would blame Eleanor. She quickly jumped in to defend her. "Dad, it's not Ms. Turner's fault. Mom forgot to call me and remind me! Mom doesn't care about me anymore…"

Samuel blinked slowly, confused.

He remembered how sick he had gotten the last time he hadn't listened to Veronica. After that, he made sure to follow her advice.

Even if Veronica couldn't compete with Eleanor in every way, she always cared deeply about everything that concerned them.

Still, after thinking of how kind Eleanor had been to him lately, he couldn't help but speak up too. "Dad, Mom used to remind us about this stuff. Miriam's still little, so she forgets things. That's not her fault."

"I understand," Heath said, his voice turning stern. "From now on, both of you need to listen to Ms. Greene. No more overeating."

He didn't blame Eleanor at all.

If anything, his frustration was directed at Veronica. She used to be the one who reminded Miriam about what to eat.

If Veronica hadn't ignored them this time, Miriam wouldn't have gotten sick.

Just because she was upset with him, she had started ignoring the kids and hadn't even bothered to check in.

That was unacceptable.

Chapter 4

Veronica had no idea Miriam had fallen ill.

Still, on Sunday, she found herself thinking of Miriam and Samuel and decided to video call them. No matter what, she was still their mother. Even if there was no deep emotional bond left, she still had a responsibility toward them.

When the call came through, Miriam and Samuel were helping Eleanor try on evening gowns.

In just a few days, Reynard would be discharged from the hospital. After that, Heath was expected to return to Jouver to continue expanding Tate Group's business.

The idea of leaving Shalton left the kids visibly downcast.

They weren't eager to see their mother, and they especially didn't want to be separated from Eleanor.

Upon noticing their low spirits, Eleanor ruffled their hair with a playful smile.

"Let me guess why Mr. Tate and Ms. Tate look so gloomy…"

She paused and said with mock seriousness, "Is it because you're heading back to Jouver? I thought you'd be excited to see your mom again."

Miriam's eyes welled up with tears. She pouted and muttered, "What's so great about seeing Mom? I don't want to leave you, Ms. Turner."

Samuel nodded in agreement.

He did miss Veronica a little, but the thought of being away from Eleanor was worse.

Eleanor chuckled and leaned in. "Well then, how about I tell you a little secret…"

She waited a beat, then smiled. "I've got some work to take care of in Jouver, so I'll be staying there for a while. This time, I'm coming with you."

"Really?" Miriam lit up with excitement.

If Eleanor came with them, she could see her every day.

Just then, Veronica's video call came through again.

The ringtone echoed through the room. Miriam stared at the screen, let it ring out, then tapped to decline.

Veronica called several times in a row.

Eventually, Miriam grew impatient and blocked her number.

Eleanor didn't scold her. Instead, she tapped her lightly on the forehead with a smile. "Miriam, why didn't you answer your mom's call?"

Miriam pouted. "Because she didn't call me when I was sick. It was her fault I got a stomachache. She's mean. I don't want to talk to her."

After all, they would be back in Jouver in a couple of days. There would be plenty of time to see her then.

But if Veronica knew Eleanor would be moving in, she would probably get upset. Miriam didn't want anything or anyone interfering with her time with Eleanor.

Eleanor pinched her cheek lightly and smiled. "As long as you're happy, that's all that matters."

Samuel had his doubts. He didn't think it was right to ignore their mother like this.

But when he looked at Eleanor's expression, he held his tongue.

Heath always said Eleanor was different—smart, kind, and unlike any other woman.

Since Eleanor hadn't said Miriam had done anything wrong, Samuel figured it couldn't have been that serious. Besides, they would be going back to Jouver soon, and they would see Veronica then.

…

Meanwhile, back in Jouver, Veronica stared at the message she had just sent. A single gray checkmark sat beneath it.

She was momentarily stunned.

She had given this phone to the twins specifically so she could reach them. Neither child ever let anyone else touch it.

She knew the bond had faded since they left for Shalton, but she had never imagined they would block her.

Still uneasy, Veronica called Elsie at the Tate residence.

Elsie replied, "Mrs. Tate, the twins are doing just fine. Ms. Turner's been looking after them well. They're with her right now, helping her try on dresses."

Hearing Eleanor's name sent a dull ache through Veronica’s chest.

Those were the children she had nearly died giving birth to, yet now they clung to another woman instead.

"As long as they're okay," she said softly.

She didn't mention being blocked. She understood their tempers—the twins had always been spoiled, and acting out like this wasn't unusual.

If it had been in the past, she would have kept calling until they picked up.

But now… something in her had changed.

Knowing they were safe was enough.

Whether or not they still saw her as their mother wasn't something she could control anymore.

…

Two days later, Reynard was discharged from the hospital.

Heath quickly decided to return to Jouver and resume expanding Tate Group's business empire.

Before leaving, Miriam and Samuel said goodbye to their friends at school.

Eleanor had prepared little gifts for them to hand out.

However, the children who received them looked a little disappointed. "These dolls and toy cars are kind of old-fashioned. I really liked those teddy bear cupcakes your mom made last time. Why didn't you bring those?" one little girl mumbled with a pout.

Miriam pursed her lips together.

Veronica had personally baked those cupcakes. They were complicated to bake and took a lot of time. More than once, Veronica had burned her hands making them.

But Eleanor didn't know how to make them.

In that moment, Miriam thought it would've been nice if Veronica were here.

Samuel looked down, too.

Ever since Miriam had blocked their mother's number, Veronica hadn't called again.

He hadn't heard her voice in what felt like forever, and he missed her. Still, they would be seeing her again soon.

With Veronica around, he knew they wouldn't get to see Eleanor as often anymore.

Heath had no idea what was on Miriam and Samuel's minds.

When news spread that he was returning to Jouver, Derick gave him a quick call. "Mr. Tate, Mrs. Tate hasn't returned to the estate in over a week. Do you want me to inform her you'll be back?"

Heath frowned. After a moment, his expression cooled. "No need. If she doesn't plan to come back, then clear out Hillside Villa. Eleanor and the kids will be staying there with me."

In the past, he only returned because the residence was there. But if Veronica insisted on keeping her distance, there was no reason for her to return to that house either.

…

Back in Jouver, Veronica had moved into her old apartment. She had even started planting a few flowers on the balcony.

She wasn't particularly skilled at gardening. Still, with the weight of a failed marriage off her shoulders, her whole demeanor had lightened.

Her elderly neighbor next door, Vernon Fletcher, often scolded her for overwatering her plants. "Miss, you've got no idea how to care for flowers. Keep watering like that, and you'll drown every last one."

He would take over the watering can with a frown, but Veronica never took offense at his words.

Their neighbor had once explained Vernon's temper. "Don't take it personally. His grandson refuses to settle down. They had a big blow-up, and he stormed out of the family residence. That's why he ran off to stay here for a while."

Veronica just smiled and brushed it off.

Back when she was married into the Tate family, everything was rigid and controlled.

She had spent years walking on eggshells around the Tates. She was always careful with her words and actions to avoid stepping out of line.

Vernon might be grumpy and stubborn, but he turned out to be surprisingly helpful. With his guidance, tending to the flowers became much easier.

Over time, despite their age difference, an unlikely friendship began to form between them.

That evening, Veronica received an invitation from her senior at Cresthill College.

When Courtney Powell heard Veronica would be attending the Cultural Aesthetic Expo, she immediately insisted on going with her.

Back in college, Veronica had majored in design. She was clever, unique, and full of wild ideas.

During college, she had even worked anonymously under the alias "Smile" in Courtney's studio.

Many of her early works had been lauded for their brilliance. But after getting married, she stepped back from the scene entirely.

Meanwhile, Courtney had ridden that momentum to fame and success. It was no surprise that she would be invited to the event.

Courtney was already at the center of attention and making her way through clusters of designers, curators, and sponsors when Veronica arrived.

Over the years, she had established a notable reputation in the industry and garnered increasing recognition.

Many people eagerly approached her, hoping to make a connection.

A woman always shone the brightest when she found success. Even the men around her became nothing more than background figures or fleeting decoration.

Veronica lowered her eyes as she watched the scene unfold.

All these years, she had been devoted to Heath, Miriam, and Samuel. Somewhere along the way, she had forgotten who she was before any of it began.

So much time had passed since then that she wondered if she could still be that same bold, visionary designer she once was.

Just as the thought settled, Courtney walked over to her. "This year's Cultural Aesthetic Expo is massive. Many rising stars in design attended. Watching them tonight reminded me of who you were back then. I really wanted to keep you on at Novaro Design back then, but unfortunately…"

Novaro Design was the design studio Courtney founded during college and was the seed that eventually grew into her thriving company.

Veronica gave a faint, bittersweet smile. "Novaro Design's doing just fine without me."

Design had always been a field where talent burned fast and bright, and no one remained at the top forever. Besides, she hadn't touched a sketchpad in years.

"I don't agree," Courtney said.

Courtney took a long drag from her cigarette, then curved her lips into a knowing smile. "Sure, Novaro Design runs fine without you. But the design world without you? That's a real loss.

"Bold and sharp women like you should never be held back by anything, or anyone."

Chapter 5

Veronica lifted her gaze at the sound of Courtney's voice, her lashes fluttering as she stared at the work displayed across the exhibit.

Courtney raised a brow and spoke with purpose. "Fletcher Group has been making major moves these past couple of years after heavily investing in neo-Cinderone design. From jewelry to fashion, they've been locking in partnerships across the board.

"And that just happens to be your specialty. Veronica, it's time. Come back."

Veronica was no stranger to Fletcher Group. They had expanded rapidly in the past few years, especially in manufacturing and design innovation.

Their CEO, Noah Fletcher, was young. However, he was known for being ruthlessly efficient and having a sharp, far-reaching vision.

It didn't surprise Veronica that Courtney wanted to work with them. Fletcher Group's vision aligned perfectly with the rising neo-Cinderone aesthetic Courtney had long pursued.

But… she wondered if she could truly return to the path she once walked as a designer.

As Veronica stood lost in thought, a cold, condescending voice rang out behind her. "Veronica? Shouldn't you be home taking care of Mom? What are you even doing here?"

It was Olivia Tate, Heath's younger sister, and a rising star from Cresthill College. From the day Veronica married into the Tate family, Olivia had treated her with thinly veiled disdain.

She had always looked down on women like Veronica—those who leaned on men and devoted themselves to family life. In her opinion, they brought little else to the table.

Veronica hadn't expected to run into her here. She didn't bother explaining much.

"Just browsing," she said simply.

Olivia scoffed, her tone sharp. "The pieces in this exhibition hold significant artistic value. Even the most basic designs aren't something you'd understand. Heath, Miriam, and Samuel are coming back soon. You should focus on them, not waste time here."

Veronica might have had a decent education and some design talent before marrying into the Tate family, but to Olivia, she had always been just another nobody who happened to land a wealthy husband.

Veronica had polished her image, stepped into privilege, and locked herself into a golden cage—that didn't mean she had any real substance or skill.

Veronica stood frozen for a second. Was Heath coming back?

Her fingers curled slightly, and a dull ache pressed in her chest.

Even if they were divorcing, he hadn't even bothered to inform her that he was bringing the children back.

She was still their mother, but clearly, that didn't count for much in his mind anymore.

Olivia, feeling she had said enough, was about to walk away. But then she suddenly remembered something—her mother had been asking about that trout stew Veronica used to make.

She added offhandedly, "By the way, if you've got time, make that trout stew Mom likes. It's not like you're busy. Cooking's the only thing you're halfway decent at anyway."

In the past, Veronica would have agreed without hesitation. After all, she had once gone to great lengths to win the Tate family's approval.

No matter how elaborate the dish, if Regina asked, she would make it.

But things were different now. Veronica no longer cared to prove herself to anyone.

"Sorry, I've got my own work to handle. If it's just food, I'm sure the chef can handle it," Veronica replied calmly.

Olivia's brows tightened, clearly displeased.

This was the first time Veronica had ever refused her. What could Veronica possibly be busy with?

Someone approached Olivia from the side, having caught the tail end of her conversation with Veronica. "Olivia, who was that woman you were talking to?"

Olivia's brows twitched slightly. She replied with casual disinterest, "Just some acquaintance. She's not worth paying attention to."

A bitter flicker crossed Veronica's eyes. She was Olivia's sister-in-law in name, but neither Heath nor Olivia had ever treated her like family.

She had given everything of herself to the Tate family, only to be treated as less than a maid.

After Olivia finally walked away, Veronica turned to Courtney. Her voice was calm but firm as she said, "I'll think about what you said. It's just… I haven't touched design in a long time. I hope I won't let you down."

Courtney finally relaxed. Her tone lightened with a teasing smirk. "Come on. You used to be 'Smile'—the one everyone in the industry remembered."

A rare glimmer of amusement softened Veronica's expression.

She had lain low for so long. Perhaps it was finally time to reclaim her path.

…

That evening, Heath flew back to Jouver with Miriam, Samuel, and Eleanor.

After landing, he took the children to the Tate residence first.

Regina couldn't help but start complaining the moment they arrived. "It's been a week and she still hasn't come to check on me. I haven't been eating well, and I haven't been sleeping well either. Even my skin's lost its glow."

She had grown used to Veronica's care. When Veronica was around, even her pillows were scented with herbal oils to help her sleep. Even her meals had always been tailored perfectly.

But ever since Veronica returned from Shalton, she hadn't shown up even once.

Heath didn't think much of it. He gently soothed Regina. "I'll hire a few new people for you. It'll be the same."

"The same?" Regina frowned, displeased.

There was no comparison—their standards were entirely different from Veronica's.

All Veronica had ever been good at was looking after others—yet when it came to her own mother-in-law, there was never any real affection.

Still, Regina had been raised in old-money Shalton society. She wouldn't stoop to saying anything too harsh, no matter how displeased she felt.

In the end, she didn't argue with her son. She only gave a small nod.

Later, they returned to the Hillside Villa.

Just like Derick had said, Veronica had cleared out everything that belonged to her. Even the children's rooms, once warm and cozy, now felt sterile and empty.

Heath didn't dwell on it.

If Veronica wanted to make a scene, so be it.

He figured she was likely expecting him to lower his pride and coax her back, but that was never going to happen.

Meanwhile, Samuel looked visibly disheartened. It had been so long since he had last seen his mother.

He guessed that she was upset.

Ever since Miriam had blocked Veronica's number, Veronica hadn't even tried to reach out with a new number.

While he was lost in thought, Miriam excitedly tugged on Eleanor's hand and turned to Heath. "Dad, can Ms. Turner stay in Mom's room? She needs more sunlight for her health, and that's the brightest room in the house. Anyway, Mom's moved out already."

Apart from the master bedroom and the children's room, the only space left with natural light and warmth was the guest room, where Veronica used to stay.