After chatting for a while, Natalie asked, “How are you doing recently? Are you feeling better? Has the baby adapted to the climate there?”
Upon departing from Barnes, Laney found solace in a dwelling close to Teresa’s abode.
Blessed with Teresa’s camaradene and Ian’s unwavering support, Laney flourished in the vibrant atmosphere of the unfamiliar city.
Anya, a remarkably well-mannered infant, rarely disturbed the night with her cries.
Ian’s round-the-clock devotion to the child allowed Laney to cast her maternal concerns aside.
Surrounded by such warmth and liberty, Laney experienced a profound rejuvenation of body and spirit.
Her separation from Garrett sparked an epiphany: a woman must forge her own career and refuse to relinquish it for the whims of romance.
This newfound wisdom propelled Laney to devote her leisure hours to Teresa’s burgeoning security enterprise.
Her wealth of expertise proved invaluable, catalyzing the company’s rapid expansion.
As the ranks of bodyguards swelled, Teresa resolved to create a distinct uniform for her employees.
Laney instantly thought of Natalie, whose recent venture into fashion design was ripe for collaboration.
Thus, Laney introduced Natalie to Teresa.
Upon witnessing Natalie’s extraordinary portfolio, Teresa’s satisfaction knew no bounds, and she promptly commissioned the uniforms.
Learning of Laney’s thriving state, relief washed over Natalie.
“I’m so glad you’ve found your footing in the new city.”
Natalie’s thoughts then drifted towards Garrett.
Ever since Laney’s departure, Garrett had become consumed by his work, his relentless drive leaving even Brandon in awe.
Hesitating for a moment, Natalie inquired, “Do you still keep in touch with Garrett?”
Laney paused before the screen, then nodded.
“He’s our child’s father. I send him updates about her. As for everything else… I remain unsure.”
Recalling the tnbulations Laney endured in her marriage to Garrett, Natalie expressed a blend of empathy and sorrow.
“Perhaps some time apart will do you both good.”
Laney’s lips curled into a melancholy smile.
“Truthfully, I still love him.
But the thought of facing the Harding family again fills me with dread, making me question our marriage.”
The memories of the past haunted Laney—the relentless pressure from the Harding clan, Garrett’s passivity, and the countless wounds inflicted on her heart.
Having finally found solace in a life with her precious daughter, she balked at the idea of returning to the Hardings’ stifling grip.
Despite her love for Garrett, she refused to surrender the freedom she had fought so hard to attain.
Natalie understood the depth of Laney’s pain, having borne witness to her trials.
She knew the passage of time alone could not mend these scars.
Unless Garrett could genuinely neutralize his family’s toxic influence, reconciliation remained a distant dream.
Eager to dispel the somber mood, Natalie exhaled softly and shifted the conversation with a grin.
“So, any specific requests for Teresa’s order? I want to ensure my studio’s debut is a triumph, and that I don’t disappoint you with your recommendation.”
Laney’s countenance brightened as she replied, “I have complete confidence in your abilities.”
After a few more moments of conversation, it was time for Laney to take Anya outside to bask in the sun’s gentle embrace.
The call concluded.
Gazing at her phone’s now-darkened screen, Natalie sighed deeply.
She could only hope Garrett would summon the strength to set things right; otherwise, his quest to reclaim his wife’s heart would be an arduous and uncertain path.
After concluding the call, Natalie immersed herself in her work.
Carly’s order hadn’t been secured yet, so she needed to wrap up Teresa’s commission perfectly as her studio’s debut.
Daylight faded as she finally completed her tasks, just as the workday drew to a close.
Stretching, she reached for a glass of water when a series of knocks interrupted her.
“Excuse me, is Miss White here?” The familiar voice elicited a raised eyebrow from Natalie.
She hadn’t anticipated Carly would turn to her so soon.
Lexi, equally surprised to see Carly at the doorway, hastened to welcome her inside.
Considering the previous debacle with the reporters and Carly’s decision to engage Mandy for the dress design, Lexi had assumed Carly would never set foot in the studio again.
Unperturbed by Carly’s appearance, Natalie courteously ushered her into the reception room.
Curiosity gnawed at Lexi, who couldn’t resist eavesdropping on the conversation, eager to learn if Carly truly intended to enlist Natalie’s services for her grandmother’s attire.
In the reception room, Carly’s smile radiated genuine warmth.
Elegantly sipping her coffee, she remarked, “My grandmother adored the cookies you gifted her last time.
Where did you find that delightful box?”
With a smile, Natalie replied, “Truth be told, the cookies weren’t store-bought.
They were handcrafted by Hannah, the woman who raised me.”
Carly’s surprise was evident.
“Hannah? It seems you’re not related by blood.”
Natalie nodded, her eyes softening at the mention of Hannah.
“Hannah is a benevolent soul who took it upon herself to care for me when I was lost and alone. It’s thanks to her that I found a home in this city and pursued a career in design.”
Moved, Carly replied, “It sounds like you share a special bond.”
Natalie nodded again, adding, “In fact, you’ve met Hannah before.”
Carly’s bewilderment grew.
“I have? I don’t recall.”
A mischievous grin graced Natalie’s face.
“She was in the photos that led you to me. Have you forgotten?”
Realization dawned on Carly.
“The elderly woman in the photos is Hannah!” Natalie’s smile broadened.
“Indeed. The dress she wore was my first creation as an independent designer.”
She then cocked her head, feigning confusion.
“So, you’ve come to see me today just to inquire about the cookies?” With a serious demeanor, Carly confessed, “I was wrong to dismiss you so hastily due to the reporters’ intrusion. I wonder if you’re still interested in designing a dress for my grandmother.”
Natalie agreed without hesitation, “Of course, I’ll gladly handle the design for your grandmother’s dress.”
Carly’s brow furrowed, puzzled by Natalie’s composed response.
“Aren’t you curious why I turned down Mandy and sought you out instead?”
