After a moment of consideration, I decided to take a look at Summer’s WhatsApp chat messages. After putting her to sleep, I headed back to my room to read her conversation with Stella in private. Seeing as to how Summer was not the best at typing, the chat contained mostly voice messages. There wasn’t anything special, but I noticed that Stella had never said no to Summer. She would always fulfill the latter’s wishes, especially things I often didn’t allow Summer to do. In particular, Stella had secretly bought Summer sweet, edible things more than five times in the past two weeks alone.
I truly believed that every mother would understand why I was so agitated at that moment. Without a minute to waste, I immediately called Stella on WhatsApp, anger boiling within me as I did so.
As expected, the woman picked up the phone quickly. Her tone of voice was soft and gentle, loaded with affection, “Summer, you want to chat with me for a while more, right?”
“Ms. Collins,” I said coldly, not bothering to try hiding my displeasure.
The woman on the other side of the line fell silent for a second. When she spoke, there was a complete about-turn on her tone. She said respectfully and submissively, “Mrs. Fuller, why are you still awake? It’s so late…”
Previously, I had brushed aside things regarding Stella as Ashton was quite satisfied with her performance. However, now that she had crossed the line and targeted Summer, it was pointless for me to show her an ounce of respect. Despite my displeasure towards her, I had to still handle the situation in a formal way. My voice became harsher than earlier as I spat out, “Please bear in mind that your job is to solely assist Ashton with the company. I don’t want anyone to disturb Summer in the future. Also, I don’t need anyone to interfere with my way of parenting. Do you understand?”
Stella sighed, feeling wronged. “Mrs. Fuller, please believe me when I say I didn’t. Please don’t get me wrong; Summer is an adorable girl. I simply wanted to pamper her and treat her well. I am not…”
“Then raise your own child and go ahead to pamper her,” I interrupted her, “Did I say something wrong? If I’m not mistaken, Justin has been waiting for you. If you change your mind and decide to have your own family, Ashton and I will be happy to help you on this.”
My harsh words stunned Stella speechless. The woman remained quiet for a while before she said honestly, “I understand now, Mrs. Fuller. I won’t do such a thing anymore.”
“Good. Please delete Summer’s contact and block her on WhatsApp after our conversation ends. That’s all for now.”
At that, I pressed the red button to end that call. A few minutes later, I opened Stella’s chatroom and sent a message to her. I was finally relieved when I saw a single tick and a blank profile picture appear.
Summer must be feeling too lonely these days. That was why Stella could easily get close with her. At Summer’s age, she should actually spend time with her peers. However, the Fullers’ lived in a single-family villa. It was separated from the neighbors. Whenever Ashton and I were busy, there was no one there to accompany Summer. It was high time for me to look for the best elementary school for her.
I didn’t know much about childhood educational institutions in K City. Thus, I sent Emery a message on WhatsApp for a piece of advice. Emery, what’s the best school in K City? By the way, It’s better to look for one with good security. Summer’s safety is my top priority.
Being the night owl she is, Emery usually stayed up late. I was hoping to decide on the school before going to bed, but I fell asleep at around ten o’clock without getting any reply from Emery.
The following morning, Emery called.
“I’m so sorry. I had a social event to attend last night and drank a little too much. I fell asleep as soon as I got home. But anyway, I’ve found a suitable elementary school for Summer. If you’re not busy in the afternoon, I’ll come over to pick you up. Let’s bring Summer along to have a look. Is that okay with you?”
I couldn’t ask for more. Without a second thought, I agreed.
I had not gone out with Summer since the festive season, so she was extremely excited along the way. Emery recommended us an elite school. Undoubtedly, the environment was good. The security measures were also in place. Besides, the children came from well-off families. After the visit, Summer and I both seemed satisfied with it. Hence, I firmed up Summer’s enrollment with the principal. Next Monday, she would be able to go to school with the other kids.
