She had left it in Elijah’s car.
A dimly lit store caught her eye at the street’s corner.
Moving quickly, she approached, hoping to find someone who could guide her back.
Meanwhile, at the Elizabeth family home, a different scene unfolded.
Wren reclined on a newly purchased elegant sofa, her luxurious pajamas contrasting with her rapid phone typing.
Oliver sat beside her, half-watching economic news that reflected the challenging financial climate.
Recent years had been harsh on businesses in Orkset. Small and medium-sized enterprises were either transitioning or collapsing. Oliver’s own business, once buoyed by economic boom and luck, now struggled significantly.
“Sweetheart,” Oliver addressed Wren, pausing the television, “how is your plan progressing? Our family’s hopes rest on the Crawfords. If this doesn’t succeed…”
“Don’t jinx it,” Edith interrupted as she swept into the room, her face glistening under a meticulously applied beauty mask. She settled beside Wren with a casual confidence, brushing off Oliver’s concerns. “Wren has everything under control. You’re worrying for nothing.”
“Mom always believes in me,” Wren cooed, leaning into Edith with exaggerated affection. She held up her phone, a triumphant smile playing on her lips. “Nate’s already in Foxfire County. In a backwater like that, whatever the Crawford family wants will be child’s play.”
Oliver exhaled, some of the tension easing from his shoulders, though his expression remained cautious. “Good. But remember, Wren, you’re not getting any younger. It’s time to think seriously about marriage. If you’re close to Nate, why not look at his circle? Surely, there’s someone suitable among his friends. A woman’s charm is her best weapon.”
Wren’s lips curled in a pout, her irritation thinly veiled. “Do you want me to marry one of those spoiled brats? No thanks. I have standards.”
“Exactly,” Edith added, her tone dripping with disdain. “Our Wren deserves someone exceptional.”
Oliver glanced between mother and daughter, his brows knitting in suspicion. “You’re keeping something from me. Do you already have someone in mind?”
Wren simply winked, maintaining her mysterious air. “That’s a secret for now!”
