Filed to story: Mia Bowen and Timothy Barrett Novel
Raymond was initially surprised by Ernest and Irene’s change of heart, but he quickly composed himself, saying, “Please, share any conditions you have. I’m committed to accommodating them to the best of my ability.” The news of Ernest and Irene’s willingness to accept Asher’s presence cas a great relief to Raymond.
Not only would it ease a significant burden, but it would also preempt any concerns about potential adversaries exploiting the situation in the future.
Meanwhile, Luna couldn’t shake off a sense of unease. She found herself pondering what sort of conditions these two elders might propose.
Maintaining her composure, Irene directed her attention toward Luna. “I have just one condition,” she stated calmly, “and that is for this woman to sever ties with the Shelbert family entirely, ensuring she never comes into contact with Asher again. Only then will I consider accepting Asher.” Upon hearing Irene’s ultimatum, Luna felt the blood drain from her face, and she struggled to maintain her composure.
In a flurry of emotions, she protested vehemently, “Absolutely not! I’m Asher’s mother! I have every right to remain by his side. Who are you to dictate that I must leave?” Meanwhile, Raymond lapsed into a profound silence, his contemplation echoing loudly in the room.
Observing the tense exchange, Luna couldn’t shake the feeling that something was awry.
Desperately, she grasped Raymond’s arm, pleading, “Dad, please remember, I’m Asher’s biological mother. He’s still adapting to life within the Shelbert family! “If you insist on pushingaway, it could significantly impact his development and overall well-being, especially in such an unfamiliar environment! “Surely, you wouldn’t want anything to jeopardize Asher’s future, would you?” At that moment, Irene’s voice cut through the air like a knife, her words sharp and calculated. “You don’t need to concern yourself with Asher. We have arrangements in place to provide him with an outstanding education.
“He will flourish without any complications. Undoubtedly, he’ll have a far more promising future growing up, without his biological mother’s influence.” “Indeed. Your presence here would only emphasize Asher’s dubious legitimacy, especially considering your questionable status as his mother.” “Shut your mouth, you old hag! Who are you to call my son illegitimate? Asher is my flesh and blood. Where I go, he goes. You won’t forceout!” In that charged moment, Luna’s realization struck her like a bolt of lightning-what was Jasmine really plotting? The sheer cruelty behind their plan to force her outstruck Luna deeply. If she were driven away, wouldn’t little Asher be left at their mercy? Not to mention, Luna had deliberately returned to the Shelbert family with Asher, aiming to carve out a new path for herself.
If she were to be expelled and Asher’s future reshaped, what consequences would it hold for her? Indeed, Luna couldn’t allow these individuals to separate her from Asher.
“Luna, that’s enough. Who taught you to speak with such disrespect?” Raymond intervened sharply.
Witnessing Luna’s frustration, Raymond couldn’t help but draw a parallel to Jasmine’s earlier impassioned plea-it was as if he were contrasting night with day.
Despite both being his daughters, Luna couldn’t match Jasmine’s character.
In Raymond’s heart, the scale decisively tipped in Jasmine’s favor.
Luna implored Raymond with her gaze as she pleaded, “Dad, you can’t let them take Asher away fromHe’s always relied on me, and I. understand him better than anyone else. Don’t let the opinions of these outsiders sway you.” “Outsiders? They’re my in-laws, they’re part of our family. Honestly, I understand where they’re coming from It does appear that Asher has been excessively pampered by you. “Remember when he got expelled from kindergarten for that altercation? If you had disciplined him properly, perhaps this wouldn’t have occurred.” “That’s because Mia’s son started the fight. The Lanes were bullying Asher. How is that my fault?” In that instant Irene emitted a contemptuous snort. “You never seem to accept accountability for your actions, always eager to blothers. How can someone with your mindset possibly provide proper upbringing for a child?” S At that moment, Raymond acknowledged that Luna was truly unsuitable to be around Asher. She seemed like a volatile force, ready to erupt unpredictably.
Addressing Ernest and Irene, Raymond conceded, “Dad, Mom, I consent to the terms you proposed earlier. Please ensure Asher’s well-being going forward.”
Jasmine finally rose to her feet and spoke earnestly, “Dad, trust me. I’ll provide Asher with excellent care. You won’t be disappointed.” Raymond nodded, a sense of relief washing over him. “I have faith in you. I believe you won’t letdown.” “How could you do this, Dad? Are you deliberately trying to driveaway? Could you have even welcomed Asher into the Shelbert family without my help?” Luna protested.
She couldn’t make sense of it. Raymond had readily agreed to Jasmine’s grandparents’ demand to keep Asher, but it meant Luna would be forced to leave.
But where could Luna possibly go? She had fought tirelessly to be accepted into the Shelbert family, to be Raymond’s beloved daughter. The mere thought of leaving was inconceivable to her.
Jasmine seized the opportunity to address Luna, saying, “Luna, there’s no need for such distress. Sending you away doesn’t mean you’re being ousted from the family.
“It’s simply that, for now, it’s not conducive for you to be around Asher. So, a temporary separation is necessary until Asher matures and overcomes his past behavior.
“Ultimately, it’s all for Asher’s benefit. As his mother, I trust you can understand, right?” Portraying oneself as the innocent victim-it seemed that skill had becuniversal, hadn’t it? Once upon a time, Jasmine would have looked down upon such tactics, but strangely, witnessing Luna’s frustration now brought her a sense of satisfaction.
Ever since Luna’s arrival, their family dynamic had been thoroughly disrupted.
It was tfor Luna to experience a taste of her own medicine.
“Jasmine, keep your mouth shut! Don’t think for a second that I’m unaware of your intentions. You’re trying to forceout so you can manipulate Asher more easily, aren’t you? “Well, keep dreaming. I won’t give up!” Luna shot back, feeling utterly deceived at that moment.
Turning to Raymond, she pressed on, “Dad, remember our agreement? We made a deal that Asher would be considered your grandson, but only if I remained part of the Shelbert family.
“Now that you wantgone, that agreement no longer holds. If I leave, I’m taking Asher with me!” Interrupting sternly, Irene interjected, “Take the child for all I care! To you, he’s just a pawn for your benefit, isn’t he? It’s no surprise he hasn’t learned any good values under your care. With a mother like you, can he ever truly thrive?” Raymond’s brow furrowed as he addressed Luna, “Asher’s adoption paperwork is already finalized. He’s legally my grandson now, and you don’t have the authority to take him away.” “That’s not true. As Asher’s mother, I have the right to take him withif I choose to leave. If you continue to pressure me, I’ll have no choice but to escalate this matter to the media. Let the public decide. A mayor like you competing withover a child. Let’s see whose side they take.” “Luna, are you seriously threatening me? “Dad, it’s not a threat. You were the one who broke your promise first. We both agreed that Asher would remain in the Shelbert family, and would too. It was your decision to acquiesce to their demands and attempt to pushaside. How is this my fault?” Indeed, Luna was prepared to risk everything at this crucial moment.
.
Raymond’s expression tightened as he processed Luna’s revelation. “Didn’t you mention earlier that Asher had severed ties with the Barrett family?” If the Barretts decided to intervene, the situation would undoubtedly become more challenging to navigate.
“I may have implied that, but it was merely a fa?ade,” Luna asserted firmly. “The reality is that Asher’s bond with the Barrett family is unbreakable.
“Do you seriously believe that bringing Asher into the Shelbert family won’t provoke a response from the Barretts?” Raymond’s expression hardened instantly. “Your previous words didn’t convey that sentiment,” he retorted sharply. “Given that I am Asher’s mother, I inherently hold the ultimate authority. Timothy’s influence is irrelevant in this situation.
“However, if you’re adamant about challenging my position, then expect matters to escalate significantly. As Asher’s biological mother, I retain the rightful power to determine his future,” Luna asserted firmly. At that moment, Jasmine interjected, countering Luna’s statement. “Luna, spare us your falsehoods. If the Barrett family genuinely cared about Asher, you wouldn’t have been able to take him from Bern City. “And let’s not overlook our previous encounter with Mr. Barrett. He knew that Asher was in the care of the Shelbert family but chose not to intervene. That speaks volumes.”
In a sudden moment of clarity, Luna’s complexion drained of color, her realization that she had been outsmarted hitting her like a blow.
If she were to be ousted, it would mark the catastrophic collapse of everything she had meticulously built over the years.
“I won’t let you win!” Luna declared defiantly. “I’m taking Asher with me now. He’s my son, and you have no authority to keep him with the Shelbert family!”
Nonetheless, Raymond remained steadfast. “This decision isn’t yours to make,” he stated firmly, motioning for his bodyguard to intervene.
In the midst of it all, Ernest and Irene stood up, their voices firm as they spoke to Raymond, “As long as you eliminate this woman from the equation, our prior agreement remains valid.”
And with those words, Ernest and Irene left the scene. Raymond didn’t hesitate to follow suit, the realization dawning on him that nurturing a positive relationship with his in-laws was imperative. Should Ernest and Irene accept Asher, Raymond could avoid resorting to divorce, thus preventing unnecessary turmoil at home.
Following Raymond’s departure,
Jasmine brushed aside the tearsz welling at the corners of her eyes, her demeanor transforming into one of indifference. The ordeal had finally drawn to a close.
Luna couldn’t help but sneer beside her. “Ah, so the truth reveals itself at last. Today’s theatrics were all your doing, weren’t they?
“You orchestrated the entire charade, bringing your grandparents in to play the good cop, bad cop routine, all just to set me up!”
It dawned on Luna that Ernest and Irene had conspired with Jasmine to stage the scene, using it as a ploy to propose conditions for Asher’s stay and to push Luna out.
Leaning in, Jasmine tilted Luna’s chin up and retorted, “Impressive how quickly you catch on. Yes, it was all part of my plan. So, what’s your verdict? Did you enjoy our little performance?”
“Haha, so you’re finally owning up to it! Did everyone hear that? Did you all catch what she just admitted? Quick, go inform Dad that Jasmine orchestrated all of this intentionally. She’s plotting against him!
Undeterred, Jasmine let out a cold laugh, casting a glance at the two bodyguards. “Do you really think they’ll believe your words?”
Despite the bodyguards restraining her, Luna’s determination infused her voice. “Don’t revel too soon. I’ll ensure Dad discovers the truth eventually. He won’t be swayed by you.”
“Are you sure about that? Do you honestly think Dad will trust your words now? And even if he does what does it change? Ultimately, as long as the outcome suits his desires, your objections are futile.”
Indeed, Jasmine possessed an intimate understanding of Raymond.
If she could persuade Ernest and Irene to accept Asher, whether through feigned sincerity or calculated manipulation, it would lead to a favorable outcome for Raymond.
As a result, Luna had to be removed from their household.
It was Jasmine’s profound insight into Raymond’s character that allowed her to devise such a strategic maneuver.
At that instant, Luna finally comprehended the depth of Jasmine’s manipulation. Panic surged within her as she realized Raymond’s intentions all too clearly.
If Jasmine’s words rang true, it appeared inevitable that Raymond would unquestionably opt to forsake Luna.
Standing tall, Jasmine directed a commanding gaze toward Luna. “Your defeat is undeniable this time. I won’t ever permit you the chance to conspire against me or my mother again.” “Bitch, slow down. Asher is still under the Shelbert family’s care, and I’m determined to bring him back.” And do you really think that opportunity will ever come? Asher is under my control now, and I’ll do whatever I want with him,” Jasmine asserted firmly.
“Bitch! If you so much as harm Asher in the slightest, I won’t let you get away with it. I’ll tell Dad and expose all your schemes!” Unfazed, Jasmine dismissed Luna’s threat and directed the bodyguards, Take her away and ensure she doesn’t wander off.” As Mia observed the unfolding events, her suspicions crystallized. The arrival of Ernest and Irene only confirmed her intuition that the situation ran deeper than what met the eye.
with the resolution at hand, it became evident that Luna’s hopes for a turnaround were futile.
Making her way to Jasmine, Mia said warmly, “Congratulations.” As Luna was forcibly escorted away, she directed a desperate plea at Mia.
“Mia! You know about Asher’s connection to the Barretts.
please, inform Timothy that the Shelberts pose a threat to Asher. Urge him to take Asher away; leaving him with the Shelbert family could have dire consequences for his future!” Unruffled, Mia firmly replied, “Don’t trouble yourself with these elaborate schemes. I have no intention of being your messenger. It’s time to give up on that idea once and for all.” The source of Luna’s confidence in Mia’s willingness to advocate for someone as deceitful as her remained a mystery.
“Even if you remain silent, Timothy will soon uncover the truth. He won’t allow Asher to suffer in the Shelbert family! If Asher is in danger, Timothy will undoubtedly intervene to protect him.
Jasmine, I’m afraid your schemes are bound to fail!” Approaching Luna, Mia held her gaze.
“Considering the circumstances, it’s rather audacious of you to mention the Barrett family. But I have some uplifting news— Grandma Laura has regained consciousness.
“Despite briefly lapsing back into unconsciousness, the doctors assure us that she will soon awaken permanently.
nonce she does, all Grandma Laura needs to do is identify her assailant from years ago. That alone would condemn certain individuals to a lifetime in prison.”
In an instant, Luna’s face paled, her guilt evident in her expression. “Are you implying Mrs. Barrett Senior has awakened?” If she had truly regained consciousness, wouldn’t Timothy have already taken her away? Believe it or not, the choice is yours,” Mia replied firmly.
With that, Luna was escorted off.
Meanwhile, Jasmine’s expression took on a more nuanced tone. “While it may appear that I’ve emerged victorious, the reality is that I lost a long time ago.” Even with Luna’s expulsion from the Shelbert family, Jasmine understood that her home would never return to its former state of tranquility.
Indeed, her unwavering admiration and affection for her so-called father had vanished.
Moving forward, she would have to prioritize herself and her mother.
With Luna no longer in the picture, the focus shifted to Asher’s future. Though still young, preparations needed to begin for what lay ahead.
It was clear that as Asher grew older, his father would inevitably support him.
However, there was still a decade ahead to strategize and plan.
Today, Mia had come with the sole intent of observing the unfolding spectacle, feeling a sense of relief as Luna was taken out of the equation.
With Luna eliminated, she no longer posed a threat in the future.
Now, it was Mia’s turn to assert control over the situation. She addressed Jasmine, saying, “Regarding Luna, I have a favor to ask. I would be grateful for your help with this.”
“Mia, just name it, and if it’s within my means, consider it done for you.” “So, you’re planning to send Luna abroad, right? Maybe consider letting her flee to Bern City. She might seek shelter with Timothy’s family there.” “Mia, I’m not entirely clear on your strategy here. What if Luna does manage to garner support o” “The trap has been set with the information I fed Luna earlier. She’ll likely try to return to confirm my words.” Unbeknownst to Jasmine, Mia was eagerly anticipating Luna’s return to Bern City
Fuelled by the urgency to unravel the events of years past and shed light on Laura’s injury, Mia had quietly awaited this moment.
If Luna was indeed responsible, Mia would ensure she faced the consequences.