Chapter 3

That afternoon, I took Gerald straight to the most expensive mall in the city.

I purposely avoided the classic, more sophisticated styles and instead picked out flashy, over-the-top outfits with big logos that screamed nouveau riche.

I could see the salesgirl's surprise, along with a hint of disdain.

But Gerald didn't notice, or maybe he just didn't care. He was too distracted by the shiny labels and the ridiculously high price tags.

When Gerald finally came out of the fitting room, wearing an Armani suit that was too big for him and way too bold in color, plus Ferragamo shoes that clashed horribly, I had to admit that even if he was dressed in royal robes, he'd still look out of place.

But he kept turning this way and that in front of the mirror, clearly smug and satisfied.

"Sharon, isn't this... a bit too expensive?" he asked, running his fingers over the suit fabric, his eyes greedy.

"Not at all. You deserve it," I said with a smile, swiping my card without hesitation.

This is a small price to pay, considering the much bigger one I'd paid in my previous life.

It was amazing what a good outfit could do. Gerald still had that sketchy vibe, but now he walked around with much more confidence.

*****

When we got home, Gerald even started barking orders at the staff, talking like he was already a member of the Welch family.

Eileen was practically glowing when she saw his transformation. She circled him, showering him with compliments. "Gerald, you look amazing in that suit. I always knew you had hidden potential."

Her eyes finally lost that usual judgment, and for once, she looked at me like I'd finally done something right.

Inside, I was smirking, but on the outside, I played the caring one, asking about their wedding plans and acting even more eager than they were.

Eileen didn't hold back, asking for the most luxurious hotel, the most expensive wedding dress, and the biggest diamond ring.

I agreed to it all, telling them I'd hire the best wedding planner to take care of everything.

While they were caught up in their excitement over planning this "perfect future," I quietly slipped upstairs.

Nicole was sitting at her desk, staring off into space. She looked so alone from behind.

I walked over and gently placed my hand on her shoulder.

Nicole jumped and turned around. When she saw it was me, her eyes shifted with a mix of emotions, and she said softly, "Mom."

"Nicole," I said, sitting down beside her and gently taking her hand, something I never had the chance to do in my previous life. "I'm sorry I've been ignoring you. That was wrong of me."

Nicole paused, her eyes starting to well up as she shook her head.

I looked her in the eye and said, "You saw everything today. Remember, as a woman, you have to put yourself first. Love is important, but it's not your whole life, and it's not the solution to saving someone else. Got it?"

Nicole nodded slowly, not completely sure but clearly moved by my serious tone. "Mom, I get it. But Eileen—"

"She made her own choice," I said, cutting her off gently. "We all have to own our decisions. Nicole, your life is yours. Don't let anything or anyone tie you down. You need to be independent and proud."

I pulled out a brochure I had been saving. It was about the study abroad art program Nicole had dreamed about for ages. "I've already signed you up. See the world and open your mind. It's way better than staying stuck in this suffocating house."

Nicole's eyes sparkled when she saw the brochure, but then they faded. "But with how things are at home right now... and it's so expensive..."

"Don't worry about the money," I said firmly. "You're my only daughter. If I don't give you the best, who will? Start getting ready. You'll be leaving soon."

I needed to get Nicole out of here fast, before this house turned into a complete disaster.

I wouldn't let her go through the same nightmare I did in my previous life.

Once I comforted Nicole, I went back to my study and closed the door behind me. Then my expression darkened.

All that talk about supporting them and sending my blessings was just setting them up for a trap.

I pulled out my phone and called the private investigator I'd used in my previous life to look into Gerald's background.

"Darren, it's Sharon. Same target as last time, Gerald Holcomb. I need you to dig deeper, especially into his street years. Find out who he hung out with and if he's got any records for misdemeanors. Money's not an issue, but I need results fast."

After hanging up, I leaned back in my chair.

Now, I just had to figure out who to invite as special "guests" to witness their wedding.

I wanted every relative and reporter to be there.