Chapter 434: CHAPTER 434

Chapter 434

Bella chuckled in surprise, “Huh? How did you already know? So much for the surprise.”

“I saw Ivy’s post on Instagram before she boarded the plane.”

“Alright then.” Bella smiled, “I’m here on some business, plus, as you’ve heard from Crystal, Summer is quite fond of Vista Town. I’m planning to check out a few properties here, thinking about settling down.”

Her tone grew complex towards the end. It seemed like a reluctant decision after a long struggle. As if she wasn’t fond of Vista Town herself, but wanted to fulfill Summer Taylor’s wish.

I nodded, “It’s clear you adore your daughter.”

“Of course, she’s my only girl.” Mentioning this softened Bella’s voice, “For her, I’m willing to do anything.”

I smiled warmly, “A mother’s strength, you’re truly a wonderful mom. So, you’ll be staying in Vista Town for a while then?”

“If all goes as planned, yes. Why do you ask?”

“The gown is being tailored as we speak. It should be ready for fitting in about a week. If there’s anything you’re not satisfied with, we’ll still have time to make adjustments.”

If I remember correctly, Bella is attending a red carpet event for a prestigious film award this month. She’s attending as a judge.

“Sounds good.” Bella agreed with a smile, then added, “I called you today for another reason.”

I was slightly puzzled, “What is it?”

Bella cut straight to the chase, “There’s a gala tomorrow night, attended by many big names, both on–screen and behind the scenes: Interested?”

“This…” I hesitated for a moment, then quickly caught on, “Are you offering to help me break into the domestic market?”

My reputation abroad is solid, with many international celebrities seeking my

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designs, all turned away by my mentor. He argued that allowing me to

continue designing for Janedream was a concession on his part. Saying it was time to focus on my studies rather than business. Once my studies were complete, the choice would be mine. Like now. Hence, my fame within the country is known only among industry designers, virtually nonexistent to the public.

Bella played coy, “What do you say, join me at the gala?”

Of course, yes. But, I hesitated, “Wouldn’t that trouble you?”

“Not at all.” Bella dismissed with a smile, “Jane, I’ll be in Vista Town often. If you need help with anything, don’t hesitate.”

“Ms. Taylor…” I was touched, responding with a bright smile, “Thank you!”

“Silly girl, it’s nothing. No need to thank me.” Bella chuckled, “I’ve sent the gala details to your phone. Meet at the hotel?”

“Sure!”

After hanging up, Bella held her phone, looking somewhat melancholic. In earlier years, Bella often appeared this way. But lately, Ivy rarely saw her like this, “What’s wrong? You seem to like Jane, why the long face after talking to her?”

“It’s not that.” Bella massaged her temples, “I’m just too happy, I guess. I find myself wanting to talk more with her, or help her out.”

“It’s not easy.” Ivy laughed, “You once said she struck a chord with you. By my account, it’s more than just that.”

Bella was known to be approachable but guarded at heart. Seemingly easy–going with everyone, yet very few genuinely mattered to her over the past decades. And yet, with Jane, it was peculiarly different. Having met only

a few times.

Bella raised an eyebrow, “More than striking a chord? Then what?”

“Almost like you could adopt her as a goddaughter.” Ivy had been with her from obscurity to stardom, officially her agent but in truth, a confidant.

Bella glanced towards the suite’s bedroom, hesitated for a moment, then shook her head. “Summer would feel left out.”

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Ever since reconnecting with her daughter, who had endured so much

hardship, Bella was determined to give her the best the world had to offer. Having only been back for a bit over a year, adopting another goddaughter so soon would surely upset Summer.

Ivy lit a cigarette, “I feel there’s always been something off between you and Summer.”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re so relaxed with Jane, even unconsciously considering things for her.” Ivy exhaled a thin ring of smoke, “But with Summer, you’re always worried about not doing enough, including Summer herself…”

At this point, Ivy sighed, “Don’t take this the wrong way, but it seems like Summer sees you more as an ATM.”

“Summer…” Bella drifted off, then guiltily added, “But it’s my fault. Think about it, Crystal. The hardships she faced are due to my failings as a mother. Her lack of affection for me now, I understand. We’ll take it slow, no rush.”

“Still owing her?” Ivy sounded helpless, “In this past year, how much have you spent on her? One day it’s a house in the capital, the next she’s uncomfortable on commercial flights and wants a private jet. Not to mention the endless stream of bags and jewelry… What haven’t you provided?”

For the average family, these were lifetime unattainable luxuries. Summer simply had to ask, and it was hers. It wasn’t about the spending. Ivy also felt for Bella, knowing the sacrifices and struggles behind her rise from an unnoticed actress to a significant figure in the entertainment industry. Starting out, she was a nobody in the industry. Signed by a company for her looks, and it was those same looks that got her kicked out of a job one cold winter night, all because the lead actor pointed her out for wearing short sleeves in the snow.

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