Chapter 1717

Sophie wailed loudly, “Those were my gifts! You can’t take them away! Daddy, you always say people should keep their promises, but now you’re the one breaking your word! You’re a liar!”
Her father let out an exasperated sigh. With the property titles returned, he had no desire to embarrass himself further. Ignoring Sophie’s protests, he hoisted her over his shoulder and marched away, leaving her kicking and squirming in frustration. Jamie ruffled Charlie’s hair gently. “She’s just a little girl who doesn’t understand these things. Don’t feel pressured, okay? But next time, try not to ignore people on purpose.”
“Got it,” Charlie replied softly.
When they got home, Mrs. Lucas burst into laughter as soon as she heard the story. “I never would’ve guessed my grandson would be such a heartthrob in kindergarten!”
After a moment of humor, Mrs. Lucas added with a thoughtful tone, “Eight property titles-now that’s quite a marriage gift. If we start planning early, maybe it’s not such a bad idea to set something aside.”
“Mom!” Jamie was caught completely off guard. “Are you serious? They’re just kids! That little girl didn’t mean anything by it.”
“It’s just a thought! Relax,” Mrs. Lucas defended herself. “I’m not saying we should actually go through with anything. But think about it! Eight properties is no small deal.”
Ben, however, wasn’t amused. Having gone through something similar himself as a child, he was quick to shut down the idea. “That’s exactly why we shouldn’t joke about things like this. I don’t want Charlie burdened with that kind of nonsense at such a young age.” Mrs. Lucas shrugged, not pushing the matter further. “Fine, fine. I’ll drop it. I’m just the grandma here my job is to spoil the kid and cook. What you two decide is up to you.”
Taking Charlie’s hand, she walked off, leaving Ben and Jamie to exchange a knowing smile.
*
That weekend, Nina came over with her kids for a visit. Charlie and Orion ran off to play together while Jamie and Nina sat down to watch over Gemma.
Jamie laughed as she shared the
story of Charlie receiving property titles, leaving Nina equally amused. “Kids these days are something else! But hey Charlie getting eight
property titles? That just proves he’s got some kind of charm magnetism. My Orion’s not far behind. He’s already got his own little shadow following him around.”
“Who?” Jamie asked, curious.
Nina thought for a moment, recalling the details. “It’s actually kind of funny. This kid has a bit of a connection with us. One of my friends is named Penelope
Zimmerman, and her name is of net
Penelope Ziegler. She used to come
to our house pretty often, but I haven’t seen her around lately. I heard her family is planning to move to Merika State.”
Jamie blinked in surprise. “Wait, Penelope Zimmerman? The A-list actress?”
“Yes, that’s her.” Nina nodded. “We’ve known her for years, back when she was just starting out as a small-time actress. Now? She’s one of the biggest stars in the entertainment industry. Producers and studios are practically fighting over her.” Jamie couldn’t help but smile. “It’s true what they say-successful people attract successful people. It’s a good reminder to keep improving myself.”
And improve she did. Over time, Jamie’s name became synonymous with respect and capability. People no longer saw her as “Ben’s wife” or “Charlie’s mom.” Instead, when they mentioned her, they said, “Miss Lewis” or “Mrs. Lucas,” with
admiration in their voices.