Betrayed and Dumped She Rose Stronger Than Ever novel Chapter 257

“See? Isn’t that your son?”

The group of ladies leaned in, eyes bright as they spotted Stephen on the stage. He stood there in a crisp suit, looking every bit the gentleman. Compliments bubbled up around Chelsey.

Chelsey waved her hand, smiling. “You all make him sound so perfect. He’s almost thirty, and I haven’t even seen a hint of a girlfriend. It’s enough to drive me crazy.”

The others laughed. “Please, if Stephen wanted, every girl in Coralbridge would line up for him.”

Chelsey let out a long sigh. “He’s busy every day, but I don’t even know what he’s busy with.”

The ladies quickly chimed in. “Boys should focus on their careers. That’s what matters most.”

Only Kelley stayed quiet, sipping her tea. When the awards ceremony photo flashed on the screen, showing a man and woman side by side, Kelley’s grip on her cup tightened. She glared, biting back her frustration. Ever since Rebecca broke up with her son, she had only become bolder. Now, she was even bold enough to stand next to Stephen for a photo. Unbelievable! Rebecca came from nothing. The Duncan family would never accept her.

When the gathering ended, someone called out to Chelsey. She turned and saw Kelley coming her way, a tiny frown appearing on her face. Ten years ago, Kelley never would have made it into this circle. She had started out as the other woman, but after officially getting married and with her own son making a name for himself, everyone pretended not to care and let her in. Kelley usually kept a low profile, quietly paying her dues and treating everyone with respect. Chelsey barely dealt with her and had no clue why she wanted to talk now.

“Mrs. Duncan, I’m not sure if I should say this,” Kelley said, looking torn.

Chelsey gave her a quick once-over, unimpressed. Always so dramatic. “Then don’t. Things you hesitate to say are rarely good news.”

Chelsey shrugged. “I read online that she’s impressive, the top achiever at the ceremony. If my son handed her an award, it just means he appreciates her work. She’s one of our employees. It’s normal. Why are you making a fuss?”

Kelley’s voice grew tense. “If Rebecca were a good, decent woman, I wouldn’t say a word. But she’s not. I’ll be honest. She almost became my daughter-in-law. She was engaged to my son, but she couldn’t stay faithful. My son broke off their engagement because of her behavior. Now she’s suddenly working for your company. I’m afraid she’s had her eye on Mr. Duncan for a long time, just waiting for a chance.”

Chelsey looked surprised for a second, but she trusted her son. He was not the type to get distracted by a pretty face.

“Thank you for telling me, but you’re overthinking. I know my son better than anyone.”

Kelley’s jaw tightened. “I have photos. If you don’t believe me, you can see for yourself what kind of person she is.”