folks assume it''s a knockoff. It''s all about the confidence and aura you carry.
The janitor didn''t even try to hide his disdain for Alisa. With her in looks, she definitely didn''t give off a wealthy vibe. It''s like that old saying: if someone truly rich carries a fake designer bag, everyone still thinks it''s real. But if someone less fortunate buys the real deal, The janitor spat on the ground near Alisa and walked off, his bucket swinging by his side. Fuming, Alisa felt her head spin. She nced down at her dress, frustration bubbling inside her.
Once home, she decided to wash the dress herself. Only after it was soaking did she notice thebel: dry clean only. Just like that, her $10,000 dress was ruined.
Over at Southridge Estates, Anastasia was diving back into the swing of things, learning the family business ropes from Herman after her maternity leave. Herman nned to ease her into a management role once she was fully recovered, ensuring she had the authority she needed. Anastasia was already getting a solid grip on thepany''s operations. Even without Herman''s guidance, she was handling tasks more efficiently every day. Watching her grow, Herman felt a swell of pride, having personally mentored her.
Back home, Herman''s first stop was the nursery. The sight of his adorable twins could melt away a day''s stress instantly. Meanwhile, Pattie''s progress at school was another point of pride for him.
Anastasia was in their room, poring over some of Herman''s past project cases, soaking up as much as she could. When Herman joined her, he found her deeply engrossed on the couch. He sat beside her, wrapping an arm around her waist. "You smell amazing, honey," he murmured, catching the fresh scent of her shower.
Knowing where his thoughts were headed, Anastasia yfully rebuffed him. "Last time, I ended up with a numb face and a stiff jaw. Not happening today."
Herman chuckled, giving her a gentle tap on the forehead. "What''s on your mind now? How about we take Pattie skiing tomorrow? Since Emmie and Nancy arrived, we''ve not given her much attention. Let''s take her out for a fun day."
Anastasia had been thinking along the same lines. She had nned to let Pattie bond with her siblings at home while Katelyn was away, then take her out once Katelyn was back.
"Sounds great. What time are we going?"
Herman smiled warmly. "Whenever we wake up. No rush. The key is to enjoy ourselves. The ski lodge is ours, after all, so there''s no need to n too rigidly."
"You big shot at Elysian Technologies, we''ll just tag along with you then," Anastasia teased, secretly thrilled at the prospect of skiing. It had been years since she''dst hit the slopes, back when she was in college.
The next morning, Pattie was up early, excitement radiating off her. The family set off on their adventure, leaving little Emmie and Nancy in the capable hands of Salma and the nannies.
Salma, holding Nancy by the door, waved them off with a smile. Seeing Pattie''s joy lifted her spirits too. Pattie had been through a lottely, and a day out would do her good. Salma was relieved to see Anastasia and Herman paying special attention to Pattie.
At the ski lodge, the weekend crowd was in full swing, with many families enjoying the snow. Herman helped Pattie into her ski boots, her little face beaming as she gestured: "Daddy, I''m so happy!"
"I''m happy too," Herman replied with a grin, leading her to the slopes. He had just finished strapping on his boots when Anastasia glided over, executing a perfect stop in front of them.
Her face lit up with a confident smile. "Pattie, honey."
Pattie waved enthusiastically, and Herman''s heart felt full. The trio had a st on the slopes, with Pattie picking up skiing in no time. Like a snow fairy, she zipped around the course, catching the attention of other children. One parent remarked, "Your daughter is beautiful. She looks just like her dad."
Anastasia nced at Herman. It was true; when they both smiled, the resemnce was uncanny.