After that, things finally started to settle down.


    The Winston Group, after their giarism scandal, kept a low profile and tried to redeem their image with charity events and glowing press. The Thorne Group was still trying to poach talent, but honestly, their results were mediocre at best. Compared to A&C Entertainment–a


    well–establishedpany known for fair treatment–the up–anding Thorne Group just couldn’tpete.


    The Quincy family, after hearing that Eddie Chase had turned down their offer to tutor Tammie Quincy, tried to retaliate by leaking past stories about Eddie exposing his own rtives‘ misdeeds. But before any real drama could unfold, the rumors were stamped out. Instead, it was the Quincys‘ own embarrassing moment at a recent exhibition that ended up making the rounds online, with everyone getting augh at their expense.


    Ethan was no longer the nameless internwyer who could be fired at a moment’s notice. Now, people lined up for his legal expertise, and he’d evennded a regr spot on a popr TV show as their go–to legal advisor. His sharp looks, solid legal knowledge, and quick wit had won him a devoted following.


    Despite the media attention, Ethan had no ns to be a celebrity. He only appeared on TV at thepany’s request. More often than not, he preferred to seek out his mentor, Calvert, to discussplicated cases from years past–much to Calvert’s satisfaction.


    Zachary was still in school, known for his low–key, gentle manner. He was popr on campus, but oddly hard to approach. Whenever someone tried to strike up a conversation, he’d always smile and politely turn them down–never rude, but never encouraging, either.


    Most days, Zachary could be found at the library, immersed in medical textbooks. On weekends or when he didn’t have sses, he helped out at the local clinic<i>. </i>Sometimes, Xander would take him along to care for elderly patients or others with limited mobility. Word of Zachary’s skills began to spread, and his confidence grew; he was no longer so timid and


    <b>1/3 </b>


    10:05


    unsure.


    Liam’s rising fame meant his days were packed with appointments and appearances. Since he’d never studied dance before, it wasn’t unusual for him to practice well into the night. Whenever he had a spare moment, he’d study with his vocal coach or brainstorm new songs with Jason. asionally, Tristan–the seasoned veteran–would drop by to offer advice and perspective.


    The Mortons‘ chain of bakeries was thriving. The couple looked happier and healthier than ever, a far cry from their earlier days of exhaustion and discouragement. Karen yed to her strengths, constantlying up with new recipes and keeping things fresh. Brendan, having learned from a failed business venture, now ran things with far more care, making sure every detail was perfect and quality never slipped.


    Their original shop was now run by Mae, who’d recently hired a young woman to help out.


    Mae had found her on the way back from the market–a girl with a limp, wearing tattered clothes and skin darkened by the sun; it was clear she’d been wandering for some time. Mae reported her to the authorities, but with no family found, she decided to take the girl in herself.


    Though the girl never spoke, she was hard–working and reliable, quickly bing invaluable to Mae. Mae treated her like a daughter, giving her


    a new name: Flora.


    As for Queenie, she had no shortage of admirers, but she was all about her career–determined to create better and better work. After being betrayed once, she’d learned to be more cautious. Now, she always kept a n B and a n C; it was a lesson she’d taken to heart.


    Ste and Justin each had their own careers, but they were also gradually taking on more responsibility in the family business. Their engagement party had already been held, and as soon as Ste graduated, they nned to get married. They bickered often, but the more they argued, the closer they seemed. Their dynamic was nothing like Cole and Alessia’s.


    213


    10:05


    Chapter <b>395 </b>


    Everyone was racing along their own path in life, and Cole and Alessia were no exception.


    After a whirlwind month, they finally had a chance to slow down and go on a real date–just the two of them, enjoying some much–needed time together.


    Alessia was already inside the movie theater, while Cole waited in line at the concession stand for popcorn and soda. When her phone rang, she nced over at Cole, still patiently waiting, then stepped into a quiet corner to answer the call.


    T