Under Jennifer's meticulous planning and Maddox's silent support, Betty's christening party was a grand event that drew the cream of Stonebridge society.
At the banquet hall entrance stood a life-sized photo of Leanne cradling Betty, her features soft and serene, a picture of delicate beauty, smiling tenderly at the baby in her arms. The little one gazed curiously at the camera with her beautiful and sparkling eyes.
Beneath the photo, a caption read,
Photographed by Curtis
The pride was unmistakable.
Betty was a natural charmer, blinking and cooing at anyone who greeted her, eliciting waves of admiration.
"She's destined for greatness," one guest remarked.
"I've never seen such a bright and beautiful baby. You're truly blessed," another added.
Jennifer's smile never waned.
Leaning on his cane, Hubert made a special effort to congratulate the family. Holding Betty, Leanne went over to greet him, and he generously handed over a gift box, patting Curtis on the shoulder with his aged hand.
"Last time, Anne mentioned you had some male issues. It kept me up at night, worrying your dear parents wouldn't get to see their grandchild. But look at you now, all fixed up," Hubert beamed. "Which doctor did you consult? They must be quite skilled."
Leanne barely contained her laughter, a flicker of amusement in her eyes.
Had Hubert not brought it up, she would've forgotten all about it.
Curtis shot her a look but played along. "Oh, yes, Dr. Castillo. Would you like to meet her?"
Catching that Curtis was pulling his leg, Hubert was at a loss for words.
Penelope came by to see the baby and chat with Leanne, offering to help her get a position at a medical research institute funded by Selina's father.
Leanne thanked her but declined. "I'm considering pursuing a PhD."
Penelope was initially excited for her but hesitated, "What about Curtis, then?"
Leanne glanced at Curtis, who was in conversation with Phillip. She hadn't fully decided yet.
Her perspective had shifted since receiving the offer from Emberland University. Initially prepared to move abroad with Betty alone, she faced a new dilemma with Curtis back in the picture.
As a mother, she couldn't bear to separate Betty from either parent, but the thought of living apart from Curtis was equally troubling.
After days of contemplation and discussing her concerns with Curtis, the truth arrived as he prepared a bottle for Betty, preferring the personal touch over leaving it to a nanny.
Hearing her concerns, Curtis leaned against the counter and asked, "What do you think?"
"The simplest solution would be to stay," Leanne reasoned. "It's not much different studying here."
Curtis disagreed, "That's the easy way out, not the best. Domestic universities are good, but they weren't your first choice. That alone makes a big difference."
"So, what do we do?" Leanne fretted. "With you in Stonebridge and me in Emberland, we can't just split Betty between us."
Curtis chuckled. "You're tough, planning to split her half? She's too adorable for that."
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