Jason caught Natalie's anxious gaze and quickly stepped in to ease the tension, "Mom, Natalie and I are on the same page. A happy resolution is definitely the best outcome!"
"Yeah, I just want everything to be peaceful and harmonious for Ludwik's family."
Camilla sneaked a glance at Natalie, and well, she couldn't be more pleased.
She worried endlessly about Jason's future, fearing he'd end up lonely in his later years. Having a kind-hearted and understanding woman like Natalie by his side gave her peace of mind.
Natalie, with her good nature, had stepped in during their toughest times to purchase the Lippert Resort.
This gesture of kindness was well known among the Lipperts.
With a chuckle, Camilla said, tapping her cane, "Isn't that the truth? All us elders want is to see our children and grandchildren happy. Ludwik, Whitney, please don't give us any more worries."
Whitney, speechless, firmly clarified, "Camilla, there's really nothing between Ludwik and me..."
"Not getting back together then? Well, you're here to pick up the kids, but you might as well stay for dinner," Camilla warmly invited. "You haven't visited me in a while, and I did help you out back in the day."
That was true.
From their first meeting, Camilla had shown Whitney kindness.
And over time, she'd become fond of Danny, now even embracing Whitney's two sons.
Danny exclaimed, "Mommy! You should come in. The Lipperts treat us like royalty here. Great-grandma even feeds me and Sammy herself, and Grandpa buys us snacks and toys that even Justin doesn't get to play with. And Aunt Heidi Lippert, who used to be cold to me, is now super nice."
It was unexpected. After a downfall that forced them out of their grand manor into this modest house, the once divided Lippert family had found harmony.
This new atmosphere made Whitney more comfortable leaving her kids here.
With a smile, she ruffled her sons' hair and followed them inside.
Expecting a pristine and solemn Lippert family living room, Whitney was surprised to find it cluttered with toys.
In the adjoining hall, there was even a life-sized slide and a ball pit.
Whitney was taken aback. This was nothing like the old Lipperts.
Clearly, the genuine happiness on Danny and Sammy's faces wasn't an act. The Lippert elders truly adored them, treating these two prodigies like any other beloved child.
Feeling a mix of emotions, Whitney sneaked a glance at the stern and upright Ludwik.
She remained silent, bowing her head.
"Whitney," Camilla approached with a beaming smile, "after the Lipperts fell on hard times, we went through a rough patch. But your boys have been a real joy for us. Look at them, so happy. Sammy may be the quiet type, but when he plays soccer with Ludwik, his youthful spirit shines through."
"The old Lipperts were too caught up in schemes, lacking warmth and simplicity."
Jason, surprisingly in agreement, softened his tone as he turned to Whitney, "I was wrong about Florence, Whitney. I owe you an apology. You were the only one who truly showed mercy to Ludwik.
"Son, Whitney is a good woman. Her marriage to Bryce was a sham. Ever since she announced her divorce today, the internet's been buzzing, rooting for us to get back together. They say I'm the only one who truly loved her. And I believe we both have each other's best interests at heart..."
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