Marrying

As the year came to a close, Valerie's brand achieved remarkable success, ranking first in the annual brand growth rate and becoming one of the most beloved brands among consumers. Upon receiving this award, Valerie was elated, feeling that such recognition was well-deserved.

From the initial confirmation to the current widespread success, Valerie personally oversaw every major decision. Now, she could finally relax a bit. At year's end, she ensured that her employees were well- rewarded, with everyone receiving a big gift bag. The staff were thrilled and even shared their excitement publicly on social media.

In no time, Valerie's company became the most coveted workplace, with the industry calling her a dark horse. Her entry into the Wakefield City market, especially with Matthew's support, showcased her as a savvy investor. People even started messaging on Valerie's social media, urging her to expand recruitment as they wanted to join the company.

Valerie chuckled when she saw these comments. She reflected on how she had transformed from a minor player into an admired investment guru. People praised her for her vision, which she attributed to her insightful choices, including meeting and marrying Matthew. She realized that every step she had taken had been deliberate and well-planned, leading to the success she now enjoyed.

Seeing this, Matthew walked over and embraced her shoulders, playfully asking, "So, can this powerful woman support me in the future?"

Valerie immediately burst into laughter. "Stop joking around!"

"I'm serious," he paused. "I'm planning to take a break soon, so you'll be the one supporting me." Valerie looked up at Matthew's slightly graying hair and felt a pang of sympathy. "Sure, but if Mr. Grant wants me to support you, you'd better be ready. I'm quite particular, so you'll have to follow my lead!" Matthew gave a thumbs-up, and Hugo and Yumi hurried over, exclaiming, "Support me too!"

"Of course, you are my precious one-Mommy will take good care of you!" Valerie said.

Hugo immediately perked up at the news, casting a triumphant glance at Matthew.

Matthew was taken aback by Hugo's gaze. "Who taught this little brat? Always trying to one-up me. Just look at that expression-he's challenging me!"

Valerie couldn't help but laugh. "Alright, you should be a bit more mature. Always competing with your son for attention!"

Matthew felt truly defeated by Hugo. "He looked down on me!" Hugo always seemed to go against him. Once they were back in Kranson City, Matthew planned to send Hugo to kindergarten and enjoy some quality time with Valerie, just the two of them.

Valerie shook her head and said, "He's just a kid. You're making too much of it!"

"Even you're saying that, dear? I'm disappointed. You know we went through so much just to have this child. Now you've forgotten that I'm still your loving husband!" He held onto Valerie tightly.

Valerie couldn't help but laugh at how Matthew was acting like a child. "Alright, stop messing around. Hugo will start crying soon if you don't stop."

"Let him cry. Who cares?" Matthew said.noveldrama

Valerie was at a loss for words, and just then, Katherine and the others arrived. As the end of the year approached, everyone was getting ready to head back to Kranson City.

Aiden was brimming with excitement. Adrienne, now six months old, was dressed adorably. As she looked at Valerie waving at her, Aiden immediately extended his arms, eager for her to hold his sister. "Aunt, hold her! Look how cute Adrienne is!"

"I am cute, Yumi is cute, and Adrienne is cute! We're all cute!" Hugo's was full of charm, making everyone happy with his adorable words.

"Look at how sweet this little one's words are!" Julian said.

Matthew smirked. "He's always trying to charm everyone, but behind the scenes, he's constantly going against me!"

Hugo protested, "No, it's not like that!"

Julian chuckled. "No, no, it's not like that. Come on, let uncle hug you." He turned to Matthew and added, "You're too stern with him. Kids these days are so perceptive-they can read the room and avoid offending anyone. He's got a natural talent for business!

"You should train him well-he'll be the one to take over eventually. And in your later years, you'll be relying on him to take care of you!"

"I rely on myself, and my wife is also there to support me!" Matthew said.

Julian's eyes widened in shock as he shivered slightly. "My goodness, are you kidding me, Mr. Grant?" The room then erupted with laughter.

The two families had a meal

together. Since it was her first time taking the child back, Linda left early. After dinner; Valerie and her family planned to take a flight back.

Hearing that Valerie

s comiel.ne

back for Christmas, both the Grant and Anderson families, along with Max, were thrilled. They made plans to have a holiday dinner together.

At this moment, Vivian couldn't stay calm. Seeing Katherine rush to be with Valerie, she was visibly displeased. "This child has developed a grudge. Watching her go to someone else's side, it's like I wasted all the effort raising her!"

Louis, sitting on the sofa, responded indifferently, "Mom, it was your choice to create trouble back then. It's too late to regret now. We've already discussed this; you were the one who willingly severed ties with her."

"That was because of a moment of anger. Why didn't you try to stop it?" Vivian asked.

Louis felt frustrated, facing these issues at home. He sighed and was about to leave when Vivian grabbed him. "Hold on a moment. I've set up a meeting for you with a girl. You're not getting any younger; it's time for you to settle down!"

Louis saw a fleeting image of a charming face and sighed. "Mom, I know what I'm doing."

"You think you know, but you're

already thirty and still don't have a girlfriend. People are already having kids, and here you are!" Vivian insisted and added, "I don't care. You have to meet her today. I've already arranged it. She's Angad Benson. Just meet her for a meal; young people often find common ground."

Vivian handed him a photo, and Louis frowned. "Doesn't seem quite right. She looks pretty young."

"She's six years younger, but that's

nothing. Youth means vitality and good health. If you insist on finding someone your age or older, who knows if they'll even be able to have kids!"Vivian said, speaking from experience. "You need to settle down soon. Have a chubby and healthy baby for me, and then I'll leave you alone."

Louis was taken aback by the fact that he was being pushed to settle down and start a family. He shook his head and said, "That's enough, Mom."

"Just do as I say. If you make me unhappy, I won't let it go. Your father and I are getting older, and the daughters at home are causing enough trouble. You're my only son, and if you make me worry even more, I might just give up!" Vivian said with tears welling up in her eyes.

Having seen Vivian's persistence before, Louis could only sigh and give in when he heard her ultimatum. "Alright, I promise I'll go. Just stop with the tears!"

"That's more like it!" Vivian finally smiled.