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Novel Catalog
Chapter 9
Eden chuckled at Jasper’s playful teasing, her eyes twinkling with amusement. “Jasper, you’re impossible,” she said, shaking her head. The banter between them was light-hearted, but underneath it, there was a deep mutual respect. After all, Jasper was like family to her.
As they continued talking, Eden’s gaze drifted back to Ricky on stage. The way he was playing the piano, so focused and confident, made her heart swell with pride. It was as if he was pouring every ounce of his emotion into the music, and the crowd could feel it too. She was grateful to Abigail for helping Ricky get to this point, but a small part of her wished Abigail could give Jasper a bit more attention as well. He had his own potential—his own path—and yet, his reluctance to take center stage sometimes frustrated her.
Abigail, noticing Eden’s momentary distraction, smirked. “What’s the matter, Eden? You’re looking at your son, but don’t forget, I’ve been doing my part. Ricky has the potential to go far, and I’m just doing what’s best for him.”
Eden’s smile tightened slightly, and she shifted her gaze to Abigail. “I know, Abby. I’m just grateful for everything you’ve done for us. But don’t forget, Jasper has dreams of his own. You can’t push everyone into the same mold, even if they’re family.”
Abigail, ever the optimist when it came to business, waved off Eden’s concern. “Don’t worry about it. Jasper will come around eventually. Besides, I’m sure he’ll be a great help when Ricky’s career skyrockets.” She paused for a moment before her smile turned a bit more mischievous. “But who knows, maybe one day he’ll follow in Ricky’s footsteps. After all, he’s got the looks for it.”
Jasper rolled his eyes, playing along with the teasing but inwardly relieved that the focus was once again back on Ricky. He didn’t care for the limelight, but he always had his sister’s back, even when her ambitions were a bit much. “Ricky’s the star tonight, and he deserves every bit of it,” he said, his tone genuine. “But as for me, I’ll stick to what I know.”
Abigail smirked, clearly entertained by the exchange. “Fine, fine, I’ll let you off the hook for now. But don’t think I’ll stop trying to convince you to join the entertainment industry. You’ve got potential, you know?”
The lighthearted conversation was cut short when Ricky finished his performance. The room was filled with applause, and Eden couldn’t help but join in, her heart soaring with pride. Ricky’s success was her success, and seeing him so poised and talented in front of such a large audience filled her with emotion.
As Ricky stepped off the stage, his bright smile met Eden’s, and she couldn’t help but rush over to him, her arms outstretched. “You were incredible, Ricky. I’m so proud of you!”
Ricky laughed and hugged her back. “Thanks, Mom! I couldn’t have done it without you.” His voice was full of warmth and gratitude, and Eden felt a wave of joy sweep over her. She had made the right choice, keeping her children close and giving them everything she could.
Abigail, watching the mother and son exchange a heartfelt moment, smiled knowingly. She had seen this dynamic many times before—Eden was a fierce, protective mother who had sacrificed everything for her children. And now, as Ricky took his first steps into the limelight, Eden’s sacrifices were paying off.
The moment felt timeless, a reflection of everything Eden had worked for over the years. And as she stood there, watching her son receive the recognition he deserved, she realized that, despite the obstacles life had thrown her way, she had never given up. Her children were her greatest achievements, and they were just beginning to make their mark on the world.
“Looks like we’re going to have to find a way to celebrate tonight,” Eden murmured, her smile still lingering as she looked at Ricky, who was already chatting excitedly with Abigail about his performance.
Jasper, still standing next to Eden, raised an eyebrow. “I think it’s safe to say that tonight is Ricky’s night. We can all celebrate together.”