Chapter 7: Whispers of Success
The tension in the wealthy side of town began to shift. The elite social club Aunt Diane belonged to began praising Kristen's artisan shop. At charity luncheons, prominent women boasted about having a handcrafted ""Leo Vance Birdhouse"" in their estate gardens.
""Diane, isn't Kristen your niece?"" one of the prominent committee members asked during a tea gathering. ""Her workshop was selected to design the centerpiece installations for the annual Metropolitan Gala this year! You must be so proud.""
Diane forced a rigid smile, her knuckles turning white around her china cup. ""Yes... family is always full of surprises.""
Every compliment directed at Kristen felt like a slap in the face to Diane’s pride. She had spent years cultivating an image of superior status, dismissing Kristen as a burden. Now, the very community she sought to impress viewed Kristen as an inspiration.
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That evening, Richard walked into Vance & Family Crafts alone. The shop bell chimed softly as he stepped inside. The air smelled of cedar, fresh varnish, and warmth.
Kristen was at the counter reviewing invoices. She froze when she saw her uncle standing by the entrance, holding his hat in his hands, looking smaller and older than she remembered.
