Chapter 1607

Helen was taken aback; in the past, Abigail had always found herself at a disadvantage. Yet seven years later, she had developed a knack for silencing others with her sharp comebacks. Everyone seemed to have changed significantly over the years. Still, the current dispute demanded resolution. Seeing the boy's anguished expression, Helen urged, "We should take him to the hospital. His arm looks hurt, and he seems to be in a lot of pain. He needs treatment immediately." "No way!" the woman snapped, refusing to budge. "No one's going anywhere until this is resolved!" "Do you even care about your child? Look at him—he's as pale as a ghost. Aren't you the least bit concerned? And when did we ever say we were going to run? Just because you're petty doesn't mean everyone else is the same!" Abigail shot back, unable to stand the woman's behavior any longer. "Say that again—do you honestly think you can hit someone and still play the victim?" the woman yelled, moving closer to Abigail. It was clear that tensions were on the verge of erupting. Just then, the hostess of the party arrived. "Mrs. Portell!" Maddie approached with a bright smile, trying to diffuse the situation. "What's going on? Why is everyone so upset?" "It's all thanks to these unruly people," the woman complained, yanking the boy forward for sympathy. "Just look at what they've done to my son!" "How can you lie so shamelessly?" Abigail interjected, stepping forward to confront her. "Abigail," Helen said sharply, shaking her head and signaling her to hold back. Reluctantly, Abigail chose to stay quiet. Prior to her arrival, Maddie had already pieced together the situation—it was merely a playful scuffle among the kids that had escalated a bit. It wasn't a serious matter. As her eyes swept across the group of guests, they briefly settled on Helen. Maddie quickly looked away, trying to keep her composure. There was something undeniably captivating about Helen. After that fleeting distraction, Maddie regained her focus. As the hostess, she was determined to remain neutral and not show favoritism to anyone. Noticing the socialite's persistence, Maddie discreetly led her aside. "Mrs. Portell, I've heard that Mr. Portell is trying to secure a jewelry sales license in Grand Cathay. Would you like me to put in a word for him with Chandler?" "Would you really do that, Ms. Maddie?" The woman's eyes lit up with excitement. "That would be absolutely fantastic!" "It's just a small favor," Maddie replied, though she was also seeking something in return. "Today is important for me, and I hope you'll consider giving me some leeway, Mrs. Portell…" Her implication was clear, and the woman understood perfectly. "Don't worry, Mrs. Newton, I know just what to do." Maddie smiled brightly. "I'm not 'Mrs. Newton' just yet." "Well, it's practically a done deal; there's no turning back now," the woman flattered. She was eager to foster a good relationship with Chandler's partner, knowing it would yield future benefits. They exchanged a knowing smile before turning back to Helen and the others. "Out of respect for Ms. Maddie, I won't pursue this incident any further," the woman said, leading her child away with a cheerful demeanor. "Alright, everyone, please feel free to mingle and enjoy the rest of the party," Maddie announced, stepping into her role as the gracious host and encouraging the guests to disperse. Once the crowd had thinned, Maddie turned to Helen and asked, "May I know your last name, miss?" "It's Terzian," Helen replied with a polite nod. "Thank you for intervening just now, Ms. Maddie." "You're welcome," Maddie replied, pursing her lips thoughtfully as she glanced at the three children beside her. "Ms. Terzian, are all three of these kids yours?" she asked, a note of surprise in her voice.