Chapter 3853
After a brief silence, Erika continued, “But what did I end up with? Your older brother nearly cost me my life for someone else. That’s when I gave up and recognized a simple truth: a good marriage brings joy, but a bad one leaves you scarred. My children are grown now, and I don’t think about remarrying. I’m fine on my own. If I meet someone who shares my interests, I might fall in love, but marriage isn’t an option.”
Kathryn sighed, “Even though he’s my brother, from a woman’s perspective, he’s not a good man. He’s not someone you should have trusted with your life. He’s cheated, and he will continue to do so. I support your divorce. Live for yourself, and don’t worry about what others think. The kids are getting older—they’ll understand your decision.”
Erika nodded, “They’re all on my side. Even though we had a nanny, I was the one who took care of them most of the time. They’re closest to me. If I divorce your brother, none of them would choose to live with him. I’m not considering marriage again, and if the kids want to stay with me, I’ll welcome them. He can visit and maintain a relationship with them while also helping out financially.”
Marco no longer had feelings for Erika. If he did, he wouldn’t have cheated. Still, he loved his children, even though he was often absent. He provided financially, but the kids viewed him more as an ATM than as a father.
“Are you really walking away from the Farrell Group?” Erika asked, shifting the topic.
“It’s not about walking away,” Kathryn replied. “The real question is whether it was ever mine to claim. Clearly, it wasn’t, and the Farrell family isn’t mine either. I don’t want to fight for something that doesn’t belong to me.”
Frika paused, then sighed. “Honestly, I wish you would take over the Farrell family. You’re their aunt, and doing so would make life easier for the kids here in Jensburg.”
“If you give it all up and leave, the kids could struggle. They don’t have your mother’s sharp mind or yours. They’re more like your brother—average and not great with money. Life is becoming more difficult. What will they do without support?”
Kathryn smiled reassuringly. “Sister-in-law, everyone has their own path. My nieces and nephews may not be extraordinary, but if they stay grounded and work hard, they can find stable jobs and lead decent lives. You and my brother have enough assets that if they ever hit rock bottom, they can return and lean on what you’ve built.
Keep your house and shop. Rent them out for a steady income; that will be enough to live on. If the kids lack the skills for bigger opportunities, they can run their own small businesses. They won’t have to pay rent, so whatever they earn will be theirs. They won’t go hungry.
Additionally, Mom left some money for each of them, enough to get by. If you don’t feel like investing, simply keep it in the bank to earn interest. If you decide to invest, be cautious and avoid risking everything. Perhaps consider buying another house or shop to rent out. With some planning, they’ll be fine.”
Kathryn recognized Erika’s true intentions. Erika was attempting to persuade her to assume control of the Farrell family, ensuring it did not fall into the hands of someone unworthy.