Crossroads

Chapter 136

“She’s my family affair, and none of you have any say in the matter.”

Dominick stood up abruptly, his presence commanding as he rose, his gaze sweeping over the assembled group with a voice that cut through the room like chilled steel,

Stephanie stood by his side, and her brow furrowed in curiosity. Across from her, Mary, usually formidable, now wore a hint of unease, a rare sight that hinted at her apprehension of her own son.

A palpable tension settled over the room, silencing even the most casual whispers as everyone pondered the unfolding scene.

“Come here.”

George’s command rang out, heavy and authoritative, before he turned and strode purposefully down the corridor.

Stephanie arched an eyebrow in surprise. She knew George was summoning Dominick, yet the latter showed no sign of moving

“Dominick…” She discreetly tugged at his sleeve.

“Mr. Wellington, Mr. George Wellington wishes to speak with you about an urgent matter.”

Brad’s voice was low, a gentle reminder in the midst of the tense atmosphere.

Dominick’s face hardened with impatience, as if their return had disrupted a fragile equilibrium.

Mary had returned, along with Yvonne and Hayley, both back from their travels abroad.

Hayley, always on friendly terms with the family, approached with a warm smile, breaking the tension. “It’s been over a month since our last meeting. Mr. George Wellington wants to speak with you about something important. You should go talk to him…

He cast a fleeting glance at Hayley standing before him, his lips tightening and his brow furrowing. With a decisive turn, he strode back down the corridor.

Stephanie remained rooted to the spot, her gaze fixed on his retreating form, a sense of indescribable melancholy settling in her heart.

“Hayley, just treat this place like home. Yvonne and I will tidy up a room for you.” Mary’s voice carried warmth as she spoke to Hayley, who was an outsider, yet she didn’t spare Stephanie even a passing glance.

The maid ushered the recently returned mistress upstairs, leaving Stephanie and Hayley alone in the spacious living room.

“Hey there, it’s been over a month! Looks like your belly has grown quite a bit, Hayley greeted her warmly, her movements graceful as she naturally took Stephanie’s hand, guiding her to a seat. “Don’t just stand there. Come and sit down.”

Stephanie’s expression seemed delayed, simply nodding in response.

of a sudden, Stephanie

over a

you mind telling me what Grandpa was so busy posing

aback by the inquiry. She recovered quickly, casual smile playing on her lips.

caused Stephanie’s mood to plummet and

Chapter 136

deliberate movements. Her fingers delicately turned the precious white cup,

you to meddle in

and comforting fragrance. Over by the lotus pond, the water lilies were in full bloom,

admiration.

edge of the pavilion, gazing thoughtfully at the vast expanse of beautiful

lotus flowers, growing somewhat impatient as he reiterated firmly, “I will handle my affairs. I

turning 81 in

his face still bearing an austere and dignified expression, yet

droopy eyes stared directly

slightly in surprise. In that instant, under the scrutiny of the elderly man, his heart felt burdened. He pressed his lips tightly, suppressing a hint

mother… I agreed

longing to return to one’s roots, which would allow one to let go

past was already

for Oscar’s matter, I knew you felt guilty, but he had already recovered. As for your affairs, I had already

Screnburg

concern

no need

floor. “Dominick, with a bullet in your

his eyes reflecting a complex mix

word, he strode away in

George and the

bedroom, feeling inexplicably uneasy. Unsure of what to do, she grabbed her phone and clicked on her WhatsApp.

talk, but I’m not sure what about. Any

[Don’t worry

tightened her grip on her

Hayley get to know, but not me? She quickly sent off

Chapter 135

curiosity was piqued at the mention of Hayley. [Is Hayley also at

the magnificent lotus pond

the