Crossroads

Chapter 138

Stephanie was gently nudged awake by Sandra at seven in the morning.

Sandra’s words carried a gentle urgency, reminding her that with George and Mary now both at Wellington Villa, sleeping in late could potentially stir up unwelcome gossip and affect their reputation. “I’ll be more mindful from now on.” Stephanie replied gratefully, appreciating Sandra’s concern. With the elders back, she couldn’t afford to be seen as careless or disrespectful.

After quickly freshening up in the bathroom and changing into suitable attire, she hurried towards the main house.

Hayley, how was your night’s rest?”

Pausing at the doorstep, Stephanie caught snippets of conversation drifting from inside. A complex mix of emotions swirled within her as she listened intently.

Hayley had spent the previous night at Wellington Villa…

She knew she shouldn’t jump to conclusions, but despite the numerous guest rooms, she recalled the family’s strict rules about overnight guests who weren’t closely related.

Did Hayley not qualify as an outsider?

“Hayley, you’re practically family. Why not consider staying permanently at Wellington Villa? It would save you the trouble of finding a separate residence. Both Yvonne and I love your company… Mary’s voice carried warmth and reassurance, hinting at a bond beyond mere acquaintance.

Hayley responded with a bashful tone, declining softly, “Mr. George Wellington has his rules, and I wouldn’t want to impose.”

Mary’s tone turned confident. “Don’t worry about that. Dominick has promised to look after you. Just bring it up with him, and I’m sure everything will work out…

Dominick promised to look after her!

“Mrs. Wellington.”

Suddenly, the maid passing by the doorway called out, her voice breaking the quiet hur of morning sunlight filtering through the windows.

The two women in the living room swiveled their heads towards Stephanie with a synchronized motion, their expressions freezing into masks of surprise and uncase. The atmosphere thickened with unspoken tension.

“What kind of manners are these, eavesdropping on other people?” Mary’s voice cut through the air, her tone cooling as she fixed her gaze on Stephanie, her eyes betraying a hint of disapproval. “How did your parents educate you?”

Stephanie’s features tightened involuntarily. She felt the urge to retort, to defend herself against the implication, but she restrained the impulse, her lips pressed together in a firm line

had unwittingly turned her into

whenever Stephanie encountered Mary, her face always lacked warmth. Stephanie cast her gaze downward, hesitating at the

over and get ready for breakfast.” Hayley’s voice broke the awkward silence, showing her habitual smile

tension.

are you

familiar figure quickened his

his gaze catching her

under her breath. “It’s all your fault. Why

slightly, amused by her

“Let’s get breakfast started.”

entered the dining room with measured steps,

solemn atmosphere reminiscent of the previous evening. Conversations

Chapter 138

caution in order to not make that loud

Stephanie noted a

George’s demeanor this mont

look as stern as the

summoned early in the moming by George to Nightingale

severe car accident injury, a concern

George occupied for

Stephanie still yearned to know more when George suddenly glanced her way. Startled, she immediately averted her gaze, feeling a rush of nerves, and clutched the spoon tightly as she hurriedly scooped

Dominick frowned slightly, handing her a

to meet his gaze, Silently, she accepted

Grandpa?” Dominick’s voice was soft but discerning as he studied her with a lowered gaze,

His

question unsented Step

“No, she replied

a glass of milk, pretending to be incredibly thirsty, and gulped

more milk here, would you

her, Hayley noticed Stephanie had drained her half–glass and smiled warmly

her. Reluctant to accept, she smiled back weakly.

at her with frustration, picking up another clean handkerchief, and gently advising

“What’s the matter?”