Return Of The Real Heiress: Secrets And Masks by Caspian Wood

My Billionaire Family 34

Chapter

34

Cherise was relieved to be free from Shirley's constant grumbling and found herself questioning Betricn University's admissions standards.

She thought Shirley's unrefined behavior seemed more fitting for the less polished circles back in Saphira and decided to discuss her concerns with Trent later.

As Cherise approached the west wing of Leach manor, Evelyn's face brightened at the sight of her. "Cherise, there you are!" she greeted, rushing to meet her. "I spotted you from the other side of the yard. Why didn't you let me know you were coming?" With a cheerful "Evelyn, Cherise closed the distance and linked arms with her aunt, sharing a warm smile.

"Yves was right." Evelyn complimented. "You're absolutely radiant, like a character from a fairy tale. Have you had breakfast yet?"

"I have" Cherise confirmed.

"Glad that you have," Evelyn remarked. "Today's meeting is about the Chambers engagement. It began as a pact between your mother and Mrs. Chambers, but with Jeffrey and Shirley's involvement, it's become unfair to you.

"In this day and age, we mustn't control marriages or tear apart a loving couple. Yet, in a family as extensive as ours. sometimes our options are limited," she concluded with a sigh.

Cherise paused, her expression calm and resolute as she spoke to Evelyn. "Evelyn, don't worry. I've got this. It's my life, my choice. Even Grandpa can't make that call for me." Evelyn took a moment to size up Cherise, noting the steely resolve that seemed to emanate from the young woman.

Leach manor, Oliver, deep in thought, sat by the large windows, a thermos in his lap Lionel, the family butler, stood by, a quiet

them down back then? Amelia

Ms. Garcia's infrequent presence left Mr. Jacob Leach with a profound sense of loneliness. And without the Lewis family's

Cherise," Oliver cut Lionel off, his voice

quiet was interrupted by a soft

to see Cherise standing there. "Ms. Leach, you're

nodded as

for you since dawn," Lionel

find Oliver, still in his wheelchair, lost in thought by the window. "Grandpa,

"Cherise, glad you're here. Come, sit

stool and sat beside him. Noticing his leg he asked cautiously, "Grandpa, can I take a look at

let out a weary sigh, pointing to his leg. "Sure. It's an old war wound from a gout flare-up

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Chapter 31

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back." he explained, a-suake of his head showing his acceptance

pulled up his pant leg exposing a leg that was pale and

a gentle touch, she checked his ankle. "Does this hurt?" she asked