Chapter 148
But it’s only Fletcher and Barclay who’re somewhat closer with Stuart.
Morwenna watched them intently, her gaze unwavering.
Seizing the opportunity to bash Morwenna, Barclay chimed in, “See, there’s no shortage of women pining for Stuart’s attention. Sophisticated ladies are a dime a dozen, each more impressive than the next. And you think you stand a chance with Stuart? Do you honestly believe you’re in his league?”
Morwenna, who had been observing the scene, turned to Barclay, her voice barely above a whisper, “Norbert thinks I’m worthy. Besides, it’s not about being worthy. If Stuart likes someone, even a beggar would make the cut. If he doesn’t, all the perfection in the world
amounts to nothing.”
2
Barclay retorted, “But in our circles, do you really think we have the luxury of marrying for love? Marriages are more about alliances, about what benefits the family.”
Morwenna scoffed, “Speak for yourself.”
Barclay was left speechless.
Morwenna added, “Do you honestly believe Stuart is the type to just settle? Do you think anyone can dictate Stuart’s choices?”
Again, Barclay had no response.
S
S
Truth be told, Morwenna was right. Barclay’s envy of Stuart was palpable. He envied Stuart’s reckless character, which seemed unshackled by the constraints of high society.
Morwenna had once accused him of being foolishly impulsive, merely mimicking Stuart.
Trying to emulate Stuart’s carefree demeanor, Barclay had only managed a poor imitation. After a particularly humbling encounter with
3 2 2 2 2 5 8 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 5 282 282 2ů 5
Morwenna, he finally understood.
He could never be like Stuart.
Meanwhile, Morwenna ignored Barclay and continued to watch Stuart from afar.
The gathering was a match–making mixer.
O
Men and women mingled, exchanging pleasantries and contact details. Even Ms. Irons found herself approached by several bold
suitors.
Yet Stuart seemed to exist in a bubble; many admired him from a distance, but none dared to approach.
Greta stuck close to Stuart, chatting him up now and then, sometimes getting super close, and he didn’t seem to mind at all.
As per tradition, the event would start with an opening dance.
The host grabbed the microphone, announcing in a broadcaster’s tone, “We are privileged to have among us today the finest young
people of Rosefrost Hollow, and it’s an honor to have Mr. Hetfield here. Who will have the pleasure of sharing this opening dance with
Mr. Hetfield?”
Most eyes turned to Greta, the only one who seemed capable of standing beside Stuart without seeming out of place.
Even if Greta wasn’t there, it was doubtful anyone else would dare ask Stuart to dance.
Greta glanced at Stuart, playing it cool, waiting.
Stuart’s presence signified a willingness to engage with the Irons family.
Proud as she was, Greta liked Stuart too much to play games. If Stuart didn’t invite her within a minute, she’d swallow her pride and ask him herself.
Just then, Morwenna removed her sunglasses and walked towards Stuart, under the watchful eyes of everyone, including a stunned Barclay
With a voice soft and clear, she asked, “Stuart, may I have this dance?”