Chapter 229
Lately, everyone had been whispering that Norbert’s affection for Morwenna seemed to have waned. But honestly, Morwenna couldn’t care less about the gossip. As long as Norbert was happy, that was all that mattered to her.
Now, witnessing Norbert fuss over her college preparations, Morwenna’s heart couldn’t help but melt. He was trying to ensure she had everything she might need for her new chapter at Rosefrost University, which, thankfully, wasn’t too far from home. This meant she could easily pop back for visits.
Norbert, on his part, seemed to be on a mission to pack up the whole house for her, worrying she might lack something essential during her stay at school.
With a gentle smile, Morwenna reassured him, “Norbert, Rosefrost University is just a stone’s throw away. I can come home whenever I want. Really, you’ve packed more than enough. I’ll be fine.”
Finally convinced, Norbert ceased his preparations.
The younger Hetfields, however, were puzzled by Norbert’s recent doting behavior. Lily, green with envy, muttered to Rose, “Wasn’t Morwenna out of favor? What’s with Grandpa making such a fuss about sending her off to college? He didn’t even bother when you went, Rose. It’s like he’s moving heaven and earth for her.”
Rose, not looking too pleased herself, responded, “My college was miles away, not as convenient for a grand send–off. Don’t be petty Lily. These gestures mean nothing in the grand scheme of things. It’s probably for the best that Morwenna leaves the Hetfield estate sooner rather than later. Who knows what trouble her staying might brew”
The youngest, Ruby, chimed in, “Maybe Grandpa has wanted Morwenna out of the old house for a while. Sweeten the deal, so she’s more than happy to head off to college.”
Under Yara’s influence, they were all too focused on the inheritance play, even the youngest ones.
Ryan, however, remained silent. He saw things differently, believing Norbert genuinely cared for Morwenna and her education, just like any parent would.
But Morwenna wasn’t bothered by their speculation. Ever since she became part of the Hetfield family and realized the varied motives around her, she never stressed about winning anyone over, except for Norbert and Stuart.
Once everything was packed and ready, Norbert announced, “Alright, that should do it. Wenna, get some rest tonight. I’ll take you to college with Stuart first thing in the morning.”
Stuart, who had been quietly observing, suddenly found himself being addressed by Morwenna, “Stuart, you don’t need to come
tomorrow.”
His expression darkened instantly.
Morwenna quickly explained. The campus will be crowded, and you’re too well–known around Rosefrost Hollow Your presence will draw too much attention, and I’d rather not kick off the semester with such fanfare.”
It was a diplomatic way of saying that Stuart’s attendance would cause a sensation, not just mere attention.
Stuart’s mood soured further, feeling sidelined.
“Even if
n if I’m s
seen, so what? It’s not like I’m a fugitive. The whole of Rosefrost Hollow knows me,” he thought, frustrated that Morwenna seemed to prefer keeping a low profile.
Norbert insisted, “Few in town recognize me, I can dress down, wear some sunglasses, and drive a more inconspicuous car. I gotta see you off, Wenna.”
Morwenna had no objections to that, which only made Stuart’s mood turn grimmer.
Observing Stuart’s reaction, Norbert couldn’t help but chuckle quietly to himself, remembering the days when Stuart was all for keeping their mamlage under wraps and maintaining a distance from Wenna.