Chapter 532
There’s a sinking feeling in my chest, a persistent truth I cannot escape: Anneliese and I are fated to be at odds.
Even if I were to extend an olive branch, I can’t shake the doubt that she could ever truly forgive me for the past. The shadows of our shared history loom large, casting a pall over any chance of reconciliation.
She hasn’t even been properly introduced yet, yet here she is, strutting about with an air of superiority, completely dismissing my existence.
If she wins Derek’s heart, what will be left for me in this family?
The elders had spoken, their words echoing in my mind like a chilling refrain. Elizabeth averted her gaze, the coldness of her expression deepening as if the very air around us had thickened with tension.
“Thank you, Grandpa. I appreciate everyone’s concern,” she said, her voice steady despite the turmoil within.
Anneliese flashed a sweet smile in Derek’s direction, a smile that seemed to light up the room.
Beneath the opulent chandelier, her complexion was pale, yet her eyes sparkled with a clarity that was almost mesmerizing.
Whatever else could be said about her, there was no denying her beauty flawless and captivating.
Before Anneliese could even begin to take in the faces surrounding her, Jonathan had already whisked her away, carrying her effortlessly to a quiet courtyard nestled to the east of the main residence.
The Fullbuster family was vast, sprawling across Oceaton with the three main sons and their sister each having established their own homes. Nevertheless, the Fullbuster Residence was a sanctuary, preserving courtyard quarters for each branch of the family.
Jonathan led her to the courtyard belonging to the eldest branch, a place steeped in memories.
Once inside, Anneliese still had the energy to explore, her curiosity piqued by the remnants of his childhood scattered around—basketballs, skateboards, trophies, and model airplanes that whispered tales of his youth.
“Did you grow up here?” she asked, her voice laced with genuine intrigue.
If only fatigue hadn’t weighed her down, she would have been inspecting every little detail, absorbing the essence of his past.
He gently eased her onto the bed, his hand playfully pinching her cheek. “Still feeling okay p>
She looked up at him, a smile breaking through her weariness.
“You haven’t let me walk or talk. What could possibly happen to me p>
Inside, I brace myself for the inevitable criticism, the humiliation of being the timid daughter-in-law lurking in the background.
Yet, contrary to my expectations, the day unfolds differently.
Derek may appear stern, but he’s not unreasonable.
And it’s clear he holds Old Mrs. Fullbuster in high regard.
“If anyone bothers you, let me know right away,” Jonathan said, propping a soft
pillow behind her head. “You don’t have to put up with anything p>
Watching him, Anneliese felt the tightness within her begin to dissolve.
With him by my side, I know I won’t have to endure any suffering.
Jonathan is a far cry from Zacharias, who always speaks one way yet acts another. Jonathan.is dependable, steadfast, and sincere
But then, a flicker of suspicion crossed Anneliese’s face. “Wait a minute p>
“Hm?” he replied, raising an eyebrow in curiosity.
“Didn’t you mention you’ve been tormented by blind dates and
pressure to marry? Yet, it se net
your
like
elders completely indulge you p>
Jonathan exudes confidence, yet no elder seems to reprimand him. They appear almost wary in his presence.
She found it hard to believe he was ever pestered about marriage.
Her gaze bore into him, and she noticed the sheen of sweat forming on his palms.
He removed his watch, placing it
aside as if it were a burden. “I’m
Gnet
married it’s been almost four months now. They accepted it a while ago p>
Is that truly the reason behind it all?
Anneliese couldn’t fathom any other explanation.
Her eyes widened slightly. “So… I’m accepted now p>
He leaned down, his lips brushing against hers in a gentle kiss, twice, his voice low and warm as he spoke.
“Sweetheart, you don’t need to concern yourself with that p>
The woman I cherish—the one I fought tooth and nail to marry-needs no one’s approval but my own.
The kiss sent a wave of dizziness through her, causing her to tilt her head slightly.
He straightened abruptly, worry etched across his features.
“Lie down and rest,” he urged, his concern palpable.
He helped her settle back comfortably. When she felt a bit more at ease, she nudged him playfully.
“I’ll just rest for a little while. You should go tend to your family obligations p>
With the elders congregating downstairs, she felt a wave of shyness wash over her, reluctant to keep him from his duties.