Chapter 110
Chapter 110:
After she completed elementary school, she opted not to pursue further formal education. The teachings of Mr. Bernard were vastly superior to anything the local school could provide.
He often commended Fernanda for her sharp intellect, proclaiming her to be the brightest pupil he had ever instructed—surpassing even the boy in brilliance.
Fernanda seldom encountered the boy during her visits to the villa. Mr. Bernard mentioned that he spent most of his days secluded in his room.
On the rare occasions she did catch a glimpse of him, his long bangs obscured his eyes, and he exuded an aura of deep melancholy.
Over the span of seven years, Fernanda’s visits to the villa became a pivotal part of her life. Throughout all those years, they never once shared their real names with each other.
Mr. Bernard always called the boy “young master p>
Fernanda rarely heard the boy utter more than a few sentences.
She spent most of her time studying, while Mr. Bernard imparted all his knowledge to her. The boy remained a quiet presence, barely noticed.
Once, Fernanda voiced her concern about possibly overstaying her welcome. Mr. Bernard reassured her, urging her to concentrate on her studies.
He mentioned that teaching such an astute student like her brought him great joy.
This arrangement lasted until Fernanda reached her fourteenth year. On her birthday, she excitedly brought a cake to the villa, hoping to share it with its two inhabitants. However, she found herself waiting outside the entire day, unanswered.
That evening, a torrential rain began, and Hiram escorted her home. Soon after, Fernanda became sick, and the rain persisted for several days.
When she eventually returned to the villa, she discovered it in ruins. The place that had been her second home for seven years had been reduced to nothing more than a memory.
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Had it not been for the wealth of knowledge etched in her mind and the skills at her fingertips, Fernanda might have doubted those years ever existed.
Hiram speculated that perhaps Mr. Bernard and the boy had their own reasons for leaving. Life was a tapestry woven with encounters and farewells.
Their brief, mysterious presence and their sudden departure were merely threads in the intricate pattern of existence. A year later, the land was reclaimed by authorities, prompting Fernanda and Hiram to relocate to the bustling city.
Armed with the teachings of Mr. Bernard, she quickly secured a job, using her earnings to support Hiram and ensure his comfort in the years to come.
Despite the passage of time, Fernanda never crossed paths with Mr. Bernard or the boy again.
Today, while sorting through her possessions, she uncovered the books, pens, and a sketchpad—gifts from Mr. Bernard. These mementos rekindled her gratitude for the mentor who had profoundly influenced her life.