Chapter 593
[ 533 words ]
The Lugar family’s castle loomed ahead, a grand and imposing structure nestled amidst rolling hills. As they approached, Ronald tried to reassure Stella about their visit. With a gentle, coaxing tone, he finally convinced her not to accompany him to find her elder sister, Yvonne.
Once the car pulled to a stop, Idris, their loyal chauffeur, gracefully opened the door for Stella. “Miss,” he said with a respectful nod.
Stella gave Ronald a hopeful look, her eyes wide with hesitation. She still wanted to go with him to see Yvonne, but her grandpa could be quite intimidating.
Ronald, with a playful smile, affectionately pinched her cheek. “You’ll be fine, sweetheart.”
“Alright, I guess I’m off then,” Stella replied, her voice tinged with reluctance.
“Go on,” Ronald encouraged, nodding reassuringly.
With a little hesitation, Stella finally stepped out of the car.
The Lugar family’s butler, having been informed of their arrival, was already waiting at the grand entrance. As Stella approached, he greeted her with a formal bow. “Miss, welcome.”
Stella nodded in acknowledgment.
The butler glanced at the departing car. “Master Ronald isn’t joining us? The lady of the house has had the kitchen prepare a feast of your favorite dishes.”
Stella sighed, “Something came up with Yvonne. Let’s head inside.”
The butler nodded in understanding and led Stella inside, with a retinue of house staff following respectfully behind.
…
Back in the car, Idris glanced at Ronald. “Miss Stella seems quite apprehensive about seeing Mr. Levi.”
Recalling her anxious expression, Ronald couldn’t help but chuckle affectionately. “He won’t bite.”
Stella needed this visit, especially after being away for the past few years. Her grandpa, Mr. Levi, was stern but fair. Even with Ronald present, Stella would still have to answer for her actions.
Idris nodded silently, understanding the old man’s stern demeanor masked a deep love for his family. Still, Stella’s three-year absence was not something that would go unnoticed without a proper explanation.
Inside the castle, Stella could hear her grandma gently reminding Mr. Levi, “Lottie called earlier; she mentioned that Star is expecting. Please, go easy on her.”
Stella’s heart skipped a beat. Her mom’s call might not soften him much.
Mr. Levi’s stern voice echoed through the hall, “Hmph, if kids aren’t raised right, who knows what trouble they’ll get into.”
Stella couldn’t help but notice Ronald’s resemblance to Mr. Levi, both in features and the commanding presence. Ronald often joked about inheriting his charisma from his grandpa.
Grandma tried to interject, “Now, Levi…”
But Mr. Levi cut her off, still gruff, “Three years without a word. What kind of independence is that?”
Stella winced at the familiar topic of her leaving home. No matter the reasons, three years was a long time, and forgiveness wouldn’t come easy.
Standing awkwardly at the entrance, Stella shot the butler a pleading look.
With a gentle smile, he whispered, “Mr. Levi has been quite upset over the years.”
Who wouldn’t be? Their cherished granddaughter had vanished.
Stella pouted silently, feeling the weight of her choices.
Grandma tried again, “Yes, but now’s the time to guide her. She’s grown up and expecting a child.”
Mr. Levi huffed, “This is independence? Sounds more like she’s still in her rebellious phase.”
Grandma wanted to advocate for Stella, but her words seemed to rile Mr. Levi even further.
Stella’s heart thudded. This wasn’t going to be easy.
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