Chapter 543
543 A Suspicious Medicinal Aroma
“I understand. I’m happy that Sevie is back, too.”
Naomi flashed a perfect smile. “The family reunion banquet is tomorrow. Grandpa must not know
you’ve returned, otherwise he would have sent you an invitation.”
Winnie tapped her forehead, her emerald ring’s gleam catching the light. “The Quinnells did send me a
letter. But I just returned home and haven’t had the chance to open it yet. I thought it was Shane that-”
Winnie cleared her throat. “I’ll look for it again when I get back.”
“You’re still holding a grudge against my dad,” Naomi remarked. “It’s been hard for him too, and it’s all
because of me. No one really understands him.”
Winnie clearly didn’t want to talk about Shane. “I just envy anyone who captures Marie’s heart.”
Naomi chuckled softly. Lowering her gaze, she appeared concerned. “Winnie, there’s something I’m
not
sure if I should mention.”
“You can tell me anything,” Winnie said as she smoothed out Naomi’s hair.
Naomi bit her lips. “I’m afraid I might sound like I’m stirring up trouble. I’m just worried Sevie’s return is
going to affect Mom’s condition.
“While she was getting treated abroad, the doctors advised against anything that might upset her for
the
time being. Anything related to the past could trigger her painful memories.
“Logically speaking, Mom should get better with Sevie’s return.”
Naomi paused before shaking her head. “But the doctors told me it’s been too long, so it’s hard to say.
They’re worried it might cause further harm. After all, we have no idea how much Sevie has changed.”
Naomi was searching Winnie’s expression as she talked, and evidently, Winnie didn’t believe her fully.
However, she had planted the seeds of doubt and just had to wait for them to sprout.
“Winnie, it’ll be great if you could attend the banquet tomorrow and look out for us.” Naomi put on an
aggrieved smile.” Grandpa probably didn’t invite me because of my identity. My appearance will upset
him.
“Fortunately, Mom won’t be attending, either. I’m really worried the situation will repeat itself with her
there.”
Her words resonated with Winnie on a personal level. After Marie’s incident back then, their entire
social
circle was shaken.
Winnie had watched Marie, the person she admired the most, lose her mind right before her eyes. She
hadn’t been able to calm her down no matter how hard she tried, all because of one name.
Winnie couldn’t quite articulate how she currently felt. After thinking about it, she said, “I really should
go
and have a look.”
“I’ll feel at ease with you there.” Naomi continued bitterly, “Grandpa already sees me as an enemy. Dad
543 A Suspicious Medicinal Aroma
has also upset Grandpa because of me.
2/2
“I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to explain things to Grandpa. I’m not trying to take away his love
for Sevie. I’m just really concerned.”
Winnie patted her head. “You’re a good kid. We’ve all seen how you’ve treated Marie. It’s just that the
elders tend to hold blood ties in higher regard. So, try to empathize with your grandfather a little more.”
“I will.” Naomi knew when to stop. She then took out a sandalwood amulet. “Winnie, I got this
sandalwood amulet for you. It doesn’t cost much, but it’ll keep you safe.”
The amulet emitted a pleasant fragrance. Its scent was indescribable, reminiscent of incense and
herbs, enticing one to take another whiff.