Chapter 82

The wind gently rustled the nearby tree, almost like Gerald was saying hello.

Through my tears, I said, "Dad, I really wish I'd listened to you back then. I totally misjudged Brandon; he's a terrible person."

"He drugged me and tried to steal the company. Luckily, I found out in time, or I might not be here visiting you today."

All the emotions I had been holding back came pouring out. "If only I had listened to you."

A sudden gust of wind blew through, making the leaves rustle loudly, as if Gerald was saying he heard me. He must be worried sick up there.

I wiped my tears. "But don't worry, Dad. I've grown up. I can handle these things on my own now."

"Even though my marriage didn't work out, I have three wonderful kids. I brought them all here today. My biggest regret is that you never got to meet them."

I motioned for Holly to bring the kids over, and Brett followed.

I patted Brett on the shoulder. "Say hello, Brett."

Brett looked nervously at the gravestone, his fingers clenched, his eyes full of unease. In a soft voice, he said, "Hi, Grandpa. I'm Brett. These are my brother and sister, Yves and Aria."

I was puzzled. "Brett, speak up. Grandpa can't hear you."

To my surprise, Brett looked at me seriously. "Mom, isn't Grandpa resting? I don't want to disturb him."

His innocent words made me smile despite myself.

I held his hand and said earnestly, "It's okay, Brett. Grandpa likes hearing you talk."

Only then did Brett raise his voice and greet his grandpa loudly.

"Grandpa, when can you come take me to school? I love Grandma so much, and I'm sure I'd love you too. If you could take me to school, I'd be so happy."

I stood by, listening quietly, my heart melting.

It was then that I realized I had never lacked love in my life. Gerald and Kelly had loved me wholeheartedly, and now I had three wonderful children. I just hadn't noticed it before.

Suddenly, I felt a surge of courage.

After saying goodbye to Gerald, I prepared to take the kids down the hill. But Brett suddenly ran back to Gerald's gravestone and said, "Grandpa, you rest well here. I'll take care of Mom."

I was deeply moved. My little Brett understood everything, even at his young age.

Back home, I felt more determined than ever. Just then, Joanna called.

While I was away, Brandon had been pushing the overseas business aggressively and had started working with Joanna.

"The plan can start now. Brandon is completely blinded by his own success."

I was immensely grateful. "Thank you, Ms. Thorne. I don't know what I would have done without you."

Joanna chuckled. "No need to thank me. You know my history. I despise people like him. Besides, you're quite interesting. I'm happy to help. But you won't forgive Brandon in the end, will you?"

"Don't worry, I won't."

After hanging up, I saw Eugene sweeping the yard. I pretended to continue my phone conversation. "Yes, our overseas business depends on you. Thank you, Ms. Thorne."

I pretended to hang up and turned to Eugene. "Eugene, I've been staying here for a couple of days and forgot to ask, where are you from?"

Eugene replied softly, "I'm from a village near Suncrest City. I let others farm my land and came out to work since I had nothing else to do."

"Luckily, Mr. Jordan gave me a job."

I scrutinized him. "Don't you have any kids? Don't they miss you when you're away for so long?"

Eugene smiled awkwardly. "My wife passed away early, so we didn't have any kids."

"Any other relatives?"

Eugene shook his head. "None at all."

I frowned, wondering who Eugene really was to Elora, for Brandon to trust him so much.

Eugene finished sweeping and went elsewhere.

I went to my room and found Kelly and Brett watching the kids on the bed.

I closed the door. "Mom, I haven't had a chance to ask you about Eugene."

Kelly shook her head slightly, signaling me to look outside.

Sure enough, there was a shadowy figure standing by the door, seemingly eavesdropping.

I was startled but stayed silent.

Eugene seemed unaware that he had been discovered and continued listening.

I cleared my throat. "Mom, Eugene is so pitiful. How much do you pay him? Make sure to give him enough so he has something to rely on in his old age."

Kelly nodded. "I know. Brandon usually pays him, but I give him bonuses occasionally."

Just then, Holly's voice came from outside. "Eugene, can you help me? I don't know how to use this kitchen appliance."

Eugene hesitated for a moment before walking over to help.

Once he was gone, I let out a sigh of relief. "That scared me."

I looked at Kelly. "Mom, did you know he's been watching you?"

Kelly nodded. "Brandon is probably interested in the urban renewal project here. That's why I kept it a secret."

"You and Brandon are married, but it's natural to have your own thoughts. As long as he treats you well, I can overlook these little things."

I was silent, feeling an urge to tell Kelly everything.

But I couldn't. I had grown up. I had to handle this myself.

I chose to marry Brandon, so I had to deal with it.

"I want to get rid of him. Do you think that's okay?"

I whispered. "He might not harm you, but I'm worried about you being alone..."

Kelly nodded. "Do as you see fit. I'll follow your lead."

Knowing Kelly was cautious, I felt relieved.

Brandon thought he could control Kelly with just anyone. How laughable.

Kelly was one of the first college graduates and had taught for years. She could see right through his schemes.

I opened the door, and Eugene was about to come over. Seeing me, he quickly turned and walked away.

I smirked and stepped outside.

Soon, Holly called us for dinner.

Just as we were about to start, there was a knock on the door.

Kelly and I exchanged glances, and she signaled Eugene to answer it.

"Mrs. Sharp, Caroline, I came to see you."

I was surprised to see Eugene leading Royce in, carrying a bunch of things.