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Novel Catalog
Chapter 72
Elizabeth’s words made Matthew’s face darken, his expression taut with annoyance. However, he quickly remembered the doctor’s strict instructions to avoid upsetting Elizabeth after her recent discharge. Reluctantly, he nodded. “Alright.”
Veronica, seeing Matthew’s discomfort, couldn’t help but feel a little satisfaction. Yet, she wiped the smile from her face and turned to Elizabeth with a serious tone. “Grandma, Matthew’s right. My background isn’t a good match for them.”
Matthew, eager to reinforce his point, added, “Exactly.”
But before he could say more, a loud ‘bang’ rang out as Elizabeth flung her cup at his feet. “I told you to shut up! Are you deaf or just plain rude?” Her voice thundered across the room, and for a moment, it felt as though the air itself had thickened.
Matthew froze, his posture stiff as he sat there, clearly uncomfortable under her glare. Elizabeth turned to Veronica, her expression softening. “Silly girl, what are you talking about? Why are you even considering whether you’re a good match for anyone? You’re kind, obedient, and beautiful. And you have a university degree! You’re absolutely worthy. Self-confidence is important, sweetheart. Trust me—I have great judgment. If I think you’re good enough, you are!”
Veronica’s heart warmed at the sincerity in Elizabeth’s words, and a deep feeling of gratitude blossomed within her. She glanced at Matthew, who sat silently off to the side, his face an unreadable mask. His discomfort at being chastised by Elizabeth was palpable, and a small, amused smile tugged at Veronica’s lips. She realized, with a sudden clarity, that Matthew was deeply respectful of his grandmother.
“Grandma, you’re the best,” Veronica said, her voice genuine.
Elizabeth smiled warmly. “There’s no need for such formality, darling.”
But then Elizabeth’s expression grew serious as she leaned in closer, her tone softening. “By the way, I’ve been meaning to ask you—why do you dislike Tiffany so much? Are you really that unwilling to go back home?”
Veronica stiffened at the question, her thoughts turning inward. She knew she wasn’t ready to fully reveal the truth yet, especially without any hard evidence. Her gaze flickered briefly to Matthew before she turned back to Elizabeth, her expression clouded with hesitation.
Elizabeth seemed to notice her reluctance and leaned in even closer, her voice gentle but firm. “Sweetheart, I’m not trying to force you to go back. But if you don’t want to, I just want you to know that with me here, no one can make you go back, alright?”
The sincerity in Elizabeth’s words hit Veronica like a wave. The tears she’d been holding back suddenly welled up, her vision blurring as she fought to keep them at bay. “Grandma, you’re amazing…” she whispered, overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness.
Veronica had never expected this level of care from Elizabeth. A stranger, just a few interactions, yet she treated Veronica like family. This was beyond what she had ever hoped for in such a difficult time. It reminded her so much of her own late grandmother, who had always given her nothing but love and support.
“Why are you crying all of a sudden?” Elizabeth’s voice was full of concern, her eyes wide with worry. Seeing the tears welling in Veronica’s eyes, she glanced angrily at Matthew. “Why are you still sitting there? Hurry up and get me a tissue!”
Matthew shot a quick, annoyed glance at both women before begrudgingly reaching for the tissue box and handing it over to Elizabeth.
Elizabeth pulled out a tissue and handed it to Veronica. “It’s alright. Don’t cry. With me around, no one will dare to hurt you. Even if the Larsons are my future in-laws, I won’t let them get away with anything.”
Veronica sniffled, wiping away her tears. “Grandma, I don’t want to go back. Can you really help me?”
Elizabeth’s face softened as she patted Veronica’s hand reassuringly. “Of course I will help you. You’ve been through so much already, and I’ll be here for you. You’re a part of the Kings family now. You have nothing to fear.”
Veronica was overcome with gratitude. “Thank you so much, Grandma.”
After a brief silence, Elizabeth stood up. “Matthew, come with me,” she said, her tone leaving no room for argument. Turning to Veronica, she gave a kind smile. “You stay here for now, alright?”
“Sure, Grandma,” Veronica replied, her voice filled with warmth.
Elizabeth made her way to the door, and Matthew, though clearly displeased, followed her out with a cold glance thrown in Veronica’s direction.
As Elizabeth and Matthew left the room, Veronica sat back, her thoughts swirling. The Kings Residence was old, its history etched into every beam and carved detail, with a traditional pavilion nestled at the heart of the garden. The grandeur of the place was undeniable, yet for Veronica, it felt strangely like a refuge—a place where, for the first time in a long while, she felt safe.
She didn’t know what would come next, but for now, she had the protection of Elizabeth. And for Veronica, that was more than enough.
