In the serene Willow Manor stood majestically, an oasis of tranquility far from the bustling marketplace. Its peacefulness was occasionally punctuated by the cheerful chirping of birds, making it an ideal place for rest and recuperation.
But today was different. Today, the laughter of children echoed through the calm air, for Everett had brought Abigail and Langston home, and with them came joyous noise.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtJonathan had been eagerly awaiting their arrival in the courtyard ever since he heard that his son was bringing his grandchildren home. Age had softened the once formidable man, and now, the sight of his offspring's offspring brought a gentleness and patience to his face that was rarely seen.
"He's the spitting image of you, Everett! Just look at him!" Jonathan exclaimed, unable to resist the urge to scoop his grandson into his arms.
But young Langston was not keen on this grandfather, clutching his sister with one hand and gripping Everett's pant leg with the other, refusing to let go.
Everett understood their shyness and didn't force them to warm up to the Lopez family too quickly.
"Where's Mom?" Everett asked.
"Ah, she's in a huff, refusing to see anyone. She's been in quite the mood these past few days!" Jonathan said, rubbing his temple at the thought.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏm"It's because you gave Heather to me, isn't it?" Everett was sharp, quickly guessing at the root of the problem.
"Yep, it's just Heather for heaven's sake. | can't fathom why she's making such a fuss! She blames me for not consulting her!" Jonathan said, lowering his voice, trying to gauge his son's reaction. "But your mother has her reasons to worry. She's afraid Heather might start talking, and that woman is capable of anything. In her desperation, she might try to drag your mother into it!" Everett's lips thinned, and he looked down, deep in thought. "Is it dragging... or is it the truth?" "See? What has Heather been telling you?" Jonathan's voice rose with concern. "You can't believe her! That's your mother we're talking about. She gave birth to you. If even you doubt her, it will break her heart!" "I don't care about the rest. I'm used to Mom's domineering ways, but she should never have laid a hand on Dorothy's mother.” "Your mother, she—" "You and | both know whether she did or didn't." Everett didn't believe his father was completely in the dark.
But judging by his mother's character, she probably wouldn't have let Jonathan know everything. At most, she would have given him a curated version of the truth.
"What are you implying?" Jonathan's brows furrowed as he realized the implications. "Did you bring the kids here today to confront me?" "I have nothing to confront you about. I've seen the evidence Dorothy has, and I've verified Heather's words. As for the rest, we'll see what the court decides.” Jonathan grabbed Everett's arm before he could leave, looking him in the eye. "What evidence does Dorothy have? Is she trying to frame your mother? Don't forget who brought you into this world, Everett!" "I haven't forgotten.” That's why he was standing here today.
"Then tell me, what does Dorothy want?" Jonathan sensed something was amiss, that things were not as simple as his wife had made them seem. "Your mother already told me; she just condoned Heather doing it. She wasn't directly involved! I've reprimanded her for spoiling Heather!" Everett raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure Mom told you the truth?" Jonathan was silent; he wasn't sure.
"Dorothy is filing charges against my mother and Heather for murder. As for the court's decision, | won't interfere. If Mom is indeed innocent, she'll have to prove it," Everett said, his voice firm and resolute. "But if she tries to harm Dorothy to cover this up, | won't stand by and play dumb like you."