Independence

Miranda had finally left that sem. She should never return to that jerk.

Miranda shook her head “No, I didn’t.”

“Thank goodness. “Winter sighed in relief. “Oh, right. Are you free tonight? I need you help”

After meeting the college’s higher ups, Tina was full of smiles as everything had gone according to her plan. It cheered her up after the setback she’d encountered at Christine’s place.

“Come on, Mom. Get in the car,” she prompted.

Frowning, Evelyn withdrew her gaze from the library. “You should go first. 1 have something else to do.”ConTEent bel0ngs to Nôv(e)lD/rama(.)Org .

Then, she called the other driver to come and pick her

1. up.

Tina thought Evelyn was going to some other social gathering again and didn’t mull over it. Unbeknownst to her, once Evelyn got into the car, she instructed the driver, “Drive me to Hansel’s office.”

Hansel had just come out of a meeting when he saw Evelyn frowning and marching toward him.

Tensing up, he asked, “Mom, why are you here?”

“Why? Am I not welcome here?”

“That’s not it.” Hansel scratched his nose.

Evelyn snorted. Going straight for the couch, she sat on it before saying, “If you can’t handle your woman, I don’t mind helping you.”

Hansel was utterly baffled. Evelyn continued, “You should see how Miranda behaved today, and it’s all because you pampered her!”

Hansel’s eyes widened. “Miranda? What did she do?”

“Good question! I met her at Bedford College Library earlier. All I did was say a few comments, and that set her off! She called me mean and implied that I was uneducated! Ha! As expected of someone from a humble family! She’s. totally ill–mannered!”

Hansel frowned. “You met her at the library?”

“Yes. Instead of staying home to prepare meals and do the chores, she went to the library, pretending she was someone well–educated. Did she think I’d applaud her for that? How ridiculous!

‘She even told me you two broke up and that we should treat each other like strangers from now on. How could she speak to someone older in such a tone? Does she not want to marry you anymore?”

Hansel’s eyes darkened.

Out of nowhere, Evelyn asked, “Have you two really broken up?”

For some reason, Hansel denied it. “How could that be?”

Evelyn snorted. “I knew it! Women like her wouldn’t easily give up on a wealthy boyfriend once they’ve gotten their hands on one. Anyway, now you know what happened. Remember to teach her a lesson when you get home!”

Her complaints irritated Hansel. He interrupted, “Mom, stop it. I have another meeting later. I’ll get someone to take you home.”

“But I’m not “Evelyn tactfully stopped talking when she noticed that Hansel was getting increasingly annoyed.

She continued, “Alright then. I’ll head back for now. Don’t let her off the hook that easily. You should discipline your woman. When it’s done right, then only will she be obedient!”

Hansel hummed in agreement. After sending her on her way, he loosened his tie and sighed.

He stared out the floor–to–ceiling window at the sunset. He didn’t want to return to the mansion. Remembering that Ingrid’s birthday was coming up in a couple of days, he texted Calvin to ask for his opinion on what gift he should. buy.

Calvin replied immediately, ‘evelty is a woman’s best friend. A bracelet or necklace might be good enough.”

Hansel texted, “I don’t know how to choose. Come with me

Calvin was puzzled. He didn’t have a giftient how would he know to choose jewelry?

They decided to meet up at Lans Emporium, a high–end mall. When they went to a jewelry store the salleswoman astres smilingy “What are you looking for?”

Hansel replied, “A gift for my girlfriend

“What about this necklace designed for women in features a heart design which is both low–profile and sweer well–suited for young ladies.

Calvin wasn’t well–versed in jewelry. After a mere glance, he looked around at the store, disinterested immediately after he called our in excitement, Miranda?

Hansell tensed up for a second before thing around nonchalantly.

Winter was attending a business banquet tonight. She was busy at work, so she’d asked Miranda for a four she’d wanted help with collecting a custom- made accessory she’d ordered from the store

Miranda hadn’t expected to run into Hansel and Calhin there. She smiled at the latter. “Cal

“It’s been some time. Have you been busy?” Cabin glanced Hansel’s way before continuing, what a coincidence Stall we have lunch together?