Chapter 26

Chapter 26:

The night air swept past Ector, causing his white shirt to sway delicately as he stood protectively. A serene smile graced his face, mirroring the calmness in his voice. “Yes, I’m Ector.”

“Thanks for this,” Fernanda slipped the suit jacket from her shoulders, her fingers lingering briefly on the fabric before handing it back to him.

“Good night,” she murmured before stepping away. Her thoughts on the Morgan lineage were far from favorable, including the so-called eldest brother whom she was meeting for the first time tonight. Despite her reservations, his next words carried a note of concern.

“The nights might be warm, but there’s still a chill in the air,” Ector noted gently from behind her. “I heard from Dad about what happened tonight. It must have been frightening for you. I’ve asked the staff to prepare some warm milk. It might help you relax.”

Fernanda hesitated, her back still turned to him, before simply responding, “Thanks.” With that, she retreated to her room, secured the balcony door, and drew the curtains shut, leaving Ector alone with his thoughts.

He lingered for a moment, then made his way back to his own room. Once inside, Ector loosened his tie and let it fall to the floor. He collapsed onto the sofa, massaging his temples in fatigue. The journey back home had been grueling—a ten-hour flight followed by endless meetings had taken their toll.

Upon his arrival, he had debriefed Robert about the business dealings, only to be updated on the recent family dramas. Robert had mentioned Fernanda, the long-lost sister whose attitude was characterized by noticeable coldness. Now that Ector had met her, he realized just how aloof she really was. And then there was Crowell…

Ector’s face contorted with disdain. Age had only emboldened Crowell, his thoughts growing darker and more dangerous, even towards his own family.

As the morning sun lit up the dining room, Fernanda descended the stairs and noticed Ector comfortably seated at the table.

He had swapped last night’s formal attire for a casual white t-shirt paired with light khakis. His hair, neatly combed, added a youthful zest to his overall appearance.

“Good morning, Fernanda,” Ector greeted her warmly, his smile inviting. “Please, join me for breakfast.” Fernanda took her place across from him. Before her was a modest spread: fresh vegetables, creamy oatmeal, several slices of bread, and a tall glass of milk. She silently picked up her fork and began to eat.

“Mom and Erika left early for the hospital today,” Ector remarked, breaking the silence. “I heard about Crowell’s wrist—that it was dislocated by you. I must admit, I hadn’t pegged you for such formidable strength.”

Fernanda’s eyes flickered with a hint of amusement. “There’s much about me that might surprise you,” she responded evenly.

Ector’s smile deepened, acknowledging her words with a nod. “Indeed, there is.” Despite Fernanda’s frosty demeanor, Ector’s presence was undeniably soothing. He remained warm and unflappable, even as she kept her responses short.

Catching her observing him, he looked up from his meal and gave her a sincere, unguarded smile—a stark contrast to other family members. Feeling a bit more at ease and not wanting to appear discourteous, Fernanda’s voice mellowed. “I heard you’re an alumnus of Esaham University.”

“Yeah,” Ector affirmed with a nod. “I heard from Dad that you’ve secured a spot to take Esaham University’s entrance exam. That’s quite an achievement.” He raised his glass of milk slightly in a modest salute. “Here’s to you. Well done!”

Fernanda’s glass clinked softly against his. “It’s merely an opportunity to take the exam. I haven’t succeeded just yet.”

“I have faith in you. You’re going to excel,” Ector asserted confidently. She hesitated for a moment, a flicker of surprise crossing her features. Accustomed to skepticism and dismissive tones, this forthright show of support momentarily unsettled her. “You really believe in me?”

“Absolutely, you’re my sister after all,” Ector replied, his voice imbued with warmth.

Fernanda kept her deeper thoughts to herself, mulling over their connection.

He was Michelle’s son, and she was not Michelle’s daughter. Ector spoke again, his tone soft and understanding. “I realize it must be odd, suddenly being part of the Morgan family again,” he said thoughtfully. “If there’s anything you need, just let me know. I’m here to support you in any way I can.”

“Sure,” Fernanda responded, not dismissing his offer. “Thank you.”

“We’re family—no need for so many thank-yous,” Ector responded with a gentle chuckle, reinforcing their bond. Being around him was far more pleasant and comforting, unlike the strained and uncomfortable interactions with the rest of the Morgan family.

“Your entrance exam for Esaham University is next Wednesday, isn’t it?” Ector inquired, his voice tinged with concern. “Are you all set? I’m available today. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, or if you need a trip to the library, I’m here to assist.”

“No need, really—I can handle it just fine,” Fernanda replied, shaking her head with a dismissive wave of her hand. “I have no questions, and I don’t need the library.”

“You seem quite confident, yet I still don’t know which major you’re pursuing,” Ector remarked, his curiosity piqued.

With a mischievous glint in her eye, Fernanda paused before revealing it. “E-sports.”

Ector was visibly taken aback, nearly spitting out his drink. He coughed several times before regaining his composure. He fixed a serious gaze on her. “Wait, you’re serious?”

“Do I seem like someone who jokes?” Fernanda challenged him, raising an eyebrow.

Ector’s eyes widened slightly as he blinked, settling back in his chair with an air of quiet astonishment. Pausing briefly, he finally said, “I’ll admit, that caught me off guard. You’re full of unexpected twists.”

Fernanda tilted her head slightly, her voice even. “As I’ve already said, there’s a lot you won’t understand by just looking at the surface.” Esaham University, being a prestigious institution, offered a diverse array of majors, even embracing modern fields like e-sports. Ector had never pictured Fernanda, with her reserved demeanor, opting for such an unconventional career. He had figured her for something more conventional—like economics or design. So, her decision came as a real surprise to him.

“Looks like our family might boast an e-sports champion soon,” Ector remarked, amusement lacing his tone. “I suppose it’s time for me to start tuning into those tournaments. Who knows? Maybe one day I’ll catch a glimpse of my sister dominating the leaderboards.”

Fernanda offered only a slight, enigmatic smile, keeping her thoughts to herself.

Later that morning, after breakfast, Ector proposed a shopping expedition. Fernanda felt indifferent, but his genuine enthusiasm made it difficult to decline. Noticing her simple attire earlier and learning from the servant that she had packed few clothes, he felt compelled to help. He thought a few new outfits might lift her spirits. After all, most young women loved fashion, and Fernanda’s striking looks were no exception.

Together, they headed to an expansive, bustling shopping complex.

“Pick out anything you like,” Ector urged as they entered. “Don’t worry about the cost—I’ve got it covered.”

“Are you sure?” Fernanda asked, suspicion tinging her voice.

“Absolutely,” Ector replied with a confident nod.

With his reassurance, Fernanda set aside her hesitation and dove into the experience. They moved from floor to floor, Ector right behind her, handling payments, signing receipts, and arranging deliveries without a single complaint. Every now and then, he offered a suggestion or endorsement, clearly intent on making the day enjoyable for her.

Fernanda half-expected, perhaps even hoped, to see a flash of annoyance or regret cross Ector’s face with each purchase, but none appeared.

As her feet throbbed from hours of shopping, Fernanda admitted to herself that her behavior might have seemed immature. She knew she wasn’t the type to act on impulse or take advantage of others. Her main concern now was whether Ector’s kindness was sincere or merely a facade.

After half a day in his company, she realized his generosity was genuine; he simply wanted to show kindness in the best way he knew how.

Shopping had been his way of expressing goodwill after their brief acquaintance. It was perhaps superficial, but it came from the heart.

“That’s enough shopping for today. I’m finished,” Fernanda declared firmly.

“All right,” Ector responded without hesitation. “If something catches your eye later, just tell me. By the way, are you feeling hungry? Maybe we could grab a bite?”

She checked her watch. It was already past one, and the pangs of hunger confirmed it was time to eat. They decided on a chic restaurant on the mall’s top floor.

Upon entering, Fernanda was taken aback to see Bobby there. He sat at a table with a striking woman who was playfully feeding him— their intimacy unmistakable.

At Fernanda’s arrival, Bobby jerked upright, his face a mix of shock and discomfort.

“Mr. Harper, what a coincidence,” Fernanda greeted him with a polite smile, her eyes flicking pointedly to the glamorous woman beside him. “You’re in good company, I see.”

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