Chapter 55

Chapter 55:

Robert’s brows furrowed as he snapped, “That’s not an option! Fernanda still has an engagement with the Harper family. And don’t forget, I went through great lengths to find her and bring her back. Are you seriously suggesting we send her away again?”

“Dad, you’re misunderstanding me. I’m not saying she should stay in the countryside permanently—just for a little while,” Erika replied smoothly. “It would give her some distance from all this public attention, and more importantly, give you a break from the frustration she’s causing.”

She leaned in slightly, her voice low and persuasive. “The gossip online is overwhelming. People are mocking our family. Letting Fernanda retreat temporarily could ease the pressure on all of us.”

Erika had carefully thought this through. Sending Fernanda away for a short time would mean fewer daily interactions, which suited her perfectly. More importantly, it would give Ava the chance to get closer to Bobby—maybe even end Fernanda’s engagement for good. Without the engagement, Fernanda would lose her only leverage. Eventually, Robert might stop bothering with her altogether and let her fade into the background, stuck in the countryside for good.

The plan felt increasingly foolproof to Erika.

Michelle, catching on quickly, added her voice to the argument. “Erika has a point, honey. The internet is a mess right now, and all that gossip isn’t doing Fernanda any favors. Some time away might really help her. Don’t you think?”

This time, Robert didn’t answer right away. He sat quietly, his frown deepening as he considered the suggestion. “Let me think about it,” he finally said.

To him, it wasn’t the worst idea. What infuriated him wasn’t just Fernanda’s failure—it was how arrogant she’d been leading up to it. If she didn’t have the ability, she had no business acting so confident. And now, he was left to deal with the aftermath of her foolish pride.

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“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Ector interrupted, his voice calm but unwavering.

Erika turned to him, caught off guard. “What?”

“I mean, I’m opposed to sending Fernanda back to the countryside,” Ector replied firmly. “Running away isn’t a solution, and those rumors probably won’t affect Fernanda at all. We shouldn’t make this into something bigger than it is.”

Just then, Robert’s phone buzzed again. He glanced at the screen—it was yet another call from a friend, eager to know the results of Fernanda’s entrance exam.

Unread messages kept piling up, many asking for details about the banquet planned for the next day. Each notification felt like a jab, mocking his situation. The calls wouldn’t stop. Frustrated, Robert finally turned off his phone.

Seeing his distress, Erika quickly stepped in. “Ector, you’re completely missing the point. Can’t you see how upset Dad is? If Fernanda had passed, none of this would be happening. We’re all just trying to figure out a solution. If you disagree, fine—but don’t accuse us of overreacting.”

Ector didn’t respond right away. Instead, his gaze drifted beyond Erika to the staircase.

She followed his line of sight and spotted Fernanda, though it wasn’t clear when she had come down. Dressed in a different outfit, Fernanda looked ready to leave.

A sudden unease prickled at Erika’s chest, making her lower her head, avoiding Fernanda’s eyes.

Without a word, Fernanda descended the stairs and walked toward the door.

“Where are you going?” Robert demanded coldly. “Can’t you stay home for once instead of dragging this family into more embarrassment?”

“Unlike you, I don’t reduce everything to a transaction,” Fernanda said sharply, not bothering to look back. “And I’m not ashamed of anything. In fact, I think I’m doing just fine—much better than some hypocrites pretending to be decent.”

Erika’s expression darkened. The words stung, though she couldn’t prove they were directed at her.

Robert’s glare followed Fernanda until the door slammed behind her. He wanted to lash out further, but it was too late—she was already gone.

Outside, the night air was cool and sharp, brimming with freedom.

Fernanda narrowed her eyes and inhaled deeply, finding solace in the freedom of the outdoors compared to the confines of her so-called home.

As she stepped beyond the gate, Ector’s voice called softly from behind. “Fernanda.”

She turned to see his tall, lean silhouette backlit by the villa’s warm entrance light, his expression hidden in shadow. Descending the steps briskly, he approached her, concern in his gentle tone. “It’s quite late. Where were you headed?”

“I’m not in the mood to stay inside tonight,” Fernanda replied. “I thought a stroll might clear my head.”

“By yourself?” Ector pressed, eyebrows arching.

When she nodded, he offered, “What if I join you?”

Fernanda opened her mouth to decline, but then said unexpectedly, “Sure.”

“Give me just a moment then. I’ll bring the car around.” His voice carried a hint of eagerness.

He soon reappeared, maneuvering a sleek convertible sports car out of the garage. Fernanda slid into the passenger seat as he started the engine and they rolled out of the neighborhood.

The streets at night were a stark contrast to their daytime bustle—serene and nearly empty. Ector broke the silence. “You know, you really shouldn’t take what Dad said to heart.” He shrugged slightly. “He has a fiery temper, but he means well.”

Fernanda reclined in her seat, lips curling into a faint sneer. “I won’t take it to heart.”

Ector continued, soothingly, “Actually, it’s perfectly fine even if you weren’t accepted to Esaham University. As you said, merely being eligible to sit for the exam sets you above many. And really, you shouldn’t dwell on what others are whispering. It was Dad’s mistake to leak the news prematurely, which stirred up expectations he couldn’t fulfill.”

This mess isn’t your fault.” In Fernanda’s eyes, Ector was the only member of the Morgan family who had a clear grasp of reality.

The absurdity of the situation almost amused her. Was it wrong to have confidence in herself? Was it foolish to believe she had what it took to be admitted to Esaham University?

She had believed in her potential—but then Robert had to proclaim her success to the world before it was certain, and now, ironically, he blamed her when things didn’t go as expected.

For nineteen years, Robert had ignored every aspect of being a father. Whether or not she got into Esaham University had never really mattered to him. His concern had only surfaced recently, and even then, it was more about appearances than genuine care.

“Do you also think I won’t make it?” Fernanda asked suddenly.

Ector shook his head without hesitation. “I’ve always believed in you.”

“Do you?” Fernanda’s eyes narrowed slightly, a hint of doubt in her voice. “The results are out. I didn’t get in.”

“But I believe in your abilities,” Ector replied with conviction. “Fernanda, even though we haven’t known each other long, you’ve left a deep impression on me. Not getting into Esaham University doesn’t change the fact that you’re extraordinary.”

His words, sincere and steady under the soft streetlight, stirred something warm in Fernanda’s chest.

Ector was the only one in the Morgan family who had ever made her feel truly accepted—as if she belonged.

“In that case…” Fernanda said suddenly, her tone sharpening with new determination, “I won’t let you down.”

“Huh?” Ector looked over, puzzled.

“Turn around,” she said, her voice firm. “Head to Esaham University.”

“It’s late. Why are we going there now?” Ector asked, intrigued but already flicking the signal to change direction.

Fernanda’s gaze locked on the road ahead, her expression unwavering. A defiant smile tugged at her lips.

“To reclaim what rightfully belongs to me.”

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