Due to my precarious health, the doctor decided to delay the surgery by half a month, advising that prioritizing my condition and avoiding excessive stress was crucial at this juncture.
In this period, I chose to temporarily step back from my work, allowing myself a breather and the space to ponder over how to restructure my future.
The resolution was clear in my heart: to dissolve my engagement with Graham. Yet, the timing wasn't opportune. My scientific research was at a pivotal phase, necessitating close collaboration with Graham.
Summoning my courage one day, despite my discomfort, I made my way to the Huntington residence, hoping to indirectly gather some insights.
As I stood outside the Huntington home, I inadvertently overheard a conversation between Mrs. Huntington and Graham.
“Graham, have you forgotten the promise you once made to Melinda’s grandfather?”
In the biting wind, Graham’s response was marked by a chilling detachment, “Indeed, it's only through marriage that we can access her grandfather’s wealth.”
Mrs. Huntington’s voice was tinged with urgency, “This concerns not just the Huntington family’s future but yours as well. With Harley’s treatment expenses soaring, how can the Huntington family bear the cost?”
Graham’s laughter was bitter, “What options do I have? With Penelope’s life hanging in the balance as your leverage, what can I do?”
“Mother, you must understand, if anything were to happen to Penelope, I couldn’t bear to live,” Graham's tone was unwavering and determined.
Mrs. Huntington seemed to be beside herself with frustration, “You—”
I remained outside, my heart wrenched in agony, ultimately choosing not to enter but to silently retreat to my car. The harsh white light outside the car pierced through the glass, illuminating the interior as I watched the passersby, engulfed by an unprecedented sense of isolation.
My connection with the Huntington family stretched back far, with Graham having been a constant presence in my life since childhood. I had secretly aided him when he was bullied and, even at the risk of discovery, sneaked him food during the nights he was punished to kneel, which once resulted in a burn that landed me in the hospital for weeks.
I offered my silent support, asking for nothing in return, driven by the affection I harbored. When Graham professed his love, I believed my sacrifices had finally found their reciprocation. Yet, as the truth slowly unveiled itself, I realized I was merely a pawn being exploited.
My vision blurred with tears as years of emotion crumbled in an instant.
I reconnected with my grandfather's lawyer, attempting to disentangle this complex web.
“Lawyer Hudson, why would my grandfather’s estate transfer to the Huntington family upon my marriage to Graham?”
After a brief silence, the lawyer finally spoke, “Mr. Taylor’s will stipulated that upon your marriage to Graham, the Huntington family would inherit the wealth.”
“And if I choose not to marry?” I inquired further.
“Then the inheritance would be yours directly. However, the majority of the Taylor family's shares are currently under Huntington control. Regaining decision-making authority will be a formidable challenge.”
The lawyer’s words underscored the realization that, whether I liked it or not, dissolving this engagement seemed unfeasible in the short term.
This meant that, for the time being, I had to uphold the facade of this engagement. Until the day I could amass enough strength to reclaim my genuine freedom and rights.
