You’re still in the early stages of your pregnancy, and while your movements aren’t yet affected, it’s important to be cautious. Make sure to rest and let Clive stay with you. I’ll take Elisa and Seren out now.”
“I’ll be careful, Mom. Have fun.”
Alice winked at Serenity and Elisa, but returned to a gentle expression when her mother-in-law looked her way. Together with her husband, she personally escorted the ladies out the door.
Tonight’s banquet was hosted by the Dowlings in celebration of their eldest daughter’s eighteenth birthday.
On the way there, Audrey asked Serenity various questions about the Dowling family. She felt satisfied when Serenity answered everything correctly. “Seren, your memory is much better than Elisa’s. She doesn’t remember anyone she meets.”
“That’s because I can’t be bothered to remember. Why should I keep track of people I don’t get along with?”
Audrey playfully poked her daughter’s forehead. “See, that’s exactly what I meant. You won’t be able to get married if you don’t change that attitude of yours.”
“If I can’t get married, I’ll just stay with you and Dad for the rest of my life.”
Serenity laughed. “Elisa is just fine as she is. I really like her personality.”
Elisa didn’t need to be smooth or charming; her confidence allowed her to be herself without trying to please others.
“You two… I can’t be bothered to nag you,” Audrey said, her admonishment accompanied by a smile. She was genuinely happy that her only daughter got along well with her niece.
“Aunt Audrey, I’ll be going back home this weekend.”
Audrey didn’t question Serenity’s reasons for going back; instead, she replied, “Wait for me. I’ll come over there with your Uncle Darrell.”
“Okay. Zachary and I will probably…
Leave after breakfast. I need to purchase truckloads of bricks and gravel and travel tomorrow to bring them back. I’ll explain that I intend to renovate or rebuild my parents’ house.”
Audrey was astute and recognized that Serenity was officially declaring war on her grandparents. The battle for her parents’ inheritance had only just begun.