Chapter 394: Big Bully
When Carlos returned to the Quirk estate, he remained in self-imposed isolation. Downstairs, the family had gathered for their usual gossip session. Fortunately, Christopher and Rosalie were eavesdropping at the door crack, preventing any immediate pressure on Carlos.
Sarah, upon learning of Carlos's situation, eagerly attempted to play matchmaker between him and Sylvie. Sylvie was interested, and they had already slept together. Sarah hoped this might provide her perpetually solitary brother with a companion. However, others disagreed. Sylvie believed love required mutual affection. While possessing high self-esteem and self-awareness, she felt Carlos, though kind, would never truly love her. Therefore, she chose to pursue her own ambitions.
Carlos's introversion stemmed from neither romantic success nor failure. He later discreetly asked industry contacts to keep an eye on Sylvie, intending to intervene only if she faced hardship; he wouldn't interfere otherwise.
What truly concerned him was the unexpected romantic interest from two of his female students. He questioned his teaching methods and resolved to reflect seriously before accepting any more students.
A few days later, Sylvie left the country. As planned, Carlos recommended her to his mentor, who readily accepted her as a student.
Isabella erupted in laughter upon hearing this news. "I thought they'd be master and apprentice," she chuckled, "but it's more like senior and junior! Haha."
After attending to some matters, Isabella remembered her planned visit to Janice's school. She'd intended to go that day, but Janice's late return the previous night and early departure the following morning prevented a proper discussion. While casually chatting in the hall, a servant's announcement interrupted: "Ms. Janice is injured" The implication of Janice's inability to care for herself was clear.
Everyone was startled. "Injured? What happened?" they asked. The servant relayed Janice's account of a fall resulting in bruises; she'd requested ointment.
Isabella's demeanor shifted. "Damn it! Dylan, that jerk, always goofing off instead of being productive! Does he enjoy tormenting his little sister? Bullying her at school!" she muttered angrily.
Chapter 394: Big Bully
Before the Quirks could react, Isabella launched into a furious tirade: "Why do you care about the bracelet I gave Janice? Because Cecilia casually mentioned it, you demanded Janice give it to her! Who do you think you are? You even claimed Cecilia, as a future Quirk daughter-in-law, deserved a share to compensate for Janice's refusal to mediate! Think before you speak! Are you insane? Janice, surprisingly, stood her ground, echoing my words: 'This bracelet is for Quirk girls only, and only those present can claim it! As matriarch, it's my decision. It's not for your Cecilia! Do you disagree and plan to seize it? I'm flabbergasted. You're afraid of Alexander, too scared to take it by force, so you lash out at your sister? You're out of your mind! If Uncle Eric considers you his heir, I'll have my husband deal with you! I'll show you what bullying feels like!"
At the time, Carlos was home, oblivious. Initially, he paid little attention to the servant's report. However, a chilling atmosphere settled upon the room. Isabella, Christopher, and Rosalie's annoyed expressions left him bewildered.
Isabella's anger mounted. She messaged Alexander: "Hubby, Janice was hurt, possibly by her brother. He's bullying her, and he needs a lesson!"
Isabella's guard around Alexander was lessening; she often disregarded the risk of self-exposure, as he never questioned her. "He's not in the office today," she added, "but there are other ways."