Chapter 14

Lauren had a new plan for the day, one that increased her chances of seeing Leo. She rose early, surprising the downstairs servants. One, a capable woman in her thirties named Edna, led Lauren to the dining hall, where Jeffery was already waiting. He seemed preoccupied, but his expression changed instantly upon seeing Lauren; a smile replaced his pensive look as he greeted her.

Lauren enjoyed Jeffery's company. She returned his smile and nod, visibly pleasing him.

During breakfast, Jeffery mentioned two things. First, he informed Lauren about the shares her grandfather had decided to give her the previous night. She would need to meet with a lawyer to sign some documents. Lauren nodded.

Second, he explained Wendy's and Monica's dereliction of duty the previous night. "They've been fired," he said softly but firmly. "I won't let anyone hurt you."

Lauren continued her breakfast. Jeffery had sent Edna to care for Lauren, having made considerable efforts to find her and prepare for her return to the Bennett family. He had just returned from abroad and intended to help her resolve any problems. Lauren was his sister, and he wouldn't allow anyone to mistreat her.

After a moment, Lauren asked, "Isn't she Sally's assistant?" She was inquiring about Sally's reaction to her assistant's dismissal.

Jeffery didn't answer directly, instead stating, "Darren will be going abroad as an exchange student for a year in the second half of the year."

Lauren looked up in surprise. Jeffery replied with a gentle smile. "He's an adult. Regardless of the reason, he shouldn't have hurt you. This is his punishment."

He continued, "Lauren, you are my sister, and this is your home. If anything unpleasant happens, tell me. I will always support you, no matter what. Remember, no one can criticize you."

Lauren lowered her head and cried quietly. She felt fortunate to have Jeffery as her brother; the feeling of his support was immensely comforting. She no longer felt alone. Returning to the Bennett family, she realized, wasn't so bad after all; she had the love and support of her grandfather and brother.

The dining hall maids departed, leaving Jeffery to recount the events following Lauren's disappearance at age five.

"After you were lost, the entire Bennett family was in chaos. Mother was nearly distraught, rushing to any little girl your age, calling out your nickname. Darren, who was less than a year old, was almost suffocated by Mother."

He continued, "Grandpa tried everything, but couldn't find you. After a few months, Mother's condition worsened; she didn't even recognize us, so Father brought Sally home. Mother mistook Sally for you and kept her constantly in her arms. After Sally arrived, Mother gradually improved, eventually returning to normal life three years later."

Jeffery spoke at length. Lauren vividly imagined the Bennett family's turmoil and her mother's grief. Knowing all this, she felt uncertain about how to interact with Mrs. Bennett. Eighteen years had passed since her disappearance; things had changed.

"Lauren," Jeffery said seriously, "I'm telling you this, not for Mother, but for you."

"Me?" Lauren was surprised.

"Yes," Jeffery smiled, his demeanor as warm as a spring breeze. "I'm not forcing you to forgive Mother; I just want you to know the truth and to understand that Dad and Mom don't dislike you."

Lauren touched the chain around her neck, a small pendant engraved with her name. This chain had kept her birth name after her adoption and had ultimately led to her discovery by the Bennetts.

Jeffery had said he didn't want Lauren to harbor resentment towards her parents, but he was wrong. Eighteen years had passed; she harbored no hatred. Time couldn't be reversed. She had let go of any blame, feeling only a touch of disappointment. She didn't demand their love in the same way they loved Sally, merely fairness in their treatment of them both.

After her appointment with the lawyer, Lauren went to see Leo.