Chapter 307: The Wealthy Are Stingy
After dismissing Mason and his entourage, Cecilia returned home, her mind preoccupied with Nathaniel's impending arrival. Elliot was already hospitalized, per her arrangements, while Jonathan remained engrossed in his books. Her most pressing concern was breaking the news of Nathaniel's stay to Jonathan.
Cecilia first confided in Martha, recounting the day's events. Martha listened intently, her brow furrowed with worry. "You already have so much on your plate, caring for me and the children," Martha said, gently squeezing Cecilia's hand. "Now they want you to look after Nathaniel, too? The Rainsworth family's behavior is appalling." Martha admitted her previous belief that the wealthy were more generous had been shattered; she now understood that the richer someone is, the more they fear loss, and the stingier they become.
"I won't take care of Nathaniel," Cecilia declared firmly. "He'll manage himself." She then voiced her concerns about Jonathan and Elliot. "The boys still don't know their origins. If Nathaniel lives with us, I'm unsure how to explain it."
"Eli has met Nathaniel before, but he deceived him," Martha replied. "Plus, Eli is often in the hospital. Jon, however, is unusually mature, and I fear he might connect the dots."
Deeply troubled by the Rainsworth family's ruthlessness and the potential threat to Jonathan and Elliot, they continued to ponder the situation when the phone rang. It was Vivian.
"Ceci, can I borrow Jon for a while?" Vivian asked, her tone unusually light.
Cecilia found the request peculiar. Vivian explained that Ernest had returned with his fiancée, they were planning a wedding, and she'd received an invitation. "I was thinking of bringing Jon," Vivian said, her voice laced with frustration. Jonathan's brilliance would undoubtedly impress—or perhaps annoy—Vivian's rivals.
Given her circumstances, Cecilia agreed, deciding to send Jonathan away before Nathaniel's arrival. She informed Vivian about Nathaniel, which provoked further outrage. "How could the Rainsworth family do this, forcing you to care for a blind man?" Vivian fumed.
"Don't worry," Cecilia reassured her. "He won't be staying long."
"I'll pick up Jon immediately. The timing is perfect," Vivian said.
Cecilia readily agreed to meet Vivian halfway. After hanging up, she informed Martha and began packing Jonathan's things. Jonathan, perceptive as always, had already observed the day's events from the window. He remained silent, not questioning Cecilia's actions.
"Mommy, you and Grandma Martha take good care of yourselves," Jonathan said, his voice remarkably calm and mature.
"I will," Cecilia replied, hugging him tightly, feeling a pang of sadness.
As planned, they met Vivian halfway. Jonathan quietly entered Vivian's car, sensing her sadness.
"Ms. Kennedy, did you have a breakup?" Jonathan asked innocently.
Vivian was startled. "How could you think that? I've never even been in a relationship," she replied, attempting to dismiss his observation.
"If you're unhappy, you should let it out. It's okay to cry," Jonathan said, his tone unwavering.
His words resonated deeply with Vivian, and she finally broke down. "Jon, when you grow up, will you turn into a bad man?" she asked, her voice trembling.
"I don't know," Jonathan admitted, "but even if I do, I'll still be good to you and Mommy."
Vivian's tears flowed freely. "Hmph, you're so smooth-talking for your age. You're sure to break hearts," she said, half-joking.
Jonathan gently took her hand, offering comfort. "Ms. Kennedy, you'll find someone who cherishes you. And if not, Mommy and I will always be here for you." He paused. "Thank you for always helping us. If you ever need anything, I promise I'll be there for you."