Elin shared her plans to study in Uchaesau with her mother.
Annis was shocked. “Elin, didn’t you plan to attend university here? Aren’t universities abroad essentially the same?”
Elin gently patted Annis‘ shoulder and smiled. “Mom, it’s actually quite different. The fashion and jewelry design program in Uchaesau is more renowned. If I’m going to college, I might as well attend one that I truly like, right?”
Annis struggled with the idea of her daughter being so far away, her voice trembling. “But it’s so far…”
“It’s not that far.” Elin made it a point to sound cheerful, hiding how she truly felt. “Four years will fly by. Mr. Foster is remarkably generous by granting you a month of vacation each year. You could visit me in Uchaesau during that time, and we could explore different cultures together. Wouldn’t that be wonderful?”
Elin was sharp, and Annis was insightful. Annis rubbed her hands nervously and said, “Elin, is it because of what happened before, that you’re still upset with me… I…”
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Annis’ voice choked. “I had no choice. Mrs. Foster has been so kind to us, and we really aren’t at the same level as her son. I know my words last time hurt your pride, but Mr. Erick Foster is indeed from a different world. I’m sorry. But do you understand that I only said those things for your sake?”
Understand… Landen’s words echoed in Elin’s mind. Everyone expected her to understand them, yet nobody seemed to try to understand her perspective. She never intended to seduce Erick, but she hadn’t expected that her unselfish acts could alarm others. Had she known, she would have avoided such a misunderstanding…
Elin felt a sting in her nose and fought to hold back her tears, managing a smile. “Mom, it’s nothing like that. I genuinely want to study in Uchaesau.”
Annis ultimately wanted what was best for Elin’s future, so she withdrew her objections. She sighed and said softly, “You have big dreams, my girl. Just take good care of yourself.”
Elin’s eyes welled up. “Mom, take care of yourself too. I’ll gradually become your pillar of strength…”
A few days later, Landen had taken care of all the arrangements for Elin, and she would be leaving shortly.
‘s
Elin bid farewell to her close friends and went out for dinner, returning to the Foster estate Late.
Seeing that Annis was still up, Elin went to check on her as usual to see if she needed any help.
Upon reaching the main house, Elin encountered Erick, whom she hadn’t seen in many days. He was seated on the sofa, looking weary as if he had been drinking once more.
Elin walked by the sofa without stopping and passed Erick by. She no longer held the right to be concerned about him. His way of making amends was to send her abroad, clearly indicating his desire not to see her anymore. The initial agony that felt as if her heart had been torn out had been days ago, and now she was better at concealing it.
Growing up, Elin endured a tough life and moved around a lot with her mother. Her resilience in handling pressure surpassed that of most people. These experiences had developed her strong self-worth, keen sensitivity, and mature personality. She feared being Looked down upon, so she vowed never to make the same mistake and to stick to her own path.
Landen’s words had clarified one thing for Elin. Social class existed, unseen but ever-present.
In the kitchen, failing to find her mother, Elin decided to leave.
Just as Elin was about to step away, she noticed Erick leaning against the sofa, his head tilted back, his Adam’s apple moving, appearing distressed. She was aware that his throat would hurt whenever he drank.
After a brief hesitation, Elin returned to the kitchen and prepared a glass of iced lemonade for Erick as she had done before. Since she was leaving tomorrow, this would be the last time she prepared this drink for him.
Once ready, Elin silently set the glass on the table without his notice.
After a lingering look at Erick, Elin turned and walked away.
Erick had always had a chronic throat issue that made drinking uncomfortable for him. When he opened his eyes and was about to get up for some water, he noticed the glass before him, a familiar, refreshing, and appealing sight. He took a sip, then a large gulp, immediately feeling relief in his throat.