Chapter 12
Yanina sat beside Carl, her voice tinged with regret. “Grandpa, I’ve been swamped, but I promise to swing by more often.” Quinci grinned at Yanina. Yanina had joined the Zamora family as a teen, after Quinci had already settled in Wavecrest. But from the stories Carl shared, he clearly held Yanina in high regard.
“Dad, you’re showing favoritism!” Quinci teased, feigning a pout You never beam this big when I drop by, but the second Yani walks in, your smile stretches from ear to ear!”
Carl’s chuckle filled the room. Tm just as happy to see any of you he assured, his eyes twinkling.
The laughter died down as footsteps echoed from upstairs. Christina, Cameron’s younger sister, appeared, her face clouding at the sight of Yanina. “Grandpa, rein in your excitement. Someone might not value your kindness, she remarked, her tone sharp.
Christina had been the apple of Carl’s eye before Yanina’s arrival But once Yanina showed up, she became the center of his universe, even receiving billions in shares.
Christina mused, Yanina is just a foundling, no match for me, a true Zamora through and through. Yanina is an outsider, who might one day turn her back on the family.
“Christina! Cut the accusations!” Sherry scolded as she descended the stairs, her grip on Christina’s arm gentle but firm. Despite her reprimand, a smile played on her lips.
“Mom, I’m just saying it like it is! Remember the Ivy League Scholar‘ Teacup she bought at the auction? You wanted her to give it to Grandpa for his birthday, but she kept it for herself, spending the family’s money selfishly. Isn’t she ungrateful?” Christina’s voice rose, her frustration evident.
“Enough, Christina!” Cameron interjected, his brow furrowed in displeasure.
Christina’s pout deepened. She thought, Why am I the one being scolded? It’s Yanina’s fault! My own brother should be on my side, but he’s defending the outsider. It’s not right!
“Since she moved in, Grandpa’s been all about her. I’m his real granddaughter, yet I’m the one being sidelined. Even Grandma’s jewelry box went to her! Does she ever think about giving back to the family?” Christina’s finger jabbed in Yanina’s direction, her foot stomping in anger.
“You shouldn’t–Cameron started, but Yanina’s hand on his arm stopped him.
Yanina was indifferent to the opinions of the Zamora household Carl was the make a scene. “Grandpa, about this-
only one she cared about. She didn’t want to
Carl’s smile never wavered as he patted Yanina’s back reassuringly. “Ignore Christina,” he said. “She’s just being naive.”
His words hung in the air, and Sherry’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. She thought, ‘How could Carl dismiss–Christina’s concerns so casually? Christina has pointed out Yanina’s lack of consideration–like not even giving Carl a gift. Yet, Carl defended Yanina, calling Christina immature. His favoritism is blatant!
Carl didn’t care what other people thought and murmured to himself, “The Ivy League Scholar Teacup, it’s been so long since I’ve heard about that… Lost in his thoughts, he soon asked Yanina, “Is it also called ‘Heritage Rose?”
Yarina was taken aback when Carl recognized the teacup. She nodded, hope flickering in her eyes. “Grandpa, you know it?” She wondered if Carl had some knowledge about her parents.
Instead of answering Yanina, Carl stepped in front of her, facing Sherry, Christina, and the others. His expression turned stern. “You are always plotting. Do you think I’m old and blind and can’t see you’re all ganging up on Yani? How dare you! Would you throw her out on the street if I’m not here? Can’t stand her, huh?” His voice rose, thundering with anger.
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Chapter 12
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“Grandpa…” “Dad.-“Voices tried to interject, but Christina remained defiant, her neck outstretched.
Carl waved them off. “I know what you’re thinking. You see Yani alone and figure she’s an easy target. But tell me, Christina. if Yani had a strong family behind her, would you still dare to accuse her like this?” He turned to Sherry without waiting for an answer. “And you, are you just going to let Christina talk to her sister–in–law that way?”
“Carl. I wasn’t-“Sherry started, but Carl cut her off. “Wasn’t what? Do you think I’m unaware of your sneaky thoughts? Either keep quiet or leave this house!”
Yanina, trying to calm the waters, quickly supported Carl, “Grandpa, it’s rare for Aunt to visit. This is a family reunion, a time for happiness. Let’s save the discussions for later.”
