Awakened Housewife Ignore Betrayer's Begs (Scarlett) novel Chapter 97

Chapter 97 The Only One Who Cares

Finished

The entire journey to the Stewart Manor passed in complete silence. Neither of them attempted to bridge the growing distance between them, the quiet inside the car becoming increasingly oppressive.

Halfway through the drive, Xavier called. “Scarlett, has Vincent picked you up yet?”

“He has, Grandpa.”

“Good, good. No need to rush on the road. Just come back safely when you can.”

Scarlett lowered her head slightly, her voice softening. “Understood, Grandpa.”

After ending the call, Scarlett glanced at the car’s clock-it was already seven in the evening.

Knowing Xavier’s habits, he would typically retire for the night in just over an hour. Yet because he was waiting for her, the family hadn’t even begun discussing dinner.

Scarlett felt profoundly grateful for his consideration, but anxiety also prickled at her-she still needed to prepare his birthday dish upon arrival.

If she waited until reaching the Stewart Manor to start cooking, dinner would be delayed even further. Fortunately, she had committed to only one dish. If time grew too short, she could always prepare a cake instead.

As for the birthday gift, she had selected it with Claire’s help-a pair of exceptionally soft-soled flat shoes. While not extravagant, Scarlett had invested considerable thought into choosing something both practical and comfortable.

By the time they arrived at the Stewart Manor, the clock had already struck seven-thirty.

As she entered through the front door alongside Vincent, Amanda’s complaining voice immediately reached them from the living room.

“Scarlett has truly crossed the line this time. Does she even realize what day it is? Not only did she fail to come home early to help with preparations, but she’s actually late and making the entire family wait for her. Honestly, I doubt she holds any genuine regard for us.”

The moment Amanda’s complaint concluded, Scarlett and Vincent stepped into the living room.

Besides Amanda and Richard, Vincent’s sister Lucy Stewart had also returned for the occasion. Vincent’s younger brother Luke Stewart remained conspicuously absent.

Scarlett wasn’t the only one running late, yet Amanda consistently singled her out for criticism.

Scarlett nearly laughed aloud at the blatant unfairness. Was this targeting not completely intentional?

When Amanda noticed Scarlett and Vincent entering together, she shot Scarlett a glare that could kill.

But Scarlett simply ignored her and directed her attention straight to Xavier.

She approached him, her smile gentle and warm. “Happy birthday, Grandpa. Please forgive my lateness— I’ve kept you waiting.”

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Xavier’s face lit up with genuine delight at the sight of her. “You’re here, Scarlett! Come, sit right here beside

me.”

Within the Stewart family, Xavier had never concealed his disapproval of Amanda’s behavior. When she had been criticizing Scarlett moments earlier, he hadn’t even bothered to acknowledge her remarks.

Now that Scarlett had arrived, Xavier’s happiness was palpable, while Amanda could barely contain her displeasure, rolling her eyes repeatedly.

Scarlett took the seat beside Xavier as he insisted. He studied her carefully, his voice filled with grandfatherly concern. “You’ve grown thinner, child.”

“No, Grandpa, you’re mistaken. I’ve been eating quite well, truly.”

Scarlett hadn’t actually lost any weight, but in the eyes of her elders, she always appeared too slender.

Xavier didn’t press the matter, simply stating, “Be sure to eat a little more tonight. I instructed the cook to prepare all your favorite dishes.”

Tears welled in Scarlett’s eyes as she nodded. “I will, Grandpa.”

Xavier then turned his attention to the visibly irritated Amanda, his tone sharpening. “Where is Luke? Why hasn’t he returned home yet? What kind of mother doesn’t ensure her son attends family gatherings?”

Amanda was his daughter-in-law, and even Richard wouldn’t dare speak back to Xavier, let alone her.

Being publicly chastised in this manner dealt a severe blow to Amanda’s pride.

She lowered her head and muttered defensively, “Xavier, I’ll call Luke immediately.”

With that, she hurried out of the living room.

Xavier watched her departure with clear disapproval. “She can’t even manage her own household properly, yet she’s quick to find fault with others.”

Scarlett remained quietly seated until Xavier’s temper had cooled before rising gracefully. “Grandpa, I’ll go prepare you a cake now.”

Every year for Xavier’s birthday dinner, Scarlett would traditionally cook an entire table of dishes. This year marked the first exception.

In previous years, Xavier would always express concern for her, advising her not to spend so much time cooking. He’d insist that young women shouldn’t hover around stoves too much—that the heat would damage their complexion and make them appear worn.

But for Vincent’s sake, Scarlett had always disregarded this advice.

Now, as she prepared to enter the kitchen once more, Xavier wouldn’t hear of it.

“It’s merely a slice of cake. What does it matter whether we have it or not? You are Vincent’s wife. You should remain seated here and allow others to serve you.”

Scarlett looked at Xavier with profound gratitude, her smile gentle but determined. “Grandpa, your

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birthday comes only once each year, and I rarely have opportunities to visit. Please allow me to do this small service for you-it’s my way of showing respect.”

Seeing her unwavering resolve, Xavier finally relented. “Very well, but remember-you’re permitted to cook only once annually on this occasion.”

Scarlett smiled and agreed, “As you wish, Grandpa.”

Just as she turned toward the kitchen, she remembered something important. Retrieving the gift box she had brought, she presented it to Xavier. “Grandpa, I purchased a pair of soft-soled walking shoes for you. You can wear them during your daily walks or fishing trips. I sincerely hope they bring you comfort.”

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Awakened Housewife: Ignore Betrayer’s Begs