When His Perfect Mask Shattered I Awoke (Anneliese and Zacharias) novel Chapter 528

She gently tugged at his sleeve, her voice barely above a whisper, “I’m feeling much better now. I promise I’ll return to Oceaton later. Please, don’t fret.”

But deep down, her thoughts were tangled. I still want to be with my grandmother for New Year’s.

This year had been particularly tough; Grandma had undergone major surgery, and this would be her first New Year since my divorce. It felt essential to be there for her, no matter the circumstances.

Jonathan, sensing her resolve, squeezed her hand softly, his eyes filled with understanding. “We’ll make it back in time for New Year’s dinner, I assure you.”

But before the moment could settle, Derek erupted, his cane striking the floor with a loud thud that echoed through the room.

“You think you’re so important?! Get back here immediately!”

“I must decline, Grandpa,” she replied firmly, her heart racing. “If there’s nothing else, I’ll hang up now. It’s New Year’s, after all. Don’t let yourself get worked up.”

Yet, before she could disconnect, Derek shot back, “What could possibly be so important? Hiding some woman away? How impressive.”

Jonathan raised an eyebrow, a mixture of surprise and annoyance flashing across his face. “Who told you that? If their tongues are so long, I’ll gladly pull them out and serve them as a side dish for the New Year.”

Derek snorted derisively. “So it’s true, then. Since you brought her back to Oceaton, why keep her hidden? Do you really think the Fullbuster family poses a threat? She doesn’t even dare to step foot in the house. How petty of you. Is that truly what you consider worthy?”

At Derek’s pointed remarks, Jonathan’s expression turned steely, a storm brewing behind his eyes. But before he could retort, a soft hand reached for the phone, gently taking it from him.

He blinked in surprise as Anneliese seized the device, offering him a reassuring smile that calmed his racing heart. She lifted the phone to her ear, fully aware of Derek’s earlier comments. She knew that since the Fullbusters were aware of her presence in Oceaton, not greeting them on New Year’s Eve would be seen as disrespectful.

Anneliese didn’t want Jonathan to get into a heated argument with his grandfather because of her. If Derek had issues with her, she would confront him directly.

“Hello, Old Mr. Fullbuster. This is Anneliese.”

Her voice rang out clear and pleasant, laced with a politeness that was firm but not servile.

Derek seemed taken aback, clearly unprepared for the sudden appearance of a young woman’s voice on the line.

As the reality of her words sunk in, he felt a hint of awkwardness wash over him. Despite having heard everything, she maintained her composure, addressing him calmly with a straightforward tone that commanded respect.

“It’s because you spoiled him! No manners, no respect. And you still indulge him—your heart truly is crooked all the way to the horizon!”

Derek grumbled, though the edge in his voice was softened by Penelope’s affectionate rebuttal.

Penelope snorted, her voice dripping with sass. “Of course, I’m biased toward my grandson and granddaughter-in-law. They’re beautiful, a joy to behold, they bring me happiness, and they’ll care for me in my old age. What would I gain by being biased toward a stubborn old man like you?”

The two elders continued their playful bickering, resembling children more than dignified adults, and Anneliese couldn’t help but chuckle at their antics.

Derek attempted to retort, but Penelope waved him off dismissively. “All right, enough. You’re out of breath. Drink some water. I’ll talk to Anne.”

With that, she took over the call, her voice warm and gentle as she addressed Anneliese. “Anne.”

Anneliese smiled brightly, her heart swelling with affection. “Grandma, it’s me.”

Instantly, Penelope’s demeanor brightened. “Didn’t you say you’d spend New Year’s in Oceaton with your grandmother? Why did you follow Jojo to Oceaton?”