After Henry left, Aurelia descended the stairs from the upper floor.
In truth, Leopold's proposed amendments were quite mild, and Henry probably couldn't find much to object to.
The older generation often clung to tradition, preferring the comfort of routine and resisting change, so his opposition to altering the family charter was to be expected.
"So did Uncle Henry agree?" she asked.
"I don't know," Leopold said, wrapping an arm around her shoulder. "Don't worry, whatever changes I want to make will happen."
Jessica rose and headed for the kitchen.
William came bounding down the stairs, full of youthful energy. Today, his dad Arnold was going to be late, so he came over to the Stirling Mansion for dinner. Arnold would pick him up later in the evening.
"Uncle Leopold, are you changing the family charter to put legitimate children before the others? It's not because of me, is it?" William teased.
Aurelia choked on her tea, nearly spraying it out in surprise. "William, what nonsense are you spouting?"
William gave a mischievous laugh, "Just asking. Uncle Leopold is never fond of me, right?"
Leopold was a bit flustered by William's cunning. "I don't dislike you. I just expect a certain respect from you."
William looked at him earnestly. "When have I ever disrespected you? I just don't want you to be my stepdad, that's all. I have my dad, and I don't need another."
Aurelia's world seemed to swirl around her as she ruffled his hair affectionately. "William, you should understand your place. One day, you'll have to return to it."
Only she and William understood the cryptic conversation.
William pouted. He knew his mom wanted him to accept Uncle Leopold and to reclaim his position as his son.
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