17 Chapter 16

After she had her shower, she went directly to the dining area to eat. She found Dorothy setting the table so she ran to her and helped set the table up for the two of them. Dorothy was pleased seeing that the woman her nephew loved was a kind girl. They sat across each other to eat.

"There was an emergency at Brandon's company so he asked me to come and look after you and help you cook."

She has been living with him for a few weeks but because they never had a long conversation, she didn't really know anything about him.

"I didn't know he works for a company," she said.

"He started his own small business while working for a big company abroad. He spent all his savings to start it and that's what keeps him busy for the past years."

"I see."

Seeing the young woman's interest, she continued. "He was poor growing up. But he is someone who wants to do everything for the people he loves."

So he already has someone he loves, she thought as the older woman went on with her story. But Julianna wasn't really paying attention to her, her mind was fixed on thinking about who the blessed woman was and the kind of person Brandon would give everything for. She felt a tinge of jealousy but she shook her head which brought her back to reality.

"Oh! So you do not have a boyfriend yet?" The old woman eyed her with curiousity?

Julianna gave her a confused look. Was she asking her if she has a boyfriend?

"I'm sorry if I made you uncomfortable." Dorothy apologized as she stood up to tidy up the table bringing all bowls and utensils to the sink.

Julianna also stood up and offered to help but Dorothy told her to just sit and do whatever she needs to do. Now that she was here, there is no need for her to do the house chores.

When he called to tell her to come for a few days to take care of her, she questioned him about her. He told him Julianna ran away from her father and came to the mansion thinking that the mansion still belonged to her family. He also told her that Mr.Shin froze all her bank accounts and suspended her credit cards. He also told her he tried to drive her away but Julianna was desperate and offered to do the cleaning and laundry in exchange for lodging. He also told her that he was forced to take her in as she collpased due to hunger and fatigue.

If she was any other woman he wouldn't have cared. But it was Julianna. A woman like her will not be easily ignored by anyone, especially, not her nephew who has been secretly in love with her.

"I am engaged."

Dorothy froze. Her mind shifted from thoughts of Julianna and Brandon to the words she just said. She is engaged. Is that why she ran away from her father? Because of the engagement? She was confused.

"My grandfather chose a man for me and I didn't like the idea. I want to get married to the man I love. My grandfather and father married for love. Why can't I?" She felt her eyes welling with tears. She breathed deeply before she stood up. "If you'll excuse me." Then she swifty turned and ran outside towards the sunflower garden.