Chapter 186 Sister, My brother-in-law scolded me!
Some people sighed at Natalie's sudden rise to fame, poised for greatness, while others mocked Emily's choice of a young model who had only graced the runway twice and overlooked numerous well-established talents.
Regardless of the opinions circulating online, it was clear that Natalie's departure from the finals of Top Avenue did her no harm. Joining HHY Fashion Company rendered the platform provided by Top Avenue redundant.
…
Once Lucas's condition stabilized, Natalie asked, "Lucas, would you like to return to school?"
Lucas was hesitant. He felt guilty about attending classes and taking exams alongside ordinary high school students.
Just as Lucas was about to decline and fabricate an excuse, Oliver said, "High school students belong in school."
Oliver, unusually talkative, glanced at Lucas with his bald head and added, "If not school, then work."
Lucas contemplated his options. He knew he could earn money without the need for school or employment, but he could not disclose the source of his income to his sister. The thought of his sister discovering his involvement in designing weapons for others troubled him. Such knowledge would surely concern her, given the dangerous nature of his work, whether it be for frontline combat, assassination, or advanced security systems. Moreover, he realized he could no longer maintain the facade of the innocent younger brother if his secret came to light.
Ignoring his meddlesome brother-in-law, Lucas addressed his sister, saying, "Actually, I applied to a school abroad earlier. It's a reputable institution where I can study remotely and earn credits."
Oliver retorted, "And become reclusive and awkward socially?"
"Look, he’s scolding me!” Lucas complained, feigning innocence.
Natalie was caught between Oliver's stern gaze and Lucas's pleading eyes. She had already experienced this a few times and was getting used to it.
"Lucas, while your intellect is admirable, it’s important to socialize as well,” Natalie advised, "If high school doesn’t appeal to you, perhaps consider college? Your accolades and international awards qualify you for direct university admission."
Lucas sulkily said, "But I wish to stay home with you."
Oliver, seemingly in high spirits, declared, "I'll handle the admission process. You're starting at Paykston University tomorrow."
Lucas was aghast. "Look! He just can’t wait to send me away!"
Natalie struggled to mediate, at a loss for words. If she disagreed with Lucas and said that Oliver did not have the intention of sending him away, Oliver would likely say otherwise. After a moment, she suggested, “Starting tomorrow is rather sudden. How about next week?”
"Fine," Oliver conceded.
Given it was Thursday, Lucas had only three more days at home. However, he felt suspicious that Oliver had so readily agreed to his sister’s suggestion.
…
About an hour later, Charles arrived to pick up Lucas's documentation for the enrollment process. Despite the challenges of mid-term admissions at prestigious institutions, Oliver's influence and Lucas's exceptional profile facilitated the procedure.
In the study, Oliver leaned against his desk with one hand in his pocket as he observed.
Although Lucas was clearly discontent and reluctant, one could not tell at all from his neat handwriting.
Lucas's handwriting was both masculine and elegant. A closer examination revealed nuances reminiscent of Natalie's handwriting.
Aware of Oliver's scrutiny, Lucas, without looking up, said, "My handwriting's quite good, right? My sister was the one who taught me.”
Before Lucas could even finish, Oliver's expression had soured. In his opinion, Natalie was only four years older than Lucas, but she treated Lucas like her son.
After Lucas was done writing, he looked up and asked, “By the way, how’s your cooking lesson going?”
Oliver, reflecting on his less-than-graceful attempts in the kitchen, knew he should feel irked by Lucas's jab. However, the pleasant turn of that evening swept his irritation away. In the end, he only said, “Your sister said she’ll cook for me. I’m different from you.”
Charles, who had been silently observing from a corner, did his best to become less conspicuous. He did not expect to witness such a childish exchange between the two.
The duo, despite their age difference of ten years, squabbled over Natalie's affection as if they were both children.
…
The following day, Lucas discovered the reason behind Oliver's prompt agreement to a three-day stay at Rosewood Estate.
Oliver and Natalie were scheduled to attend a banquet, returning only on Sunday. This revelation left Lucas frustrated. Before departing, Natalie repeatedly reminded him to behave and not trouble Liam. She had only been informed of the event the previous night and that the invitation was extended to Mr. Windsor, not Simon Frost. Since he was attending as Oliver Windsor, she naturally wanted to accompany him.
Oliver, known as Windsor in certain circles, seldom accepted such invitations, making this occasion an exception. This was driven by his desire to distance Natalie from Lucas, that egghead, whom he viewed as a rival for her affections.
…
The banquet was hosted at a luxurious estate, boasting amenities like horseback riding, gliding, wineries, and golf courses.
Upon their arrival, Oliver, who donned a silver mask, and Natalie, a renowned model, immediately drew attention.
"Mr. Windsor!"
A businessman from another city approached. He looked at Natalie at Oliver's side and smilingly asked, “Is this beautiful lady Mrs. Windsor?”
Rumors had circulated among their peers that Oliver had wedded Natalie, the Watson family's illegitimate daughter, but this was their first time seeing her. All of them thought that her grace and beauty far surpassed those of Hailey, the legitimate daughter.
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