Chapter 16
Seraphina quickly muted her phone and said hurriedly. “It’s Barb calling. I’ll take it outside.” No one thought twice about it.
She rushed to the stairwell and, after ensuring she was alone, returned the call. Clarence answered almost immediately, his voice tinged with irritation. “What were you doing just now?”
Seraphina could tell he wasn’t happy. Maybe it was the first time someone had ignored his call, and it didn’t sit well with him. “I–I’m at the hospital with my Dad,” she stammered. “My family are all here…”
“I see.” Clarence’s tone softened considerably. “I have rented you an apartment near your school. Move in tonight and stay there to study until the SATS”
Seraphina blinked in surprise, her heart warming at the thought. He rented an apartment for me? He planned all of this just because he heard the drilling noise on the phone?‘ Her lips parted, but words failed her.
“Randy will pick you up later,” Clarence continued.
“I–she stammered.
I’ve got a meeting. Talk later,” he added.
“Okay,” Seraphina swallowed her unspoken thoughts as Clarence ended the call. She had been about to ask how she could explain the whole moving out thing to her mom. But Clarence had already made up his mind. When he decided something, there was no room for negotiation.
Back in the ward, Shirley was feeding George. After a brief hesitation, Seraphina said, “Mom, my laptop’s broken beyond repair, and with the constant renovation noise upstairs, I can’t concentrate. Barb offered to let me stay at her place until the SATS. I can use her computer while I’m there.”
Shirley, knowing how close Seraphina and Barbara were, didn’t question it. Instead, she felt a pang of guilt. “I’m sorry you have to deal with this, Sera. Once we’re better off financially, I’ll buy you a new laptop.”
I’m just a burden to this family, George muttered weakly, his voice filled with self–reproach.
“Don’t say that, Dad,” Seraphina took his frail hand gently. “We’re family. You’re never a burden to us. We just want you to get better. That’s what matters most.”
George gazed at Seraphina, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. A flicker of unspoken thoughts crossed his face before he composed himself, nodding firmly. “Thanks, sweetie. I’m blessed to have a daughter like you. I’m sure I’ll get better.”
Seraphina smiled and nodded along. As Shirley continued feeding George, Thomas spoke up, “We still don’t know who paid for Dad’s medical bills, do we?”
“No, but whoever it was, they’ve done a great kindness. We’ll remember this, and one day, we’ll repay them,” Shirley replied.
“It seems a bit suspicious though, Thomas said with maturity beyond his years. “Let’s hope it’s some legitimate donation. We should look into it, just to be safe.”
Shirley murmured in agreement, but the mention of money made Seraphina uneasy. “Mom, Dad, I should head home. I’ve still got homework to finish,” she said.
“Alright, go ahead, Shirley smiled gently. “Your studies come first”
“Thomas, stay with Dad for a while, Seraphina added. Thomas nodded, his handsome face a picture of youthful determination.
As Seraphina walked out of the hospital room, she let out a quiet sigh. If they ever found out that money came from me
Chapter 16
selling myself, what would they think of me?
The apartment Clarence had rented for Seraphina was in an upscale neighborhood near Seraphina’s school, known for its serene environment. He had chosen a duplex on the top floor, complete with access to a rooftop garden.
Randy escorted Seraphina into the apartment, where a middle–aged woman took her luggage and placed it in the master bedroom.
“Ms. Johnson, this is Judy Bennett, Randy explained. “She’ll be taking care of your meals and daily needs. If you need anything, just let her know.”
Judy set the luggage down and turned to Seraphina with a warm smile. “Ms. Johnson, please let me know about your preferences so I can plan your meals accordingly. The SAT is a big deal; you need to eat well and rest properly to stay in top shape.
Touched by Clarence’s thoughtful arrangements, Seraphina felt a smile tugging at her lips. “Of course, thank you.” Judy took out a notepad and carefully jotted down notes as they discussed Seraphina’s routines and preferences. While Seraphina loved spicy food, they both agreed that her diet for the next few days would need to be light and nutritious –just to avoid stomach problems. For the sake of her exam preparation, she would have to endure it for a little while.
As Judy busied herself with dinner preparations, Seraphina retreated to her room to study. Earlier, she had stopped by Barbara’s house to grab her laptop and explain the situation. She told Barbara about Clarence renting the apartment for her and the white lie about staying at Barbara’s place.
With a reassuring smile, Barbara said, “Don’t worry. I’ll cover for you. Enjoy your time with Clarence.”
Having a supportive friend like Barbara was the greatest comfort to Seraphina. No matter what she did, Barbara always had her back, offering her unwavering support.
Seraphina had been engrossed in her studies for a while when Judy’s voice drifted in from outside. “Mr. Vanderbilt.”
Just as Seraphina looked up, the bedroom door swung open. Clarence stood in the doorway, striking in a simple white shirt and tailored trousers, his presence commanding her full attention. Each time she saw him, she was newly stunned by his appearance,
“You’re here,” Seraphina said, a smile dancing on her lips.
Clarence approached silently, glancing briefly at the books spread across her desk, and gently ruffled her hair. “Keep going. We’ll eat when you’re done.”
Seraphina’s heart fluttered at the tender, affectionate gesture. She could never resist the way he softly stroked her hair.
Clarence walked over to the couch, grabbed a book, and settled down to read, clearly intending to keep her company. He lounged comfortably, his posture a perfect mix of elegance and ene. His privileged upbringing had clearly given him an air of effortless refinement that seemed to radiate from him.
He’s so perfect. I should work harder to match him. Seraphina took a deep breath, forcing herself to concentrate once again.
