Chapter 44

Barbara stood in the grand entrance of Stanley's grandfather's mansion, her heart heavy with unease.

She had come here hoping for some solace, a break from the tension between her and Stanley,

but the frosty reception she received only added to her distress.Mr. Carter, Stanley's grandfather, stood at the top of the grand staircase, his stern gaze fixed upon her. "Barbara," he greeted her curtly, barely acknowledging her presence.

"Mr. Carter," she replied, trying to keep her voice steady. "I hope I'm not intruding. I just needed some time away..." Barbara said,

He interrupted her, his voice laced with accusation. "You know very well why you're not welcome here. You're the reason my grandson took Bernard abroad without my consent!" Mr. Carter explained,

Barbara was more frustrated and devastated at his words. She had known that Stanley's decision to take his son away had caused a rift between them, but she never expected it to have consequences beyond their relationship. "I did