Chapter 205

The people of Edward’s hometown believed the humble boy from their rural background had become a billionaire, easily affording a private jet. Every year, the Graham family's return was met with a mob of locals showering them with compliments, a fact that bolstered Phyllis's ego, especially since she never quite fit in with the Hasmond women. Even though their hometown remained impoverished, Phyllis eagerly anticipated their yearly holiday return.

“Rosalie, have you packed your bags yet? Time’s ticking; we’re about to leave,” Edward said. The servants had already loaded and carried the luggage downstairs. Seeing Rosalie engrossed in her phone on the couch, he called out, urging her to pack.

Rosalie looked up from her phone, surveyed the expensively dressed group before her, and nonchalantly declared, “I ain’t going back this year.” She knew they didn't want her accompanying them; they feared she might reveal Edward's humble origins.

The Grahams were thrilled Rosalie wasn't coming. After exchanging knowing glances, Edward feigned concern, saying, “Why not come with us? I worry about you being alone.”

“Well, you can stay home with me, and we can have Christmas together,” Rosalie replied.

Edward’s face contorted. A sad expression replaced his initial reaction. He exclaimed, “But there are tons of family and friends back home! I only go back a couple of times a year. It’s a family reunion; how can I miss it!”

In fact, he wouldn't want to miss the opportunity to flaunt his wealth before those who once looked down on him.

Ever since Phyllis's confrontation with Julian and Rosalie, she had been giving Rosalie the cold shoulder, though she hadn't directly confronted her. Hearing Rosalie's refusal, Phyllis retorted, “Rosalie, how dare you make such a demand of your father? Your grandfather is buried in his hometown. It’s Christmas; your father needs to visit his grave.”

Rosalie continued using her phone, ignoring Phyllis and rolling her eyes inwardly. Phyllis assumed Rosalie was unaware that their previous visits had been solely for showing off their wealth to relatives and neighbors; they hadn't even visited her grandfather's grave.

Rosalie thought, ‘Now she’s using the dead to win this argument. She’ll get her comeuppance.’ After silently cursing Phyllis, Rosalie looked up with an innocent expression.

“Grandina, you’re getting old and your hearing isn't what it used to be. Didn't you hear Dad say he wants to stay with me because he’s worried about me being alone? I’m simply showing how much I care for him. I can’t bear seeing him so worried. I need him to stay here, and to see I’m…miline. Why did you misinterpret my kindness like that?”

Phyllis was furious, her face twisting with anger. Rosalie’s innocent façade while making such a self-righteous, argumentative statement, as if Phyllis had misunderstood her good intentions, particularly enraged her. She wanted to retort, but Rosalie’s assertive demeanor intimidated her, so Phyllis remained silent.