Chapter 16: Sara introduces the Russell family
Stepping out of the luxurious car, Henry carefully assisted Sara up the steps. Though Sara could walk alone, Henry, concerned for the baby, insisted on supporting her. Sara's gentle smile, warm as sunlight, made Henry blush. "Sara, you truly are as beautiful as they say. Henry always speaks of you, and seeing you today, you live up to the reputation," Mrs. Lisa Russell - Henry's mother, greeted with a warm smile, putting Sara at ease. Far across on an elegant wooden sofa, an elderly lady over 80, with white hair and rosy cheeks, dressed in a dark, beaded gown, exuded sophistication and grace. Sara guessed this must be Henry's grandmother. Mrs. Lisa Russell led Sara to her mother-in-law and respectfully introduced her.
"Mother, this is Sara - Henry's girlfriend."
"Hello, ma'am, I am Sara. I've heard a lot about you from him, and I'm happy to meet you," Sara said, slightly shy, as she was not accustomed to greeting elders. Moreover, from what Henry had told her, Mrs. Anna Russell was of the traditional sort, valuing decency, which made her somewhat anxious.
"Please, take a seat," Mrs Anna Russell said softly after observing the young woman's demeanour.
"Mother, Sara..."
Mrs. Lisa Russell was interrupted by her mother-in-law, which made her feel awkward.
"Go check if the meal is ready; I'd like to speak with Sara alone."
After Mrs. Lisa Russell left, Sara felt uneasy, realizing that the grandmother was the ultimate authority in the house. She looked towards Henry for support, but this action did not escape Mrs. Lisa Russell's notice and seemed to displease her.
"Why don't you go inside for a moment?"
"Is there something wrong?" Henry could not hide his concern for Sara.
"Nothing to worry about, please come inside."
Only after they were alone did Mrs. Anna Russell begin the conversation.
"Sara, I've heard you've recently returned from abroad. Given that you haven't known each other for a long time, do you think deciding to introduce yourself today is too hasty? I understand this question might put you in a difficult position, but you should answer honestly now that you're stepping into this house."
"We've known each other since I was abroad, so I've learned quite a bit about him. Time spent together has made me realize the harmony between our souls. You might doubt it, but feelings are always hard to predict."
"Our families are very compatible, but I have only one grandson, and I won't allow anyone to deceive or hurt him. These words might be hard to hear, but please understand the heart of a parent or grandparent. You'll be a mother and stand in my shoes one day, so please be empathetic. The Russell family has always valued the honor of the family name above all. If you wish to enter this house, do not do anything to tarnish that reputation."
Sara thought that marrying into a prestigious family was not easy. Even though she comes from a wealthy family, she still had to listen to these grave words, let alone Mrs. Lisa Russell... Without Henry's deep affection for her and her desire to provide her child with a good father, she would never have agreed to this decision.
Sara looked up at the woman across from her, feeling slightly uneasy.
"I understand your concerns. Everyone fears the bad and the unkind, but why fear others' suspicions if one is sincere? I know you love him and the family, and so do I."
"Hahaha." Mrs. Anna Russell burst out laughing, causing Sara to startle and look puzzled.
"You're such a darling; I was testing you a bit. I didn't expect you to be so sincere. I like you." Mrs. Anna Russell took Sara's soft, pure white hand in hers, admiring it.
"You have beautiful hands; often, those with such hands are kind-hearted and faithful."
Now feeling less tense, Sara smiled warmly.
"Now that you're back in the country, do you have any plans for the future?"
"I'll join my father's company to gain experience. Moreover, I want him to recognize my capabilities."
"If only Henry thought the same as you," Mrs. Anna Russell sighed, her expression laden with worry.
"Don't worry; I'll convince him to follow your wishes."
"Really? The more you speak, the more I like you. How can there be such an adorable person in this world? Since he was young, Henry has disliked business, and I fear forcing him might lead to resentment and negative thoughts. Fortunately, with you here, you'll help me advise him. I'm putting my trust in you." Mrs. Anna Russell continually expressed her fondness for Sara through her words and gestures, feeling very comfortable in her company.
Suddenly, Mrs. Anna Russell took out a silver bracelet intricately carved, clearly the work of a top craftsman, and placed it on Sara's wrist.
"This bracelet was given to me by my grandmother-in-law when I married into the family. It has been passed down through many generations. As you will become a future daughter-in-law of this family, I'm giving this to you as a token." Sara was taken aback and tried to refuse, causing Mrs. Anna Russell to be somewhat displeased.
"Such a precious item; how could you give it to me?"
"Why not? Do you think our family is unworthy, or do you not intend to marry...?"
"No, that's not what I meant. Please don't misunderstand. I'm afraid I might be clumsy and..."
"Sara, I'm not blaming you. Please give me your hand; I'll put it on for you. I trust my judgment of character."
Sara was moved and felt guilty, unsure how to explain when the truth about her and Henry would come out. She feared that she, Henry, and everyone would be hurt when everything was revealed.
Sara thought she was attending a meal to introduce herself, not expecting to shoulder such a heavy responsibility. But it was too late to turn back.
Sara felt weighed down. She didn't intend to deceive, but she had no other choice. Despite always claiming she wanted to be a single mother, she hadn't fully understood the hardships and struggles of raising a child alone. Sara found herself in a vicious cycle of unclear love and hate, placing herself in a difficult situation.