Chapter 3794
Sonny asked, “I’m really happy, Uncle Tatt. But why do you have to work so far away? Why doesn’t your boss give you a break? Doesn’t everyone get a holiday during the New Year? Even my mom is coming back soon.” In Sonny’s eyes, his mom was always the busiest person, so if she was returning home for the holidays, he assumed everyone else should be able to take a break too. He couldn’t fathom that some people still had to work.
Tatum explained, “I have to work far away because I need to earn money. My boss pays a good salary, and I even receive triple pay for working during holidays. I don’t want to have financial issues, so I’m skipping the holiday.”
“Uncle Tatt, talk to my Uncle Zack later. Aunt Seren says it’s time for me to go to bed. Good night, Uncle Tatt.” Sonny bid his goodnight and was gently guided away by Serenity.
Now, Tatum could concentrate on his conversation with Zachary. They talked for about half an hour until Tatum heard a knock at the door. He opened it while still on the call and found Uncle Joly, the butler, standing there.
“Tatum, the eldest lady is back. She asked for you to come to the main hall right away,” Uncle Joly said.
“Okay, I’ll head over right now. Thanks for letting me know, Uncle Joly,” Tatum replied politely.
Uncle Joly added, “I just came to grab something and thought I’d inform you in person. I didn’t feel like making a call. Now, go quickly; don’t keep the eldest lady waiting.”
Tatum nodded and turned back to Zachary on the phone. “Brother, Elora wants to see me. I’ll meet her first. I’ll call you later when I’m free. Please reassure our parents—I promise I’ll come home for the holidays.”
the New Year next year.” With that, Tatum ended the call and hurried to the main hall. Elora had mentioned that she had a social event tonight, and based on her usual routine, she often returned late. It was surprising to see her back so early; it wasn’t even ten o’clock yet.
At the Ormond family mansion, the lights were still on, and the servants were busy finishing their work for the night. Tatum made his way through the courtyard, his steps lightening as he approached the main house. An aunt was waiting at the entrance. Upon seeing him, she softly said, “The eldest lady is inside, Tatum. You should go in.”
Tatum offered her a polite smile, nodded, and walked up the steps, entering the hall with a steady stride. Elora was the only one in the room; upstairs, Mrs. Ormond was telling Alonzo a bedtime story. Tatum paused a couple of meters away from Elora and respectfully greeted her, “Miss.”
Elora acknowledged him with a quiet sound but didn’t turn to face him. She was focused on two sets of jewelry and clothes in front of her—gifts that Alonzo had bought during his afternoon shopping. Being thoughtful, Alonzo had purchased new clothes for all seven of his sisters. Since Elora was his biological sister, he made sure to get her two sets of clothes along with matching jewelry.
Though Elora generally didn’t care much for jewelry and preferred a simple, neat style, she was clearly pleased with Alonzo’s thoughtful gesture. It warmed her heart that her affection for her brother was reciprocated in this way. Alonzo had always been generous with Elora, giving her more than he did for his other sisters. As Elora silently admired her gifts,
Tatum stood quietly behind her, observing her with a gentle gaze. He thought she appeared serene, almost glowing with a subtle beauty. To Tatum, Elora was always captivating, regardless of the moment. She never failed to draw his attention.
“Alonzo mentioned they used your money to purchase these gifts. I’ll ensure I pay you back for the total amount,” Elora finally said after admiring the jewelry. She closed the jewelry box, turned to meet Tatum’s kind eyes, and added in a soothing tone, “Please, have a seat; there’s no need to be so formal.”