Benson

Chapter 13 I Am the Aunt

Victoria gave Yvonne a meaningful look

She was hinting at Yvonne, hoping to provoke Benson by mentioning Marcus and create some waves between them

However, Yvonne understood that such provocations were unnecessary. Their relationship had already reached its end, and no amount of stimulation could salvage it.

Yvonne spoke frankly, “I’m not sure, but Marcus is quite a gentleman. We had a good chat.”

Her words were simple, without any concealment or provocation, merely stating a fact.

This answer would make Victoria realize that her relationship with Benson was beyond repair.

Victoria felt a hint of disappointment at Yvonne’s response but also a sense of understanding and acceptance.

She knew the rift between Yvonne and Benson was irreparable, and further efforts would be futile. She didn’t pursue the topic further or try to persuade Yvonne to change her mind.

However, Victoria didn’t give up completely. She insisted on Yvonne staying the night, knowing that Yvonne and Benson’s relationship was complicated She wanted to observe Benson’s reaction and see if he truly cared about Yvonne.

Yvonne hesitated, looking at Benson and then at Victoria. Eventually, she agreed to stay. She didn’t want Benson to feel ignored but also didn’t want to go against Victoria’s wishes.

As night fell and stars adored the tranquil sky, Yvonne gently carried a steaming cup of milk, stepping softly on the carpet as she walked towards Victoria’s bedroom.

Approaching the bedroom door, Yvonne slowed her steps upon hearing Victoria’s voice, which carried a slight tremor, as if she was speaking with

Someone.

Curiosity welled up in Yvonne. She leaned closer to the door to hear better.

“Even though you’re divorced, setting aside the Winstead family’s kindness, Yvonne hasn’t done anything to wrong you, has she? When you’re not home, and your second brother is away, It’s Yvonne who handles everything at home. Every time I’m sick, it’s Yvonne who takes care of me.

Victoria’s voice carried a deep sense of emotion, each word striking Yvonne’s heart, filling her with warmth and sorrow,

Tears welled up in Yvonne’s eyes. She never imagined Victoria would speak of her in such a way. This unexpected recognition and gratitude felt incredibly precious.

Yvonne gently locked on the door, then entered with a warm smile on her face and a cup of milk in her hand.

“Mom, I warmed some milk for you. It’ll help you sleep,” Yvonne said softly.

Victoria looked up, saw the milk in Yvonne’s band, and a trace of emotion flickered in her eyes. She nodded, took the milk, blew on it gently, and sipped slowly.

With her makeup removed, Yvonne’s natural beauty began to show. Her clear, unadorned skin radiated a fresh and appealing charm.

Her eyebrows, no longer defined by a pencil, naturally arched, revealing a spirited and unrestrained look. Her deep eyes appeared even brighter without makeup.

Benson and Yvonne exchanged a glance. Benson nodded and left the room.

He stood in the dim hallway, a cigarette glowing faintly red in the night.

His gaze through the smoke was somewhat distant. Yvonne appeared at the other end of the hallway, her steps light and determined.

Yvonne approached, her eyes calm and untroubled.

Looking at Benson, she asked softly, “Do you need something?”

Benson took a deep drag of his cigarette, then slowly exhaled, the smoke swirling between them like a thin veil.

He lifted his head, meeting Yvonne’s gaze, his voice carrying a barely perceptible hint of apology. “Mom’s right. You’ve done a lot for this family over the years. My attitude towards you has been wrong. I’ll change from now on.”

Yvonne’s face showed little reaction. Her eyes remained calm, as if she had expected this all along.

She didn’t hope for Benson’s change but had grown accustomed to playing the role of the silent sufferer in this family. She nodded lightly and replied, ” Alright.”

ellites from various

That weekend evening, the Taylor estate was bading with activity. Luxury cars lined the entrance, and the estate was filled with ell Industries

Amid the star–studded night, Marcus stood out the most. Holding a large bouquet of vibrant reses, he looked anxious yet expectant, searching everywhere for Yvonne

Marcus navigated through the crowd, nodding to acquaintances, but his eyes constantly searched for the familiar figure.

He reached Benson and urgently asked, “Hey, brother, have you seen Yvonne? I need to talk to her.”

Benson’s eyes flickered with reluctance as he shrugged and answered, “I’m not sure. She might be around somewhere.”

Marcus frowned, dissatisfied with the response.

Determined to find Yvonne, he and Benson searched the estate together.

They passed through the banquet hall, strolled through the garden, and even checked the upstairs lounge, but Yvonne was nowhere to be found.

Just as Marcus was about to give up, they heard laughter coming from the kitchen.

Exchanging a glance, they quickly headed to the kitchen. Opening the door, they found Yvonne and Benson’s second brother’s daughter making a cake together, flour smudged on their faces, making them look particularly adorable.

Sering Yvonne, Marcus’s anxiety melted into a gentle smile.

He approached, handed the roses to Yvonne, and said softly, “Yvonne, I’ve been looking for you. These roses are a token of my feelings.” Yvonne took the roses, glanced at Marcus, then at the bouquet, and stiled. “Thank you, Marcus. I like them very much.”

H

Marcus’s eyes were full of affection. Smiling, he said, “Yvonne, not only are you beautiful on the outside, but your cooking skills Your kindness and talent truly impress me.

are also unparalleled.

Yvonne merely smiled without responding to Marcus’s praise.

A seasoned charmer, Marcus quickly realized his direct approach might make Yvonne uncomfortable. He decided to change tactics and engage her in a more relaxed manner.

He switched toples, starting to talk about baking.

“Yvonne, the pastries you make must be delicious. I’ve been thinking about learning to bake. Could you share some tips with me? Marcus asked lightly, trying to create a common interest.

Little Emma stood in front of Yvonne, her brows furrowed, eyes flashing with confusion and anger.

She stared at Marcus and demanded, “Who are you? Why are you giving flowers to my aunt?

Marcus was momentarily speechless, opening and closing his mouth without finding the right words.

Yvonne chuckled, lanceling to hug Emma. “Emma, I’m your aunt,” Her words were simple yet direct, like a stone thrown into a calm lake, creating ripples.

Benson stood nearby, his expression unreadable.

He recalled how Emma’s calling her “aunt had once pierced his heart like a needle. Now, he realized that hearing her call Yvonne “aunt” would hurt

even more.

Yvonne’s eyes unintentionally glanced at the clock on the wall, reminding her that the batch of bread in the oven should be nearly done.

Turning to Marcus, who was busy in the living room, she said, “Marcus, there are some pastries ready. You can try them first. I’ll check on the bread.” Yvonne quickly walked to the oven, opened the door, and was greeted by the warm, Inviting aroma of freshly baked bread.

Through the glass door, she saw the bread perfectly risen, Its golden crust gleaming temptingly.

Reaching to open the oven, she felt her hair tie loosen and fall to the floor.

“Emma, could you help auntie with her hair tie?” Yvonne called out.

Seeing Emma run over, Yvonne turned and knelt

“Make in tight, Emma,” she said, her back to Emma,

The warm touch of Emma’s fingers on her sensitive neck sent a shiver through Yvonne.

Her mind flashed to Marcus, but as she instinctively tried to pull away, an iron–like grip held her waist firmly, keeping her in place. Her body stiffened, heart racing, and breath quickening. A deep, powerful voice whispered in her ear, “Don’t move.”