SWNOVELS Chapter 374
The sword is forged in the fire and tempered by strife, just as true character is honed in the trials of life.
Gerard's handwriting was a testament to practice and precision.
Graceful yet bold, his penmanship was a thing of beauty.
The reporter couldn't help but be impressed as she took the notebook from his hands, giving Gerard an appreciative look.
Gerard truly was a liberal arts prodigy.
His penmanship alone was something to behold, perhaps even surpassing those who had dedicated their lives to the study of literature.
"Thank you, Gerard. My son has been working really hard in school. Knowing that this message comes from this year's top liberal arts student will definitely make his day!"
"It's no problem at all. I wish him all the best in his college entrance exams next year," Gerard responded graciously.
After the interview, the reporter left the Lindsay household.
Janet, eager to share the news of Gerard's achievement with every relative, grabbed her phone to spread the word.
"Grandma, I'm going to head upstairs to rest," Gerard announced.
"Of course, dear. I'll have the nanny bring dinner up to your room," Janet replied with a loving smile.
Gerard nodded and headed upstairs.
"Janet, we'll be taking our leave now. Come on, Darleen," Edna said, preparing to leave.
"Hold on a moment, Darleen. I promised you a surprise for doing well in school. What would you like? I'll have someone go out and buy it for you," Janet offered generously.
Darleen forced a smile, "Thank you, Grandma, but that's okay. I was just joking earlier." Deep down, she was embarrassed, especially after Gerard secured the top spot in liberal arts. How could she ask for anything now without feeling ashamed?
"How can you say it was a joke? I made a promise, and I intend to keep it. Tell me, what do you want?" Janet insisted, her tone serious.
Edna tried to brush it off with a laugh, "Janet, you're too kind. Darleen has everything she needs. She was just trying to make you happy."
Janet wasn't swayed, "Gerry might have topped liberal arts, and Darleen ranked third in our city. It's a day for celebration. Whatever Darleen wants, I'll get it for her."
The atmosphere shifted as Edna's demeanor darkened. To her, it seemed Darleen was only getting attention because of Gerard's achievement.
This wouldn't do. Edna was determined to have a child with Jonah, convinced that her child would surpass anyone from Carole's lineage.
"Janet, really, there's no need!" Edna insisted, trying to divert Janet's attention. "The person who truly deserves your praise is Gerry!"
Janet's face lit up at the mention of her grandson. "Exactly! I've been thinking about what surprise to prepare for Gerry. He has everything he could possibly want, and I just don't know what to get him..." Janet's voice trailed off, filled with concern.
Edna's expression soured further, realizing that Janet had never intended to give Darleen a gift. She began to question her loyalty to Janet and what she had truly gained from it. Despite Janet's assurances of treating her like a daughter-in-law, it was clear her affection was reserved for Gerard alone.
With a mixture of irony and resignation, Edna announced they were leaving. Janet offered to have the driver take them home, but Edna declined, stating they had their own car.
After seeing them out, Janet reminded Edna to drive safely.
The car ride back to the Fletcher household was silent, the tension palpable. Darleen, not wanting to worsen the situation, remained quiet.
Upon arriving home, Darleen attempted to offer Edna a glass of water, only to have it swatted away. The hot tea spilled over Darleen's hand, scalding her skin.
"Mom, I'm sorry! I was wrong!" Darleen pleaded, kneeling in fear.
Edna, overwhelmed with anger and frustration, remained silent, her gaze filled with wrath.