Chapter 4
The crowd paused, then erupted into laughter.
Talking manners with these folks was a real hoot.-
Their words became even harsher.
"Shameless! Are you trying to sneak into Windcharm Villas as a maid to be Mr. Hetfield's woman?"
"And look at you, thinking you can get close to Mr. Hetfield. Who do you think you are?"
"Oh, Adelaide's only been gone a few days, and you're already making a move on Mr. Hetfield. You can't hold a candle to Adelaide."
"Get lost. Don't let us see your face around here anymore."
These young men were experts at bullying.
It was because Stuart hadn't stepped in, and with Morwenna's outfit, no one would associate her with Stuart. They assumed she was a new maid trying to catch Stuart's eye with her odd behavior. During this exchange, a man in a floral shirt walked over and shoved Morwenna.
Carrying too much luggage, she couldn't dodge and staggered.
She took a deep breath, her anger simmering. She sensed disrespect, disdain, and contempt from their words and actions. But she didn't see why she should be scorned.
She tolerated Stuart because of Norbert's kindness, but these strangers had no right to lay hands on her.
The man in the floral shirt saw the defiance in Morwenna's eyes and splashed his drink toward her.
In a swift move, Morwenna dropped her suitcase, grabbed his wrist, and the drink swayed, a few drops trickling down her hand.
Morwenna stared at him, snapping, "If you dare touch me again, I will fight back."
Morwenna was kind and gentle, but she was no coward.
Are these men trying to hurt her? She'd fight back.
Once, she had gone into the woods to gather herbs and encountered a wild boar. The boar tried to hurt her, and she managed to kill it even with two broken ribs. Why would she fear men if she wasn't afraid of a wild boar?
These folks didn't know what was going through Morwenna's mind.
If they knew they were less than pigs in her eyes, they'd probably be livid.
The man in the floral shirt tried to pull his hand back but couldn't.
Her delicate hands had a surprising strength.
Feeling his struggle, Morwenna didn't want to start a fight while Stuart was around. It wouldn't seem proper.
So, she let go, but as the man was pulling hard, he lost his balance and fell hard on the ground, his drink splashing all over him. It was a total mess.
There was a moment of silence.
Morwenna was innocent. She didn't mean for it to happen.
At that moment, Stuart spoke, "That's enough! Mor... whatever, apologize."
Stuart didn't even remember Morwenna's name. His tone wasn't sharp or loud, casually authoritative, leaving no room for argument.
Yet, Morwenna countered, "I did nothing wrong. Why should I apologize?"
The scene grew even quieter.
No one expected someone to challenge Stuart openly. Was this country girl seeking her doom?
Stuart often seemed casual and carefree, but everyone knew his indifference masked a ruthless disposition. His nickname, the big bad wolf, wasn't for nothing. Those who crossed Stuart always met grim fates Everyone waited for Stuart's reaction.
Stuart showed little emotion, his eyes half-closed as if tired, expressing annoyance. "Apologize or get out."
Morwenna's bright eyes met Stuart's, the light in her eyes dimming to disappointment.
She realized her husband wouldn't stand up for her. They wouldn't be like the devoted couples in her hometown.
But she couldn't just leave. She hadn't repaid the years of support from Norbert yet, and she had promised to take care of Stuart.
So, Morwenna's bright eyes lowered, her fists clenched, and she murmured an apology. "I'm sorry."