Chapter 514

Rosalind stood frozen, her emerald eyes widening in disbelief as she gazed at Alistair.

"You're not joking, are you?"

Alistair's lips curved into a faint smile. "Would I joke about something like this? But remember, the decision lies with Everett. He might refuse—either the tutoring position or the company management role."

Rosalind's delicate brows knitted together in confusion. "What exactly are you implying?"

Alistair exhaled softly. "Everett's life is one of unpredictability—always teetering on the edge, never settling. Stability might not be in his nature. Are you certain he can give you the future you envision?"

Years ago, Alistair had personally recruited Everett, recognizing his brilliance. But once enrolled at Willowridge University, Everett began skipping lectures. Alistair had reached out multiple times, hoping to steer him toward academia or business, where his intellect could shine.

Yet Everett had rejected every offer. That was when Alistair understood—Everett had chosen a different path.

Rosalind, on the other hand, was the Fairchild family's cherished gem, raised in luxury and comfort. Their worlds were fundamentally incompatible.

Rosalind shook her head stubbornly. "Father, don't stand in my way. My feelings for Everett are real."

Alistair's sigh was heavy with resignation. "And what of Julian?"

Rosalind's expression darkened. "Why bring him up? He's never shown interest in me. His heart still belongs to Arabella!"

Alistair chuckled lightly but said nothing. Perhaps Julian hadn't cared for Rosalind before, but things could change.

Rosalind looped her arm through her father's. "I know you worry, but this is my life. Right now, Everett is the one I want."

Alistair tapped her forehead gently. "Let's see if Everett feels the same way first."

Rosalind's smile faltered as reality sank in. They'd been discussing possibilities, but Everett's stance remained unknown.

She pulled out her phone and opened WhatsApp, typing rapidly. [Did you make it home?]

Everett was already speeding down the highway on his motorcycle when his phone buzzed. Glancing at the screen, he saw Rosalind's message.

Another notification followed. [Don't ride too fast. Stay safe.]

The corner of his mouth lifted, but he didn't reply.

Ding!

[Do you like me?]

[If you don't answer, I'll take that as a yes!]

[Let's be together.]

[I want to be your girlfriend.]

Rosalind's messages poured in—bold, unfiltered, brimming with passion.

Everett remained silent. His gaze flickered to the sleek luxury car ahead, its license plate unmistakably belonging to the Fairchild family. He'd been trailing them since leaving the hospital, keeping a careful distance.

She asked if he liked her.

Of course he did.

How could he not?

Rosalind was vibrant, pure, and relentless. Despite his resistance, she'd barged into his life like sunlight, warming corners he'd long kept dark. His mother and sister adored her.

What wasn't to love about a dazzling, kind-hearted heiress?

Yet he couldn't shake the gnawing doubt—what could he possibly offer her in return?

The truth was simple: he didn't deserve her.