Chapter 1228

Seeing Wilfred and Edith’s reaction, Stella realized that she had misspoken. She was about to rectify her words when Wilfred said, “We have plenty of fountain pens at home.

They’re not THAT rare. Besides, it’s the thought that counts. I personally think tea leaves are a better choice than a pen.”

Stella was a bit surprised to hear that. “But, I’ve never seen a Carpi fountain pen in all life,” she said, trying to justify its value through its rarity.

Unexpectedly, Wilfred unwrapped the gift box Darcie brought and presented Stella with a Carpi fountain pen.” Here. Take a good look. It’s yours if you like it. If you don’t, we can go to Royalburgh and pick out one of the many fountain pens in my study. And, if you like them all, I can give you my entire collection,” he said.

Wilfred’s generosity shocked Stella. She tried to decline the offer and said, “That’s okay, Grandpa. I’m not particularly skilled in calligraphy. I was just curious.”

However, Wilfred insisted. “What do you mean? You’re great at calligraphy! Trevor showed me your writing once, and I was impressed. Your penmanship is amazing!”

Stella did not know what to say. She assumed that Wilfred was just being gracious. ‘No calligraphy artist would ever think that if they saw my work.’

Keegan’s handwriting, on the other hand, was beautiful. But, he was not one to show off, so only a few close friends had seen his handwriting.

‘Taking Wilfred’s fondness for the art into consideration, he and Keegan would get along well,’ thought Stella. She then made a mental note to encourage Keegan to take up calligraphy again so that he would not embarrass her if Wilfred asked to see his work.

As the evening progressed, Wilfred kept signaling Edith to say something. Eventually, Edith lightly smacked him on the leg and cleared her throat before speaking. “Stella, your father and I are planning to host a banquet where we officially welcome you into the family and introduce you to everyone. We want to hold it once your paperwork and ID are sorted. But, it’s just an idea, and we want to hear your thoughts about it. What do you think?”

Wenham looked at Stella eagerly following that question.

Stella was touched by how much the family valued her opinion and respected her wishes. ‘They are way better than Albert,’ she thought.

“It’s a great idea, grandma. But, I’d like to postpone the event a bit since I still have some things to take care of with the Jewell family.”

Edith was relieved to hear that. “No worries, sweetie. Take your time. Remember to talk to Trevor or your Uncle Daryl if you need any assistance. We’ll start making arrangements for the banquet when you’ve sorted everything out.”

“Thank you, grandma,” Stella nodded.

Edith squeezed her hand gently and offered her comfort.” You’re a good kid, Stella. I’m sure your mother would be proud of you no matter how things turn out,” she said, referring to Rainee rather than her own daughter.

Stella was taken aback and hugged Edith tightly. Even though the old lady had a frail body, her embrace was warm and comforting, much like the ones she used to receive from Rainee.

Stella buried her face in Edith’s neck as she reminisced about the times when she used to hug her mother that way.’ I finally feel like I belong somewhere,’ she thought to herself.

When the gathering ended, Wilfred and Edith accompanied Stella downstairs. Trevor stood up to follow, but Leighton stopped him and said, “Wait.”

Trevor paused, and he wondered if Leighton wanted to start a fight. However, Leighton had something else in mind. He took out a box from his bag and said, “A friend of mine gave me a lighter that looks pretty cool. But, I don’t smoke, so I want you to have it.”