Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 3396

It was well past midnight by the time they arrived at the Evert family estate.

Marina thanked Carson and opened the car door.

Carson glanced at the sprawling mansion. Seeing the living room lights still blazing, he frowned. "Do you want me to come in with you?"

"No, thank you," Marina replied softly, turning toward the entrance.

Knowing her stubborn independence, Carson didn't push the issue.

The moment Marina stepped inside, a maid hurried over to take her luggage. "Miss, you're back. Mr. and Mrs. Evert are still awake, waiting for you."

A cold chill washed over Marina. She offered a faint nod.

Marina's eldest uncle had passed away unmarried in his twenties. Devastated, her grandparents had laid down an absolute rule: as long as they were alive, the family business could be divided, but the household could not. Everyone had to live together under one roof.

Tonight, to force Marina into surrendering the new villa she had just purchased, her grandparents had forbidden her parents from going to bed. They were ordered to wait up and secure Marina's agreement.

Unsurprisingly, the entire family was gathered in the living room, save for Phoebe, who had already retired for the night.

Rhiannon, Marina's mother, was the first to stand. She approached with a concerned expression. "Calling you back this late... you must be exhausted from the long drive."

Aunt Charlotte chuckled from the sofa. "Marina has been out seeing the world. It really is different now that she's engaged into the Foster family. She's rubbing elbows with VIPs!"

Aunt Charlotte gave a tight, mocking smile. "It's just a house. Can it really do all that?"

"Exactly," Marina countered smoothly. "It's just a house. How could it possibly be a miracle cure for an illness? You should find somewhere else for Phoebe."

Aunt Charlotte choked on her words.

Jude and Rhiannon were known for being gentle and accommodating. Neither of them could figure out where their daughter had gotten her razor-sharp tongue.

Grandpa Evert's expression darkened. "Jude, you and Rhiannon need to talk some sense into Marina. With my eldest gone, you are the oldest son. You need to look after the younger generation. The Evert family must stay united. Family harmony brings prosperity!"

Marina's face fell. Every single time there was a conflict, her grandfather used her father's position as the older brother to force him into submission.