"I’ve already made up my mind. I’m not very smart anyway, and I’m not cut out for studying. But Esther is so bright—she’s the perfect choice for school."
Hearing her words, Stella’s joy deepened. She quickly grabbed Esther’s hands in excitement.
"Esther, you must study hard! Having an education will give you a bright future—working in a factory can’t compare to being a scholar!" she exclaimed.
Stella was so elated that she failed to notice Esther’s face turning pale.
"Iris, are you really giving up on school? You’re actually going to work at the factory?" Esther’s voice trembled with disbelief.
Iris nodded. She had long seen through Esther’s thoughts—she wanted everything. She didn’t want to give up her opportunity to study, nor did she want to lose Wendel.
Just then, Wendel stepped out of the kitchen, carrying a plate of food.
"Dinner’s ready!" he called.
At the dinner table, Esther kept her head down, staring at her untouched food.
Noticing her unusual behavior, Wendel furrowed his brows. "Esther, what’s wrong? Why aren’t you eating?"
Tears welled up in Esther’s eyes. She looked up at him, her voice shaking. "Wendel, are you really getting married?"