Chapter 52: Breaking the news to Nina
Unlike Haines’s worry, Penny didn’t see him differently after hearing what he said. If anything, she felt a little surprised he spoke his mind so casually and honestly with her.
"I understand, Uncle Haines," she said mildly. "I don’t think Uncle Haines is being selfish."
Haines heaved a sigh as he glanced at the rearview mirror. "That feels reassuring, Penny."
Penny didn’t answer, but she felt more reassured that Haines was looking out for her. But as silence settled in, she couldn’t help but wonder.
’In my first life, Uncle Haines had to leave as soon as winter ended or around early spring.’ At the same time they resolved the company issues. ’I’m not sure about the date, but he should’ve gone abroad by now.’
Was it because she was now indulging with Charles that Haines had to do all the work? But Charles was still working at home and would visit his office a few times a week. He even told her he would return to the office since she was starting school.
What she didn’t consider was that Haines didn’t want to leave because he was worried about her.
Although Penny was now in the Bennet Family, Haines was aware her current position was still unstable. With Nina’s constant insinuation, the boys not opening up to her, and the Bennet couple being indecisive, he decided to stay.
In Penny’s first lifetime, Haines didn’t bear such worry because Penny and Nina got along pretty quickly in the beginning. But because Penny had already seen Nina’s true colors and was not interested in falling for the same trap, it granted Haines the chance to see Nina’s schemes early.
When the two of them reached home, everyone in the house was acting normally. There didn’t seem anything amiss, which meant the couple hadn’t told Nina about it. Penny didn’t mind because she expected this much. Her parents were probably waiting for the perfect timing. Haines also thought the same and didn’t bring it up.