When Two Winters Met (Henrietta and Yosef) novel Chapter 7

Matteo scowled. “I have my engagement tomorrow. I need to get up early.”

Artina wrapped her arms around him, a rebellious glint in her eyes. “Exactly. Because you’re getting engaged, you have to spend tonight with me!”

...

It was one-thirty in the morning when Henrietta arrived back at her family’s private estate. The housekeeper on duty was surprised to see her so late. “Miss… Miss Sargent.”

Henrietta gave a slight nod and headed for the stairs.

The housekeeper seemed to remember something and called out with a smile, “Happy birthday, Miss Sargent!”

Henrietta paused on the stairs. After a moment, she turned to look at the housekeeper, offered another cool nod, and continued to her room.

The next morning, Henrietta was awakened by her mother, Sabrina Needham, who was sitting on the edge of her bed.

“Happy birthday, my darling Henrietta. It’s your birthday party today, no sleeping in.”

Henrietta sat up and nodded. “Thank you, Mom.”

Today was supposed to be her engagement to Matteo, but to the outside world, the Sargent family had framed it as Henrietta’s birthday celebration. A family like the Sargents was naturally displeased with a match like Matteo. But Henrietta had been stubborn, rejecting strategic family alliances in favor of pursuing what she believed was true love. Her parents doted on her and hadn't interfered too much, but their acquiescence didn’t mean they approved. Therefore, all the invitations sent out by the Sargent family were for a birthday party.

Her parents had reasoned that if Henrietta was still determined to marry Matteo, they could simply announce the engagement during the party. It would seem natural and less jarring.

Henrietta got out of bed, and Sabrina handed her a glass of honey water. “Are you sure you want to announce the engagement today? Henrietta, you must think this through. A man who marries up like that can’t always be trusted. There are so many prominent families who want an alliance with us. Your father has been getting offers just this week.”

Henrietta sipped the water. Her voice was a little hoarse but still carried its usual emotionless calm. “Mom, I’m not getting engaged anymore.”

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