CH 3 :Embracing change

---

Chapter 3: Embracing Change

As Henry stepped off the plane in San Francisco, he was greeted by the warm smile of Lawyer Will, the emissary of his newfound guardian, Roger Nicholas. "Welcome to America, Henry," Will said, extending his hand. "Your grandfather is eagerly awaiting your arrival."

Henry nodded, a mixture of excitement and apprehension churning in his stomach. "Thank you, Mr. Will. I'm looking forward to meeting him," he replied, forcing a smile.

The drive to Roger Nicholas's villa was filled with nervous chatter as Henry and Will exchanged pleasantries. "So, Henry, what do you think of San Francisco so far?" Will asked, trying to break the ice.

"It's... different," Henry replied, peering out the window at the unfamiliar sights whizzing by. "But I suppose I'll get used to it."

Upon arriving at the villa, Henry was struck by its grandeur—a far cry from the cramped confines of his uncle's home back in the UK. "Wow," he breathed, taking in the sprawling estate before him.

Roger Nicholas emerged from the front door, a wide grin spreading across his face as he caught sight of his grandson. "Henry, my boy! It's so good to finally meet you!" he exclaimed, enveloping Henry in a bear hug.

Henry returned the embrace, feeling a warmth spread through him at the genuine affection in his grandfather's voice. "It's good to meet you too, Grandpa," he said, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips.

Over the following days, Henry settled into his new life in America, eager to explore the vibrant city of San Francisco. "So, Henry, what do you think of the city so far?" Roger asked one evening, as they sat on the terrace overlooking the twinkling lights below.

"It's amazing, Grandpa," Henry replied, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "There's so much to see and do—I don't even know where to start!"

Roger chuckled, taking a sip of his whiskey. "Well, you've got plenty of time to explore, my boy. This city has a lot to offer, that's for sure."

Meanwhile, back in the UK, Peter and Rosa were met with a surprising turn of events. "Peter, come quick! There's something in the mailbox," Rosa called out one morning, her voice tinged with excitement.

Peter rushed to her side, his heart pounding in his chest as he peered into the mailbox. "What is it, Rosa?" he asked, his hands shaking slightly.

"It's a package—a publishing contract!" Rosa exclaimed, her eyes widening in disbelief. "It's for Henry's novel!"

Peter's jaw dropped in shock as he took in the contents of the package. "But how...?" he trailed off, unable to form coherent words.

Rosa's face twisted in frustration as she tore the contract to shreds, the sound of ripping paper echoing through the empty corridors of their home. "We'll show him, Peter. We'll show him that he can't just walk out on us and expect to succeed," she said, her voice dripping with venom.

As Henry settled into his new life in America, he couldn't help but wonder what might have been if things had turned out differently. But as he watched the sun set over the city skyline, casting its golden glow across the horizon, he knew that he was exactly where he was meant to be—a world away from the pain and heartache of his past, and closer than ever to the promise of a brighter future.

---