Chapter 23

Chapter 23

“Thank you for the fashionable wig, Miss Norman. I’ll certainly wear it to play the clown on Halloween. Now, I must share some news with both good and bad parts.” Despite his inner complaints, Charles dutifully relayed his employer’s instructions.

Audrey, having emptied her wallet, felt her guilt lessen considerably. She smiled and said, “Then please start with the good news.”

“The good news is that your emptied wallet will soon be full again.” Charles handed over the check, then dampened the blonde’s excitement by adding, “The bad news is that you’ll now have to start socializing on behalf of the White Family. Your first stop is the most troublesome one—the Brusson family.”

“The Brusson family?”

“Mhm, Richard Bruseon—our employer’s current business rival, an established leading merchant in Kent County. Two years ago, he provided a hefty dowry to marry his granddaughter, Miss Brusson, into an earl’s household. Ever since, he’s been walking with his nose in the air.” Charles raised an eyebrow and sighed, “In short, he’s an old fox we have no choice but to deal with.”

Audrey’s expression clouded.

She dreaded socializing the most. Often, she’d be unexpectedly asked to demonstrate skills, with every move—eating, walking—scrutinized by countless eyes.

“Are there any rules I should be aware of?”

Charles hadn’t expected the daughter of a baron to be so hesitant. He quickly added, “Don’t worry. If there’s anything you don’t understand, just ask Caroline. She knows all the ins and outs.”

No sooner had he spoken than Caroline appeared out of nowhere, snorted coldly, and walked away.

“Oh, that temperamental girl.” Charles shook his head, then turned back to Audrey. “Don’t be afraid. Caroline may seem cold, but she has a warm heart. As long as you make the first move, she’ll be willing to teach you.”

Audrey, distracted, gazed absently at Caroline’s tall retreating figure. “Mm!”

The Winston Manor garden was planted with Cabbage Roses, their soft pink petals blooming in layers.

Caroline sat on a swing, daydreaming, not even hearing the bees buzzing around her.

Her role was unique—she was both the housekeeper and a business assistant. Except for Herman, no one could order her around, so she was free to take it easy as she pleased.

It sounded like a good deal, but she knew what people said behind her back—every nasty comment imaginable.

Caroline didn’t care, just as Herman didn’t care about outside opinions.

Those who came from humble beginnings had seen worse situations; how could mere gossip hold them back?

Under the brilliant sunlight, Caroline gazed absently at the Cabbage Roses from Hesland, which was also her birthplace.

At four, she and her parents were exiled to Elme. Her memories were only of the gray-black sky outside the mining shacks, but her mother told her they came from a place where roses bloomed—a garden full of flowers, magnificent and splendid.

Later, both her parents died in a great fire, and ten-year-old Caroline survived by luck, following Herman across the seas.

Little Caroline knew that silver-haired boy was no philanthropist; he hadn’t wanted to bring her along. It was she, dragging her injured leg, who followed him step by step through the streets.

His change of heart might have been just a momentary glance back—a momentary impulse.

The battered little Caroline, her eyes stubborn like a wolf cub’s, clutched tightly a rose in her hand.

It was a surviving Cabbage Rose from the fire, something that never belonged to Elme—just as the silver-haired boy was an outsider in the slums.

Ten years later, Heli had become Herman, and Caroline seemed to remain Caroline, forever following behind him as she did that day, chasing him, looking up to him.

In truth, they rarely spoke. The last real conversation they had was when Herman suggested she become solely a business assistant, like Charles.

It would be better for Caroline’s career development.

After all, in these times, such opportunities for women were rare.

But she refused.

Back then, Caroline both wanted him to push the matter and feared he would.

She couldn’t remember what reason she gave, but Herman didn’t argue and let her choose.

She said she wanted to stay at Winston, where she had planted Cabbage Roses. Whenever she saw them, she felt a sense of belonging.

Herman simply instructed Charles to draft a new contract.

It was like returning to that pivotal moment at age ten, holding a rose, meeting that cold-hearted boy, and from then on, her life began to change.

“Caroline.”

Suddenly, a familiar voice came from behind—the unexpected visitor.

Caroline acted as if she hadn’t heard, but Audrey sat down beside her without invitation, her toes pushing against the ground, gently swaying the swing.

Frowning at the uninvited guest, Caroline glanced at her. “If this is about what Charles mentioned, I’ll find time to get the materials together for you. If there’s nothing else, please leave and let me have some peace.”

“No.” Audrey shook her head and revealed her hands from behind her back. “I came to give you a gift, Miss Caroline.”

A ribbon-tied box bore elegant script: “To Miss Caroline.”

Caroline averted her gaze, her tone stiff. “Don’t use the same sweet-talking you used on Mrs. Cooper on me. I know your ways.”

Though unsure what “ways” referred to, Audrey took it as a compliment, her blue eyes crinkling with amusement. “Everyone got one. Why won’t you accept it?”

Caroline pressed her lips together, lowering her eyes without a word.

“Open it and see, Miss Caroline,” Audrey said gently. “Maybe you’ll change your mind.”

Caroline froze for a few seconds, and before she knew it, her hands had unwittingly untied the ribbon.

The glimpse of pink inside made her eyes widen.

Caroline suddenly didn’t dare to lift the wrapping further.

Another hand tore open the packaging for her—revealing a field of pink blooms captured in a frame.

“I finished this painting a long time ago, but my skills aren’t great, so I was hesitant to give it. I planned to have a professional painter improve it today, but I couldn’t find one.” Audrey chuckled. “Lucy suggested I go in a couple of days, but I thought, if I delayed any longer, how disappointed Miss Caroline would be without her gift?”

Caroline snapped defensively. “Miss Norman, your ability to understand people needs improvement. I wouldn’t be disappointed at all without your gift.”

“Don’t be stubborn. I can tell you were looking forward to it,” Audrey teased.

“You—”

Caroline wanted to argue, but earlier in the recreation room, she was the only one who hadn’t received a gift. Claiming she wasn’t upset would be a lie.

But admitting it would be too embarrassing.

Caroline shot a look at Audrey, who stared back innocently with her blue eyes.

This girl was sharp one moment and naive the next—hard to tell if it was an act or genuine.

That greenhouse marigold is quite the deceiver!

Sulking, she stared at the painting and suddenly asked, “Why did you think to paint Cabbage Roses?”

"Because you often come to see them." Audrey again took pride in her observation skills. "Cabbage Roses symbolize love—you must have someone you like!"

"What... what?" The words made Caroline's heart skip a beat.

"That’s wonderful, Miss Caroline." But Audrey seemed to say it casually, then added, "I truly envy you."

"A noble young lady born into privilege, envying a poor girl from the slums?" Caroline scoffed.

"Why not?" Audrey looked at her seriously.

Her blue eyes held a gentle light, and under such a gaze, Caroline quickly lowered her eyes, her fingers unconsciously curling at her sides.

"I envy your freedom to choose your own path in life." Audrey smiled, watching the Cabbage Roses swaying in the breeze in the flowerbed.

"Just because I have the freedom to like anyone?"

"No." Audrey shook her head. "Liking someone isn’t freedom; *not* liking someone is freedom."

As she said this, she chuckled to herself. "Oh! That sounds quite philosophical—I must remember to write it in a letter."

Perhaps mentioning letter-writing reminded her of something, as Audrey’s eyes warmed and her voice softened.

"As you can see, I am a rare noble lady who knows nothing of music, is unskilled in cooking and painting." Audrey blinked, her tone resigned. "A wise woman once taught me to find my lifelong passions, but I never had the chance to pursue them, let alone turn what I love into a career."

Caroline looked puzzled.

Audrey shrugged. "You can’t possibly imagine a noble young lady performing mental math tricks at a ball for the ladies and gentlemen, can you?"

Caroline burst out laughing but quickly pressed her lips together, clearing her throat. "Oh. That is indeed a pity."

"Perhaps, a little." Audrey unconsciously rose on her tiptoes, swaying on the swing, her skirt fluttering in the air. "But my life carries other responsibilities."

Caroline asked, "Like marrying into Winston to pay off your father’s debts?"

"Yes, that’s one of them." Audrey didn’t shy away from the topic. "But I don’t regret having to take on responsibilities. On the contrary, standing united with my family to overcome adversity means a great deal to me."

Caroline scoffed—a picture-perfect, sunny family model, so positive it was irritating.

"I just regret that I never had the freedom to aspire higher."

Oblivious, Audrey gently swayed on the swing.

The ladies of the Norman family had done their utmost to survive the crisis; beyond that, everything else was a luxury.

The breeze lifted the hair from her forehead, her blue eyes reflecting the clear sky. As she spoke, a smile touched the corners of her eyes, and her dimples faintly appeared.

"That’s why I said I envy you, Miss Caroline. You possess many precious qualities." She continued, almost to herself, "Noble character, exceptional ability, a clear sense of self, unwavering determination..."

Caroline listened to the string of praises, which sounded much like the flattery she was used to hearing.

Yet, somehow, coming from Audrey’s lips, the words felt like sincere raindrops, causing a seed in Caroline’s heart to sprout.

Caroline didn’t want to admit it, but before this, her hostility toward Audrey had been tinged with a hint of envy.

A privileged background, noble birth, beautiful appearance, a likable personality—even her so-called downfall meant marrying into Winston to live in comfort.

She couldn’t imagine what troubles such a life could have.

But when someone like this praised her sincerely, Caroline felt as if she were looking into a mirror, seeing herself through the other’s eyes for the first time.

So, she had this many good qualities after all.

Caroline was slightly stunned, her green eyes fixed on Audrey.

Audrey finally finished listing Caroline’s long list of virtues and suddenly turned her head.

The sunlight shone on her golden hair, making her look as lovely as a little angel on a music box, or even more like a beautiful Marigold.

"In short, in my opinion, it would be a great loss for Mr. White to lose such a right-hand woman like you. Conversely, if you had been working alongside him from the start, you might well have achieved as much as he has now."

Caroline chuckled. "Now *that* sounds like flattery."

"No, it’s not a question of your ability." Audrey playfully winked, imitating Charles. "It’s this strange place that always forces women to be subordinate."

"But..." She paused, suppressing a laugh, and whispered, "When necessary, you could always use Mr. White as a stepping stone~"

Caroline glanced at Audrey and suddenly felt like laughing too. "Miss Norman, I underestimated you. Another lesson from that wise woman?"

"Of course. She called it 'uniting all forces that can be united,'" Audrey said with a smile.

Caroline fell into thought.

Audrey didn’t disturb her and left with light footsteps.

The drawing resting on her lap was indeed not particularly exquisite, but Caroline gazed at it for a long time—the Cabbage Rose enclosed in a frame, etched into her heart along with the memories.

The next day, a resignation letter appeared on Herman’s desk.

He asked what her plans were from then on.

Caroline smiled calmly and shrugged. "Thanks to your connections, I’m starting my own business."

Just as before, Herman didn’t say much, simply handing her a hefty check.

In the past, she used to feel disappointed about this. But now, something was sprouting in her heart, compelling her to straighten her spine—to no longer follow him or look up to him.

Herman White was, of course, outstanding, powerful, and admirable.

But compared to winning his affection, surpassing him seemed far more interesting.

Caroline accepted the check with a smile and left the estate humming a cheerful tune.

An unknown Hessian melody drifted on the wind, like the Cabbage Rose tucked into the lace of her hat, carrying memories of her homeland as she left with unburdened ease.

Upstairs, Lucy watched Caroline’s retreating figure and couldn’t help but sigh in relief.

She glanced at Audrey, who was reading, and sighed inwardly—naive young ladies always seem to have luck on their side, unaware of both impending crises and their resolutions, with her love rival packing her bags and leaving on her own.

As she pondered this, she tidied the wardrobe and suddenly noticed that the safe at the very back showed signs of being tampered with.

Lucy was startled and immediately checked it, only to find that the large check inside had vanished?!

That was 100,000 Ceylonese rupees! It was the betrothal gift Herman had given, later passed by the Norman couple to Audrey as her dowry! Without exaggeration, a noble lady’s entire later life relied on that sum!

Because the amount was so large and there were no extra expenses in Winston—even if there were, they were covered by the pocket money Audrey managed to wrangle—the money had remained stashed away at the bottom, closely guarded by Lucy.

Her hands trembling, she continued searching and saw that the money Isabel had sent was still there, letting her feel partially relieved.

"Miss, was it you who took the check from inside?"

Audrey turned around, like a child caught red-handed, hesitating and too afraid to speak.

“I… Lucy, you have to promise me first that you won’t be angry.”

Lucy’s heart dropped.

Audrey glanced out the window: “I gave it to Miss Caroline as my investment.”

Lucy rolled her eyes and almost passed out: “Is there a contract?!”

“No…”

“Do you even know what the project is?”

“No…”

Lucy took a deep breath: “Does Miss Caroline know about it herself?”

Audrey peeked furtively out the window and saw Caroline holding a case in her right hand, inside which was the painting she had given her. “She doesn’t know yet, but I think she will soon.”

Lucy was really about to faint this time!

No contract, no project, not even the recipient herself knew—and just like that, a hundred thousand was given away?! She usually couldn’t even bring herself to spend it, so how could she be so generous to an outsider?!

Audrey quickly steadied Lucy: “Don’t worry, Lucy, Miss Caroline isn’t a bad person. I believe my investment will pay off!”

Seeing the carriage about to depart outside, the money was already handed over—was there any taking it back now? What else could Lucy say?

She could only pray that Caroline was a good person.

Lucy sighed deeply and looked at Audrey helplessly. “Although I don’t particularly admire Miss Caroline’s character, I do acknowledge her professional abilities. I hope she uses your money to start a new venture and, in the process, helps you earn even more.”

Audrey breathed a sigh of relief and hugged Lucy: “Thank you for not scolding me! Dear Lucy.”

“But I will write a letter and give a full account of this matter to the other Miss Norman,” Lucy announced sternly. “Next time, you must not use large sums of money without permission.”

Audrey murmured meekly: “Alright, but please put in a good word for Miss Caroline in the letter.”

Lucy took another deep breath, unable to resist reminding her that Caroline was a potential rival in love!

Just as she was about to speak, she saw Audrey once again lost in her book, not even noticing her golden curls sticking up.

After a long moment, Lucy helplessly rubbed her temples.

Oh well, according to the way things balance out, carefree people always have good luck.

Lucy gently closed the door.

Inside, Audrey looked up from her book and ran barefoot to the window.

On the windowsill, the rose she used as a bookmark was drying in the sun. A gentle breeze brushed past, sending pink petals dancing into the air.

In the carriage, Caroline opened the case containing the painting, and a check and a letter fell out.

She opened it and saw the familiar string of zeroes indicating the amount!

The letter behind it had a short line: Miss Caroline, I hope this money can help you do what you want to do. Stay strong and always be optimistic!

The letter wasn’t signed, but Caroline knew who it was from.

Tears smudged the ink. Through her blurred vision, she looked toward the open window on the second floor of the castle.

Amid the shower of pink petals, she met those water-blue eyes. The warm summer sun shone on her, like the golden-haired girl’s warm gaze.

Caroline carefully safely put away the check, running her fingers over the letter, thinking—I won’t let you down.

She wiped away her tears and waved in that direction.

On the second-floor windowsill, Audrey returned a blown kiss.

It seemed nothing needed to be said, yet everything had already been expressed.

Girls often think they can hide their affections well, but an observer can read it plain as day.

Yet Audrey couldn’t take it upon herself to point it out, even if her intentions were good—it was about the pride a girl struggled to maintain.

Faint romantic feelings are like the morning mist on the moors; when the sky clears, the mist disperses. That is also the gentlest end a romance could have.

Amid the shower of pink petals, she watched Caroline’s carriage depart, her gaze gentle.

Audrey thought that Lucy might not understand. The Cabbage Rose that had made its way across the ocean shouldn’t be confined to the manor.

She was tough and free-spirited, destined for places far beyond.

After Caroline left, hiring a new housekeeper proved easy—the challenge was Audrey having to face the social events in Kent County alone.

The Brusson family’s ball was scheduled for next Wednesday, and Audrey began getting nervous with two days still to go. Not even her little dog Pabby could make her smile.

Greta asked, worried, but after hearing the reason, she went quiet as well.

Families with a certain status these days always had to integrate into the local social circle; otherwise, they’d be thought standoffish.

Greta didn’t understand noble etiquette. Even with emergency training, she’d likely still give herself away in company, which was why she had previously lived in Elmé to avoid social events. If not for her son’s wedding, she wouldn’t have come this time.

“Dear, I’m sorry I can’t be of help,” Greta said apologetically to Audrey while holding the little kitten Daisy and feeding her milk.

Audrey shook her head, making her rounds with the strays, and shrugged. “Don’t say that, Mrs. Cooper. You know, I’m lucky to have a companion who’s just as afraid of social events as I am.”

Though she said this, Audrey was about to become Mrs. White, and however reluctant she was, she had to grin and bear it.

During dinner that evening, Audrey could hardly eat, which didn’t surprise Herman in the least.

The silver-haired man took his time removing his gloves, wiped his hands with a wet towel, and glanced up at her: “Miss Isabel, one party’s got you beat already?”

Audrey absentmindedly stirred the salty broth on her plate.

If she were the real Miss Isabel, a small occasion like this wouldn’t have rattled her!

But she was Miss Audrey!

Audrey was scared to death!

His deep gray eyes took in her listless appearance, and Herman seemed annoyed by the sight.

He said dryly, “Allow me to remind you—you represent the White family.”

“Huh? So what?” Audrey looked at him cluelessly. “They won’t ask me to show off some talent in public, will they?”

Herman looked at her, expressionless: “So that’s what you’re afraid of?”

Audrey frowned, looking at him seriously, "It's terrifying, don't brush it off. I'll make a fool of you, Mr. White."

For several seconds, Herman was taken aback by how little his fiancée understood.

He had no intention of explaining to her that, as a rising star, no one at any banquet in Kent would dare expect his wife to perform.

Then again, aren't noble ladies supposed to be adept at playing the piano and painting?

Herman glanced at Audrey again.

What had he gotten himself into?

Greta, as a fellow sympathizer, understood Audrey well. She held her hand and looked at Herman, "Yes, Heli, don't take it lightly. Some people enjoy banquets, while others resist them. Do help Miss Norman with this."

"Mm-hmm!" Audrey clasped Mrs. Cooper's hand in return, and both ladies looked at Herman pleadingly.

As if to accuse him of being insensitive.

Herman fell silent.

"Mrs. Moore will visit tomorrow," he said, putting down his napkin and making to leave. Seeing Audrey still didn't understand, he added, "She will accompany you to the banquet."

Audrey: "Mrs. Moore?"

Bothering neither to address the women's confusion nor to explain that he had already arranged things with Moore, Herman left the dining room.

Early the next morning, Mrs. Moore arrived in a modest carriage.

Audrey politely invited her to sit and summoned a servant to bring drinks. "What would Mrs. Moore like to drink?"

Mrs. Moore was a woman in her thirties, with a kind smile that carried a hint of deference and nervousness.

"Black tea, thank you for your hospitality."

Audrey smiled, "You're welcome. I'll be relying on you for next week's banquet."

"Oh, Mrs. White, it is our Moore family's honor to serve you and Mr. White," Mrs. Moore quickly waved her hand, her flustered gestures nearly knocking over the dessert stand brought by the maid.

"That's alright, no need to rush. Take your time," Audrey instructed the maid to clean up the fallen desserts and reassured the flushed Mrs. Moore.

"Sorry, sorry," Mrs. Moore apologized repeatedly, her voice trembling.

Audrey could see her nervousness, but the more she tried to put her at ease, the more anxious Mrs. Moore seemed.

Audrey had no choice but to play with Pabby for a while, pretending not to mind the earlier incident.

Mrs. Moore sneaked a glance at Audrey's expression and, seeing she wasn't upset, let out a long sigh of relief.

Before leaving home, Mr. Moore had repeatedly warned his wife to do this job well and make sure to win Mrs. White's favor.

As a rising star, Herman White had amassed a vast fortune overseas, monopolizing the shipping routes from Ceylon to Hessland and Elmy. He held the lifelines of all merchants wanting to engage in foreign trade. Moore had long wanted to cling to this golden goose but hadn't found an opportunity.

The morning before yesterday, Moore was called to Herman's office. On the way, he wondered how he might have offended the tycoon. Turned out, Herman wanted his wife!

This was a perfect chance to show loyalty! Moore certainly wasn't going to miss it.

Now, Mrs. Moore recalled her husband's excited yet nervous eyes and composed herself somewhat.

"Mrs. White, if you don't mind, shall I now introduce you to Kent's social circle?"

"I'm listening," Audrey thought to herself that Mrs. Moore didn't strike her as socially adept.

"I heard you come from a noble family in Lawson County. You must know that Kent is different from the south. To the north is the industrial zone, gathering many merchants and speculators from the Duchy of Ceylon."

Audrey smiled, "Of course, who hasn't heard of 'Ceylon's Capital of Wealth'?"

Moore also smiled, beaming with pride, "Our family moved here from the south when we were so poor we couldn't even afford black bread. Now, my husband is one of the factory owners."

This reminded Audrey of the name "Moore."

"Oh! The famous Northern Textile Mill was founded by your husband! I heard it's quite large."

"We rode the wave of progress and established ourselves early," Mrs. Moore said modestly. "From my understanding of Kent, you needn't worry too much about most social balls. Whichever lady's banquet you attend, they'll break out the champagne for three days."

"For these people, if anyone offends you, you can tell me," Mrs. Moore's nervousness faded, replaced by a hint of pride. "I still have some say in Kent."

Even Audrey, simple as she seemed, understood: the merchants in Kent needed Herman. And these merchants deferred to Moore, which was why Mrs. Moore was invited to Winston to be her guide.

She was no shrinking violet—she just knew when to flatter the right people. Usually, she was quite the woman of influence.

"Besides us outsiders, Kent also has established merchant families represented by the Brusson family," Mrs. Moore paused, a trace of sarcasm in her eyes. "They have marriage alliances with many nobles and once monopolized the wealth center. Times have changed, but they remain stubborn, guarding their circle and keeping us out."

Audrey grew concerned, "So, is the Brussons' ball an attempt to court us?"

Mrs. Moore seemed surprised by Audrey's naive question but took care not to show it, explaining patiently, "No, not to court us, but to invite us into their game."

As everyone knows, the so-called upper-class circle also needs new blood.

The threshold must be high enough to reflect the old-money families' status, but it can't completely shut out all newcomers.

Because once the nouveaux riches unite and form their own circle, the old-money class game loses its meaning.

Audrey gradually understood and felt her fears easing.

After agreeing to meet at next week's banquet, Mrs. Moore took her leave.

On the day of the banquet, Lucy helped Audrey prepare.

When she descended the stairs in a light green ball gown, Herman was already waiting downstairs.

His steely gray eyes swept over his fiancée, lingering on her pinned-up blonde hair—on the day they first met, Audrey had worn the same small tiara, its white pearls shimmering.

As Audrey looked up, Herman discreetly looked away.

He offered his arm, but Audrey didn't react.

She was staring intently at Herman's outfit for the day. "You're wearing the cravat pin I gave you!"

Herman looked away and offered his arm again. "Miss Norman, you took over two hours to get ready. If you waste more time on silly questions, we'll be the center of attention."

"Oh!" Audrey dreaded being conspicuous and quickly linked arms with Herman.

Her gloved hand touched his arm, but she didn't notice the momentary stiffness in his muscles.

A servant opened the carriage door, and Herman helped his fiancée in before entering from the other side.

As the carriage moved, Herman heard the lady beside him humming.

"It seems Mrs. Moore has filled you with confidence."

"Not at all." Audrey pursed her lips, her blue eyes meeting his gaze directly. "You know why I'm happy!"

Herman scoffed. "Miss Norman, please don’t indulge in romantic fantasies. The hairband was grabbed at random by the valet Robin. Unfortunately, I don’t have eyes in the back of my head, or I would have taken it off immediately."

Silence fell in the carriage.

Was she angry?

Herman’s left hand unconsciously stroked his silver-handled cane as he glanced subtly to the right.

Audrey was resting her chin on her hand, gazing out the window, not seeming upset.

"Mr. White," she suddenly turned to him.

Herman immediately looked away abruptly.

Oblivious, Audrey continued, "I’m not imagining things I shouldn’t. I just think that your willingness to use my gift shows you acknowledge me. Isn’t that a good thing? Why resist so much? You were clearly happy when you received the gift the other day."

Herman’s expression remained impassive. "Don’t read into things that aren’t there."

Cowed by his stern expression, Audrey shrank back into her corner and muttered softly, "But you were happy!"

Herman said nothing.

Audrey murmured lightly again. "We are married—why should we spend our lives icy and distant? Even if there’s no love, can’t we at least be friends? If a friend gave you a gift, would you throw it away?"

Herman remained silent.

"Of course not! So why throw mine away?" Audrey grumbled, turning her back to him.

"Miss Norman, not everyone needs friends," Herman said, lifting his eyes with a flicker of impatience. "I have no friends and don’t need gifts. Even if I used yours by mistake, it means nothing."

Audrey was about to get angry, but as she listened, her expression shifted.

"You’ve never had friends your whole life?" Her sea-blue eyes filled with sympathy.

Herman frowned. "?"

Audrey sighed, sitting up straighter, the reproach in her eyes fading.

"Then I forgive you."

"For...give?"

Herman took a deep breath and closed his eyes briefly.

What was this girl imagining, looking at him as if he were some poor unloved creature?

His fingers tightened around the cane. The silver-haired man was prepared to crush her fantasies with sharp words, just as he had during their first meeting.

This time, she wasn’t asleep—she’d likely burst into tears, but that didn’t matter.

After all, theirs was merely a marriage of convenience. It was best to have no emotional ties, let alone something as laughable as friendship.

Especially... after that day, the disturbing feelings that had disturbed him could finally be discarded entirely.

With that thought, Herman slowly opened his eyes.

Just as he was about to speak, the coachman called out, "Sir, Madam, we’ve arrived at Brusson Manor."

The carriage door opened, and Audrey stepped out first, the hem of her lovely pale green dress sweeping in a graceful arc.

Herman’s gaze lingered on her until her sea-blue eyes turned to him. "Herman, aren’t you getting out?"

He stared into those eyes for a moment before responding.

Fine. The harsh words could wait for another time.

Brusson Manor was filled with guests.

Many of the invited nouveau riche were stepping into the traditional banquet hall for the first time.

Led by Mr. and Mrs. Moore, they maintained dignified expressions, discreetly observing the old-money decor, which differed markedly from their own.

Old Brusson had come prepared, determined to showcase his family’s heritage before them.

From the placement of dinner plates and the buttons on the waitstaff’s uniforms to the murals on the walls and the antique displays, everything exuded understated opulence.

On the other side, the old-money guests were also subtly sizing up the newcomers.

Though the two groups stood in close proximity, they remained clearly divided.

Suddenly, a footman by the door announced in a deep tone, "Mr. and Mrs. White."

Instantly, all eyes turned toward the entrance.

Some of the more arrogant old-money families had never dealt with Herman personally. This rags-to-riches magnate from Elme had become a power to be reckoned with in Kent County. Though they wouldn’t admit it openly, they were eager to get a look at the legendary figure.

Especially since it was rumored he had recently married a baron’s daughter and become brothers-in-law with the Duke of Spencer!

The gazes directed at the newcomers were complex—a mix of curiosity, disdain, envy, and scrutiny.

The Moores and their set, however, were far more straightforward. All the emerging merchants hoped to curry favor with the White family’s influential tree.

If not for Herman’s rise challenging Brusson’s dominance, this welcome banquet would never have taken place.

As the grand doors swung open, a green skirt brushed against a tailcoat, and the striking couple entered the hall hand in hand.

Mr. and Mrs. Moore were the first to approach.

"Mr. White, Mrs. White."

Richard Brusson, a silver-haired but vigorous old gentleman, warmly approached Herman.

"Long time no see, my young friend," Old Brusson said, holding his pipe. "Ah! And this must be your wife, Miss Norman from Lawson County. A pleasure!"

"Mr. Brusson, the pleasure is mine," Audrey replied with a nod, involuntarily glancing at Herman and tightening her grip on his arm.

Sensing her unease, Herman spoke up. "A pleasure, Mr. Brusson. Let’s let the ladies mingle and find another place to talk."

"Excellent," Richard said, tipping his hat to Audrey. "Miss Norman, please excuse me. Lisa, take good care of our distinguished guest. Do not neglect her."

"Yes, Grandfather."

A young woman, around Audrey’s age, approached. She was the Brusson daughter who had married into an earl’s family—Richard’s granddaughter.

Lisa quickly appraised Audrey before smiling and nodding. "Miss Norman, please come with me."

Herman watched as Audrey glanced back repeatedly before he nodded subtly toward Mr. and Mrs. Moore.

Mrs. Moor quickly stepped up, taking Audrey by her other arm. "Mr. White, let's go together."

Seeing a familiar face, Audrey breathed a sigh of relief and quickly agreed, "Alright."

Herman, who was walking toward the office with Richard, looked away and met the old man's smiling eyes.

"Oh, Mr. White, I was young once too. I understand a bachelor's urge to look after a lady before marriage, especially since Miss Norman is your tie to the Duke's estate—quite important," Richard said with a double meaning, his eyes suggesting more.

Herman gave a light laugh, his eyes calm. "Yes, Mr. Brusson. I've already gotten my ticket into 'high society' elsewhere. Your invitation comes too late."

When he mentioned "high society," his tone was full of sarcasm.

Richard puffed at his pipe and smiled. "Connections bought with money won't support you."

Herman replied, "Only those who haven't offered enough would say that."

Richard's face darkened. "Young man, don't be stubborn. Our rules have lasted since the founding of the Duchy of Ceylon. I genuinely want to bring you onboard. Miss this opportunity, and there won't be another."

"Is that so? Rules never change; they just cycle like history," Herman said slowly, his cane tapping sharply on the floor. "The Brusson family has only been around about a hundred years in this generation. Can't you see the times have changed, Richard?"

He paused and chuckled lightly. "Why do you think you'll always be the one making the rules?"

The atmosphere suddenly grew tense.

Richard set down his pipe and carefully polished it, the smile fading from his aged face. "So there's nothing to discuss?"

"No," Herman said calmly. "If there were truly nothing to discuss, I wouldn't have come at all."

"What are your conditions?"

Herman slowly pulled out his pocket watch. "Have the municipal council approve my land purchase application. In return, I'll give you ten percent of the annual railroad stock dividends."

"Ten percent?" Richard sneered. "Young sir, that's not funny. An insincere offer is insulting."

Herman suddenly laughed.

"Richard, I have plenty of ways to get the council's approval. Do you think I'm negotiating with you?" He paused, his deep gray eyes intense. "I'm giving you this opportunity. Do it well, and it'll be the Brusson family's pledge into the new game."

"Pledge? Herman White, you'd better know what you're talking about."

Old Brusson, having lived seventy years, was being spoken to like this for the first time.

"I know very well. The one who hasn't seen the situation clearly..." Herman looked at him, "...is you, Richard Brusson."

The old and the young stared each other down, too well-mannered to shout, but both faces had frozen over.

"Very well, Mr. White. Unfortunately, the Brusson family's door is now closed to you," Richard said with a smile, offering his hand.

Herman barely touched his hand without even removing his glove, then turned and walked away.

Behind him, Richard's voice followed: "Young men are always impulsive. I hope you won't regret this."

"Old men are always unwilling to admit they're over the hill," Herman said without looking back. "Same to you."

The men's dispute didn't show openly.

In front of everyone, Herman and Richard acted as if nothing had happened.

Audrey hadn't expected Herman to be back so soon. She ran to him with a smile. "You're back? Just now, Miss Lisa invited me to join their charity craft auction. My mother used to go to things like this back home. Do you think I can go?"

An auction?

This was a hallmark event of the ladies' social circle, where only families approved by them were qualified to attend.

No sooner had he and Brusson had their falling out than Brusson's lady invited his wife to such an event?

Herman's eyes shifted, and he glanced at Mrs. Moor.

Mrs. Moor subtly shook her head, hinting that the invitation was not friendly.

The old money crowd clearly hadn't accepted the new money group. The ladies' circle changed with the times—it was probably a trap.

Just as Herman was about to speak, he met Audrey's hopeful gaze, and he found himself saying: "Do you really want to go?"

"Not really..." Audrey smiled shyly. "Well, a little bit. The funds raised at the auction all go to charity. It's very meaningful!"

She paused, then added seriously, "Of course, only if it doesn't cause you any trouble. If you have other considerations, I can not go."

Though she said she wouldn't go, her blue eyes still held a hint of disappointment.

That face couldn't keep anything hidden...

Herman looked away. "You can go."

Audrey's eyes lit up. She held onto his arm, checking again: "Really?! Mr. White?"

Herman instinctively pulled his arm away.

But since they were about to leave, he had no choice but to offer it again. Once Audrey took his arm, he started walking out.

"Really? You glanced at Mrs. Moor just now—are you concerned? Don't lie to me," she pressed, question after question.

Herman scoffed.

She was perceptive at the worst times.

"Keep asking, and you won't go."

Audrey immediately covered her mouth.

Only when they were seated in the carriage did she finally let herself smile, her eyes crinkling with joy.

Herman glanced at her. "Lisa Brusson is very shrewd. Someone like you could be played like a fool by her. Still happy now?"

Audrey shook her head, her eyes still bright as she gazed intently at Herman.

"No," she said in the dim carriage. "I'm happy because I feel like you're so good to me."

Herman was taken aback.

The night was dark, but the pearls in her hair glowed softly, much like her gentle and pure gaze at that moment.

Suddenly, the carriage window was tapped.

Herman turned his head away.

It was the Moors saying their goodbyes.

As they left, Mrs. Moor seemed hesitant but finally whispered to Herman, "Are you sure about letting Miss Norman go? She might face embarrassment there."

"It's just a charity event. If she wants to go, she can go." Herman's gaze remained calm. "Let Brusson see who will be humiliated in the end."

Mr. and Mrs. Moore exchanged a knowing glance, both understanding the situation clearly.

It seemed that White had already declared war on Brusson. The outcome would determine whether old money would be reshuffled or the nouveau riche would be crushed.

The carriage door closed, and they set off.

Audrey asked casually, "What did Mrs. Moore say to you?"

Without blinking, Herman replied, "She said Lisa would join forces with the other wives to give you a hard time."

Audrey muttered, "You're lying. We're all there for charity—why would they bully me? They wouldn’t."

Herman stared at her slightly chubby cheek, suddenly wanting to pinch it and ask why her wits seemed to come and go.

"Yeah, they wouldn’t," Herman said coolly, cutting off her relief. "They’d just forbid you from using the main entrance, deliberately make you wait on the sidelines for two days, make sure your handicrafts don’t sell, and publicly post the donation rankings to shame you... that’s all, nothing serious."

"..." Audrey turned away, ignoring him. "Stop scaring me. Back home, I often went with my mom, my aunt, and my sister... The little decorations we made were so pretty. Whatever didn’t sell, we’d give to the village children. No matter how much we earned, we were always happy. In the evening, the whole family would gather for a big meal to celebrate doing a good deed. I..."

Her voice trailed off.

The chattering beside him ceased, and Herman looked up.

He saw Audrey leaning against the carriage window, her blue eyes reflecting the moonlight, her spirits clearly low.

Suddenly, Herman understood why she was so keen on going to the charity auction. For her, it wasn’t about gaining entry to the old money circle—she was just homesick, feeling nostalgic.

"Go ahead. I was lying. No one will bully you."

Audrey heard what seemed like Herman sigh softly.

Her emotions came and went quickly, and she quickly forgot her sorrow.

She leaned in again, staring into his gray eyes with a beaming smile. "You’re so kind, Herman."

She was now saying his name quite naturally, her tone carrying a youthful charm, the ending rising slightly, as if infusing the name with a sunny warmth.

Herman watched her quietly.

He thought to himself, *Fine, I’ll save the harsh words for next time.*