3 PM
Maxson and I decided to take a walk. Of course, we had already sent a letter to the Chen household informing them of our visit. We couldn’t just show up unannounced, right?
And of course, Maxson was all dressed up because, as he put it, "We should always look good in front of the ladies."
I had been worried earlier because he seemed down and troubled. I thought it was because of some girl or something, but turns out, I had nothing to worry about. This guy just needed a woman to perk him up—faster than a four o'clock energy boost.
Women are his battery.
"Stop winking at every girl we pass, Maxson. Why don’t you just stay behind, and I’ll handle the negotiations with the Chen Clan myself?" I snapped, rolling my eyes.
He leaned in close, his lips brushing my ear.
"Are you jealous?"
I immediately shoved him away and walked faster.
"Are you high?" I sighed. He better use his brain and his sweet-talking skills later during the meeting. If not, I might just hang him upside down in the hotel when we get back.
We arrived at the Chen estate’s gates. A guard stepped forward, and after checking, he allowed us inside. Some of them kept glancing at me, but I ignored them and entered.
A servant was waiting to guide us to the office of the Chen Clan’s leader—Zeid’s grandfather, if I remembered correctly.
Other servants stole glances at us, quickly looking away when they saw me. I recognized some of them, but others were new.
"They’ve really fixed this place up. Money really does wonders—oww, sorry." I elbowed Maxson in the ribs for that comment.
"Same to you. Aren’t you rich too?" I muttered.
"Well…" He just grinned and shrugged.
Playing humble now, huh?
We reached the office. The servant knocked and announced our presence.
"Let them in."
A voice from inside—one I recognized as Zeid’s grandfather’s.
Let’s just call him Zeid in my head.
The servant opened the door, and I thanked him before stepping in. The old man was seated on the couch, his butler standing to the side. And right in front, sipping tea, was Zeid himself.
I could tell he was watching us from the corner of his eye.
So it’s just the two of them here. Probably to exchange opinions.
"Have a seat." The old man spoke with his eyes closed.
I sat on the vacant chair opposite them, while Maxson took the seat across from me. So, Zeid and his grandfather were facing each other, while Maxson and I mirrored them.
The old man—Grandpa Huro—opened his eyes, his gaze flickering between Maxson and me.
"The rumors are true. You really do look like her."
Zeid stayed silent, but I noticed his grip on his cup tighten.
I smiled.
"Ah. You must be referring to Zeid’s ex-wife."
"Has anyone told you about her, child?"
I thought for a moment before answering.
"Someone I know here mentioned her, but not about the fact that… I resemble Mira. I just know of her."
Zeid’s eyes flicked to me, but I just gave him a smile—or maybe a smirk. I wasn’t sure, because Grandpa Huro quickly recaptured my attention.
"Mira… that girl was so kind. It’s just sad she’s no longer with us."
He hesitated before saying "no longer." I could tell they still held onto some hope—some miracle.
"We’re not here to discuss that woman’s disappearance." Zeid’s voice was firm as he set his cup down. "About the land you want to buy from the Chen Clan—our decision is final. We won’t sell. So there’s no reason for you to be here."
Oof.
This guy is so… so rude. Does he even know the word "restraint"? It’s amusing to think that no one has ever just shot him or poisoned him yet. He’s the type to make enemies easily.
"I’d like to hear your reason for wanting that particular lot." Grandpa Huro interjected.
I nodded at Maxson, letting him explain while I added details and requests.
"No matter how you spin your reasons or add more, it still won’t justify selling the land to you." Zeid cut in.
Fair point.
"You said you’re building a house there?" I asked.
"That’s none of your concern."
I closed my eyes briefly and looked out the window. I had no counter to his words.
In the end, neither Maxson nor I could find a crack in their refusal. Even with a high offer, they wouldn’t budge.
Grandpa Huro shared the same stance. Looks like there’s really no hope of getting that land. Well, I guess we shouldn’t push it.
Our trip might’ve been a waste, but since we’re already here, we might as well scout for another location. If the location fails, we’ll just double our efforts to ensure top-notch service and, of course, delicious food.
Great chefs, great waitr—
Huh?
A sharp gaze sent chills down my spine. And of course, whose else could it be?
"What’s your problem?" I asked, not realizing how challenging my tone sounded. But he ignored it, locking eyes with me.
"You’re nothing like her."
What the—
Did I do something to him?
He stood, so I did too.
"Excuse me?"
"If you have nothing else to discuss, leave. Our decision won’t change."
With that, he walked out.
I just shook my head.
"Please excuse him. He has a lot on his mind lately." Grandpa Huro apologized.
"It’s fine." Maxson stood as well.
Grandpa Huro escorted us to the door.
As we were about to leave, he called out to me.
"Deep down, my grandson wants to bring back the past. No matter what, he still wishes Mira were here."
I averted my gaze.
"Why are you telling me this?"
When I looked back, Grandpa Huro was smiling.
"Why indeed?"
I was left puzzled. His butler gave me a nod before stepping back inside. I bowed slightly in farewell before catching up to Maxson.
I found him outside the gates, face-to-face with Zeid. Both looked serious. I couldn’t hear their conversation, but then—
Maxson suddenly grabbed Zeid by the collar.
I sprinted toward them.
"—it’s because you’re dumb and a coward." Maxson spat.
Zeid didn’t respond, but I was close enough now to pull them apart.
"What’s wrong with you, Maxson?"
Maxson ignored me, glaring at Zeid.
"Apologies, Captain Chen. We’ll be leaving now."
I grabbed Maxson’s wrist and dragged him away.
I was annoyed, but I didn’t understand why he was so furious with Zeid.
From what I heard earlier… I think it’s more than just the land issue.
I let go of Maxson once we were far enough.
"Maxson, are you trying to get yourself killed? We’re not in Saido—you have no power here."
He stayed silent but suddenly slung an arm around my shoulders.
"Don’t be mad. I was just testing him."
He smiled—but it didn’t reach his eyes.
I exhaled sharply.
Liar.
"Testing? For what?"
"Secret." He pressed a finger to his lips.
Secret my ass.
"Tsk."
"Oh, by the way, there’s a flower festival in the next district. Wanna go?"
His eyes sparkled again—probably thinking of all the women there.
"Nah. If you want, go alone."
He poked my side and grinned.
"Come on~"
"Maxson." I warned, stepping away.
"Mmm~ Let’s go~" He whined like a child.
I really don’t get this guy. His brain must be missing a screw. His personality shifts too much.
"I don’t—"
"No take-backs. It’s a date!"
My brows furrowed.
"WHAT?"
"It’s a date."
Dead serious, he leaned in close. I was about to slap him, but he caught my wrist. Then he winked and walked ahead.
A date, huh.