Chapter 357
While others might not understand what Nicolas truly meant, he knew exactly what he was doing.
He wasn’t being arrogant or dismissive.
He was giving Athena a chance – a chance for them to reconcile.
As long as Athena was willing to come out and greet him, he could let go of the past and still treat her as his beloved sister.
However, as soon as the attendant stepped forward to state their purpose, the gatekeeper snapped, “Who gave you the audacity! You think any random person can meet our future Mrs. Cavedish? Scram! Now, get lost p>
Everyone in the household was utterly devoted to Athena, and most knew something of her background.
Athena had treated them generously, and their monthly wages were higher than those in any other household.
Even on ordinary days, they often received additional benefits.
A master as kind as Athena was truly hard to come by, so the servants naturally repaid her with genuine loyalty.
When the servants noticed that individuals from the Duke’s Estate were once again trying to cause trouble for Athena, they didn’t hesitate to confront them and began cursing them out without even reporting the incident.
Of course, they made sure every insult was loud enough for Nicolas to hear.
Nicolas wondered, ‘I’ve always considered myself someone of a high status. When have I ever been humiliated like this? ‘
His face turned an angry shade of purple, and he felt like he was about to explode from holding in his fury.
The attendant returned, looking crestfallen, and reported, “Lord Nicolas, they’re being downright insolent p>
Nicolas tightened his fists behind his back, his eyes flashing with cold fury as he inwardly seethed, ‘How arrogant. They are being utterly arrogant.
“Athena had changed completely ever since she became the Viscountess.
“But if I just slink away like a whipped dog, how am I going to face father?
my
“Only the Snowveil Balm can restore the noble ladies‘ flawless complexions. If I want to win over those court officials, this is the only way to appease their wrath p>
“Try again,” Nicolas forced down his rising anger and softened his tone. “Speak to them politely. If that doesn’t work, offer them some silver p>
Nicolas thought bitterly, “Those gatekeepers are nothing but snobs. If words won’t move them, money surely will p>
Steeling himself, the attendant approached again, pleading earnestly while slipping some silver coins to the gatekeeper and offering deep bows. Only then did the gatekeeper reluctantly go to announce their presence.
Inside the manor, Athena was absorbed in preparing herbal remedies.
The soothing aroma of medicinal herbs filled the air, instantly refreshing the senses.
Lance burst in with an excited look on his face as he exclaimed, “Miss Monson, how did you know someone from the Duke’s Estate would come? You totally called it p>
1/2
Earlier, Athena had instructed Lance to give anyone from the Duke’s Estate a thorough tongue – lashing first. He was to announce their arrival only if they were offered silver.
At that time, Lance had thought that Athena was joking as he wondered, ‘Who would come crawling back after being
insulted like that p>
But against all odds, someone actually did.
Athena sealed the last jar of ointment, her clear eyes drifting toward the doorway as her lips curled into a mocking smile.
‘After all these years at the Duke’s Estate, don’t I know their true nature?‘ she thought. ‘Fermin didn’t expose the Duke’s Estate because he still needs them to serve his purposes. And all that chaos he caused? He expects the Duke’s Estate to clean it up. While it may seem like they are being reprimanded, it is just another opportunity for them to network with the ministers.
Athena gave Lance a knowing smile as she instructed, “Go, escort Lord Nicolas to the main hall p>
“Yes, ma’am!” Lance’s eyes sparkled with admiration as he dashed out eagerly.
Trina looked at Athena, utterly perplexed, and asked, “Miss Monson, why did you even let him in? Isn’t that just asking for trouble? ”
Athena collected all the medicine bottles from the table and placed them into a box. She tapped the box lightly and flashed a sly smile. “With so many mouths to feed in this house and everyone waking up just waiting for their meals, if I don’t hustle a little, how am I supposed to keep this place running?” she said.
Trina exclaimed in surprise, “Miss Monson, are you going to sell these to Lord Nicolas p>
Athena nodded in response, “Business is business. If he’s willing to pay, I’m willing to sell. What’s wrong with that p>
Without another glance at Trina’s wide–eyed shock, Athena scooped up the box and strode out.
After fifteen minutes in the main hall, Nicolas had sipped two cups of coffee, but Athena was still absent.
Sara Lili
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.