Chapter 150

Lionel blinked in surprise. "How did we end up here?"

Miranda was about to reply when Wendy Thompson, a sales representative, approached with a bright smile.

"Here to check out some houses? We've got everything from starter homes to more upscale options."

Miranda nodded. "We'd like to look around first."

"This is our scale model," Wendy said, gesturing to a large layout. "As you can see, the Phase Three development is well-planned. We have supermarkets, schools, and hospitals nearby—everything you need."

Miranda's gaze swept over the scale model. "The buildings seem pretty close together."

"Unfortunately, with high-rises, the spacing is naturally tighter," Wendy explained.

"I heard you have a villa section?"

The Lakeside Jewel development offered two housing types: standard apartments (like those Miranda was viewing) and standalone small villas. The villas, modestly termed "small," were two-story homes with limited square footage per floor, but each included front and back yards. These villas featured a modern take on traditional architecture, with three entrances, making them ideal for small families. Designed to move away from the typical concept of large standalone villas, these homes offered ample living space without feeling overly vast or empty. Additionally, the blend of traditional and modern architectural styles made Lakeside Jewel a highly sought-after property in Lumberville.

Miranda, having done her research, said, "I'd like to see the Lakeview Villas."

Lionel loved gardening, so a large yard was a must. Mindy enjoyed reading and writing outdoors, so a quiet backyard with a gazebo would be perfect for relaxing and having tea.

Wendy quickly realized Miranda was knowledgeable, noting her mention of the villas by name. She sized Miranda up—fresh face, unbranded clothing, no handbag. It was hard to tell if Miranda could afford a villa, but she didn't look financially struggling.

However…

"Mimi, what are you talking about?" Lionel quickly pulled Miranda aside. "Looking at the scale model is one thing, but why are you asking about the villas? People might think we're actually buying one!"

Miranda asked, "Dad, what do you think of this development?"

"It's great! Several of my colleagues bought high-rises here."

Chapter 150

This place was incredibly close to Earnest High—so close you wouldn't even need a bike. Just cross the street, and you'd be there in five minutes on foot. But the prices were outrageous! Because the properties were fully furnished and in a prime location, the price per square foot was nearly double that of other high-rise communities in the area.

"Maybe we should buy one too?" Miranda's suggestion caught them all off guard.

Lionel's eyes widened in disbelief. "Stop joking around. If the sales staff take you seriously and later find out we were just wasting their time, it'll be embarrassing."

Mindy nodded. "It's Christmas, and they're still working. We're just browsing; let's not mess with their sales."

Lionel added, "Exactly. Let's just leave…"

Though they were whispering, the sharp-eared Wendy heard every word. Her smile faded instantly. So, they were just browsing? That middle-aged couple looked frugal—how could they afford anything here? Buy a villa? As if!

But Miranda gave her parents a reassuring look, then turned back to the scale model. "Can we check out the villas?"

Wendy forced a polite smile. "I'm sorry, but our standalone small villas are only available to VIP clients."