The family estate at the foot of the mountain was not a "villa" in the modern sense, but a massive structure that seemed to carry the weight of time itself.

It wasn’t built in a bright or airy style, but of dark gray granite, weathered and solemn. The architecture was a blend of classical European and traditional styles: towering spires, intricate carvings, and ivy climbing across half a wall, all speaking to its long history. The air carried the mingled scent of cedarwood and faint polish—an aroma born only from generations of wealth and heritage.

Walking here felt to Aurora like opening an ancient book. Only by savoring it slowly could one understand its depth and history.

Once they entered the estate grounds, Aurora couldn’t help but ask, “Aren’t we getting out here?”

“No need. It’ll take another ten minutes of driving just to reach the main entrance,” Lucas said it as casually as if he were commenting on a glass of water.

Aurora was speechless. At that moment, she didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. If she weren’t connected to the owners of this estate, she might have felt resentment toward the rich. But now, the owners happened to be her husband’s family. For a while, she was at a loss for words. Was this kind of fortune really falling right into her lap? Even now, she still hadn’t fully processed it. It was like something she had once read online–sudden wealth could leave a person completely unprepared.

But soon, Aurora steadied her heart. No matter what, she had her own career to pursue. She couldn’t allow herself to be blinded by all this luxury. Even if Lucas was rich, so what? That was his money, not hers. She couldn’t allow herself to develop a possessive desire for someone else’s money. What mattered more was relying on her own effort to earn her way. Aurora had no intention of living her life as a freeloader.

After another ten minutes of driving, the first gate finally came into view.

Chapter 1358 +25 BONUS

The servants, recognizing Lucas’ license plate, let the car through without question. He drove straight into the garage without interruption.

Inside the house, his parents had already been waiting eagerly in the living room. Ever since receiving Lucas’ message yesterday, they had been busy planning how best to welcome Aurora. After all, she was the first person in so many years their son had ever accepted. They were already grateful he hadn’t brought home a man instead. Now, not only had he brought home a woman, but one whose name had already reached their ears online. It felt like a blessing.

Soon, word arrived as the butler stepped in to report, “Sir, Madam, Mr. Lucas and his wife have arrived.”

“So soon?” Edward looked up sharply, a little unprepared.

But beside him, his wife, Diana Carter, gave him a sharp tap. “How is this soon? I’ve been waiting ages to meet my daughter-in-law,” she huffed. “It’s all thanks to your precious son. He got married ages ago, and he still hasn’t brought her home to us. Isn’t that nothing short of shameless–bullying the poor girl?”

At those words, Edward’s face also turned aggrieved, as though he too had been wronged.

Chapter 1359