Chapter 653

Thalia tactfully rejected Jeffrey. She didn't want to strain their family ties over such a minor issue. However, Jeffrey dismissed her concerns, saying, "Isn't it simple? Just ask Tiffany and Richard to put in a good word. She's your daughter; he's your son-in-law. What's so difficult about family?"

"No," Thalia firmly refused. Even if Charlie wanted the project, they would never leverage their in-laws' influence. It wasn't their family's way, and they didn't want their daughter to be negatively affected.

Despite Thalia's principles, Jeffrey, as he always did, found a way to sway her. "Thalia, please, as your brother, I'm begging you. My family has struggled to get this far. This project is crucial for us. I know you won't let me fail."

"Jeffrey, it's not that I don't want to help, but"

"This will be the last time, I promise," Jeffrey vowed, raising his hand. "Besides, we're family. If I succeed, we'll all be proud!"

"Jeffrey, I really can't," she insisted.

"I'll wait for good news! But don't say it's for me. Just say it's for the family. I'll sign the contract once we secure the project."

Jeffrey stood and left, shouting from the doorway, "I'll wait for your good news!" He and Daisy rushed out, leaving Thalia no room to object.

"This is troublesome," Thalia muttered, angry and helpless. She rubbed her temples, sinking back onto the sofa. Jeffrey was masterful at manipulation—not aggressive or ruthless, but charming and persuasive, leaving no room for refusal. She felt obligated to help. Just this once. The last time.

She didn't dare tell Charlie, so she called Tiffany directly.

Tiffany, exercising at the Royal Bay gym, wiped her sweat and answered. "Morning, Mom."

Thalia smiled. "Sleep well? Have you had breakfast?"

"Yes, and yes."

"Good. The weather's changed; it's cold. Wear a coat when you go out."

"I know, Mom. Don't worry."

After some pleasantries, Thalia broached the subject. "Tiffany, is Richard with you?"

Tiffany saw Richard coming downstairs. "Yes, why?"

Chapter 653 (Continued)

Tiffany knew the reason for the call; she knew Jeffrey and Daisy's visit to Royal Bay hadn't been coincidental. She knew Jeffrey had pressured her mother.

As expected, Thalia said, "Your father mentioned Lovell City's new coal mine. I wonder if our family could secure this project. Tiffany, could you speak to Richard about it?" The request felt heavy; Thalia's face burned. It was a huge favor to ask so soon after the wedding.

Thalia quickly backtracked. "Forget it, Tiffany. Let's pretend I didn't say anything."

Tiffany understood. "Mom, is this really Dad's project? Or is it someone else—Uncle Jeffrey, perhaps?"

"No, Tiffany. Don't overthink it."

"Okay, I'll help Dad get the project." Tiffany hung up, sprinting to the dining room.

Richard sat at the table, his cold demeanor and handsome features striking. His high-end suit accentuated his imposing figure; his presence was both alluring and intimidating.

But when he saw Tiffany, his coldness melted. He smiled, opening his arms. "Come here. Let me hold you."

His voice, slightly hoarse, was magnetic. Tiffany rushed into his embrace.

"Missed me, Richard?"

"Of course."

"Why didn't you sleep longer?"

"How could I sleep without you?" He inhaled her scent, his mood brightening.

Tiffany teased, "So, for twenty years without me, you haven't slept well?"

"I don't know. But honestly, I haven't felt alive in twenty years!"

Tiffany's surprise was evident in her eyes as she met his gaze. Her heart pounded, her face flushed. She pulled away. "Eat your breakfast! You have work!"

Chapter 653 (Continued)

The real reason for her reserved affection was the numerous servants present. She wanted to maintain their dignity at home.

Richard chuckled, obediently resuming his breakfast. Tiffany, already having eaten, watched him, admiring his beauty.

"I need to tell you something," she said, recounting Jeffrey and Daisy's visit and her mother's request. "Mom wants you to help secure the coal mine project. I suspect it's Uncle Jeffrey's doing."

Richard looked at her, unwavering. "Tell me what you think." His implicit agreement hung in the air.

The revised text improves grammar, punctuation, and flow. It also clarifies some ambiguities and removes redundant phrasing. The non-English characters have been removed as they seemed out of place and unrelated to the narrative.