Chapter 26

"Sigh," the boy said, his aggressive momentum gone, his guard down. "Frankly, this isn't considered high-quality timber. It's difficult to work with. If you want small items, I can manage one or two, but a large piece is impossible." Lily observed his profile, believing his words. "This type of wood is expensive; are you using it for practice?"

"I'm not practicing," the boy said softly. "I'm carving it for myself. My point is, you shouldn't insist. It's fine if there aren't any."

"All right, I won't insist," Lily replied, satisfied. "How about this? Use other wood for my order; I won't force you to use this. But I must have this piece."

The boy was astonished. "Why do you need that small piece?"

"Don't worry," she smiled. "It's nothing bad. Just tell me if you can do it."

The boy studied Lily, assessing her character. After a moment, he clasped his hands, nodding slowly. "All right. You have my word. I'll leave a small piece for you, but don't ask for more of this wood." He seemed anxious to protect it.

Lily nodded. "We agree, then."

Relieved, the boy left after receiving confirmation. Lily watched him go, then realized she didn't know his name. "What's your name?"

He was already some distance away, but he heard her. He stopped and turned. Backlit by the sun, he seemed bathed in gold. He looked at Lily and said, "My name is Benedict Batch."

"Benedict, huh?" Lily mused. It was an elegant name, despite his fiery temper.

Only when Benedict was far away did Lily resume walking. She hadn't gone far when a tall figure blocked her path, effectively barring her way on the narrow road.

Lily instantly recognized him, although she didn't know many foreigners and sometimes struggled with faces. She paused, then realized it was Nathaniel's man, a prominent figure she'd met in Middle Valley at an appraisal event. He was a big name in the international industry, largely unknown domestically. She knew nothing of his relationship with Nathaniel and had no interest in finding out. Their paths rarely crossed, yet he'd rushed towards her. Lily stopped and looked up.

"Excuse me," she said.

"Ms. Christian," Frank replied slowly, his local-language skills improving. He scrutinized her. His expression was unfriendly, making Lily uncomfortable. Her face fell. She repeated, "Excuse me." He didn't move, instead extending a hand toward her.