Chapter 320: Soft Spot

In the car, the butler politely served Maggie Shen without prying into her affairs or being overly fawning. Maggie leaned back, closing her eyes as if napping, contemplating Master Harris's intentions. She suspected the meeting concerned her relationship with Nathael—likely, an attempt to persuade her to break up with him. However, the conversation's specifics and outcome remained unknown. Despite two lifetimes, Maggie had only seen this powerful man in media, never in person.

The Harrises were an aristocratic family dating back to the Aeon Dynasty, weathering centuries of ups and downs. Their prominence in politics and business began with Master Harris's grandfather's generation. While other Harris branches remained influential, no one matched Master Harris's dominance in the business world. Dubbed the "Fox of the Business World," he led the family to unprecedented heights, fostering cooperation among the various branches with his lineage at the center.

Master Harris, thrice married and father of nine, wielded significant influence in both politics and business. The sprawling Harris family thrived, yet internal competition and strife were inevitable. Nevertheless, he expertly managed everything, serving as the family's cornerstone.

Thirty minutes later, the car arrived at a villa with extensive gardens and grounds. The interior, classically designed like a palace, seamlessly integrated modern elements and smart technology.

"Ms. Adam, please come with me," the butler said as the car stopped. Maggie exited, taking a moment to appreciate the surroundings. Dense, lush greenery—clearly designed to thrive throughout the seasons—surrounded the area, even in late autumn. Well-maintained paths wound through the forest, adorned with meticulously cared-for flowers and plants.

A pavilion stood near a lake, connected by a walkway to another pavilion with a central tower offering a panoramic garden view. Intricate carvings and vibrant colors evoked a grand, ancient palace.

Maggie followed the butler to the lake's central tower, its ridges adorned with mythical creature sculptures, while griffins, dragons, and sphinxes graced its grand carvings. Stepping inside felt like stepping back in time to an ancient palace with red walls and green tiles.

Atop the tower, an old man in a silver, cloud-patterned robe fished, remaining focused on his rod, ignoring the sounds of their approach. Several men in black stood guard at regular intervals around him.

Maggie observed quietly. Ten minutes later, the rod twitched. The old man expertly reeled in his catch, tossing it into a bucket with a satisfied grin. A servant took the rod, and the butler presented a warm towel. After cleaning his hands, the old man finally acknowledged Maggie.

"Ms. Adam, please take a seat," he said.

Inside the pavilion, a simple yet elegant rosewood tea table held a small tea set. Its understated luxury spoke volumes.

As Master Harris observed Maggie, she studied him in return. Tall and slender, his silver hair belied his energy. His most striking features were his eyes: though age had loosened the surrounding skin and clouded his pupils with a yellowish tint, their sharpness resembled a hawk's, commanding respect silently.

Master Harris poured tea. "Try this," he said warmly. "Fine spring tea—silver pine."

Maggie accepted, finding it smooth and aromatic, leaving a pleasant fragrance.

"Master Harris, I doubt you invited me merely for tea," she said, meeting his gaze.

He went straight to the point: "Do you like Nathael?"

"Yes, I did," Maggie replied honestly.

He nodded. "Nathael is popular with the ladies."

"He's exceptional," Maggie murmured, "better than anyone."

The old man chuckled. "Of course! He's my grandson!"

Silence fell, then Master Harris's sharp gaze pierced Maggie. "Ms. Adam, someone with Nathael's potential has many options. You're an orphan, lacking status. The Camerons took you in, but only used you. You're not foolish, yet I have no reason to approve of you and Nathael."

"What answer do you want to hear?" Maggie asked slowly.

He chuckled. "Ms. Adam, I'm asking you."

Her eyes were calm as she replied, "I have no family, connections, or power. But Nathael doesn't need any of that."

Master Harris scrutinized her, his sharp gaze unwavering.

Maggie continued, "He's Nathael Harris. He doesn't need those things to prove himself. He has the talent to achieve anything. Even without the Harris name, he would reach where he is—it's just a matter of time."

Master Harris chuckled. "But 'time' makes all the difference. In business, seizing opportunities early increases success."

"Nathael's luck is good," Maggie countered confidently. "He's not late. He was born with a head start, at a point many only dream of."

"I know you're extraordinary," Master Harris said, "but you and Nathael aren't a good match."

Maggie expected this. After a pause, she argued softly, "You may disagree, but you can't decide we're not a good match."

The old man nodded. "I'm a businessman. A powerful family or significant resources would make you a match for Nathael. You have neither. He's my heir. He can't marry a woman without family or support. If he didn't care for you, I might allow it, but since he does, you become a weakness."