“That’s right,” Hampon said. “It’s the only way. Ransom Finance’s scion is here in Walden right now. Figure out a way to meet him. If he agrees, Sandberg Group’s problem will be solved.”

After the call ended, Eleanor searched her contacts for leads on where Ransom Finance’s scion was staying. She muttered to herself, “Ransom Finance’s scion… He’s been showing up around…”

Thanks to her strong connections, she quickly obtained the scion’s address. However, her source repeatedly emphasized that she couldn’t expose him, nor could she let the scion know who had leaked his whereabouts. Otherwise…

Eleanor patted her chest reassuringly. “Don’t worry. I’m a loyal person. I would never tell anyone that you’re the one who spilled the beans, Jonathan.”

With the address in hand, Eleanor didn’t hesitate and headed straight there. By West Lake, there was a traditional garden with white walls and Mack-tiled roofs called Farmfoss. It was originally a boutique guesthouse. The scion had rented out the entire place for himself, making it off-limits to outsiders.

Eleanor approached the guard at the entrance, stating her name and purpose for visiting. The guards asked her to wait while they passed her along to Celeste. Celeste hurried to the private lounge. “Mr. Whitman, someone’s here to see you!”

Sebastian barely glanced up from his documents and said, “Turn them away.”

“Ms. Sandberg,” Celeste informed him.

Sebastian’s hand, mid-turning a page, paused for a split second. Celeste carefully observed his reaction and spoke in a softer tone. “Ms. Sandberg is likely here for the superconducting material. Since Zeiten signed an exclusive agreement with us, they can’t renew their contract with Sandberg Group. She is probably hoping to convince you to grant them authorization.”

Sebastian’s eyes were unreadable, his face devoid of emotion. These minutes passed in silence before Celeste finally had to ask, “Would you like to see her?”

Sebastian closed the document and tossed it onto the table. His mind flashed to that moment when Eleanor and Maurice had been pouring their hearts out to each other. He pressed his tongue against his cheek, letting out a faint chuckle.

“Let her in.”

Celeste was a little surprised. She had thought he would refuse. Eleanor had never met Celeste before, and Celeste didn’t introduce herself. She simply said she was the scion’s secretary before leading Eleanor to the private lounge.

As Eleanor walked, she took in the scenery. No wonder the scion had rented the entire place. The decoration and ambiance were truly refined and elegant. The moment she stepped into the private lounge, the fragrance of West Lake’s Cloudcrest tea filled the air.

Eleanor looked up, noticing that sheer drapes had been lowered inside the lounge. A man sat behind them, his face obscured, leaving only a vague silhouette visible… Though hidden, his presence carried an inexplicable air of nobility.

Eleanor almost wanted to scoff. What was this? He wasn’t some protected maiden, so why the need to hide behind curtains? Then she reminded herself that he was the scion of Ransom Finance, and it suddenly made sense. The family who owned Ransom Finance had always been shrouded in mystery. To this day, not even their real surname is known.

Composed and confident, she introduced herself. “Hallo, I’m Eleanor Sandberg, the manager of Sandberg Group from Forstone City. May I ask how I should address you?”

“You came to see me but don’t know who I am?” he questioned.

Eleanor paused a moment. That voice. It was so familiar. He sounded like Sebastian, except his tone was colder, deeper. But with so many people in the country, it wasn’t unusual for people to look and sound nearly alike.

She smiled. “Your family has always been shrouded in secrecy. Even people in Wavenport City don’t know your surname, let alone an outsider like me. I can’t just call you ‘Mr. W,’ can I?”

“Call me whatever you like,” Sebastian said indifferently.

Eleanor grinned. “Then, I’ll stick with ‘Mr. W.’ That’s what everyone calls you behind your back, anyway.”

From behind the sheer drapes, Sebastian gazed at the woman, whose voice carried a hint of mischief and laughter. He could easily picture her lips slightly curved, her eyes bright and lively.