Wallace waved a dismissive hand. Why waste breath on that inconsequential woman? She deserved no footprint in Kieran’s illustrious life, nor did she merit more time spent steering Kieran’s judgment. He trusted his grandson’s discernment. Alarieka’s chapter was closed.
Pouring tea ceremoniously, Wallace announced, “Prepare yourself. I’ve spoken with the Whitakers. They’ll visit next week for our families’ formal introduction.”
Kieran met his gaze but remained silent.
He said, “When two families are joining in marriage, you must take it seriously. Make sure the formalities are proper, prepare all the necessary gifts, and go all out—especially since Rose is carrying your child. An unmarried pregnancy doesn’t sound good, no matter how you put it. She’s a girl, more sensitive about these things. You should be more considerate. Do I really need to tell you this?”
Kieran Argent’s voice was deep and resonant: “I understand.”
Wallace Argent nodded. “Good. I’m heading to the study to practice calligraphy. You should get to the office—plenty of work is waiting.”
Kieran didn’t linger, rising to leave. Wallace watched his grandson’s tall, straight figure retreat, growing more pleased with each glance.
The butler waited silently behind him. Wallace chuckled: “Since Rose’s family is coming to meet, should I get a new suit?”
The butler murmured: “It’s already prepared.”
Wallace added: “By the way, where are Kieran’s parents? Haven’t seen them lately.”
The butler replied: “The woman Mr. Argent has overseas caused some trouble. Mrs. Argent went to handle it and can’t return yet.”
Wallace frowned. “What happened? Can’t he even manage one woman?”
The butler bowed lower: “She’s three months pregnant and refuses to terminate.”
Wallace’s eyes turned murky and distant. After a thoughtful pause, he stated: “If she won’t, let her have it. The Argent family can certainly afford another child.”
The butler pondered the implications, not daring to respond.
Upon arriving in the capital, Alarieka Huston booked a hotel while searching for a rental. With ample funds, she could stay indefinitely. After settling in, Alarieka took Lorelai Cowan to see specialists, securing her hospitalization and depositing medical funds into her account.
“Save the thanks,” Alarieka cut off Jaylene Irwin’s gratitude. “If you really want to repay me, study hard and ace the National College Entrance Examination.”
Jaylene grimaced, waving a hand: “You know my grades are terrible. No way I’ll do well.”
Alarieka merely raised an eyebrow, silent.
Suddenly Jaylene grabbed her wrist, whispering urgently: “But what about you?”
Alarieka frowned: “What do you mean?”
Jaylene pressed: “Didn’t you drop out? Can you even take the exam without a school?” Her words tumbled faster: “You have to take it! You’re so smart—but will any school accept you now? What’ll you do?”
Alarieka laughed softly: “Stop worrying. I’ve had plans for ages.”
Jaylene eyed her suspiciously: “What plans?”
Chen Daoyuan never imagined a girl would dare boast so boldly. With just months left before the National College Entrance Examination, she actually vowed to become the National Exam Top Scorer. Unheard of. The girl seemed utterly mad. Such grand claims would make ancient scholars blush.
Chen waved impatiently: “Get out. Don’t waste my time.” He muttered: “No idea how security even let you in.”
“I gave them some cigarettes,” Alarieka cheerfully replied, and even after Chen Daoyuan tried to dismiss her, she remained standing right there, smiling brightly at him.
Chen Daoyuan said sternly: “I don’t care who you are. Stop this nonsense and get out. What you’re suggesting is completely impossible!” Asking him to take in a student who’d been expelled from school at this critical time before the National College Entrance Examination—and one who was dreaming of becoming the National Exam Top Scorer?