Nash looked up and saw a woman standing beside Herman. She was tall, her face heavily made up. Though exquisitely beautiful, she paled in comparison to Hera’s natural, makeup-free beauty. This must be Helena Lewis, the eldest daughter.

Hera quickly stepped forward, greeting her grandfather. Her uncle, standing behind, showed a flicker of astonishment before regaining his composure, though Hera noticed it. Herman smiled, nodding at his granddaughter. “Hera, why are you so late?”

Hera started to offer an excuse, but Helena interrupted contemptuously, “Grandpa announced this last night! You’re late; you clearly didn’t heed his words!”

Hera hastily explained, “No, we almost had a car accident, but he helped us.” She glanced at Nash.

Helena sneered. “A lame excuse. Were you two gallivanting and forgot the time?”

“Helena, please. He’s unrelated to me, and he’s actually…”

“If he’s unrelated, why isn’t he gone? This is a private family banquet. Why is an outsider here?” Helena interrupted, her disdain for Nash’s simple attire evident.

Herman followed her gaze, surprised. Though plainly dressed, Nash possessed a robust physique, prominent temples, and a commanding presence. He seemed… extraordinary. Calmly, Herman asked, “Young man, what is your name?”

Nash stepped forward, bowing deeply. “I am Nash Calcraft of Tili Mountain, a disciple of Master Jonathan Calcraft. I’ve come to fulfill a marital alliance with the Lewises, per my master’s orders. He instructed me to consider you my teacher and father.” He presented a pendant left by his master.

“My word! I suspected as much. You’re Master Calcraft’s prized disciple!” Herman was overjoyed. Leaning on his cane, he approached Nash, tremblingly taking his hand. “I received your master’s letter yesterday! I’ve been eagerly awaiting you. Consider this your home. Don’t be a stranger. Ask for anything you need…”

Herman’s excited chatter and beaming face belied his usual imposing demeanor. Hera’s eyes widened in astonishment. Her grandfather valued Nash this highly? Could he be the honored guest?

“Then I won’t be polite, Mr. Lewis!” Nash chuckled, surprised by Herman’s warmth.

Helena impatiently interrupted, clutching her grandfather’s arm. “Grandpa, distribute the assets! I have things to do. Give me Lewis Corporation!”

Herman laughed. “It’s all yours. And today, I’ll settle another important matter.”

Helena was taken aback. Did her grandfather know about Kai Watson?

Herman held Nash’s hand. “Helena, this is your fiancé, Nash. You’ll marry today!”

“What?!” Helena exclaimed. The family was equally bewildered. Herman always doted on Helena; everyone expected a wealthy, prominent match, not someone who couldn't afford a suit!

“I refuse!” Helena scoffed, stamping her foot.

Herman frowned. “Helena, don’t be foolish. Nash is a rare find. You’re lucky.”

Helena pulled away angrily. “A rare find? He’s a peasant! I won’t marry this country bumpkin!”

Nash’s smile faded. “Since Ms. Lewis is unwilling, let’s forget it. We Calcrafts are self-sufficient; I’m not as impoverished as you assume!” He lacked wealth now; his overseas earnings went to mountain schools. Yet, his skills ensured he could earn if he chose.

“Oh? Uninterested now?” Helena rolled her eyes, displaying a large diamond ring. “This is Kai Watson’s engagement ring—700,000. You couldn't afford it in a lifetime!”

“Engagement?” Herman’s brow furrowed.

Helena continued, “Grandpa, I accepted Kai’s proposal. The Watsons are Jonford’s elite. As Mrs. Watson, I’ll support the Lewises, elevating them to prominence!”

Herman nearly had a heart attack. Pointing at Helena, he raged, “Foolish girl… Return that ring!”

Hubert, Herman’s eldest son, intervened. “Dad, Kai’s gifts totaled nearly 300 million, plus 1.5 billion in investment. How is this boy superior? Why this marriage?”

Herman slapped Hubert. “Fool! That Watson is nothing compared to Nash!”

Hubert, furious, could only seethe. Helena declared coldly, “I’ll marry whoever I choose!”

Herman trembled with rage. Harrison quickly helped him calm down.

Hera’s heart was heavy. She’d never seen her grandfather so angry with Helena. He’d always indulged her, never punishing her. Why the insistence on this marriage? Why not simply comply with Helena’s wishes?

Then, Hera’s gaze fixed on Nash. Grandpa would concede to Helena’s desires except this. He didn’t favor Helena, but Nash’s title as fiancé.

Hera clenched her fists, a bold idea forming. She'd gamble her life and everything.

“Since Helena refuses Nash… I’ll marry him!”

Silence fell; every Lewis family member stared at her.