Chapter 25 Hint

"I'm just kidding!" Josephine chuckled, entering the mansion.

Jared smiled wryly, following behind. He felt butterflies in his stomach; Josephine's teasing always affected him. He considered himself a commoner compared to her, the daughter of Horington's wealthiest man. How could he ever measure up?

"Mom, Dad, this is Josephine Sullivan, the friend who lent me this mansion," Jared introduced Josephine to his parents once they were inside.

Gary and Hannah respectfully rose from the couch the moment they learned Josephine was the owner.

"Hello, Mr. and Mrs. Chance. It's lovely to meet you. Please forgive my empty-handed arrival; I was in a rush," Josephine said politely.

"You're too kind, Ms. Sullivan. We're so grateful for your generosity in lending Jared the mansion. Without you, we wouldn't be able to stay in such a luxurious home!" Hannah exclaimed humbly. "Gary! Get Ms. Sullivan something to drink!"

"All right!" Gary nodded, flabbergasted by Josephine's beauty. Her clothes and aura suggested high social standing—she clearly came from immense wealth. Otherwise, how could she afford this mansion?

Had Gary known Josephine was the daughter of William, Horington's richest man, he would have been even more astonished.

"It's okay, Mr. Chance. I'll help myself!" Josephine poured herself a cup of tea, then proceeded to prepare chamomile tea for Gary and Hannah. Knowing the house, she located everything easily.

"Mr. and Mrs. Chance, this is chamomile tea. It aids digestion and is good for seniors," Josephine said as she served them.

"You're so polite, Ms. Sullivan! Though I haven't known you long, I can tell you're beautiful and kind. Whoever marries you will be the luckiest man alive!" Hannah exclaimed, hinting at something. Her generosity toward Jared clearly indicated romantic feelings.

Hannah's comment was a subtle attempt to glean information from Josephine. [Remove the advertisement here]

Josephine wasn't fooled by Hannah's implication. "Mrs. Chance, you're flattering me! I have flaws. That's why Jared doesn't want me—he's even scolded me before!"

"Oh, is that so?" Hannah paused, gesturing for Josephine to approach. "Ms. Sullivan, come sit with me. Jared's a good man, just stubborn as a mule—he takes after his father! If he scolds you again, let me know. I'll teach him a lesson!"

Josephine laughed, glancing at Jared. "As stubborn as a mule?"

Jared felt embarrassed.

"Mom, stop! She's busy. Don't keep her," Jared tried to usher Josephine away before Hannah revealed more embarrassing stories.

"I'm not busy! I'd love to chat with Mrs. Chance!" Josephine sat beside Hannah.

Hannah beamed, holding Josephine's hands. They chatted for over two hours, Josephine leaving only as darkness fell.