Chapter 192

Back then, Sarah had been the only one to oppose Theodore marrying that sickly femme fatale. Still, at least the woman bore such an outstanding heir for the York family before she died–that made up for it somewhat.

The only thing that truly unsettled her was Theodore’s unwavering devotion–after she died, he withdrew from the world like a monk, as if nothing in the world mattered to him anymore.

Sarah scoffed at the York family’s blind devotion–being devoted was fine, but only if the person was truly worthy.

Sarah took the coffee and muttered to herself, “Your father is truly a lost cause.”

Joshua’s expression remained impassive, neither agreeing nor disagreeing.

Joshua thought coldly, ‘A woman who cheated on her husband has no right to judge my father’s unwavering devotion.’

Sarah took a sip of coffee and asked, “I heard you’re engaged and already living together. So where is she?” She thought, ‘After last night’s scandal, I suppose she wouldn’t dare show her face around Joshua anymore.’

At the mention of Shermaine, Joshua’s gaze softened.

Just as he was about to reply, Shermaine padded down the spiral staircase in a white silk slip dress, radiating a sleepy charm that was both pure and alluring–like a pampered housecat stretching after a nap, clearly on the prowl for breakfast.

But when she saw the empty dining table, Shermaine made her way into the living room, her eyes landing on his back. “Joshua, I’m hungry,” she called out.

Only then did Shermaine notice an elderly woman seated in the living room, her presence exuding unmistakable luxury and authority.

Her gaze swept over her with unmistakable scrutiny.

Joshua stood up, walked over, and pressed a tender kiss to Shermaine’s lips. His voice gentle, he said, “The housekeeper took the day off. What would you like for breakfast?”

“Sandwich,” Shermaine said playfully.

“Anything else?” Joshua asked gently.

“Seafood soup.”

There weren’t ingredients at home. They had someone deliver them.

Joshua took out his phone to order breakfast, then gently guided Shermaine to the sofa. He said, “Sheary, let me introduce you–this is my great-aunt, Sarah.”

So she’s Owen’s sister?

Owen never introduced her at our engagement party, Shermaine thought to herself.

Shermaine smiled faintly and said, “Hello, Ms. York.”

Sarah studied Shermaine with a critical eye, thinking to herself, 'Like father, like son–their taste in women is truly identical. Always drawn to these women who can’t even keep a proper home and go around flirting with every man in sight!'

She didn’t let her disapproval show, merely nodding with a curt smile. Sarah said, “As Joshua’s fiancée, shouldn’t you be rising earlier than him?”

Shouldn't she be the one getting up early to make breakfast for Joshua? On the contrary, he ends up having to tend to her instead, how though?

In fact, Joshua had always been accustomed to tending to Shermaine’s every need.

It was the same in Xenhall, and it remained so now.

Joshua had just poured her a glass of warm water. Shermaine took it, absently tracing the rim with her fingertip as she met his gaze. “Problem?” she asked.

“No,” he replied. Joshua hadn’t expected Sarah’s words to be so pointed at Shermaine. ‘What does Shermaine have to do with her?’ he thought. ‘She should just mind her own damn business.’

Sarah’s face darkened, but she held her tongue.

The men of the York family are all the same–they won’t tolerate a single word of criticism about their women, she thought.

Sarah didn’t leave until breakfast arrived.

Joshua finally explained, “She attended those outdated women’s virtue classes–she never reflects on her own flaws, just loves nitpicking at others. She only returned yesterday. Years ago she had a falling-out with the York family over her divorce.

“According to Grandpa, she’s probably back to lobby for Black River Company.”

Shermaine said, “Black River Company sure has a lot of well-connected people.”

“Having more offspring.” That was how some big family patriarchs built their connections. But none could compare to that elder from the Wright family. The York family despised that kind of thing the most.

Shermaine murmured, “Oh,” her tone light and unconcerned.

Joshua shifted the conversation, his tone softening. “Let’s just have one kid in the future.”