Chapter 493 A Fresh Start

“It’s nothing,” Nathaniel replied. “She just told me to be good to you.”

He wasn't afraid of Vivian's threats; his only uncertainty concerned Cecilia's affections—who mattered more to her, him or Vivian? Only then did Cecilia realize her unease stemmed from yesterday's conversation with Vivian.

“The raviolis are ready,” she said. “Go ahead and eat.”

Afterward, gazing where Vivian's car had vanished, Cecilia felt a warm contentment. During the meal, Nathaniel revealed he'd started a new company. He finally understood he couldn't maintain the pretense of poverty, especially after Vivian's visit that day; he had to unravel his web of lies.

“What company?” Cecilia asked.

“Foreign trade.”

Cecilia remembered the initial struggles Nathaniel faced when he first engaged in international business. Foreigners, and even some countrymen, had exploited his youth, some even attempting to steal his business or even his life.

“Are you confident now?” she asked. If Nathaniel hadn't lost his memory, she wouldn't have worried.

Nathaniel paused. “Of course,” he replied, then quickly added, realizing her concern, “Mason will also help me again.”

“That works,” Cecilia said.

Elliot, watching them, felt a pang of jealousy. “Mommy, when I grow up, I can also establish a company,” he declared.

In truth, Nathaniel harbored a secret he hadn't shared with Cecilia, fearing her disapproval. Cecilia smiled knowingly. “All right, Eli will surely become a big boss in the future.”

Elliot nodded, easily appeased.

Their cheerful ravioli meal was interrupted by an unexpected guest, barking orders. “Place the porcelain vase here, and remove the flowers over there…”

An elderly man in a tailcoat, his temples graying, directed the workers. Cecilia recognized Liam, one of the Rainsworth family's three main butlers, primarily responsible for Elena. Since Lily's expulsion last year for insulting Cecilia, Liam had become reserved.

“Mr. Liam, what’s this about?” Cecilia asked.

“Mrs. Rainsworth, these are all the things Madam Elena asked me to change,” he replied. “She mentioned a fresh start for the New Year. Revamping the mansion's interior is only the beginning.”

Liam, outwardly respectful, began issuing orders for a complete villa renovation. Cecilia understood this as Elena's retaliation for yesterday's offense. What does she mean, 'only the beginning'? Is she implying she'll replace the people living here?

Ignoring the commotion, Cecilia continued eating with Elliot and Nathaniel. Nathaniel calmly put down his fork. “Mr. Liam.”

Liam froze. “Mr. Nathaniel.”

“Restore everything to its original state,” Nathaniel commanded. Even though he was no longer the head of the Rainsworth family, Liam hesitated.

“Mr. Nathaniel, these are Madam Elena’s orders,” Liam said, bracing himself. His daughter Lily's suffering abroad, orchestrated by Cecilia and Nathaniel, fueled his desire for revenge.