Chapter 1141

Alaric strode confidently to the driver's seat and revved up the engine.

Half an hour later, they pulled into the grand driveway of Falconer Mansion, an estate that boasted the grandeur of an old castle; its design steeped in aristocratic elegance.

As they entered the mansion, everywhere looked opulent. The walls were adorned with oil paintings that Hertha recognized as masterpieces.

The floors were a testament to luxury itself with gleaming marble that screamed expensive.

The grand chandelier cascaded from the ceiling of the living room with its sparkling crystal.

The life of the Falconers was something she couldn’t imagine, which was no less than Lysander’s, Hertha mused.

Following Alaric through the grand hall, Hertha noticed three figures lounging on plush sofas. One was Alaric's mother, Angelina, whom she had met before. The other two were an elderly couple. The old lady’s hair was silvered with time, and she was beaming at her with warmth. She should be Alaric's grandmother.

The old man, white-haired as well, rested heavily on a cane. His face was calm but his eyes were keenly sizing her up – he was definitely Alaric's grandfather.

All three looked on with the curiosity reserved for novelties, their gazes unwavering. Just moments before, Hertha had been admiring the Falconer's exquisite taste; now her heart was in her throat from nerves, instinctively she sidled closer to Alaric for comfort.

Alaric took her hand and led her forward, but Hertha's feet seemed to have other plans, retreating backward. A misstep made her lose her balance, and her legs gave way – she landed with a thud on her knees.

Alaric turned, startled out of his usual calm composure by the sight of Hertha on the ground.

What on earth was this woman doing?

Angelina was speechless.

Was this woman truly so spineless?

"Dear, get up now, there's no need to be so afraid on our first meeting." Beatrice said, hurrying to help Hertha up.

Hertha, her face flushed with embarrassment, quickly clutched Alaric's hand and used his strength to pull herself up. She offered a sheepish smile, "I came in such a rush so I forgot to bring a gift. That's why I was a bit afraid. I’ll surely bring something you like next time."

Deciding to own her blunder with a sweet tongue, Hertha apologized to Beatrice and Remington Falconer for her lack of a gift.

Alaric gave her a sidelong glance, amused. Wasn't she supposed to be tough as nails? And yet here she was, buttering them up quite skillfully.

"Ha-ha, such a courteous young lady. Come, sit down," Beatrice said with a kind smile, gesturing for her to join them on the sofa.

Hertha, unsure of what to do next, looked to Alaric for guidance.

"My dear, how long have you and our Alaric been seeing each other?" Beatrice inquired with a gentle and welcoming demeanor. Updated at Draмąոоvels.cоm Hertha opened her mouth to respond.

"But you're engaged to Georgia," Angelina interjected sharply.