Chapter 231

Chapter 231:

“Well, how have you been?”

“We’re doing well. How about you?” Rowan, dressed sharply in a suit, looked both elegant and distinguished. Next to him on the sofa sat his wife, Sarai Johns, clad in a graceful blue dress that complemented her figure, though her demeanor was rather haughty.

Sarai had remained seated during the initial greetings. After a brief exchange between the brothers, she finally stood up.

“Hi, Elaine, Glenn.” Sarai, now standing, glanced over at Madisyn, her expression registering mild surprise. “And who might this be?”

“This is Madisyn,” Elaine responded with a warm smile. “Madisyn, this is your aunt-in-law, Sarai.”

“Nice to meet you, Sarai,” Madisyn greeted her courteously.

Sarai nodded, slightly taken aback by Madisyn’s beauty. It was clear Madisyn had inherited striking features from her parents. Nonetheless, Sarai considered that despite her looks, Madisyn was just another worldly woman.

Rowan invited everyone to sit. “The chef has just finished preparing dinner. Let’s talk more over the meal.”

“Sure,” Glenn said.

The dining table was filled with an array of delicious dishes. During the meal, Madisyn remained mostly silent, listening attentively.

Glenn and Rowan carried on their conversation. “So, where are your children? Why aren’t they here?” Glenn inquired.

“My son is studying overseas,” Rowan explained casually. “And my daughter is still at work. She’s currently teaching calligraphy and painting.”

“She’s a teacher? I remember she’s a year younger than Madisyn, right?” Glenn asked, somewhat surprised.

“Yes,” Rowan confirmed. “She’s lucky to have been hired by Greville College. It’s a great opportunity for her.”

His statement caught everyone off guard. Greville College was renowned nationally for its programs in painting and calligraphy. Typically, only those with a rich background in the field could secure a teaching position there.

This time, Glenn’s admiration was sincere. “Courtney is truly remarkable. To be a teacher at Greville College so young, she’s definitely going places!”

“Absolutely,” Rowan said, pride evident in his voice. “I was over 30 when I started there, and now she’s the youngest instructor on staff.” Rowan hesitated before saying, “Glenn, I actually need a favor.”

“Oh? What’s that?” Glenn asked.

“Courtney is doing well among her peers, but her current mentor isn’t cutting it anymore. We’re hoping to find her a more fitting mentor,” Rowan explained.

“Who do you have in mind?” Glenn pondered.

“Hutton Marquez,” Rowan answered.

At this, Madisyn glanced up, noticing the surprised look on her parents’ faces. She stayed quiet, bowing her head as she continued to eat.

“But Hutton hasn’t taken on any students in years,” Glenn remarked.

“I’m aware. However, Hutton is the best right now. We want Courtney to train with him to bring prestige to our country. Glenn, didn’t Dad have a strong rapport with Hutton? I recall you used to see him often,” Rowan said.

Glenn paused. Their father had indeed been well-connected and maintained a close relationship with Hutton during their younger days. Since his father’s death, Glenn had kept in touch with his father’s old acquaintances sporadically. On the other hand, Rowan, having been estranged from their father, had lost those connections.

“Hutton is quite eccentric,” Glenn admitted. “He’s been living away from society in a temple these last few years, and I’ve lost contact with him. I can try to reconnect, but I can’t guarantee anything.”

“That’s all I’m hoping for, Glenn,” Rowan said with a smile. “Just the fact you’re willing to help is enough for me. Let’s raise our glasses.”

Sarai, who had been silent until now, turned to Elaine with a warm smile. “Elaine, it’s been years, yet you haven’t aged a bit. You look so stunning and radiant. Your skin is just wonderful.”

Elaine responded with a humble smile, “Thank you, Sarai. You’re looking quite stunning yourself.”

Sarai then shifted her focus to Madisyn. “What does Madisyn do?”

“She’s working at our family’s company,” Elaine answered.

Sarai raised an eyebrow slightly. Working in the family business could be seen as a cushy job, right?

“Elaine, Madisyn is still young and should be gaining more practical skills,” Sarai suggested. “Madisyn, if you’re interested in learning calligraphy and painting, I could ask Courtney to teach you once she’s back.”

Elaine glanced at Madisyn, indicating the decision was hers to make.

“Thank you, Sarai, but I think I’m fine without it,” Madisyn replied gently.

Sarai insisted, “Many would jump at the chance to be taught by Courtney, but can’t. She’s your cousin, so feel free to ask if you ever want to learn.”

Her tone was courteous, yet carried a hint of condescension.

“Thank you, Sarai, but I really don’t need it,” Madisyn repeated, maintaining her polite refusal.

Sarai did not push further, though it was clear she didn’t take Madisyn’s refusal too seriously.

As they neared the end of their meal, an elegant woman walked into the dining room.

“What took you so long, Courtney?” Rowan asked with a gentle reprimand.

“Sorry, Dad, my class ran overtime,” Courtney responded. She then turned to greet everyone. “Uncle Glenn, Elaine, it’s wonderful to see you. And this is…”

She paused, clearly taken aback by Madisyn’s stunning looks.

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