<b>Chapter </b><b>170 </b>


    The middle–aged man’s ego was slightly bruised; nevertheless, he hastily apologized to Mirabe.


    <b>Knox </b>observed his reluctant demeanor and waved a hand dismissively. “Why don’t you have someone bring out the rest of the dishes?”


    Just as the man was looking for an excuse to slip away and salvage some dignity, Knox’smand gave him a quick out. “Right away.”


    Once he was gone, Knox turned to Mirabe and James, looking somewhat sheepish. “My associate is a bit uncultured. I apologize for the scene he caused.”


    Mirabe offered a gracious smile and <b>sat </b>back down. Knox pulled out the chair next to her and settled in. “So, youngdy, how do you have such knowledge of herbal remedies?”


    With Knox’s question hanging in the air, James also turned his attention to her, his gaze subtly inquisitive, making it impossible for Mirabe to ignore. She nced at Knox, her expression unfazed. “I’ve read a bit about health and wellness. Just the basics<b>, </b>really. Nothing professional.”


    Knox chuckled at her modesty. “If you just read a bit and are now able to spot the issues in al meal, that suggests a real talent in this field.”


    After a pause, as if struck by a sudden thought, Knox proposed, “Would you be interested in learning how to prepare these dishes with me?”


    Wyatt, sitting nearby, looked up in surprise at Knox’s offer.


    The Mendoza family had been esteemed court culinary herbalists for generations. They were revered for serving kings, a testament to their lofty status.


    Even in modern times, the Mendoza family was a household name in Ashford, and now Knox was a prominent member of the Pharmacists‘ Guild with vast connections. To be taken under the Mendoza family’s wing could elevate one’s experiences to a whole new level.


    Moreover, Knox was known for his exacting standards. Aside from supporting two apprentices in his youth, it had been decades since he took on a new pupil. Those who caught his eye were few and far between. Indeed, James‘ instincts were extraordinary


    “I have no interest,” Mirabe tly refused Knox’s offer without hesitation. She had finally settled into a normal life; why would she torment herself with new challenges?


    Wyatt coughed lightly, giving her a gentle nudge. “Ms. Mirabe, the Mendoza family has a century–old legacy in medicinal cuisine. Bing Knox’s apprentice could pave the way for an illustrious future.”


    Mirabe’s expression remained unchanged, as if the legacy of the Mendoza family was no different to her than any ordinary household. “Tempting as it sounds, I’m truly not interested.”


    10 46


    Chapter <b>170 </b>


    “Very well…” Knox sounded genuinely disappointed. After a brief pause, he offered at concession, “Should you change your mind, you’re wee toe to me anytime.” It was a golden offer that would stun onlookers, considering Knox and Mirabe had just met.


    Before Mirabe could respond, James, who had been silent at the head of the table, spoke up, “In that case, on behalf of this youngdy, I extend our gratitude to you for your generous


    offer.”


    Knox, catching the subtle implications in James‘ words, revealed a flicker of surprise. While curious about the nature of Mirabe and James‘ rtionship, he refrained from prying further<b>, </b>simply offering a smile. “You’re too polite, James. Your friends are always wee among the Mendoza family.”


    Mirabe tilted her head, casting a nce at James, her fingers tapping thoughtfully on the table, lost in contemtion.