?Chapter 1010:


    Rosanna let out a low, bitterugh. “Maia, I’m not trying to outdo you right now. I just want to watch you crumble, drowning in misery. I’ll patiently wait for that day.”


    At that moment, the sound of footsteps echoed by the door.


    Austen walked in casually, his hands stuffed in his pockets, taking slow, easy strides.


    When Rosanna caught sight of him, her face changed slightly, but she quickly masked it with a warm, calm smile. She stepped forward gently and said, “Good day, Mr. Austen Nelson.”


    Austen happened to be Axell’s younger brother. Since Rosanna was now connected to the family, she was set to be his sister-inw and didn’t need to treat him with excessive respect.


    But during her stay with the Nelsons, Rosanna realized that Austen was the real power yer behind the scenes.


    Even Axell, the eldest Nelson son, treated Austen with serious respect, walking on eggshells around him.


    The butler and other servants showed obvious respect and a bit of wariness whenever Austen appeared, proving his high standing and undisputed control in the family.


    That was when Rosanna’s thoughts started racing. A spark of ambition lit her eyes—if she could win Austen over, many obstacles would melt away.


    Besides, Austen was nothing like Axell.<fn492b> Fresh chapters posted on find~novel</fn492b>


    Axell, who was pushing forty, had a soft waist and a slight belly, with wrinkles forming around his eyes.


    In contrast, Austen stood tall and fit. His broad shoulders and slim waist showcased a toned body hidden under his shirt, giving him a powerful and maic presence.


    Austen’s face was sharply cut and undeniably handsome, impossible to ignore.


    Sometimes, while dealing with Axell, Rosanna caught herself daydreaming about Austen instead. It was a kind of crush that made her a little nervous whenever their eyes met.


    Austen looked her up and down slowly, like a buyer inspecting something at an auction.


    Being the new favorite of his older brother, Rosanna made a good impression. She was young, well-groomed, and kept her figure nicely. No surprise that Axell had agreed to marry her.


    Still, Austen knew full well that her marriage into the Nelson family wouldn’t change anything. In that household, the men ruled, and women never really gained any standing.


    “Hmm, you look quite well today,” Austen teased with a smirk. “Even though you stayed up way tootest night…”


    With that, he spun around and headed upstairs, leaving Rosanna rooted to the spot, her cheeks burning with embarrassment.


    Had Austen heard the sounds fromst night?


    But even if he had, why would he bring it up like that?


    Rosanna dropped her gaze, a flicker of realization darkening her eyes.


    Sure enough, men were all the same.


    .


    .


    .