?Chapter 386:


    Merlin had been notorious for his cold detachment toward women and legendary aversion to marriage. The upper crust of Ublento had long since given up hope that he’d ever settle down. Even his parents hade to terms with that. So for him to finally show interest in a woman and even publicly shield her was nothing short of shocking.


    And the burning question on everyone’s mind? Who was this woman who had cracked the uncrackable man? They were dying to see her for themselves.


    The Evans household was practically humming with burning curiosity—Ruben included.


    The waiting scene in the living room could’ve passed for aedy sketch. The Craig family sat stiff and visibly ufortable, while the Evans side tried to mask their own fatigue. Yawns rippled through the room like waves, but no one dared tear their eyes from the doorway—not even Ruben, who’d momentarily set aside his usual stern airs.


    On one side of the couch, Cole lounged with Elliana, whispering flirtatious nonsense in her ear as if the entire room didn’t exist. In a corner of the sofa, Jeff was curled up with a tiny white cat cradled in his arms. He kept low, avoiding Cole’s line of sight while sneaking nces at Elliana, mentally counting the reasons why he’d never get her alone long enough to say what he wanted to say.


    Next to him sat Lance, also sneaking looks at Elliana—but his thoughts weren’t romantic. His mind was churning with ns on how to convince her to take him in as an apprentice.


    And then finally came the moment they’d all been waiting for. When the butler swept into the living room to announce Merlin and Hailee’s arrival, every head lifted, every back straightened. Even Cole finally paused his murmured conversation with Elliana.


    And just like that, Merlin strolled in, exuding effortless confidence, with Hailee trailing quietly behind him.


    Hailee had never stepped foot inside a mansion so grand, and facing a room full of curious strangers made her feel microscopic. She instinctively shrank behind Merlin, her footsteps hushed, her shoulders tight.


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    Merlin, on the other hand, looked like he was walking on air. Calm,posed, and even radiant. As he crossed into the living room, he gave Ruben a respectful nod and dipped into a slight bow. “My sincerest apologies for keeping you waiting,” he said smoothly. “I’m prepared to ept whatever punishment you deem necessary.”


    Ruben, who had always admired Merlin’s poise and principles, showed not a trace of annoyance. He let out a warm chuckle. “Merlin, my boy, you look sharper every time you walk through that door.”


    “Your words are too kind,” Merlin replied, his tone polished, his posture unshakably poised.


    Ruben gave an approving nod and then leaned slightly to the side, trying to catch a better glimpse of the girl behind Merlin. “And that must be Hailee? Come now, let us have a proper look at you.”


    Given how guarded Merlin had been around Hailee, it wasn’t hard to guess—this young woman could very well end up the futuredy of the keley estate. And with that possibility hanging in the air, everyone instinctively adjusted their demeanor, softening their gazes and straightening their postures. Courtesies were in order.


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