Ste responded graciously, Sir, theres really no need to mention it.


    It wasnt a significant issue.


    My husband was actually the one who initiated it, so the fault lies with us.


    Den looked at her with respect and said, Your capacity for understanding and wisdom is truly remarkable.


    Its unfortunate you married so young.


    However, your husband is the wealthiest man in Seamarsh, and you both seem toplement each other well.


    It truly is Sanfords loss.


    Ste felt somewhat ufortable hearing Dens words.


    Her rtionship with Sanford had been improving recently, and she had nearly forgotten that Sanford had once shown an interest in her. To move past the difort, Ste swiftly changed the topic and asked, Sir, how are you feeling now? Den said, Im fine.


    He then extended an invitation to Ste, saying, If youre avable, Id like to invite you to lunch as a way of apologizing.


    Considering that Den had made the effort toe in person, Ste found it difficult to decline.


    Moreover, it was nearing noon, so she epted his invitation.


    Alright, sir, thank you for the invitation.


    Together, they left the studio and went to a restaurant Den had selected beforehand.


    Ste half-expected to encounter Sanford at the restaurant due to the previous days events, but he was nowhere to be found when they arrived.


    Secretly, Ste sighed in relief and felt more at ease.


    Once they had ordered, Den casually asked about Stes family.


    Without overthinking her response, Ste said, My family background is quiteplex; its not something I can exin in just a few words. Den showed a keen interest in knowing more and responded, Thats alright.


    We have time.


    Ste then shared a brief overview of her past.


    I was raised in an orphanage, adoptedter on, and only recently reconnected with my long-lost mother and my fathers family.


    As Ste recounted her story, Den disyed a profound sense of emotion and empathy for her challenging life experiences.


    Youve certainly faced many challenges, but thankfully, things seem to have turned out well for you in the end.


    Just then, the waiter arrived with their dishes, interrupting their conversation.


    They ate in silence for a while before Den spoke up again.


    Considering you reconnected with the Lowell family at such ate age, your emotional connection to them might not be very strong yet, would you agree? Den asked, his tone casual. Ste paused for a moment, and then spoke.


    My cousin has always been kind to me, as have the elders.


    Bonds, they grow with time, dont they? Den offered anotherpliment, his voiceced with a touch of envy.


    It seems youre truly fortunate to have such a wonderful family.


    Despite his words, a faint ripple of unease stirred within Ste, her instincts alerted by Dens pointed interest in her familial connections.


    With a gentle tone, she inquired, Sir, your curiosity about my ties to the Lowells-may I ask why it piques your interest so? Den, ever the smooth talker, waved off her concern with a practiced ease.


    Oh, think nothing of it.


    I merely wondered if you had siblings I might introduce to Sanford.


    He buries himself in work and risks remaining a bachelor.