Chapter 117

Two days later, Lainey made her way to the Stewart family's estate for her much-anticipated visit.

Lainey had carefully selected a luxurious set of coffee accessories to offer as a gift.

Dressed in a crisp white gown, with flawless yet subtle makeup, she moved with the elegance and grace expected of someone raised among high society.

Winning Norwood's favor was her only goal.

The Stewart family's butler ushered her into the living room.

Norwood sat on the couch, his demeanor serious, an elegant watch gleaming on his wrist.

Lainey presented the elegant coffee set in front of Norwood, then offered a courteous introduction, "Mr.Stewart, I'm Lainey. I was born into the Benton family from Breoqua. I've only recently been reunited with my parents. Knowing how much you appreciate coffee, I searched for this set just for you. I hope it suits your taste."

By emphasizing her distinguished family roots while presenting herself with humility, she hoped to win Norwood's approval.

But Norwood was not easily won over.

He could see through her charm; her intentions weren't as innocent as she pretended.

His gaze swept over the coffee set before turning back to her, his words measured and neutral. "That's very considerate of you."

A flicker of unease passed through Lainey, but she kept her calm. He was proving more challenging than she expected.

Even so, she remained confident in her ability to play the long game.

She settled gracefully into the arm chair nearby lifting a delicate cup and pouring Norwood a fresh serving of coffee. "I've admired your accomplishments since I was a child. The Stewart Group has thrived under your leadership, and Nolan's talent has only helped the company reach even greater heights."

Most grandparents, she assumed, enjoyed hearing their grandchildren praised.

After offering her compliments, Lainey's voice took on a tone of concern as she continued, "But lately, I can't help but notice he's been going against your wishes-all because of a woman with such a questionable past."

She put on an innocent look. "Forgive me for bringing this up, but as a Stewart, Nolan deserves a wife with an impeccable reputation, someone who can strengthen both your legacy and his future. Instead,Miss Warren comes from nothing-she's an orphan who once married into the Todd family for money and is still entangled with her ex-husband, even after her divorce. If she marries into the Stewarts, wouldn't people talk?"

Her words sounded heartfelt and genuine on the surface.

Norwood gave her little more than a passing glance as she spoke.

He had spent a lifetime reading people and motives.

Regardless of his feelings about Eleanor, decisions involving the Stewart family belonged to them alone.

When did it become this young woman's business?

And she was not related to Benton family by blood.

Norwood lost all desire for further conversation,choosing instead to lift his coffee and blow across its surface. "Nolan can handle his own affairs. Our family doesn't need to cling to marriage alliances for security."

The message behind his words couldn't have been clearer-this was not her concern.

Color drained from Lainey's face, leaving her both furious and humiliated.

She never expected that all her careful planning would fall flat; Norwood remained completely indifferent.

Had he really decided to accept Eleanor?

Impossible!

She couldn't let that happen!

Nolan's wife was supposed to be her!

Still determined, Lainey tried to speak up, but Norwood placed his cup down with finality. "I'm tired.Butler, please show her out."

His refusal came sharp and final, shutting down any chance for further discussion.

There was nothing left for Lainey but to get up and leave, anger boiling beneath her composed exterior That stubborn old man!

He wouldn't recognize kindness if it stared him in the face!

But she would have her way soon enough. Once she married Nolan, she would make sure Norwood met his maker.