"Helen, what are you waiting for? Serve Ursula some ravioli!" Priscilla commanded.
"Okay," Helen replied as she stood up to serve. But when she peered into the pot, she realized it was already empty.
Just then, Adrian set down his massive bowl and let out a satisfied burp. Turning to Ursula, he said, "Sorry, but that's how it goes in our house. If you come late, there's nothing left to eat. Just a heads-up for next time."
"Adrian!" Priscilla snapped, glaring at him in frustration. "What nonsense are you talking about?"
"This little brat! It was clear that Ursula had a crush on him, yet he was oblivious, pushing her away as if it meant nothing. How could he be so clueless?" Priscilla thought.
Instead of getting upset, Ursula smiled warmly. "You don't seem like the kind of person with such a big appetite, Mr. Adrian. I'm genuinely surprised you can eat so much!"
"Yeah, things aren't always as they seem," Adrian replied, sarcasm lacing his words. "You wouldn't understand the complexities of my life."
"You certainly have a sharp sense of humor, Mr. Adrian," Ursula replied, her smile unwavering as she calmly took a piece of toast.
Watching their subtle exchange, Priscilla felt her own appetite start to fade.
"Oh heavens, what have I done to deserve this? Why do all my sons seem to have lost their minds? Here's a beautiful, talented, and well-mannered young lady from a good family, yet they only have eyes for Helen," she reflected.
It now appeared that Priscilla's hope of having Ursula as a daughter-in-law was fading away.
…
At 1:00 pm, Gloria arrived at a charming little studio, following the address Helen had provided.
The decor was simple, featuring bamboo furniture and structures. Several watercolor paintings hung on the walls, and a pot of daffodils on the coffee table added a cheerful touch to the room.
"Are you already thinking of relying on others before you've even tried?" The woman's tone changed abruptly as she stood, frustration clear in her voice. "I won't accept students who lack determination."
"No, miss! It's just… I'm afraid of letting everyone down. If I fail and tarnish Grand Cathay's honor, I won't know how to face anyone." Gloria's voice trembled with emotion, tears brimming in her eyes.
"Are you afraid of death?" the woman asked.
"No," Gloria replied firmly.
"Then if you're not afraid of death, what else is there to fear?" the woman said resolutely. "I won't intervene. You must understand that there's no turning back. If you don't commit fully to your training, the honor of the Hathaway family and Grand Cathay will suffer because of you."
Gloria sank to her knees. "I will do everything in my power to meet your expectations, miss!"
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