chapter1036

The classroom buzzed with whispers. Was this really happening? For all her flaws and strict rules, Silvia had become a familiar presence. Complaints were normal, but the idea of switching counselors now made everyone uneasy.

Lydia, who'd been sprawled across her desk, suddenly sat up. She swung her black backpack over one shoulder, eyes cool as she looked straight at Silvia. Her voice was calm and detached. "Even if you switch counselors, I probably won't show up much. Whether you stay or go doesn't matter to me."

She walked out, the swing of her backpack and the quiet confidence in her step leaving an impression that stuck with everyone.

Then, someone in the back cheered, and suddenly the whole class joined in.

"Lydia doesn't care! Please stay!"

"Yeah, we don't want you to leave!"

"Don't go!"

Silvia felt her eyes sting. Lydia hadn't spelled it out, but the meaning was clear enough. Silvia felt humbled.

Meanwhile, outside the Jefferson family's old mansion, Damien's family arrived with expensive gifts in tow. The butler met them at the door, offering a polite but firm apology. "Mr. Connor Jefferson left for a business trip this morning. He won't be back for a while."

It felt like a punch to the gut. Damien was already out of options after falling out with Mr. Robinson last night. With no help coming from that side, he'd pinned his hopes on Connor. Prince Theo was a big deal. If he ever became king, anyone who helped him would be set for life. Damien figured Connor would know better than to say no. But a business trip? Seriously?

Damien just stared, lost for words. Janet, frustrated, stamped her foot. Grandpa, he's obviously avoiding us!"

He shot her a look. Did she think he hadn't figured that out? Wendy quickly gave Janet a warning glance, hoping she'd keep quiet. The mood was already sour.

Chloe looked worried, her brows

knitted together. "Grandpa, what et

now?" Prince Theo had made it clear

get this done or else her

she had to

own future was on the line.

Damien turned back to the butler, trying again. "Is Mr. Samuel Jefferson home? Maybe we could-"

"I'm sorry. He stopped handling family matters a long time ago. I must ask you to leave."

Connor had left instructions before departing. If anyone dropped by, they weren't to be let in. Not even a foot in the door. The butler wouldn't dare disobey.

Chloe was practically shaking with anger. She was a princess, and she'd come here herself, lowering her status, and this was the welcome she got? The Jefferson family didn't care about the Country Y royal family at all.

Grandpa, let's just go." Chloe was proud. With the rejection so clear, staying any longer would only embarrass her.

"But... what about Prince Theo?" Damien worried aloud.

They looked impressive on the

outside, but they all knew where they actually stood with Prince Theo. Being part of royalty wasn't nearly easy

If City chefiver fa

it looked. If Chloe as

for

wanted to keep her title, she had to deliver Theo. The Jefferson family really was impossible.

We'll head back to the hotel and come up with something else." Damien sighed and nodded. For now, that was all they could do.