The sudden shift in topic took both Katelyn and Vincent by surprise.

Katelyn focused intently on Earl Poulos’ serious expression. For some reason, Selina’s shocked look from the other day flashed in her mind.

It seemed they were both startled by the same realization—that Katelyn resembled someone they knew.

Katelyn chose not to answer immediately. Instead, she took a moment to gather her thoughts before speaking.

“My Lord, I don’t believe this matter is directly related to why we’re here today.” Content originally comes from find?novel.net

Earl Poulos gave a thoughtful smile and stroked the red ruby ring on his finger.

“You’re right. I’m just a bit curious.”

Despite his words, he continued to study Katelyn’s features intently.

From the moment she had arrived, he had noticed her striking resemblance to an old friend. This resemblance was why he had decided to grant them an audience.

As Earl Poulos continued to observe Katelyn, his conviction in his suspicions grew stronger with each passing moment.

The reason she resembled someone from his past became clear: she was the daughter of that person. Yet, he showed no intention of offering further explanation.

Katelyn decided not to press him. She quietly acknowledged the peculiarity of the situation, unable to grasp what had so deeply shocked both Earl Poulos and Selina.

Then, Earl Poulos said something that left both Katelyn and Vincent utterly astonished. With a warm smile, he announced, “I have only one son, who disappeared years ago, and no other relatives. Today, I feel a profound connection with you. Would you consider becoming my honorary daughter?”

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Katelyn was overwhelmed by the announcement.

She couldn’t understand why Earl Poulos would extend such an offer to her. Given his immense power, prestigious status, and considerable wealth, if he desired an honorary daughter, countless people would eagerly accept.

Why would he want her as his daughter?

If Katelyn accepted Earl Poulos’ offer, Elora would no longer be able to use her noble status to bully Katelyn in Yata.

However, Katelyn was well aware that nothing came without a price.

When something seemed too good to be true, it often was bad news in disguise.

Vincent’s expression grew serious. His investigation indicated that Earl Poulos was known for being strict and unpredictable. Many businessmen who attempted to purchase the castle had been harshly rejected by him.

Still, the man they met today was completely different from the rumors.

Furthermore, Vincent sensed an unexplainable concern that Earl Poulos had for Katelyn.

After a moment of contemplation, Katelyn asked, “May I ask why you’d want to offer something like that to me, My Lord?”

Earl Poulos smiled bitterly, then leaned forward.

“You must understand that my nephew Dale has proven to be utterly incapable and disappointingly irresponsible. Rather than watch him squander this vast estate, I would prefer to choose a suitable heir—or heiress—who truly appreciates its value.”

As Katelyn absorbed his explanation, her frown deepened. She found herself puzzled by his intentions. Was he suggesting that if she accepted his offer, the entire estate would become hers?

After considering his words carefully, she decided it was best to decline such an unexpected proposition.

“We’ve only just met today. I’m afraid I can’t accept your kind and generous offer,” she replied gently.

Her refusal seemed to align precisely with what Earl Poulos had anticipated.

He gazed at her with a newfound sense of respect and admiration. He realized that if anyone else had been offered such sudden wealth, they would have agreed without hesitation.

Earl Poulos had made his intentions clear. He was looking for someone to inherit his estate.

Despite the enormous opportunity, Katelyn still declined.

With a calm smile, Earl Poulos reassured her, “No need to rush. Take your time to think it over. I assure you, I have no hidden agenda. I simply wish for some family companionship.”

Katelyn responded softly, “I believe there’s been a misunderstanding. We’re only in Yata for work, and once it’s completed, we’ll be returning home.”

Earl Poulos acknowledged her words with a nod. “I understand. However, my offer remains. If you decide to accept, you’re welcome to return at any time.”

Turning to the butler, he added, “From this moment on, she is my honored guest. She has free access to the castle and may even call upon my influence if needed.”

The butler bowed respectfully and said, “Yes, My Lord.”

Katelyn and Vincent exchanged glances, both surprised by the unexpected turn of events, their astonishment mirrored in each other’s eyes.

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