“But… I still can’t accept this,” Nathaniel said. He clenched his jaw, and his eyes burned with fury.
He was only one step away from success, so why would Valon choose to interfere with his plan now of all times?
Did this mean his father had never intended to name him crown prince? Had all that past favoritism been nothing but an act?
“If you want to accomplish something great, you need patience. You can’t afford to rush things,” Cynthia said earnestly.
She continued, “One setback doesn’t mean the end, and a few lost treasures aren’t worth worrying over. As long as you’re still standing, there’s always another chance. I’ll be here for you, and so will the Spanner family.”
Nathaniel’s expression finally softened.
Even without the Dracan essence to strengthen his claim to the throne, he still had his mother, the backing of the Spanner family, and the network he’d carefully built over the years. With all that behind him, he had what it took to challenge Matthias and Tristan.
“What’s done is done. Don’t dwell on it,” Cynthia said. “Logan has great potential, and there’s a good chance he might be the next Prince of West Lucozia. Your father holds him in high regard.
“Even if he has crossed you, you must act as though nothing happened, for the greater good. Show goodwill. Try to bring him to your side. Tolerance is a key quality for a crown prince.”
Nathaniel took a deep breath to calm himself, then nodded. “I understand, Mother. Thank you for your advice. I know what to do now.”
“You’ve always been smart. As long as you’re willing to put in the effort, there’s nothing you can’t achieve,” Cynthia said with a faint smile.
Her son had everything-wisdom, strength, and exceptional talent. But his only flaw was his lack of tolerance. If he could overcome that, he would have a better chance of becoming crown prince.
The next morning, Nathaniel brought Felicia along when he visited Dustin. His expression was no longer gloomy like the day before. Instead, his face was bright with a warm smile.
He walked briskly into the courtyard. When he saw Dustin, he bowed respectfully and said, “Logan, I apologize for my behavior yesterday. I hope you won’t hold it against me.”
Dustin was caught off guard. He quickly set his book aside and stepped forward to stop Nathaniel. His face was filled with confusion.
“Your Highness, what is this about? I’m sure your actions yesterday were meant to ensure the safety of your mansion. How could I possibly hold a grudge?”
Nathaniel straightened up and looked at him sincerely. He sighed and said, “I acted rashly yesterday and nearly made a grave mistake. That’s why I’ve come today to apologize and ask for your forgiveness.”
Then, he motioned for Felicia to step forward and added, “I’ve brought Felicia along to apologize. I know she is quite talented. If she stays with you, she could help keep you company.”
Dustin quickly waved his hands and refused, “Your Highness, I can’t accept this. Ms. Thorns is your consultant. I couldn’t possibly take someone so close to you?”
He was even more confused now. Just yesterday, Nathaniel looked ready to kill him, so what had caused this drastic change? Was there a hidden agenda?
“No need to be polite,” Nathaniel said. “I have plenty of talented people at my disposal. Even if she left, it wouldn’t make any difference. But if she serves you, that’s where her talents will truly be put to use.”
He pushed Felicia forward, and his smile grew even wider.
She kept her head down and gripped the hem of her sleeve so tightly that her knuckles turned white.
Felicia cautiously lifted her gaze and cast a pleading look at Dustin. Her eyes were filled with a mix of hope and anxiety as if she silently expressed her desperate desire to break free from her current life.
Dustin’s heart softened at the vulnerable look on her face. Thinking of how she had helped him before, he reluctantly nodded.
“If Your Highness insists, it would be rude of me to refuse,” he said.
Nathaniel laughed heartily. “Excellent! I knew you’d agree. If you ever need anything, just say the word and I’ll do everything I can to help.”
Dustin kept his expression neutral, but his doubts only deepened.
He had expected Nathaniel to hold a grudge over the stolen treasure, or perhaps seek revenge. Instead, he not only let the matter slide but even went so far as to offer Felicia to him. There had to be something more going on here.
“I’ll take my leave, then. Treat Ms. Thorns well.”
Nathaniel gave a parting salute and left with his entourage.
Once they were gone, Dustin turned to Felicia and whispered, “What’s going on with him?”
“I’m not sure,” she replied, shaking her head. “He dragged me here early this morning to apologize and insisted on offering me to you.”
“Is this some kind of honey trap?” Dustin narrowed his eyes.
He couldn’t make sense of it. Was Nathaniel trying to do him a favor and thought he was interested in Felicia after last night?
“Whatever he’s planning, this arrangement doesn’t seem too bad for either of us,” Felicia said with a sly smile.
If Dustin accepted her, her status would instantly rise-no more faking smiles or enduring humiliation. And even if he didn’t, she had gained her freedom now.
With the wealth she had accumulated, she could live comfortably for the rest of her life.
