Chapter 1

Jarlton's sky was thick with heavy clouds, the kind that warned of an impending snowfall. Universities were on winter break as well.

Laura Reid stood on the platform, waiting for the train. As a freshman at Jarlton University's literature department, she looked delicate and slender, making her an easy target for the biting winter wind.

A sudden gust nearly knocked her off balance, and an older woman waiting nearby scoffed, eyeing her with disapproval. "Kids these days only care about looking good and staying thin. They can't even handle a little wind."

Laura pressed her lips together and replied calmly, "You should worry less about me and more about your hat. It's about to fly away."

The moment she spoke, a sharp gust swept the woman's hat right off her head, sending it tumbling onto the train tracks.

The woman's face twisted in frustration as she shot Laura a glare. "Such a sharp tongue for such a sweet-looking girl."

Laura's lips curved into a slight smile. As the train pulled in, she politely bade farewell, saying, "Have a nice day, ma'am." Then, she stepped onto the train without a second glance.

People always seemed to take issue with her, even when she was just minding her own business. She had gotten used to it. There was no fixing it.

By the time the train arrived in Lakewood City, the sun was already setting into the horizon. Stepping out of the station, Laura was met with swirling snowflakes, the ground already dusted with a thin layer of white.

Just as she was about to call for a ride, her phone rang. It was her mother, Yulana Reid.

"Laurie, I couldn't say no. Mrs. Quinn Senior insisted on sending a car for you," Yulana said hurriedly.

Laura was puzzled. "Wait, what? I'm going to Legacy Park? And they're sending a car?"

For as long as she could remember, Yulana had worked as a housekeeper at Legacy Park but never once allowed her to set foot inside. During her first semester at university, Laura had mentioned it to her best friend, Renee Sterling.

When the wealthy heiress heard about it, she rolled her eyes and pinched Laura's cheek. "This is classic rich-people behavior. Let me guess, the Quinn family has a son, right? They probably think you'll fall for each other. Are you seriously unaware of how pretty you are, or are you just playing innocent?

"I mean, the literature department barely has any guys, and yet every time we have class, a bunch of them mysteriously show up just to catch a glimpse of the campus belle—you."

Laura chuckled. "Let's just say I'm playing innocent, then."

Yulana's tone was clipped on the phone, like she could not say much. "Just do as I tell you when you get here. Speak less, observe more, and follow the rules."

Laura simply murmured, "Got it."

The call ended just as quickly as it came. About 15 minutes later, as she stood at the designated pickup spot, a sleek black Audi with a private plate glided toward her through the falling snow. The warm glow of its headlights flickered once, and the little bit of light made her feel just a fraction warmer.

A well-dressed middle-aged man stepped out of the driver's seat and swiftly took her suitcase. "Traffic was a mess with the snow. You must be freezing."

Laura's lips were slightly numb from the cold, but she managed a faint smile. "I'm fine. Thank you for coming all this way."

The driver chuckled. "You're a polite one. Hop in."

The car eventually pulled up in front of a grand estate—Legacy Park. Nestled between rolling hills and a lake, it was as serene as it was imposing.

Laura had lived in Lakewood City all her life, and thanks to Yulana's job with the Quinns, they were able to afford a comfortable apartment in a mid-to-high-end complex called Dynasty Court. But Legacy Park was on an entirely different level. This was prime real estate, the kind you only ever heard about in passing.

As she stepped inside, the vast front yard stretched before her, with elegant pavilions, garden paths, and even a snow-covered pond. Yulana barely spared the scenery a glance as she hurriedly thanked the driver and whisked Laura into a quiet guest room.

"Mom?" Laura dusted the snow off her coat, confused.

Yulana let out a small sigh. "Mrs. Quinn Senior just returned from Haelenoth for the holidays, and on a whim, she decided she wanted a reading companion. Before retiring, she was a professor at one of the country's top universities, and her standards were sky-high.

"I don't know which blabbermouth put your name forward, but the moment she heard you're a literature student at Jarlton, she insisted on meeting you. It's a mess."

"A mess?" Laura frowned. "I know how to behave."

Yulana gave Laura a long, measuring look. Even with her face bare of makeup, Laura's porcelain skin was luminous, her natural features soft yet striking. That little hint of red in her lips made her look effortlessly charming, while her expressive eyes carried a quiet allure.

At 19, she had spent her entire academic life at the top of her class. But just as outstanding as her grades was her face—one that was so purely innocent it bordered on dangerously seductive. It was the kind of beauty that, no matter how harmless, could shake a person to their core.

Suddenly, voices sounded from outside the room. Yulana quickly straightened up, giving Laura a firm look as she reminded her, "Just stay with Mrs. Quinn Senior and try not to interact with anyone else."

"Got it, Mom. So, I'm just supposed to be Mrs. Quinn Senior's little reading companion, huh? But tell me, is the Quinn family at least giving you a raise for this?" Laura teased, flashing her a playful look.

"That depends on how well you do," Yulana said, tapping her forehead lightly before leading her out to meet the ladies of the house.

The living room at Legacy Park was massive and styled with classic elegance. Eliza Haywood, who was in her 80s, looked surprisingly vibrant and graceful for her age. Beside her, Leah River, dressed in a pale gold dress, sat gracefully brewing tea.

She briefly glanced up at Laura, her expression calm but indifferent. "Stand there and let Eliza have a good look at you first."

Then, she turned to Yulana and said, "Yulana, prepare refreshments in the lounge. Steven has guests coming over."

Yulana cast a quick look at Laura before responding with a respectful nod and stepping out.

"Have a seat and join us for some tea," Eliza said kindly.

"Not many young people these days appreciate tea," Leah remarked in a detached tone.

Laura felt slightly awkward but managed a polite smile. "I don't know much about tea, but if Mrs. Quinn Senior enjoys it, I'd be happy to pour it for you."

She noticed Leah subtly nudging the teapot forward. Taking the cue, Laura carefully poured tea for both women, making sure to handle the task with care.

Leah watched her in silence. Seeing that Laura was both obedient and perceptive, her expression finally softened a little.

"Keep Eliza company. If you do well, Yulana's holiday bonus will reflect it," she stated before walking away with effortless grace.

She carried herself with a cool detachment, as if standing high above everyone else while Laura was grounded firmly in reality.

Leah was from an old political family, and her status matched the Quinns'. Raised with privilege, she had grown into a refined and polished woman. She was now a music professor at a prestigious university.

"She's always been that way. Don't take it personally," Eliza said, her voice warm and graceful. "Come with me to the study. Let's pick out some books and have a little chat."

"Sure, Mrs. Quinn Senior," Laura replied. However, she could not help but wonder if this was some sort of interview.

...

The gates of Legacy Park swung open once again, and four sleek black cars rolled in, their deep color standing out starkly against the white, snow-covered grounds. One by one, the cars parked neatly in the driveway as drivers stepped out to open the doors.

Steven Quinn emerged from his Porsche. He was tall and well-built, his sharp yet refined features exuding a natural authority. His lips were pressed into a thin line, but when he saw the people stepping out of the other vehicles, he greeted them with a polite smile.

"Everyone, head to the lounge first. Grandma's here. I'll go say hello to her."

Steven was a secretary of state and had been away on a two-week research trip. His companions had come along to welcome him back to Lakewood City.

He stepped inside the house, where the butler took his coat and handed him a pair of warm, comfortable house shoes.

"Thank you, Yulana." Steven acknowledged her with polite courtesy.

"You're welcome, Mr. Quinn," she replied.

Steven smiled lightly as he washed his hands in warm water. Only then did he accept the tea the butler handed him. He did not rush to move, waiting until the last traces of cold had left his body before heading toward the study.

...

Laura was in the study discussing a classic foreign novel with Eliza when a knock echoed through the quiet space.

The crisp sound stood out against the snowy night.

"Mrs. Quinn Senior, should I get the door?" Laura asked, her voice clear and gentle. The room was comfortably warm, making her snow-white complexion glow with a faint, rosy blush.

Eliza nodded, and Laura rose gracefully to open the door. A subtle scent of tea drifted in as she met the eyes of a man in a crisp white dress shirt. He was refined and upright, exuding an air of both reassurance and quiet authority.

"And you are?" he asked, polite yet distant.

Laura hesitated for a moment. She was still unsure if she had passed the "interview" given by Eliza and Leah.

Eliza's face lit up as she called out, "Come in, Steven. This is Yulana's daughter, Laura Reid. She's on break from university, keeping me company with reading and writing."

Steven's lips pressed into a faint line as he studied the delicate face before him. He said, "Nice to meet you, Laura."

Chapter 2

Steven's voice was deep and rich, smooth with a velvety undertone. It carried a depth that was both warm and commanding, like the low hum of a classic vinyl record.

It complemented his refined, gentlemanly features, making him seem effortlessly poised. His upbringing showed in every movement, exuding confidence, quiet authority, and an unshakable sense of composure.

Laura suddenly remembered what her best friend, Renee, had once said about the Quinns not wanting her to catch the eye of one of the Quinn family's sons. Her face warmed slightly as the thought sank in.

She instinctively stepped to the side, lowered her gaze, and greeted him with quiet respect, "Mr. Quinn, nice to meet you."

Steven's brows furrowed just the slightest bit. Everyone in Legacy Park addressed him that way, but hearing it from a beautiful woman like Laura felt oddly out of place. He noticed that she was careful and polite, keeping a deliberate distance. Without responding, he walked past her and headed straight for Eliza.

Steven was articulate, known for his dry humor and effortless charm. As he spoke with Eliza, Laura quietly stepped out to retrieve a tea set and returned to the study with silent precision.

The delicate porcelain teacups made her hands look even smaller—pale, smooth, and impossibly soft as if they had never seen a day of rough work. Her nails were neatly trimmed into an elegant oval shape, naturally pink and immaculately clean. Without a word, she slid the freshly poured cup of tea toward Steven.

A faint trace of jasmine clung to her as he picked up the cup of rooibos tea and took a slow sip.

Eliza suddenly chuckled. "I forgot to tell Laura that you don't like rooibos tea."

Steven's voice was warm yet calm. "I'm not here for the tea, but to keep you company."

"You always know just the right thing to say..."

Steven did not linger much longer before excusing himself. As the study door shut behind him, Laura let out a quiet breath, her shoulders finally relaxing.

She thought the eldest Quinn son was truly in a league of his own. A man like him—handsome, successful, and from an elite family—would never be short of elegant, beautiful women. Why would he ever notice someone like her?

The thought was ridiculous. Laughable, even.

...

Steven joined his closest friends in the dining hall, sipping some whiskey while watching the snowfall outside. The four of them had grown up together, their families equally powerful and well-connected.

Quentin Lole was already a deputy judge at the state high court. Jasper Goodwin was a senior executive at Citizens First Bank Group, and Zachary Dolman was the most sought-after airline captain at Glory Airlines.

"This trip made quite the impression, huh?" Jasper grinned, clinking his glass against Steven's. "You were all over the news for two days straight."

Steven chuckled. "I was just doing my job, taking the drinks up front and handling the grunt work in the back."

"Quentin should throw you into court for that level of false modesty. Come on, stop giving us the professional act. Three shots as a penalty!" Jasper joked.

Just as Jasper was fooling around, Zachary silently pulled the three full glasses toward himself.

"You should take it easy, Steven," Zachary said as he casually downed one of the shots. "Your mom said you've finally got two days off. With this snowstorm, you'll be stuck at home. She mentioned it's the perfect time to choose a wife."

Steven did not even look up. He simply took a slow sip of his whiskey, let a few seconds pass, and then muttered, "That's ridiculous."

...

Floor-to-ceiling windows lined the dining hall, casting a warm golden glow against the snowy night. Outside, snowflakes drifted lazily through the air, dusting the yard like a painting come to life.

Eliza walked carefully, supported by a slender figure at her side. One of the household staff held an umbrella over Eliza, shielding her from the snow. Meanwhile, Laura was left standing in the open, simply pulling up the hood of her coat for some cover.

Eliza had decided, on a whim, to take a walk and admire the snowfall. It was Laura's first day at Legacy Park, and she had not even had the chance to suggest otherwise.

Steven's gaze flickered toward her slim silhouette in the distance. Pulling out his phone, he called one of the household staff and said, "Grandma is outside admiring the snow. Make sure she's well taken care of. And from now on, anyone accompanying her must have an umbrella. No exceptions."

Jasper's gaze drifted toward the yard. He clicked his tongue when he noticed the graceful figure moving through the snow. "Is she new here? I can't see her face too well, but from the looks of it, she's got a great figure."

Quentin shot Steven a glance and snorted. "Jasper, give it a rest. With all this fine dining in front of you, you still can't keep your mouth shut?"

While they bantered, they suddenly realized Steven had disappeared.

...

Steven had stepped into the cold out in the snowy yard. Eliza sat comfortably on a cushioned bench under the covered walkway, holding a hand warmer while watching Laura build a snowman with an amused smile.

"Laura, do you need a hand?" she asked warmly.

Laura sniffled discreetly, gritting her teeth to keep from shivering. "Mrs. Quinn Senior, you stay put. I'm almost done."

On the outside, she looked calm and composed. On the inside, she was screaming. Eliza usually spent her winters in Haelenoth or Laguna Shores, so she had been reminiscing about snowy childhoods and the simple joy of building snowmen.

Before Laura could stop herself, she blurted out, "I know how to build snowmen."

And just like that, she became the designated snowman builder. Now, with her frozen hands barely functioning, she might as well have been the second snowman.

Steven greeted Eliza with a nod before his gaze settled on Laura. He said, "Grandma, she's taking too long. I'll help."

Before Eliza could say anything, he was already walking over. Laura, hands buried in the snow, suddenly sensed a tall figure looming over her.

"Put these on," he said, handing her a pair of gloves.

She sniffled again and barely had time to say, "It's fine," before the gloves were placed in her hands and the snowball she had been shaping was taken from her.

"Warm up for a bit. I'll handle this," he added simply.

"Mr. Quinn?" Her lips were frozen, making her voice come out soft and slightly shaky.

Steven glanced at her and spoke in a steady tone. "I'll build the snowman. You handle the decorations, okay?"

Laura smiled slightly. "Alright."

Steven worked quickly, his movements precise. In no time, the snowman took shape, looking almost lifelike. He studied the woman in front of him who was clearly enjoying herself yet keeping so quiet around him.

"Do you want a photo with your masterpiece?" he asked.

Laura was about to say yes but hesitated at the last second. "Thanks, but it's alright."

Turning away, she walked back toward the covered walkway where Eliza sat. Steven watched her retreating figure and called out, "Laura."

"Hm?" She instinctively turned back.

Without a word, he pressed the shutter button on his phone and looked at her. "Nothing. Take Grandma inside."

"Okay." She quickly turned back around and left without a second glance.

Steven could not help but wonder if he was that intimidating. After all, Laura seemed to be avoiding him like he was the plague. He pressed his lips together and turned back toward the house.

Once inside, he gave a brief order to one of the household staff. "Have the kitchen prepare a hot stew, enough for two. Make sure Mrs. Quinn Senior gets it."

When he returned to his friends, the three men exchanged knowing glances. Zachary raised an eyebrow and asked, "Steven, did you have fun building a snowman?"

Jasper smirked. "One guy building a snowman? Boring. A group of guys doing it? A little too much. But if it's a guy and a lady… Now that's something else. That's called sentimental."

Steven smirked. "The woman was quite slow, and I didn't want Grandma waiting too long in the cold."

Jasper replied with a hum but did not press further.

The conversation quickly moved on, and by the time they wrapped up for the night, it was nearly 10:00 pm. After seeing his friends off, Steven walked back toward the house.

One of the staff held an umbrella over him as he crossed the yard, but a movement near the entrance caught his eye. Laura was dragging a suitcase, heading toward the gates.

His gaze darkened slightly. Then, he saw his mother, Leah, standing at the front door. Without a word, he continued walking forward.

As he passed Laura, she greeted him softly, "Good evening, Mr. Quinn."

Steven gave a polite nod, barely breaking stride as they brushed past each other.

Leah's smile was warm as she greeted him. Steven returned the smile, engaging in casual conversation. However, he discreetly pulled out his phone and sent a message as they spoke.

"What are you up to?" Leah glanced at his screen.

"Nothing, Mom," he said smoothly, pocketing the phone. "Just checking if the guys made it home safe."

In truth, the message he had just sent was not to his friends but to his trusted driver, Warren Brady.

He wrote, "Find out where the woman with the suitcase is going. Make sure she gets home safely."

Chapter 3

Warren made sure to escort Laura all the way to the elevator, only leaving once she had stepped into her apartment. Since Steven had personally given the order, he was not about to slack off.

Laura shrugged off her puffer coat, kicked off her shoes, and curled up on the plush living room couch like a lazy cat. When she pulled out her phone to text Yulana and let her know she was home safe, she noticed a flood of missed calls.

She smiled unconsciously, and her bright eyes shimmered with amusement. She looked effortlessly delicate and radiant, her youthful beauty as pure as fresh-fallen snow as her refined features glowed under the warm light.

Laura wondered why Yulana was spamming her with calls. Just as she was about to return one, her phone lit up again with an incoming call from Yulana.

"Laurie! Finally! Do you know how worried I was?" Yulana's voice came through, fraught with concern.

Laura let out a small hum. "Mom, I just got home. Don't worry."

"You weren't picking up or replying to texts! It's the middle of the night, and you're a young woman out alone. Do you have any idea how dangerous—" Yulana's tone carried a mix of frustration and relief.

Laura chuckled. "My phone was on silent while I was with Mrs. Quinn Senior. Besides, didn't you ask one of the Quinn family's drivers to take me home?"

Yulana's eyelid twitched. She had arranged a ride? That was news to her.

"Uh… Yeah, of course, I did," Yulana mumbled, blinking quickly. "Still, I was worried. It's late, the roads are icy, and God forbid you run into that good-for-nothing gambling addict of a father."

A flicker of shadow passed through Laura's clear eyes. She pressed her lips together, saying nothing. The so-called "father" Yulana referred to had never once shown her an ounce of paternal love, and all she could remember was endless fights between him and Yulana.

Fear and darkness had been the backdrop of her and her younger brother, Xavier's, entire childhood.

"Laurie, don't overthink it. Get some sleep," Yulana said gently, her voice carrying a hint of reassurance.

Laura responded softly, "Okay."

After hanging up, she curled deeper into the couch, stretching lazily. Suddenly, an image flashed through her mind—a tall, refined figure, standing in the snow. His deep voice called her name, "Laura."

It was the smoothest voice she had ever heard. Mature and steady, it was the kind that could make someone mistake it for warmth, yet it was perfectly restrained within the lines of propriety.

Laura chuckled at herself. She might be 19 and prone to daydreams, but at least she knew when to wake up.

...

Steven stepped out of the shower, wearing nothing but a light gray robe. The deep V of the neckline exposed his toned chest and sharply defined muscles, with droplets of water trailing down the ridges in slow, deliberate paths. He had the kind of build that made him look lean in clothes when he was actually solid muscle.

No matter how demanding his schedule was, he never skipped his daily workout. The robe fell just above his knees, revealing powerful legs dusted with dark hair.

There was something strikingly mismatched about him—his refined, polished demeanor contrasting against the raw masculinity he carried without effort. It was the kind of duality that made people take a second look.

Steven leaned against the window, lighting a cigarette. The smoke curled through his long fingers, the dim haze softening the sharpness of his features. His eyes held a distant, detached quality—cool and unreadable as if nothing in the world could stir him.

Down below, the front gates of Legacy Park opened, and a sleek black Audi rolled in. Steven's gaze narrowed slightly as he picked up his phone and opened his photo album.

It was practically empty, with fewer than ten photos stored. The most recent one was of a woman with her hair pulled back into a ponytail, her delicate eyes shimmering like ripples on a lake. Snow surrounded her, untouched and pristine, making her look like she had stepped straight out of a painting.

Steven stared at the photo, his fingers absently skimming across the small face on the screen. Just then, someone knocked on the door.

Warren's voice came from the other side of the door, calling out, "Mr. Quinn?"

"Come in."

Warren stepped inside, his usual easy-going smile in place. "She got home safe."

"Good," Steven said, though his expression remained impassive, his tone indifferent.

However, Warren could read him too well. Lowering his voice, he reported, "Dynasty Court, Building 6, Unit 1606. I stayed until she was inside."

Steven smirked. "She's already a university student, but she's still clueless about basic street smarts. She actually let a stranger walk her to her door."

Warren chuckled. "Ms. Reid is just simple and polite. She's got a good heart."

Steven nodded. "It's late. Get some rest."

Before heading to bed, he noticed an unread message on his phone from Jasper's younger sister, Noelle Goodwin.

"Steven, you're finally back! I have my state exams after the holidays, so I'm coming to see you tomorrow to make you my mentor!"

Steven deleted the message without hesitation and sent Jasper a text instead. "You know I don't get a kick out of playing teacher. Stop Noelle from wasting her time."

When Jasper saw the message, he muttered, "Damn it."

The same guy who had just spent an evening building a snowman in the freezing cold was acting like he had a personality disorder. No wonder he was still single.

...

The next morning, Laura was having breakfast when she received a call from the Quinn family's butler, Matthew. He said, "Ms. Reid, congratulations. You've passed the companion interview. A driver will pick you up at exactly 8:00 am."

She responded warmly, "Thank you."

Excitement bubbled in her chest as she finished her meal quickly. Later, she chose her outfit carefully—a white knit sweater, jeans, and a thick white puffer jacket. She tied her long hair into a low ponytail.

Looking at herself in the mirror, Laura nodded in satisfaction. She looked like a big, puffy polar bear. Who would even give a second thought to a bare-faced, clumsy-looking polar bear?

...

Laura spent the morning with Eliza, reading Pride and Prejudice together. On a whim, she even attempted to write a few short poems about the snowy landscape, inspired by the literature they had been discussing.

Eliza nodded approvingly. "Laura, you have a strong grasp of language. These poems are quite charming."

"What poems?"

A deep male voice cut through the room as Steven stepped inside. Behind him, a staff member carried a tray of beautifully arranged pastries.

"Laura wrote them. See for yourself," Eliza said with a smile.

Laura tensed slightly as she watched Steven take the paper and read it with quiet focus. Her hands instinctively curled behind her back, nervously tugging at the hem of her sweater. It felt like waiting for a teacher to grade her homework.

After reading, Steven carefully placed the paper down. "Grandma, have some pastries first. I need Laura's help with something. It'll take about half an hour."

"Go ahead," Eliza agreed, already looking ready to rest.

"Laura?" Steven finally turned to her. "Come with me."

"I-I don't have much experience," Laura admitted hesitantly as she followed him.

Steven's eyes darkened slightly, a flicker of something unreadable passing through them. "That's even better."

Then, he walked ahead, and she followed behind. He barely heard her footsteps.

Suddenly, Steven stopped. Laura was too focused on keeping up and nearly crashed straight into his back. She barely managed to stop in time, her heart skipping a beat.

Steven turned slightly, his gaze falling on her startled face. "We're here."

It was the study next to the main library. He handed her a few printed pages. "Proofread these. There's a reward."

"Huh?" Laura blinked in confusion.

"Did you see the pastries just now?"

She nodded. "Yeah." She thought they looked delicious.

"Do you always respond with 'yeah'?" His face remained impassive, making it impossible to tell what he was thinking.

"Yeah," Laura answered before realizing her mistake. She let out an awkward chuckle. "I mean, not really."

Steven quirked a brow and mimicked her tone. "Yeah?"

Laura could not help but break into a smile, her bright eyes crinkling, looking like scattered stars twinkling in the night sky. There was something effortlessly sweet and natural about her.

Steven's mood inexplicably lifted, and his voice softened slightly. "Do you want some?"

Laura hesitated for a second, but before she could say, "No, it's fine," Steven had already turned and walked toward the door.

"Get to work," he called over his shoulder.

Outside, he signaled Matthew and instructed, "Make two extra trays of those pastries—one for the living room and one for my study."

Chapter 4

Laura sat at the desk, carefully reviewing the documents Steven had given her. As of right now, she still knew nothing about him.

How old was he? Where did he graduate from? What exactly did he do for work?

These were the key questions parents always asked during matchmaking, and she had absolutely no idea. However, based on the meticulous and structured writing in the documents, she could make a pretty solid guess—he was probably one of those civil service guys who specialized in drafting reports.

In Lakewood City, government employees were in high demand on the dating market. And among them, men were even more sought after.

So, for someone like Steven—born into wealth, highly accomplished, and possessing an absurdly handsome face—his rarity level was practically off the charts.

Laura pressed her thumb against her fingertips, giving herself a sharp pinch. Soon, a red indentation immediately appeared on her fair skin, and the sting made her wince slightly. She had pressed too hard.

Nonetheless, it was her way of snapping herself back to reality. Letting her mind wander like this in broad daylight was completely improper. She needed to rein it in.

...

Steven stepped into the covered walkway outside, stopping by an ornate viewing window. He pulled out a cigarette, tucked it between his lips, and lit it with a practiced flick.

Efficiency was his habit. He had spent the entire morning working on documents, and now, he was finally taking a moment to breathe. His private study sat directly across from him, and through the smaller window there, he caught sight of a familiar silhouette.

A petite figure in a plain white sweater sat at the desk with her head slightly lowered, fully absorbed in her work.

Steven's gaze darkened slightly, a deep ink-like color settling in his eyes. Before Laura, he had never been particularly interested in getting to know any woman. But she was different—quiet, unassuming, and untarnished, like a blank sheet of paper.

For some reason, the idea of anyone else marking that paper—touching it, altering it—was completely intolerable to him. His fingers lightly rolled the cigarette between them, his emotions vanishing as quickly as they had surfaced.

Just then, Leah stepped out of the main hall, walking with a slow, graceful elegance. Her makeup and hair were done to perfection without a single flaw.

A young woman walked beside her, linking arms with her affectionately. She smiled as she spoke, but her gaze kept drifting toward the walkway.

"Steven!" Noelle waved and approached with Leah.

Steven responded with a polite nod but did not say anything. Leah was pleased by her son's poised demeanor and gave him an appraising look.

She said, "You're at home, not in the office. Must you always look so serious? You see Noelle and don't even bother saying hello?"

"Do you need something?" Steven replied without taking the bait.

Leah replied, "Do I need a reason to visit? Mrs. Goodwin just got back from Aurlosia and brought me a few custom cashmere scarves. Noelle was kind enough to bring them over."

Her smile deepened, and it was clear that she was in a good mood.

Nearby, Yulana happened to be passing through the yard. Leah casually called out to her, "Yulana, go check on Eliza. She's been in the study all morning. How does she expect to keep her health in check if she doesn't take a break?

She added, "That young woman has no sense. She should know better than to let an elderly woman sit in there for so long."

Yulana's expression barely shifted, but her eyes darkened slightly. Without another word, she turned and walked away.

"Grandma's resting," Steven said, his voice calm as he cast a fleeting glance toward the window. "She enjoys reading, and for once, she's found someone she genuinely likes spending time with. If you're going to nitpick, you might as well not waste Laura's time."

His tone was polite, but there was a sharpness to it.

Leah frowned. "Why are you so irritable today? It's freezing out, and you're acting like you've got a fire burning inside you."

Steven's lips curved slightly. "Writing all morning has me in a bad mood. So, please, excuse me. I had the kitchen prepare some pastries. Why don't you both head inside and try them?"

Leah's mood softened when she saw that Steven was making an effort to appease her. She reminded him, saying, "Then you'd better join us later. Noelle has something she wants to ask you."

"We'll see," Steven replied flatly.

Noelle had not been able to get a word in, and her frustration grew. Her gaze lingered on Steven as he stood by the window. He was tall, broad-shouldered, and looked perfectly put together. His features were striking, cool yet undeniably refined. There was an understated depth to the way he carried himself.

Their families had been close for generations, and she had been infatuated with him since she was a teenager. Now that she was in grad school in Lakewood City, she was determined to close the distance between them.

As Leah and Noelle walked toward the living room, the side study's door quietly opened.

Laura had finished proofreading the documents. Noticing that Steven had not returned, she neatly stacked the papers, left him a small note, and quietly excused herself.

Noelle's gaze sharpened as she took in the unfamiliar young woman who had just appeared.

Her outfit was nothing special—a plain white sweater, jeans, and simple white sneakers. Her hair was casually tied back with a basic hairband, and she wore no makeup. Yet when Noelle looked at her, something in her expression shifted.

She had never seen a face quite like that before—innocent, fresh, and breathtaking in an effortless way. Her skin was smooth and luminous, her face gentle yet expressive, and every delicate feature seemed carved to perfection.

She wore nothing to enhance her looks, yet there was a natural glow to her. She was strikingly unforgettable, making it impossible to look away.

The distance between them was not far. Laura, ever polite, greeted them warmly, "Good afternoon, Mrs. Quinn, Mr. Quinn."

She offered Noelle a gentle smile before stepping lightly into the main study. Noelle's eyes lingered, and she asked, "Mrs. Quinn, who is she?"

Leah's tone was light. "She's been keeping Mrs. Quinn Senior company while she reads."

Noelle's expression flickered, her emotions unreadable. "I thought Legacy Park had a policy against hiring young women? Seems like an exception was made for her."

Leah did not respond.

She was proud, but she was also smart. In a household like theirs, gossiping about internal affairs—especially someone else's—was a sign of poor upbringing. When it came to the Quinn family's matters, she was the one with the authority to speak, not Noelle.

Steven glanced at Noelle, his expression calm but edged with a hint of impatience. He extinguished the last of his cigarette, smirking in amusement.

His voice was firm as he said, "Noelle, since you're preparing for state exams, here's a piece of advice—when you work within the system, knowing when to keep your mouth shut is critical."

Noelle's face flushed a deep red. She bit her lip and nodded, mumbling, "Understood, Steven."

She fell silent and quickly followed Leah inside. Steven watched them step into the living room before turning and heading back to his study.

The documents on his mahogany desk were neatly stacked, with a small note left beside them. He picked it up and read the message written in neat, elegant handwriting.

"Proofreading complete. I did my best."

Steven's fingers brushed over the paper as his mind conjured up an image of Laura saying those words. Her voice would have been soft, and he could almost see her—her fair cheeks tinged with a shy flush as her lips were pressed together in quiet determination.

Steven folded the note carefully and tucked it into a hardcover book on his shelf. Then, he picked up the documents and skimmed through the changes she had made.

There were traces of youthful inexperience in her suggestions, but he had to admit—her logic was sharp and her edits were precise. Some of her revisions were strikingly direct, with no unnecessary fluff and no wasted words.

He thought, "She seems sweet and gentle on the surface but actually has a sharp mind and quiet strength beneath that softness."

Setting the papers down, he reached into his drawer, pulled out a peppermint lozenge, and let it dissolve on his tongue. After that, he rinsed his mouth with chamomile tea, making sure no trace of cigarette smoke lingered. Only after that did he step out of his study.

...

The door to the main study was slightly ajar. Inside, Laura sat beside Eliza, laughing softly as they chatted.

Steven gently pushed the door open and asked, "Grandma, the snow has finally cleared, and the sun is out. How about a walk in the garden?"

Eliza smiled warmly. "That sounds nice. Laura, would you join me?"

Steven reached for a silver dessert fork and speared a piece of custard tart, holding it out to Eliza.

Steven said, "Laura spent all morning proofreading for me. We can't just keep overworking her. She should at least have a few pastries before we head out."

Eliza gave a small start. "I forgot she hadn't eaten! She's been busy all this time."

Steven nodded and glanced toward the doorway, signaling Matthew. "Take Grandma outside first."

Matthew nodded and led Eliza toward the garden, leaving only two people in the study. Steven glanced at Laura, who was obviously feeling out of place.

He asked, "Why are you just standing there? Did I not make myself clear enough?"

He mimicked her tone from earlier, tilting his head slightly. Laura's cheeks flushed instantly. "Mr. Quinn, please don't make fun of me."

He flashed a faint smile, and his voice was warm as he said, "Laura, come with me."

Chapter 5

Laura was a little dazed when she heard Steven calling her name again. His voice was deep and smooth, carrying that unique warmth that always made people mistake it for tenderness. It was actually comforting.

Laura quietly lifted her gaze, hoping to catch that indifference she knew had always been there—just to remind herself. But when she looked up, her bright, glistening eyes met his deep, unreadable ones.

Unfortunately, she did not find the coldness she was looking for. She immediately looked down and softly said, "Alright, Mr. Q—"

He chuckled as he interrupted her, saying, "Steven. Just call me Steven. Let's go."

Steven took the lead, walking ahead. He had never been humble. Growing up, he had met countless people, and his sharp eyes could see through anyone in an instant. To him, Laura was almost transparent. He could read her every small movement and every little thought.

The Quinn family was a household of power and influence. Steven's grandfather, Marlon, had held high-ranking city positions, and his father, Michael, was now in an even more prominent government role.

Michael had two children—Steven and Chelsea, who was pursuing her graduate studies at Jarlton University of Foreign Studies. As a Quinn, Steven had been raised in a world of politics and surrounded by friends from the same elite circle. His family members were also in positions of power.

That environment shaped him to be polished, meticulous, socially adept, and always in control of his emotions. He did not expect Laura to call out his name in such a soft, tender voice.

After all, some identities were too obvious to ignore. But still, because she was Laura, he felt the need to tell her anyway.

Inside the study, Steven closed the door behind them. On the mahogany desk, a tray had appeared, holding four delicate pastries.

"Have a seat," he said politely, gesturing to the chair by the desk. "No need to feel reserved. You don't owe me anything."

His words were effortless yet precise, striking the perfect balance. It brought Laura out of the slightly dazed state she had been in.

"Laura."

"Hmm?"

"Come wash your hands."

Laura's face instantly flushed, and she suddenly felt like a clueless fool. Steven pointed to the sink, then sat down in his office chair. He focused on typing as he reviewed the edited documents on his computer.

She quickly washed her hands, then sat across from him, silently nibbling on the pastries. She had always been quick and efficient.

The rare moments of flustered hesitation around Steven only happened because, deep down, she did not want to interact with him too much. Yet being alone with him like this—a man and a woman in a quiet space—made her uneasy.

At that moment, Yulana passed by the study, coming to fetch a space heater for Eliza. She had looked around the garden earlier and was surprised when she did not see Laura there.

The study's main door was open, but the side room's door was shut. Through the carved window, she saw Laura sitting quietly in a white sweater, looking soft and delicate as she ate pastries in silence.

Across from her sat Steven.

It was such a peaceful, almost picturesque scene, yet Yulana's mind went blank for a second, buzzing with emotions. She had always been a strong-willed woman. Years ago, she had given up everything—her wealth, her assets—just to escape. She took her children with her to break free from a husband who was a gambler and an abuser.

After the divorce, Yulana took both her children and moved into a low-rent neighborhood in the state capital. She was quick, efficient, sharp-minded, and never afraid of hard work. She started as a cleaner at Legacy Park and, step by step, worked her way up to a supervisor position.

Laura and Xavier knew how tough it was for their mother, so they were always thoughtful and mature. Laura worked hard and got into Jarlton University, while Xavier was in his junior year at a top-tier high school, consistently ranking among the best students.

Having spent years working at Legacy Park, Yulana deeply understood how wealthy families operated and the unspoken rules they followed. She knew all too well that love and marriage were two completely different things.

Leah was particularly difficult to deal with. She carried herself with an air of superiority, never bothering to put on even the slightest pretense of courtesy toward the staff. Even though she was a professor at a prestigious music institution, she had a strong bias against the arts.

When rumors spread around campus about Steven, who was handsome, wealthy, and well-connected, Leah made sure to crush those naive daydreams in person.

She had said, "Instead of wasting time, you should be reading more. Knowledge gives you real confidence. If anyone goes around obsessing over appearances instead of their studies, their grades will prove them wrong at the end of the semester."

She even went as far as to declare that she would never allow Steven to date women in music, fine arts, or performing arts. This earned her the nickname "The Ice Queen" among the art students, turning her into an ongoing joke.

Yulana let out a soft sigh as she stood at the door, unsure what to feel. Her precious daughter, Laura, had always been exceptional—bright, determined, and full of potential.

She only wanted Laura to graduate, find a stable job, and meet a good man who would understand and cherish her so that she could live an ordinary but peaceful life. Whether men like Steven were a blessing or a curse was not even the question—they were simply from a completely different world.

She had no desire to climb higher, nor did she want Laura to.

"Yulana, Mrs. Quinn Senior is waiting for the heater. Why are you standing there in a daze? Hurry up and bring it over." Matthew's voice pulled her back to reality.

The floor heating was too warm, so the window had been left slightly open. Laura heard the voice too and glanced outside.

When she caught a glimpse of Yulana's figure passing by, her hand froze in mid-air. Her small face turned red before quickly losing its color.

Steven stopped typing, got up, and pulled the curtains shut. His eyes locked on hers as he asked, "Why aren't you eating?"

"Mrs. Quinn Senior is still in the garden. I should go check on her," Laura said, standing up.

Steven handed her a napkin. "Wipe the right side of your mouth."

Laura was embarrassed, wondering why Steven brought it up.

Meanwhile, Steven noticed the way she shrank back, embarrassed and slightly defiant. He could not help but smirk. "What are you afraid of? Are you afraid that I'll..."

He was about to ask if she was afraid that he would eat her up, but he kept those words to himself.

She replied, "Mr. Quinn, if I stay here while Mrs. Quinn Senior is outside, it'll make me look inconsiderate."

He nodded approvingly. "What a sharp tongue. Don't overthink it. The pastries aren't just for you. There are some in the living room too."

A fleeting image flashed in Laura's mind—the woman who had been standing beside Leah earlier, holding onto her arm and looking close to her. Steven had just explained something without actually saying it.

Laura smiled politely. "Mr. Quinn, you should get back to your matters. I'll take my leave."

Steven watched her closely, especially after he said, "There are pastries in the living room too."

He had been observing her reaction. Of course, there was not much of one. Or rather, she became even more distant.

Steven shook his head with a light chuckle. "Laura, come here."

"Now what?" Laura wondered. Facing away from him, she wrinkled her nose, clenched her fists, and gritted her teeth in frustration.

When Laura turned around, all Steven saw was the same natural elegance she always carried, effortless and unpolished. He raised the papers in his hand. "Let me go over them with you."

Laura was interested in this, so she smiled and walked over. She caught the subtle scent of tea on him, while he noticed the delicate fragrance of jasmine on her.

She was about five foot five, while he was nearly six foot two—a towering figure by Lakewood City's standards. Looking down, his eyes naturally landed on her slender, graceful neck that was pale and soft.

He quickly refocused, his expression unreadable as he pulled out the documents. He praised her work before pointing out areas that could be refined. His efficiency and sharp insights impressed Laura. He was concise, straight to the point, and full of wisdom.

"Mr. Quinn, are you the department's top writer?" She tilted her head up, her youthful expression shining as she playfully gave a thumbs-up, only to quickly put her hand down upon realizing how childish it was.

Steven blinked. "If you say so, then sure."

Laura suddenly realized how close they were standing. She could even hear his breathing.

She quickly stepped back and said, "I appreciate the feedback. Thank you. I'll take my leave now."

"Laura."

"Hmm?"

"Did you like the pastries?"