After being away for a few days, the house had accumulated a noticeable layer of dust.
Nicole and the others set to work, cleaning the house thoroughly. After resting, Angela Zhao, who was in charge of their daily needs, prepared lunch.
Following the meal, Zhao Lun served everyone tea infused with magical water.
The tea's rich aroma and sweet taste brought a refreshing coolness that soothed their minds like a mountain spring, lifting the burdens from their brains. The lingering energy made them feel increasingly comfortable, their thoughts clearer than ever before.
"Boss, what kind of tea is this? It's delightful."
"Boss, another cup, please."
"Oh my God, such tea exists! Boss, I've decided—I'll take my salary in tea from now on."
"Where's the teapot?"
The tea won them over completely. They could sense the tea's magical properties and wished to maintain the sensation.
Zhao Lun smiled and handed them the teapot. Maria, however, merely sipped her tea and refrained from competing for the rest, knowing it was diluted compared to the pure spring water she usually drank.
Soon, the teapot was empty, and everyone sat back in satisfaction.
"This is pure bliss."
"If I could drink this tea every day, I'd have no regrets in life."
"Boss..."
"Boss..."
Their hopeful eyes turned to Zhao Lun, making their desires clear.
"Regrettably, I can't fulfill your requests," Zhao Lun replied.
They sighed silently, their eyes dimming a little.
"However, based on your performance, you might earn it as a reward..."
Their spirits lifted, anticipating Zhao Lun's change of heart, eager for more of the enchanting tea.
"Becoming part of this family means you'll have it daily, but first, time will tell if you choose to stay here."
The three women solemnly promised, and Hodal, doubling as a bodyguard and driver, assured his utmost dedication.
With plans settled, Zhao Lun and Maria introduced the women to the estate, while Hodal familiarized himself with the surrounding environment—from the small village to the nearby seaside and Trish Town. He returned with useful insights, showcasing his competence.
When Zhao Lun brought new faces to the village, the villagers acted as if they didn't notice, neither curious nor concerned, as though these newcomers didn't exist.
By the afternoon, their purchases were delivered. Each took their items, setting up Maria's study tools and securing the boxing bag for Zhao Lun's practice.
Before nightfall, the weather turned. A chilling wind swept in, followed by pea-sized raindrops that soon turned to snowflakes. Within minutes, the landscape transformed under a blanket of snow.
"What a heavy snow!"
"This time, the weather forecast was accurate."
"The forecast says snowstorms for several days, lasting about a week."
The women chatted as they closed windows and curtains, shutting out the cold. They stoked the fireplace, warming the room.
Maria, donning her new clothes, played joyfully with Grey Shadow and Ivy in the snow, elated not to be cold anymore.
Dinner, prepared by Sister Zhi, was lavish and artfully presented, making everyone eager to dig in. The cozy warmth inside contrasted sharply with the chill outside, leaving everyone content as they shared the sumptuous meal.
After dinner, they addressed business matters.
"Monica, your role is accountant and assistant, managing future business affairs."
"Nicole, you're in charge of Maria's education..."
"Sister Zhi, the kitchen is your domain..."
Angela preferred being addressed by her Chinese name, which Zhao Lun found endearing.
"Hodal, your main task is protecting this home, supporting the three women in their duties..."
"Sometimes, teamwork will be essential. I hope we'll have a pleasant collaboration ahead."
"While we have time now, let's communicate openly. Feel free to voice your needs or requests. We'll do our best to accommodate everyone..."
Zhao Lun, though new to this, transitioned smoothly from awkwardness to confidence, impressing his staff with his rapid adaptability. Maria, witnessing her brother's calm and capable demeanor, grew even more admiring.
Her brother was the best, she thought.
Relieved, Zhao Lun felt his prior study hadn't been in vain; preparation indeed paid off.
The meeting was a success, fostering a congenial atmosphere. Maria liked the three women, who, in turn, earned the siblings' trust.
Hodal proved his reliability through his actions.
The next day, an inch of snow blanketed the ground.
Zhao Lun rose early, heading to the gym for his routine workout, joined by Maria. The women prepared breakfast, and Hodal patrolled the yard with two Labrador retrievers, ensuring no unwelcome guests had arrived.
The snow outside had lessened, falling in fine flakes.
Sister Zhi prepared breakfast again, and after the meal, they followed the plans discussed the night before.
Maria studied with Nicole, assisted by Sister Zhi, who also taught her Chinese. Zhao Lun and Monica focused on business, refining their plans. Hodal remained vigilant and handled errands.
The dogs, after dinner, curled up by the fireplace, peacefully napping.
Zhao Lun posed questions, Monica answered with her knowledge, and Zhao Lun's rapid thinking led to new insights, which Monica recorded. Their teamwork was seamless, and time flew by until noon.
Before meeting Zhao Lun, Monica had assumed he was just a wealthy young man squandering money on a whim.
She had planned to make some money and leave. However, she soon realized the situation was far more complex.
Her boss was not only intelligent but also had a keen strategic mind, leaving Monica impressed and eager for the future.
Meanwhile, Nicole and Angela questioned Zhao Lun's educational approach for Maria, worried it might be too taxing for the young girl.
They planned to observe before raising concerns. Yet, Maria's performance soon dispelled their doubts, impressing them with her effortless grasp of knowledge.
Maria's talents earned their approval, and they, in turn, earned Maria's trust.
Through Maria, they learned about her past and felt deep sympathy for her struggles, nurturing a strong maternal affection. They also came to understand Zhao Lun's situation, deciding to extend their care to him as well.
Unaware of their sentiments, Zhao Lun only sensed a growing warmth from them during lunch, feeling genuinely comfortable. He also noticed the table filled with his favorite dishes.