Chapter 53
Hugh opened his eyes, and the last traces of gloom vanished instantly.
A scumbag and a shameless woman… What an accurate description.
Serena’s gaze flickered over, landing on a glossy brochure beside him. “Yellowbrook City?”
“Yeah. It’s Yellowbrook City’s new shopping mall project.”
Serena picked up the brochure and pointed at the few proposals underneath. “These aren’t the best choices. Unlike Javerton City, where the population is evenly spread out, people in Yellowbrook City tend to cluster in specific areas.
“Instead of cutting costs and settling for a cheaper location, you’d be better off raising the budget and securing a spot right in the heart of the action. The cheaper areas in Yellowbrook City aren’t worth the gamble.”
She pointed out the flaws in the proposals one by one as her understanding of Yellowbrook City was razor–sharp.
Hugh listened intently. “You know Yellowbrook City pretty well. I’ll be heading there for an on–site survey soon and need someone to handle the fieldwork.”
Serena was slightly surprised. “So, you’re asking me to do it?”
“It’s up to you,” Hugh said calmly.
For a brief second, Serena almost felt ridiculous for overthinking.
After some contemplation, Serena agreed. She said, “Alright. I need to visit Aunt Pauline anyway. When do we leave?”
Ever since returning to Javerton City, she’d been tangled up in the Jansen family’s matters. It would be all the better if she could bring Pauline back with her this time. Hugh didn’t answer immediately. Instead, he gathered the brochures, and a faint, almost imperceptible smirk tugged at the corner of his lips.
“Tomorrow.”
The next day, they packed up and headed straight to Yellowbrook City. After landing, Hugh made a few calls to set things in motion.
By the time they arrived at Pauline’s house, his people had already unloaded an impressive stack of gifts from the trunk that nearly blocked the front door. Pauline had been worried that Serena’s arranged marriage would only bring her misery.
But now, she watched as Hugh strode in, dressed in a tailored three–piece suit with his hands full of gifts, right alongside Serena. He greeted her with a polite, “Aunt Pauline.” Pauline had to admit that Hugh was pretty considerate. He might not have the deep history with them that Zach did, but at least he treated both Serena and her with genuine respect. Pauline greeted them warmly and welcomed them inside.
“Come on in, Nina. Don’t just stand there. Get Hugh inside too. The gifts can stay by the door. No one’s going to run off with them.”
It had been a while since they’d last seen each other, so Pauline wasted no time fussing over Serena.
When Serena had left, she had to be resolute because of Zach. But now, standing here, she felt an unexpected pang of reluctance. After all, Pauline had been like a mother to her all these years.
Aunt Pauline, you’ve been in Yellowbrook City with Derek for so long. Have you ever thought about moving back to Javerton City?” Serena knew Pauline had always wanted to go back. But the Jansen family had made it clear–they saw her as a stain on their legacy.
And with Derek still in school, Pauline had been unwilling to drag him into the mess of whispers and judgment that would surely follow. So, she had stayed, suppressing her longing year after year.
At Serena’s question, Pauline let out a smile laced with resignation.
“I know you mean well, but Derek hasn’t graduated yet. Transferring now would be a nightmare…”
Just then, Hugh, who had not spoken in a while, said, “I can take care of it.”
