The Contract Said No Strings Attached (Charlotte) novel Chapter 78

Rebecca’s eyes flickered for a moment, but she smiled calmly. “He went to work. Had to get to the office early.”

Crystal’s brow furrowed slightly at this. As she glanced around the house, she couldn’t spot a single trace of a man’s presence. Suspicion crept in—she knew Dylan was a workaholic, but surely not to the point of never coming home. She couldn’t help but wonder: Has Dylan really not been back at all?

After a while, Crystal excused herself to use the restroom. Rebecca didn’t call her out on the flimsy pretext—she was more than happy to let Crystal wander off, since she’d wanted some time alone with her parents anyway. It was awkward enough with Crystal hovering nearby.

Once out of sight, Crystal finished in the bathroom and took the opportunity to wander around Sunset Villa Estates. She made her way to the end of the hallway, then slipped quietly upstairs, curiosity leading the way.

Meanwhile, Emma entered the living room, carrying a pot of tea. She spotted Mrs. Thomson and Rebecca deep in conversation and offered them a warm smile as she set the pot down, pouring tea for everyone.

But as soon as Mrs. Thomson took a sip, her expression soured. She set the cup down with a faint clatter, her voice tinged with dissatisfaction. “Is this what you usually serve my daughter? This tea is dreadful.”

Emma froze for a moment, a flicker of frustration passing through her mind. That was premium green tea—how could Mrs. Thomson still be so picky? Still, Emma kept her composure and replied with a professional smile, “Mrs. Thomson, this is the blend we’ve always served here at Sunset Villa Estates. If you prefer something else, I’ll be happy to make arrangements.”

With a dismissive wave, Mrs. Thomson issued her order. “Go fetch the tea I brought—the Imperial First Growth blend. Nothing else will do.”

Emma’s lips twitched, but she nodded and went to retrieve the prized tea leaves Mrs. Thomson had brought along. The Thomsons really were a handful; who fussed this much over a cup of tea?

Soon enough, Emma returned with the tea, handling it with extra care as she prepared and served it. Mrs. Thomson took a sip, and only then did her expression finally soften. She looked at Emma and declared, “Now that’s real tea. From now on, I expect you to keep to this standard.”

Still unsatisfied, Mrs. Thomson pressed on. “I took a look earlier—your orchard has nothing but watermelons and pears. If my daughter wants a peach, she’ll have to wait until next season. How is she supposed to get proper nutrition?”

Emma was at a loss for words. Was there no pleasing this woman? Even the estate’s private orchard wasn’t up to her standards?

Mrs. Thomson continued, “Absolutely not. My daughter shouldn’t have to settle for less. Darling, starting today—not tomorrow, today—I want deliveries of the freshest fruit from around the world every day. The Roman ruby grapes are in season now; make sure there’s plenty of those. I don’t want our daughter missing out.”

George, ever the doting husband and father, barely blinked before nodding his agreement. “Consider it done—I’ll make the arrangements right away.”

Emma could only stare in disbelief—so this was what it meant to have parents who ruled the roost.