What about Hank’s marriage to Liberty? Hank had been complaining about work-related stress lately. He felt someone was out to undermine him, as his boss seemed to be nitpicking every mistake. This constant scrutiny left Hank worried about losing his job. He had plans to submit his resignation after marrying Jessica the following year and intended to start looking for a new job after their honeymoon.
Stone Group was a close second to York Corporation, and it would be ideal for her son to secure a position there. “I have the skills and the startup capital. Why would I need my aunt to finance me?” This statement effectively silenced Mrs. Brown.
After a moment, Mrs. Brown regained her composure. “That’s quite foolish, Liberty. Your aunt has been searching for your mom for decades. You’re her only surviving relative now that your mom is gone. She’s wealthy and would be delighted to help you financially now that you’re part of the family.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I can’t believe you didn’t reach out to your aunt for assistance.” Liberty paused in her task of wiping the table and softly responded, “My aunt offered to give Seren and me a villa with front and back gardens. She also suggested giving us a lump sum to start a business.”
Mrs. Brown’s face lit up. “I told you your aunt wouldn’t offer anything less.”
“We declined her generous offer. We don’t want our aunt’s money. We’ll buy a house on our own, and if that isn’t feasible, we can always rent.”
Mrs. Brown was left speechless. Liberty was being utterly foolish! How could she turn down a free villa? Yet, she still desired a share of her son’s two-million-dollar assets.
“Liberty. Sonny.”
Just then, Serenity and Mrs. Lane entered the shop, and upon seeing Mrs. Brown, Serenity quickly lost her smile and approached the elderly woman.
As she rolled up her sleeves, Serenity confronted Mrs. Brown, saying, “What are you doing here? I warn you, I’ll break your arm if you’re looking for trouble.”
“I’m here to see Sonny, Serenity. I’m not looking for trouble,” Mrs. Brown replied.
Aware of Serenity’s skill in self-defense and her tendency to resort to violence out of resentment towards the Browns, Mrs. Brown quickly clarified her intentions.
“If you don’t believe me, you can ask your sister. I came to visit Sonny and even brought him a new toy,” she explained as she handed Sonny over to Serenity. “I’ve been here long enough; I should head back now.”