He didn’t show any emotion, but I could have sworn his face screamed, That’s not fair!
What kind of ridiculously good fortune had I stumbled into? My family was practically competing to give me presents.
I hadn’t been back in ages. Why were they all being so kind to me, acting as if they knew me so well, as if they were getting daily briefings on my life?
Despite my confusion, my spirits soared. I wanted to shout, Having a cousin like you is the best thing ever!
“So… I should accept it?”
Leonard’s expression was unreadable. “You’ll be staying in Baxo for a while. I’ll take you to Grandpa’s for a few days. You won’t have to trouble him anymore. It’s a miracle he’s finally willing to get treatment, so let’s not interfere.”
“Uncle Julian didn’t want treatment before?” I asked, surprised.
“No. He’s the complete opposite of how he used to be. But let’s not talk about him. Let’s talk about Horace.” Leonard picked up the file on the table and glanced at the photo inside. “He’s the one you paid three hundred thousand in medical bills for?”
“Yes.”
“He seems decent,” Leonard said, looking up at me. “Do you like him?”
My heart skipped a beat. After a moment’s hesitation, I nodded.
“I do.”
A friendship kind of like, but still like.
A flicker of something crossed Leonard’s eyes.
Growing bolder, I called him by his name, my voice still a little unfamiliar with it. “Leonard, can you let him back on the show? The stage means everything to him, and he means everything to me. I want to help him.”
This was real family. They were so incredibly supportive.
Why had I ever cut ties with them in my past life? Uncle Julian, my cousins—they had always been so good to me. I’d thrown away their unconditional support to chase after a toxic romance with Steven. I must have been insane.
“You’re the best brother ever!” I declared. “You get two gifts! I love you so much!”
Seeing my joyful expression, his voice softening. “There’s an auction coming up. I know you have an eye for design. There’s something I want, and I need you to tell me if it’s worth bidding on. Ryan will go with you.”
An auction? It was probably the same one from my past life. The main attraction then had been a painting by a famous artist, but since I’d already sold it, I wondered if things would be different this time.
“Of course,” I said, nodding eagerly. I would have agreed to anything he asked. From now on, I was his biggest fan.
Besides, I was hoping to find a hidden gem for myself. I also needed to visit the gem-sourcing district. I would be going back to my grandfather’s house soon, and I hadn’t even prepared gifts yet. With all the presents I owed, I needed to find some raw materials.

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