Next Man, Better Plan novel Chapter 218

York found himself backed into a corner by Stephanie's compliments.

Yet her voice was so soft, and her words so pleasant, that it was impossible to feel anything but comfortable.

To maintain his grand image in the eyes of his new daughter-in-law, York immediately instructed the butler to call the family doctor.

“Go and have a proper look at the young master. Take good care of his injuries!”

“Also, go to my study, take the scroll hanging on the wall, and give it to the young mistress as a welcoming gift.”

The butler was about to leave when Patricia remarked sourly, “That painting is a genuine masterpiece. A single scroll is worth at least as much as a mansion. The master is truly generous.”

Mrs. Vasquez Sr. shot her a look. “Considering the stature of the Vasquez family, who else should we be generous to if not our own family? Or should we lavish gifts on outsiders with no official standing?”

Patricia was silenced, stunned that the matriarch would champion Stephanie.

Even if she were feeling reckless, she would never dare to challenge Mrs. Vasquez Sr.

Besides, the remark was a clear jab at the fact that she and the other two women had been with York for years without any formal recognition.

Stephanie knew the paintings were valuable, but she wasn’t interested. Famous artworks required regular maintenance, and as a novice, she would likely damage it, which would be a shame.

“Since that painting is your favorite, I shouldn’t be the one to take it from you.”

“Very well.”

York didn't insist. It was true that a young woman her age would have little appreciation for such art. “Then tell me what you like. I’ll have the butler give you a check later, and you can buy something for yourself.”

Mrs. Vasquez Sr. chimed in again. “As the lady of the Vasquez family, she won't be short on money. Why don't you let Stephanie go to your collection room later and pick something she likes?”

York’s collection was vast, not limited to just art and antiques. An entire floor of the mansion was filled with rare treasures he had acquired from major auctions.

York considered it for a few seconds and nodded. “Then have the butler take her there later.”

Patricia had been York’s secretary in her younger years, which meant she had some emotional intelligence. She knew that right now, Stephanie was not to be crossed, at least not today.

Both Mrs. Vasquez Sr. and York were extremely pleased with her. York had even personally acknowledged her status and invited her to visit often.

To provoke Stephanie at a time like this would be foolish.

Only then did Stephanie seem to notice Patricia.

She walked over, looked at Mark, and asked with a smile, “Mark, how did your clothes get so dirty?”

Patricia forced a smile. “Boys will be boys. He took a tumble in the front garden just now.”

Stephanie nodded. “And his ear? Why is it so swollen? It looked fine when I saw him in the foyer earlier.”

Patricia’s smile was strained. “He must have hit it when he fell. Children have such delicate skin, it turned red right away.”