**Chapter 695: New Year**
Lilian’s face lit up with sheer delight as she accepted the beautifully wrapped gifts. “Thank you so much, Master! Thank you, Fenton and Lorraine! May you all live long and youthful lives! Just wait, my red envelopes will only get bigger with each passing year!” Her eyes sparkled with excitement, the anticipation of the future filling her heart.
Leonard chuckled heartily, his laughter echoing in the warm evening air. “You little rascal! With each year, your mischief seems to grow! Mark my words, next year, I won’t be giving you a red envelope. If you want one, you’ll have to charm that Whitmore boy into giving you one!” His teasing tone was light, yet there was an underlying affection in his words.
Lilian’s cheeks flushed with a hint of embarrassment. “Master, how can you tease your own apprentice like that? You’re my mentor, and as the saying goes, ‘A teacher for a day is a father for life.’ So naturally, you must continue the tradition of giving me my red envelope!” Her voice was playful, yet there was a seriousness in her eyes that reflected her deep respect for him.
Leonard observed her with a knowing smile. “Ah, I see I’ve raised a little debt collector! Not even married yet, and already scheming to save that boy some money!” His eyes twinkled with mischief as he watched her reaction.
“Master!” Lilian protested, her voice a blend of shyness and indignation. “I’m not marrying anyone! I intend to stay by your side forever!” The sincerity in her declaration warmed Leonard’s heart, though it also brought a twinge of sadness.
Leonard felt a rush of emotion at her words. “My dear, I’m getting old. I won’t be around forever. But I can see how much that Whitmore boy cares for you; he truly cherishes you. With him in your life, I can rest easy knowing you’ll be taken care of.” His voice softened, revealing the weight of his thoughts.
Lilian’s expression shifted to one of seriousness. “Master, please don’t say such things! We shouldn’t dwell on inauspicious topics. You will live to be a hundred, I know it!” Her determination to ward off any negativity was palpable, her youthful spirit shining through.
Leonard smiled gently, patting her small hand reassuringly. “Worry not, my dear. You’re still unwed. How could I possibly feel at ease?” His tone was light, but the concern lingered in the air.
Lilian clung to his arm, her eyes wide with determination. “Then I vow I won’t marry anyone in this life, so you’ll always be by my side!” Her declaration was earnest, a promise wrapped in the innocence of youth.
Leonard chuckled softly, affectionately ruffling her hair. “Silly girl, what nonsense are you spouting? Life is full of surprises.” His heart swelled with love for this spirited girl who had become like family to him.
After they finished the New Year’s Eve dinner, Lilian found herself seated in the courtyard, her gaze lost in the vastness of the night sky. The cool breeze brushed against her skin, but her mind was elsewhere, replaying her master’s words. She knew he was aging, but the thought of him leaving this world weighed heavily on her heart, casting a shadow over her joy.

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